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Bow River Hookers
Fly Fishing Adventures |
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Fishing Journal
Check back often for river news!
We will be posting photos and talking about the river conditions and fish activity we are seeing on the various waters we guide. Now you will be able to hear about the water you're coming to fish before you even get here!
Journal entries for 2008 will continue right through to late fall. Updates will be posted fairly regularly as time permits. Check back again or call Tom at 1-866-974-8522 for a personal report.
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Vedder River Salmon - October 20, 2008
Posted by Bill on Tuesday, October 21, 2008
As the guiding season on the Bow River comes to a close for the year, the Salmon are running out west. Tom and Bill Windsor, Jason Brown and Todd Clark headed west for 2 1/2 days of fly fishing for Salmon on the Vedder River (October 18, 19 and 20). After a little difficulty finding rooms, the last room at the Rainbow Motor Inn turned out to be a gem with four beds, kitchen facilities and easy access. Hitting the only two days of sun in the forecast, the fishing was very good with around 150 fish touched by this foursome. The catch count was 4 Springs and the balance Chum in the 15 to 20 pound class. Although all fishers complained of sore arms and shoulders from fighting these heafty and powerful fish, the trip was a resounding success. Plans are already underway for next year's Salmon run.
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The Bow - October 13, 2008
Posted by Bill on Tuesday, October 14, 2008
With the weather forecast calling for a ferocious wind, Dad and I were hesitant about taking to the river on this day. However, with the possibly of this being Dad's last opportunity of the year to fish the Bow, we decided to go anyway ... and it's a good thing we did. The day turned out to be absolutely incredible, not only from a weather point of view but also from a fishing standpoint as well. Not a half an hour into the float we decided to stop and fish a run. Standing thigh deep in the cold water, Dad tied into no less than 7 trout in a matter of about 20 minutes, all beautiful, healthy fish, 18 inches or better. This first run produced two double-headers, the best of which involved 20 and 21 inch Rainbows (pictured). The day started out with a bang and never let up until fading daylight forced us to row out the final hour of the float. Although fishing through the morning and early afternoon was markedly faster than later in the day, one fisher touching 50+ fish in one a day on the Bow can only be described as an incredible day of fishing. The only complaint on this day was Dad's rod arm wearing out from fighting fish. If this is to be Dad's last day on the river this year, I'm just thankful I was able to be there to share it with him.
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The Bow - October 2, 2008
Posted by Bill on Friday, October 3, 2008
With the trees adorned in fall colours and a day to myself for floating and fishing, Kathleen and I took to the river to relax, do a little fishing and enjoy the breathtaking scenery down the Bow River Valley. Not particularly keen on the fishing itself, Kathleen was just happy to be out of the office and away from computers and phones. It took a while and a number of strikes before she managed to net her first trout of the day, a 17 inch Brown (pictured). She refused to hold the fish or get in the water so cradling the trout in the net for pictures was the only alternative. The highlight came late in the day, Kathleen's 19 inch Cutbow with tremendous markings and brilliant gill plates. We touched over 40 fish on the day, enjoyed the valley flora and fauna and each other's company. Fishing the Bow in the fall is special with gorgeous scenery, fat, strong trout and incredible weather ... days that are just plain perfect.
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The Bow - October 1, 2008
Posted by Bill on Friday, October 3, 2008
Max Brown (TX), Shelby Johnson (TX) and Jeff Gilstrap (OK) joined us on a float trip arranged by Josh Pendleton of Dynamic Risk Assessment Systems. Max and Shelby put to the water as virtual neophytes taking the first 15 or so minutes of the float learning to fly fish. Jeff, by contrast, had a number of fly casting years under his belt. Shelby struck paydirt first landing a lovely 19 inch Brown Trout (pictured) 20 minutes into the float. Meanwhile, Max saved his engery for the big one, a 21 inch Rainbow (inset) 35 minutes into the float. Fishing could only be described as spotty as many seams and runs that usually produce were silent on this day. Nonetheless, all fishers got into a number of trout, some released in the distance, some simply a bob on the strike indicator, some brought to net. Again the weather was spectacular with cloudless sunny skies, not a breath of wind and temperatures even a Texan is comfortable with.
