GUIDE SERVICE

Southern Alberta is a fly fisherman's paradise. Whether you are after wild rainbows and browns on the world-class Bow River or feisty cutthroats on a classic mountain stream, let us be your guide to the area's best angling. We specialize in Bow River float trips, and other lesser known lakes and streams - some of Canada's best kept secrets.

The Bow River starts its course high in the Rocky Mountains and winds
its way through the scenic Alberta foothills to the city of Calgary. South and east of Calgary, the Bow becomes one of the world's best trout fisheries. Lefty Kreh and A.J. McClane elevated the Bow River from a local hotspot to an international fly fishing destination in the early 80's, praising the river's dry fly fishing as among the best in the world. The Bow has since become famous for the size and strength of its rainbows and browns. With a self-sustaining population of 2500 trout per mile, it is a rare fishing trip when an angler does not hook a 20 inch plus fish!

The river fishes best from late May through to mid October, with June
traditionally being a month of run-off (check with the shop for conditions). Successful anglers should be flexible and able to fish streamers, nymphs and dry flies. Hatches of caddis, trico's, PMD's and BWO's are prolific and terrestrials such as hoppers and ants can bring eager fish to the surface. Large streamers thrown to the bank can produce heart stopping takes that may leave you with broken leaders and burned stripping fingers. A true test for any angler and his equipment.

We are also pleased to offer guiding services in southern Alberta on several different rivers which are prolific trout fisheries, and a must for anglers seeking walk and wade as well as classic western style drift fishing.

We take pride in the quality of our guides. They are knowledgable, personable and above all hard-working. We have built the premium guide company in Western Canada while still keeping the friendly personalized service that keeps our clients coming back year after year. Calgarians are noted for their western hospitality and our guides are no exception.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

Trips include a stream side lunch, snacks and beverages throughout the day, and equipment (rods, reels, waders and boots) if you require them. Hotel arrangements can be made.

Not included in the trip price: 5% tax, licenses, flies, leaders/tippets, and gratuities for the guides.

LUNCH

Although we try to provide a good selection of meats and salads for lunch, we would like to give you the opportunity to customize it for your individual tastes. If you have any special dietary concerns or allergies, please contact us at the shop directly prior to your trip. We would be more than happy to assist you.

TROUT RODS

You will mainly use 5 and 6 weights while fishing from the boat. It is a good idea to bring 3 or 4 weights if you are planning a walk and wade trip.

REELS

Reels should have a good drag system with at least 50 yards of backing for our Bow River fish.

LINES

90% of your fishing is done with floating lines, but you should have a sink tip line as well for your heavier rods.

WADERS/BOOTS

You should have neoprene waders if you are planning a trip in the spring or the fall when the water temperature is cooler. For summer fishing, breathables or lightweights and make sure that in both cases you have a good pair of felt-soled wading boots.

CLOTHING

No matter what time of year you come, be prepared for all weather conditions. Bring a hat, sunscreen, shorts, fleecewear and rain gear.

GLASSES

Bring at least one pair of good polarized sun glasses (amber or brown). Not only will they help you spot the fish, it will protect your eyes from any misplaced flies!

This is just a short list of some of the things you will need, if you have specific questions, please call the shop and we can help you out.

DON'T FORGET A CAMERA!!

620 - 8th Avenue S.W. - Calgary, Alberta, Canada - T2P 1G4
Toll Free 1-800-854-0464
Phone (403) 282-8868 - Fax (403) 282-8048 - info@bowrivertroutfitters.com

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