Hatches of Trico's, Blue Winged Olives, and Caddis continue and the Grasshopper's are on there last legs. Boatmen and Backswimmers are all over the place. The river may be a little off colour for a minute due to the recent rain, but should clear up quickly. The forecast is for cooler temperatures and then warming later in the week. Things are happening. The fish are fat. Get out there!

Bow River Flies

Flies: Left to Right from top to bottom: Dee's Boatman, Morris Water Boatman, Boatman Air-Bubble, Wagler's Boatman, Rowley's Water Floatman.

The dry fly fishing has slowed down a bit. Still lot's of bugs and the Hoppers are still hanging in there. Hoppers are most effective as part of a hopper-dropper rig. A floating boatman fly is an exciting way to entice strikes, on the swing, or quick stripped through slower water.

Nymphing is still, and usually, a great way to catch fish. Deep walking pace water will be your main target when doing most nymphing. Boatmen and Back Swimmers can be swung through faster riffles and stripped up soft seams. Weeds continue to be a obstacle.

The streamer fishing has been awesome. The fish are chasing, hard. Large streamers have resulted in some very large fish.

Working runs with a spey rod is a great way to spend your time on the water. Once you find your rhythm, and, your stroke it can be a very relaxing way to fish. However, finding those things can be difficult and time consuming. Sounds like more time on the river. Not so bad.

Just in. A new batch of Fish Tales hats.

Eastern Slopes Update: 

The Eastern Slope rivers and streams are low, and clear. Caddis, Trico's and BWOs are still, hatching quite regularly. Grasshoppers are having their last gasp. The low clear water can make for some spooky fish.

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

Release tools are a great idea, especially when using boatman. The fish hit them hard and they are often smaller flies. A release can make the whole process easier for both of you.

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:

Now's the time! We have several Steelhead books to whet your appetite. 

Bow River Trout Foundation Fall Fishing Festival 2024 is Saturday September 28, 8am - 11pm. Enjoy a pleasant day on the water, and then head 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.

Bow River Flies to try:

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.

Keep your noggin warm with a Fish Tales branded toque. 

FYI:

As per the Alberta River Basins web application

Bow River Level at Calgary - WSC

Bow River Level at Banff - WSC

Tight lines!

FTFS

Launch Update: Ogden boat launch is still 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.