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The Bow - September 30, 2008
Posted by Bill on Friday, October 3, 2008
John, Tom and Ted joined us on the river for a day of fishing through Brian Cassie. The day was spectacular, sunny, cloudless, dead calm and a balmy 26C to close out September. It took a bit for these gents to figure out the Bow River style of fishing, moving the bugs and setting the hook but in the end it was a great day of fishing. Almost more interested in the waterfowl we encountered, the river was alive with birds and wildlife from start to finish. Fishing was tough to start the day, not from the fish's point of view but certainly from the angler's as many offers went untouched by the slow and gentle bass sets the fishers were used to. Once they got the hang of setting hard and fast, the fish didn't fair nearly as well in escaping untouched. Showered in sunshine, surrounded by foliage in fall dress, with trout eating consistently and great company along, this was a great day on the river.
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The Bow - September 20, 2008
Posted by Bill on Sunday, September 21, 2008
As part of a reward winning prize for Strategic Brokerage Services, Claudette ("C") and Tom Kirdeikis of Edmonton joined us for a float on the river having never fly fished before and virtually never fished before. It was one of those days a fishing guide looks forward to ... not necessarily because of the fish or fishing but rather because of the personalities of the two casters in the boat. Seven minutes into the float "C" tied into her first trout. Her excitement in having her first fish on the line was not only physically obvious but audible to everyone within three miles. Giving that first fish the famous "long-distance-release", moments later she was into her second trout and the dozen or so boats within hear shot of us were again entertained by her excitement. Such was the commotion in our boat every time she hooked into a fish all the way down the river. Her excitement with each hookup had me working a little harder to get her into the next one. Besides her excitement, she is a natural fly caster. Having never chucked a fly before, she was adequately back-casting within an hour of launch and reaching distances of far more seasoned fly fishers. Tom fell victum to the female edge only managing a few hookups and landing one very nice Rainbow but sincerely thrilled with the success "C" was enjoying. Because of time restraints, we had to cut short the float and with the landing of C's 9th trout of the day (pictured) rowed out over the last 2 hours of river. Highlights of the day were C's 21 inch Rainbow, 20 inch Brown and the profound pleasure of spending the day on the river with these two genuinely wonderful people.
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The Bow - September 19, 2008
Posted by Bill on Sunday, September 21, 2008
The Shelton party of 4 joined us on the river for a good day of fishing. Andy, a transplant to Calgary from Texas, his brother Noel of Texas and two Albertans, Doug and Peter. I piloted Andy and Noel down the river and although Andy is the better fly caster, Noel got into some lovely fish. Quality of fish seemed to be the order of the day ... although the number of trout caught wasn't what I would have expected, the quality of fish certainly made up for it. One run produced a number of beautiful trout on a hopper/dropper setup, two of which notable because of their size (pictured). The highlight of the day and the icing on the cake was Andy's 23 3/4 inch Brown he took at last light on a nymph rod. These gents were a pleasure to have in the boat and their enthusiasm about all aspects of the trip reminded me that a float down the river is about far more than just the fish.
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The Bow - September 16, 2008
Posted by Bill on Wednesday, September 17, 2008
Peter Verge of Calgary and Archie Thompson of the UK joined us for a wonderful day of fishing on the Bow. It was a gorgeous mid-September day with only a hint of wind mid-way through the float. In concert with the weather, the fishing was pretty good as well. Peter and Archie threw hopper/dropper setups from launch to take-out netting over 30 trout on the day. Only a couple were on the short side of 18 inches, only a couple on the long side of 21 inches, the majority in the 18 to 21 inch class. There were some slow stretches as the fish appeared to be congregated in pockets and seams all the way along the Policeman's to McKinnon's float. The first of two double-headers (pictured) came early in the float, the second foiled by Archie's long distance release. While the fishing wasn't spectacular like it can be on the Bow, it was very good and we consistently picked fish throughout the day. It was a pleasure to have these two fishers in the boat again (they were on a trip with us last year as well), they cast well, set the hook on everything and are just plain enjoyable company.
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The Bow - September 15, 2008
Posted by Bill on Monday, September 15, 2008
Due to a trip postponement, Dad and I were able to get on the river for a glorious day of fishing. The weather was picture perfect ... warm, sunny and dead calm. The start of the day was slow with only a couple of hits while nymphing in the first couple of miles of the float. With a switch to hopper/dropper setups, action made an abrupt change. Few trout were hooked in deep, slow water. Most came in the fast, shallow runs we expect the trout to be in at this time of year. Over 20 trout were brought to hand over the course of the 7 hour day, most very healthy trophy class trout. From a trout and fishing point of view, the highlight of the day had to be the magnificent Brown I managed to tie into (pictured) in the last mile of the float. Apart from the fishing, the highlight for me was spending the day fishing with Dad on a glorious September day. I am exceedingly fortunate.
