Launch Update: Ogden boat launch is now closed in order to accommodate non-potable river water pickup due to City of Calgary water restrictions. Consult the City of Calgary for more information.
The hatches of Trico's, Blue Winged Olives, and Caddis are continuing and Grasshopper's are still chugging along. Boatmen and Backswimmers are now in the river. The forecast is for moderate temperatures later in the next week. Consistent weather, water temperatures, and less water fluctuation should keep the trout happy. Get out there!
The Atlantic Salmon Fly International (ASFI) event is being held September 13th, 14th and 15th, 2024 at the Best Western Premier Calgary Plaza Hotel & Conference Centre, 1316 33rd Street NE.
Staff Picks - Gideon
Flies: Left to Right from top to bottom: Galloup's Mini Dungeon, Bow River Bugger, AF Mattoli's Spey Bugger, Will's Chai T, Galloup's Jigged BWO, Zebra Midge, Juicy Hopper, Para-sipper BWO, Steve's Para Sipper
The dry fly fishing has slowed down quite a bit. Still lot's of bugs. The caddis are still around, along with Trico's and BWO's. The Hoppers are still hanging in there, and provoking the occasional eat. Hoppers are most effective as part of a hopper-dropper rig.
Nymphing is almost always a great way to catch fish on the Bow. There are a ton of nymphs right now, well all the time really. Deep walking pace water will usually be your target when nymphing. Weeds will continue to be a obstacle.
Do you ever sharpen your hooks? Why the heck not?
The streamer fishing has slowed a bit, mostly due to water fluctuations. The fish are still chasing, but often short striking or outright refusing. Still good fun, but persistence can payoff with some big eats..
Skating dry flies, or swinging soft hackles and small streamers, with a spey rod is still a great way to spend your time on the water.
The mornings are cool, regardless of the afternoon temperatures. A hoodie to keep the chill out is a great idea at this time of the year.
Eastern Slopes Update:
The Eastern Slope rivers and streams are low, but still in pretty good shape and fishing well. There are Caddis, Trico's and BWOs hatching quite regularly, and still a few PMD's around. Grasshoppers are pretty groggy with cold evenings and less able to fight the wind, which often sends them into the river.
Dries: Parachute Adams, Elk Hair Caddis, Yellow & Orange Stimulators, H&L Variant, Royal Wulff, Callibaeti Parachute Extended Body, KK's Henneberry Hopper, Juicy Hopper
Nymphs: Traditional Prince, Pheasant Tail, Hare's Ear Nymphs, Smethurst's, San Juan Worm variations, Will's Chai Tea
Streamers: Pink/White Dali Lama, Black Conrad Sculpin, Galloup's Mini Dungeon, Clouser Minnows
A nice warm plaid is the perfect way to ease into fall.
Please pinch your barbs. Pinching your barbs will make releasing the fish a lot easier. A good set of plyers, forceps, or mitten clamps can make the task easier on both of you.
We ask that you handle your fish with care by:
- Minimize air exposure
- Eliminate contact with dry surfaces
- Reduce handling time
Pocket Guides are a great way to take knowledge with you on the river. Lot's of variety, one for almost every fishing preference. First Aid too!
Bow River Trout Foundation Fall Fishing Festival 2024 is Saturday September 28, 8am - 11pm. Enjoy a fantastic day on the water, and then head down to the Deerfoot Inn & Casino for an evening of good food and great company. Doors open at 6:00 PM, with an Alberta Prime Rib Dinner served at 7:00 PM.
Enjoy a Bow River update and a presentation from Amelia and Dave Jensen, and then participate in a silent auction in support of the Bow River Trout Foundation.
For more information, and ticket options, please see the Bow River Trout Foundation Website.
Dries: Peacock Caddis, Purple Haze, Galloup's Double Stack Caddis, Orange Rubber Legged Stimulators, Chubby Chernobyl, Willy's Ant, RIO's Moorish Hopper, KK's Henneberry Hopper, Juicy Hopper, Para-Sipper BWO, Steve's Para Sipper BWO
Streamers: RIO's Precious Metal, Bow River Bugger, Hi Res Bugger, Skittish Smolt. Leeches: Gabriel Leech, Fruit Roll Up, Tungsten Ice Leech.
Nymphs: Jimmy Legs, Rubber Legged Squirrel, Will's Chai T, Kaleidoscope, Tungsten Prince, Puparazzi, BH Extended Body Caddis Pupa, Caddis Sparkle Pupa, Dee's Boatman, Wagler's Boatman.
Trout Spey: Rio's Pocket Rocket, Aqua Stu's Ostrich Intruder, Jerry's WMD Sculpin, AF Mattoli's Spey Bugger, Brett's Klamath Skater, McGovney's Skater.
FYI:
As per the Alberta River Basins web application
Bow River Level at Calgary - WSC
Bow River Level at Banff - WSC
Tight lines!
FTFS