Hatches of Blue Winged Olives and midges are occurring. Keep an eye out for snouts.
Streamer fishing has been good. Fish slow and deep. Deep holes and other holding water should be targeted at this time.
Nymphing may be your best bet at catching fish. San Juan Worm variations are usually effective, as are Small Prince Nymphs or Hare's Ear. Try fishing two flies, tied to the tag ends of either a double surgeons or blood knot, followed by split shot on a smaller tippet size. Hard to cast but very effective to fish.
Trout spey is an effective way to cover a lot of water. Swinging flies through pools and runs has resulted in quite a few fish recently.
We encourage everyone to pinch their barbs. Pinching your barbs will help ensure that releasing fish is easier on you and the fish.
- Minimize air exposure
- Eliminate contact with dry surfaces
- Reduce handling time
Fly tying time is upon us. Whether you are stocking up on some more of you old favorites, or adding a new twist, fly tying materials may be in order. Check out the courses available this winter on our courses page. We are offering Level I Fly Tying courses on 5 consecutive Tuesdays beginning February 27.
Bow River Flies to try:
Dries: If you are not willing to give up the dry fly then maybe give midges or blue winged olives a try. Midges to try are: Griffith's Gnat, High-Vis Parachute Midges, and Zebra Midges BWO patterns like Para-Sipper, Double Vision BWO's, or Foam Emerger BWO Biot are worth a try.
Streamers: Small leech patterns like an Aaron's Leech, Tungsten Peacock Leech, and black, brown or olive Woolly Buggers have been extremely effective. Kreelex Minnows, Bow River Buggers (both Conehead and OG), Clouser Minnows, and Flesh Eating Sculpin are also good streamer choices.
Nymphs: Will's Chai T, Kaleidoscope, TJ Hooker, Tungsten Prince, Copper John's, and Red Wire Worms.
Trout Spey: Mini Me Graboid (all colours), AF Keith's Weighted Mini Stinger Brown, and RIO's Pocket Rocket (all colours).
Winter is here, but don't give up there will be more and more chances to get out. With winter comes layering. We have lots of underwear and base layer options to keep you warm and on the river.
Tight lines!
FTFS