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The Bow - September 13, 2008
Posted by Bill on Sunday, September 14, 2008
Bill and Noel Fox from Grafton, OH, included a Bow River float trip in their 5-day fishing excursion in Alberta. Having fished the Highwood the night before and turned nothing, they were eager to get on the Bow and see what she is all about. The rains through the night before had coloured the river slightly and certainly impacted some trout activity. It was a fair distance into the float before Denis got the first tight line of the day. However, as the river cleared under cloudless skies, fishing picked up. Of the fish brought to hand, the 23 inch Rainbow Denis caught on a hopper/dropper set (pictured) and the 20 inch Brown Noel caught on a nymph set (inset) were the highlights of the day. Samples taken from the netted fish showed water worms, caddis larvae and hook size 24 or 26 BWO nymphs made up the fish menu for this day. It was a wonderful day to be on the Bow and Bill and Noel got a good taste of what the Bow has to offer. Good luck on the rest of your trip guys.
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The Bow - September 12, 2008
Posted by Bill on Sunday, September 14, 2008
Denis Couturier and his friend Jean, both of Calgary, joined us on the river for a day of fishing. The day started out very nice, blue skies, sun shining and only a hint of a breeze. However, at noon it started deteriorating and by take-out there was a constant drizzle, a strong north wind and temperatures that felt the drizzle could turn to snow at any time. Fishing could only be described as spotty as there was a fair distance between hooked fish. Even so, some nice trout in the 18 inch plus class were brought to hand. The most notable event of the day was the Blue-winged Olive hatch late in the afternoon that blanketed the river like a carpet giving the surface the appearance of being fuzzy. The morning, before the front moved in, was the best stretch of fishing although it wasn't particularly "fast" at any time through the day. Regardless, it was a great day to be on the river with two very enjoyable guys.
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The Bow - September 9, 2008
Posted by Bill on Wednesday, September 10, 2008
Cal Brassard (Didsbury, AB) and Alex MacAusland (Calgary, AB) were the two fishers assigned to me for the 7 boat, 14 fisher, 1st Annual Charity Fishing Derby organized by Dan Thompson and Bow River Hookers. Cal, an experienced fly fisher, started the day out with a bang tying into a Rainbow not 50 feet from launch. Alex a complete newbie to the Bow and fly fishing got his first tight line only a couple of hundred yards out of the gate punctuating how quickly he took to the Bow River and fly fishing her trout. Of the 16 trout brought to hand, and at least that many released in the distance, two stand out as the hightlights of the day. Alex's first ever Brown Trout (pictured) had him beaming for several hours after the catch and Cal's 22+ inch Rainbow (inset) taken on a hopper/dropper setup. These two were a treat to have in the boat as their relaxed attitude and sincere appreciation of the river was contageous. Most trout came on either the SJW or chenille worm although a variety of nymphs produced for other boats on the float. This was a tremendous day of fishing with charity being the beneficiary. Hat's off to all involved for a great day and a great cause. We're already making plans for the 2nd Annual.
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The Bow - September 8, 2008
Posted by Bill on Wednesday, September 10, 2008
Dad, Tom and I put on at 22X and floated to Policeman's for a rare day this year of we three being on the river together. Fishing wasn't exactly "on fire" although we did pick fish from start to finish. Dad tied into two heavy Browns just below the Deerfoot Extension bridge, both released in the distance and Tom tangled with a monster Brown just above Policeman's flats. The highlight of the day was Dad's Rocky (pictured) that looked like tapping it would cause it to explode. Dad is always anxious to catch a Rocky because while everyone else gets one from time to time, he doesn't. This was a wonderful day of fishing, trout and treasured fishing partners. While the river and fish are the focus on all our float trips, it is the time we spend together that will remain in our minds long after the images of the trout we fought and/or caught have faded.
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The Bow - September 6, 2008
Posted by Bill on Sunday, September 7, 2008
Bob and Denise Hathaway from Tustin, California joined us for a terrific day of fishing. Although there were slow stretches of fishing through the day, we did manage to turn a number of trout. Denise owned the morning netting a couple of Brown Trout, one small, one average (pictured), before Bob had a sniff. Bob's time was the afternoon capping off a wonderful day on the river at dusk with a massive 21-inch Brown in full spawn colours (inset) on a streamer. At last light Bob was still chucking the streamer even though we couldn't see anything. While the day started out to be bright and fairly warm, the weather deteriorated throughout the day and we finished the day in a continuous drizzle and quite cool temperatures about a half-hour after the last bits of light left the western sky. Inspite of the poor afternoon weather it was a great day on the river with great people.
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The Bow - September 5, 2008
Posted by Bill on Sunday, September 7, 2008
Every so often the Bow shows herself for what she can truly be. This was one of those days. On his first day of a 3-day trip with us, Carson Chen from Foster City, California was treated to a day of fishing that defies description. At no point on the float did he go much more than 10 minutes without a fish on. While we had intended to do a variety of fishing styles, the hopper-dropper was the ticket on this day and from launch to day's end all Carson did was chuck the hopper-dropper and fight fish, the smallest 17 1/2 inches, the best a heavy 23-incher, all Rainbows. Carson is a very good fly caster and I marvelled at the drifts he could attain with the hopper-dropper setup. He is also a pleasure to have in the boat with realistic expectations and complete respect for the resource. We lost track of the number of fish he was into early in the trip and even got to the point of turning down posing for pictures with 20-inch trout. With the cool weather and continuous battling of trout, Carson's wrists gave out with 2 hours left in the float. Thanks for an incredible day on the river Carson. Next time we'll try to get that Brown Trout for you.
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The Bow - September 4, 2008
Posted by Bill on Sunday, September 7, 2008
This, a day for the guides, had Bill Sr., Marty Anderson, Clint Brown, Jason Brown, Tom and I hit the river. Although not what you would call a "hot" day on the Bow, the river fished very well and produced a number of very nice trout for all fishers. In keeping with years of experience, Bill Sr. took the highlight of the day, a deep, heavy, colourful, 23-inch Brown Trout (pictured). All methods of fishing produced (streamer, nymph, dry fly and hopper-dropper) but the most productive was nymphing. Samples taken from the fish indicate very little change in the menu for the last couple of weeks with extremely small nymphs making up the bulk of the diet. Imitations would have to be in the hook size 26 to 28 range, impossible to land a Bow River trout on. Although trout were taken on a variety of nymphs, several variations of the caddis and chenille worm were the best producers. This was a great day on the river with a great bunch of guys.
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The Bow - August 30, 2008
Posted by Bill on Monday, September 1, 2008
The Bow is touted as being a technical river and the fish difficult to catch. It was this reputation that precipitated Kevin Schmelzle from Calgary and his buddy Vaughn from Edmonton to join us for a day on the river. Kevin had admittedly zero success on the Bow through sixty plus hours of walk and wade fishing. Vaughn had never fished the Bow and was just tagging along. Both are good fly casters and handle the fight well after hookup. Kevin was into his first Bow River trout early in the float while Vaughn took at little longer to get a tight line. Fish were taken on nyphms and hopper/dropper sets and although we tried, we didn't produce anyting on dry flies. Again the Chenille Worm and Prince Nymph were the best producers on the day although Vaughn had 5 chances on trout taking the hopper, hooking and landing one of the five. The purpose of the float was to give these two fishers some insight into the river, the trout and successful fishing methods for both. If takes, misses, and landed trout are the measure of fishing, they had a pretty good day. Hopefully they'll be better equipped to enjoy the Bow and her trout for years to come.
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The Bow - August 29, 2008
Posted by Bill on Monday, September 1, 2008
This was one of the most enjoyable days I've spent on the river courtesy of Emily Elliott and Kathy Cassidy of Austin, Texas. I don't believe I've ever laughed so often or for so long as with these two gals in the boat. If they weren't taking digs at each other, they were bashing themselves for a bad cast or missed fish. The antics in the back of the boat when a Caddis flew down Kathy's blouse will be something I will long remember. Both girls were adept at casting the flies but found the hooking and fighting fish to be a bit of a challenge. Nonetheless, they both managed to tie into some nice trout, some brought to the boat, some given the long-distance release. Fishing was somewhat spotty along the river with the Prince Nymph and Chenille Worm producing the best results. Kathy introduced me to the "Kathy Twitch" that involved her rod, arm, shoulder and hips to make the bugs move. Emily demonstrated that if you give the trout enough pressure, they'll launch into the air everytime. Both girls were a treat to have in the boat and I'll welcome them back anytime.
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The Bow - August 28, 2008
Posted by Bill on Friday, August 29, 2008
Bets Cassidy and Charlie Pursel of Bloomsburg, PA joined us for a beautiful day on the Bow. Bets, a novice fly fisher, took to the "Bow River style" of casting very quickly and seemed to be keyed in to the Brown Trout catching predominantly Browns on the day. Charlie, a far more accomplished fly caster, was our Rainbow man. Although the fishing wasn't what you would call "on fire", both fishers had several opportunities on trout. The best of Charlie's Rainbows was given the "long-distance release" while Bets (with a little coaching) demonstrated expert fighting techniques with the trout she brought to hand. Samples taken from fish showed much of what we have seen the past few weeks, the trout are feeding on dark nymphs in the size 28 range, water worms, caddis nymphs and stone flies. Bets first Brown was chuck-full of the microscopic nymphs. The avian inhabitants of the river valley delighted both casters with sightings of a variety of ducks, Eagles, Herons, Pelicans and Osprey. Both casters are a treasure to have in the boat and despite the hurricane winds late in the day, the trip was thoroughly enjoyable. Thank you for a great day of fishing, Bets and Charlie.
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The Bow - August 24, 2008
Posted by Bill on Wednesday, August 27, 2008
Andy Blau from Piermont, NY joined us on the river today for a good day of fishing. Andy is a fairly accomplished fly caster and experienced fisher. Having just returned from a week-long cruise to Alaska, he was eager to see what the Bow has to offer. The upper end of the float was slow with only a couple of takes early in the float. At Jason's run we could see a good trout lying in the seam but had trouble presenting an offering he'd eat. Regardless, Jason's run produced a number of takes, a 19 inch Rainbow to the net and two other good trout were given the "long-distance release". The trout pictured was a 20 inch Rainbow taken half way through the float on a nymph. Although not furious, the action was consistent and capped off by a 22 inch Cutbow on a dry fly. The dropper of choice on this day was the Sparkle Caddis although other flies produced as well. The Bow didn't show herself for what she can be on this day but it was a great day of fishing and Andy is a pleasure to have in the boat. We didn't touch much in the way of small fish which suited Andy just fine. We'll work on getting a good Brown next time Andy.
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The Bow - August 23, 2008
Posted by Bill on Wednesday, August 27, 2008
Doug Sawka, a long time friend from Edmonton, joined me on the river for an afternoon float from Fish Creek Park to Policeman's Flats. Doug, still recovering from major surgery, was not in peak fishing form although any day on the river is as relaxing as it can get. The day started out somewhat slow with only a couple of trout to the net by Cranston corner. From there on, however, the Bow showed herself for what she can be. Nymphs, Hopper/Droppers and dry flies all produced action for the remainder of the float. Trout ranged from 16 inches to 23 inches with Doug's highlight of the day being a 22 inch Rainbow (pictured). We hooked up on a big, heavy Brown in a fast, deep run only to see him once as he launched from the water and threw the hook. As one of only 2 or 3 days I get to spend fishing with Doug each year, this was a special treat for me. Special because of the company, the fish and the river.
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The Bow - August 21, 2008
Posted by Bill on Thursday, August 21, 2008
This was one of those days when everything just comes together. Jason and I took to the river for a fun float, to keep in touch with the river and do a little fishing for ourselves. To some the day wouldn't be considered to be the best day for fishing but to Jason and I, it was made to order. Overcast skies, a light drizzle and virtually no wind until later in the day. These are the kinds days we expect to see good Browns and we weren't disappointed as Brown Trout made up 80 percent of our catch. Every method of fishing; nymphing, hopper/droppers, dry flies and streamers, all produced trout. There were a number of highlights on this day, Brown trout and the quality of fish topped the list; only a couple of trout in the 16 inch class and the rest were 18 inch and better. This was a thoroughly enjoyable day for Jason and me, not necessarily so for the 30 plus trout we touched.
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The Bow - August 20, 2008
Posted by Bill on Wednesday, August 20, 2008
Rick Brown and his buddy Jim joined guide Jason Brown for a tremendous day of Bow River fishing. Neither Rick nor Jim had touched a fly rod in 10 years so they were virtual neophytes in terms of fly casting. Additionally, neither had floated the Bow so this was an entirely new experience for both of them. By day end they had netted 23 trout, had three double-headers, attained a new appreciation for the Bow and were tickled pink about the entire adventure. With water levels and temperatures somewhat stabilized, the trout were where we would expect them to be, in the runs and transitions. While a number of flies were effective on this day, including some dry fly action, topping the menu was the brown worm. Hope we've got you hooked on fly casting and the Bow River, Rick and Jim, and that you'll join us again sometime soon.
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The Bow - August 17, 2008
Posted by Bill on Monday, August 18, 2008
Louis Gaither from Tennessee joined us on a day of fishing the Bow in between fishing for Pike and Walleye in the north and Cutties and Bull Trout in the south. On a day far more suited to parasailing (the southeast wind gusted to 35 mph), casting and getting a drift was a constant battle. Inspite of that, Louis didn't complain a bit and was just happy to be on the water chucking flies. Although he had a little trouble with the "hot" Bow River trout and the timeliness of setting the hook, he managed to pick fish fairly consistently throughout the day. The highlights for Louis were the biggest Rainbow he's ever caught (taken on a sparkle caddis hopper/dropper set) and his first ever first Brown (a Lockleven taken on the San Juan Worm). Nymphing was the most productive method on this windy day with Pheasant Tails and Chenille worms being the most consistent. All in all it was a great day on the river with trout, eagles, swallows and a BWO hatch at the end of the day that clouded the skies. I'll have a can of nibblets ready for you when you come join us again Louis!
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The Bow - August 15, 2008
Posted by Bill on Friday, August 15, 2008
Although the webmaster of this site is reluctant to be in or on water of any kind, I managed to drag her out for a float for the second time this year. Kathleen, Bill's wife, is a complete novice to fishing and not what you might call an "outdoor" kind of girl. She doesn't like bugs, spiders, birds up close, or anything that slithers. Attempts to convince her to pose holding her first ever Brown Trout were pointless and the closest she'd get was cradling the trout in the net. Although she had about a dozen takes on the day, she hooked five but only netted one. She hasn't quite figured out the "setting the hook" concept or keeping the line tight once the fish is hooked. Regardless, we had a wonderful day courtesy of the Bow. Copper Bobs and Hare's Ears turned fish on the upper end of the 22X to Policeman's stretch while the leech and Sparkle Caddis did the trick on the lower end. Although Kathleen felt she was imposing, preventing me from fishing, watching her delight at her first fish made my day. I'll take her on the river again in a heartbeat.
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The Bow - August 12, 2008
Posted by Bill on Friday, August 15, 2008
It is a rare day this year when we can get a group of fishers together for a float down the Bow. This day was one of those rare occasions. Bill Sr., Clint Brown, Jason Brown, Tom and I hit the Policeman's to McKinnon's stretch for a fun day of fishing. Although every fisher got into some nice fish, Clint was the one with the right touch netting a number of very nice trout. The day was a glorious day of sun, water and fishing. Through the upper end of the float, the black leech was the ticket. Through the middle, the Pheasant Tail, Copper Bob and Chinelle Worm were the hot flies. On the lower end, the hopper was the order. The river has been fishing very well over the last week or so and this day was no exception.
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The Bow - August 10, 2008
Posted by Tom on Monday, September 1, 2008
Brandi McCrimmon booked a trip for her husband Jeff for his birthday. Jeff had been on a trip with me last year, and so already knew about my "special" technique. It was Brandi's first fly fishing experience and she pick up casting, mending, mending, and twitching very quickly. It was Jeff's day however, with an unknown number of fish hooked and landed, but the most memorable were three browns over the 20" mark. Next time if will be all about you Brandi.
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The Bow - August 9, 2008
Posted by Tom on Monday, September 1, 2008
Tim and Brian joined me again this year, the only difference was it was three months later than their usual May float. The day started off with a bang with nearly a dozen fish hooked in the first mile. Although we still got fish thoughout the day it slowed considerably when the wind picked up from the east. The highlight of the afternoon was a favorite run I would walk the boat u back up to go through a dozen times and each time we would hook one or two fish. Lots of work but sometimes we have to do what we have to do.
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The Bow - August 8, 2008
Posted by Tom on Monday, September 1, 2008
Sandy and Jan Negropontes floated the Bow for a first time fly fishing trip. It was one of those days we all dream about and the fish were eating. Eating pretty much everything we put in front of them, but the majority came on the faithful San Jaun. In all I guessed about 40 fish were hooked on the day. What I would call a very good day for a couple of first time fly fishers. Hopefully we can do a repeat on your next trip.
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The Bow - August 7, 2008
Posted by Bill on Saturday, August 9, 2008
After a rather hectic July of guiding and a two week stint without a day off, schedules fell into place for a day when we could get Dad out on the river and fish for ourselves ... a fun float for Tom and me to see exactly what is happening on the river. The day started off with a bang and never let up until we hit the Highwood. Small nymphs produced on the upper end of the float but in summary, the fly of the day was the worm. Stone fly nymphs, Hare's Ears and Pheasant Tails produced sporatically amid the Trico hatch early and late in the day. As has become the standard of late, Dad took the fish of the day, a splendid, thick, heavy, 25 inch Brown Trout (pictured), a fish that could only be described as a "pig". On this day the Bow showed herself for what she really is, an incredible fishery and I can think of no way better enjoying what she has to offer than in the company of my father and brother.
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The Bow - August 4, 2008
Posted by Bill on Saturday, August 9, 2008
Scott Cunningham, Scott Norris and Wayne Fuller joined us from Virginia for 3 days of fishing. The first two days were spent floating the Bow and the third, a walk and wade on the Oldman River. While these three were most interested in the entire experience of fishing these waters than actually catching fish, they had two incredible days on the Bow and a pretty good day on the Oldman. They marvelled at the Bald Eagle settling on the water to take a fish, were astonished by the size of the trout and drank in the magnificent flora and fauna of the Bow and Oldman River drainages. With the water on the Bow continuing to drop and clear, the trout were certainly on the feed through most of both days floating. Fish were taken nymphing and using the hopper/dropper setup but only Wayne managed to find a rising fish that would take a dry fly. Much to our delight, the chenille worm is back in season. The Oldman, more like the streams this trio is accustomed to in Virginia, produced some beautiful Cutties, Rainbows and Cutbows on a dry. It was a pleasure accompanying them on their three days of fishing and hopefully next time we'll be able to get them into some big trout dry fly action.
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The Bow - August 2, 2008
Posted by Bill on Sunday, August 3, 2008
Cameron Grant and Wade of Edmonton joined me for a glorious day of fishing on the Bow. Not only was the weather picture perfect throughout the day but the fishing and fish matched the weather. Although the day was a little slow out of the gate, it didn't take long before both Cam and Wade starting picking fish. By day end both fishers had caught trout on a dry fly, a hopper-dropper set and nymphing, nymphing being by far the most productive. The average trout on this day was in the 19 inch range, the most notable a 22 inch thick, heavy Brown Cam brought to hand. The highlight of the day was the jubilation displayed by both Cam and Wade as they relished in their fourth double-header of the day. Cam's comment, "you know you've had a good day of fishing when you've lost track of the number of fish you've caught", pretty well summed up the day. Although fish were taken on a variety of nymph imitations, the fly of the day was the chenille worm. Given the spotty fishing over the last few days, it was nice to see the Bow show herself for what she can be, an incredible fishery. It was also a treat to have Cam and Wade in the boat, two fishers who are fishing nuts, good fly casters and set the hook on everything ... even weeds. It was a great day guys. I'm looking forward to the next time.
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The Bow - July 29, 2008
Posted by Bill on Wednesday, July 30, 2008
Following an extended stint of having clients on the river, I finally got a chance to get Dad out on the Bow to do a little fishing. The day, weather wise, was almost picture perfect, the only blemish being a slight breeze for a short period of time. Fishing wasn't as spectacular as the weather but was good just the same. Interestingly, we didn't pick any small fish on this day ... all trout taken were above 18 inches. Dad's last fish of the day was a colourful Rainbow (pictured) still showing signs of the rigours of spawning. Flies of choice on this day were an imitation leech and the stone fly larvae. Other offerings took trout but not consistently. There was less weed floating in the river than in the last couple of days and visibility improved throughout the day. It was great to get a chance to spend the day with Dad and hopefully it won't be many days before our next trip together.
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The Bow - July 28, 2008
Posted by Tom on Monday, September 1, 2008
Christy Garth and her husband spent a couple of days with me on the Bow. A couple fo very nice people new to fly fishing with a love of the out doors. Over the course of the two days we got into a nuber of fish mostly on nymphs and finally consistantly on the worms. This year is about 2 to 3 weeks behind because of our cool spring, but the fishing is finally really starting to pick up. Maybe we will see you again one day, hopefully the move is successful and your remaing time in the Rockies was everything you hoped it would be.
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The Bow - July 27, 2008
Posted by Bill on Monday, July 28, 2008
Jack and Bill Busst joined us on the river as a result of a Christmas present from Jack's wife, Patricia. Jack had been absent from fly fishing activities for well over a decade and took a few bends to regain his rhythm. Bill had never fished the Bow or fly casted so this trip represented and completely new experience for him. By trip's end, Bill was casting effectively and had gained a whole new appreciation for the craft of fly fishing. Fishing was again spotty but consistent above the Highwood. Highlights of the day had to be the heavy Rainbow Jack tied into on a dry fly that straighted the hook out during the battle after the hookup, the Brown Trout Bill brought to hand (pictured), and the positive attitude of both anglers just happy to be out on the river. It was indeed a pleasure.
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The Bow - July 27, 2008
Posted by Tom on Monday, September 1, 2008
Ian and Mike joined me on the lower Bow today. Ian has fished the river before and wanted to chuck streamers on the bottom end. A hot sunny day is not exactly what one hopes for when fishing streamers, however by the end of the day over 30 fish were hooked with a very high percentage of these landed. Both Ian and I learned a few new trick, hopefully we can try this again soon.
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The Bow - July 26, 2008
Posted by Bill on Monday, July 28, 2008
Fly fishing should be an experience a father shares with his son. Such was the case on this day as Rob, Matthew, Jeff and Peter Swart took to the water in father/son combinations. Fly fishing for Matthew and Peter was an entirely new experience and both boys took quickly to casting, fighting and landing trout. The missing partner in this trip was father/grandfather Swart who broke his wrist two days prior to the trip. It would have been nice to have had three generations on the river. Regardless, every caster got into fish, although landing them was a different story. Fishing was spotty and trout were taken on a variety of imitations, the floating weed and algae being a constant challenge. Days like these, watching fathers and sons share a day of new experiences, are special and far too infrequent. They remind me of my youth and the wonderful days I spent casting a fly with my father ... and the days I still spend on trout waters with him. Thanks for a terrific day on the river guys.
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The Bow - July 25, 2008
Posted by Bill on Monday, July 28, 2008
Ted Vanderwal and his fiancé Nichole joined us on the river from Edmonton for a beautiful day of floating and fishing the Bow. Nichole, a complete novice to fly fishing and the Bow River, caught on to the Bow River style of casting very quickly and turned a number of fish on the day. Here she is pictured with a Brown Trout she netted about half way through the trip. Ted, a caster with some experience, was snake bitten by long-distance releases and had a little trouble handling the "hot" trout in the Bow River current. Fishing was spotty throughout the day and the increased river level and floating weeds and algae made keeping the flies clean a real challenge. Nonetheless, both tied into trout at various times throughout the float. With your wedding less than a month away, we wish you all the best in the years to come. Hopefully we've got you hooked on fly fishing Nichole.
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The Bow - July 24, 2008
Posted by Tom on Tuesday, August 19, 2008
Alex Cruz from Miami joined me for two days on the Bow. An interesting situation from my perspective, as from being ridiculed by salt water guides about my trout sets, it was enjoyable to be on the other side. Alex an experienced salt water fly fisher needed some coaching to lift his rod to "set" on a trout after eating a dry fly. It was a pretty good two days fishing with most of the success coming on streamers, a style of fishing Alex is very familiar with, as well as a number of fish taken on drys. It was most enjoyable watching him make "chasers" eat the streamers and seeing him stalk risers until he could actually see the fish in the water. Hopefully one day soon we can reverse rolls and I will be with you on your turf.
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The Bow - July 19, 2008
Posted by Bill on Monday, July 21, 2008
Ben and Kay Mayberry (TX), joined us again on the Bow this year. While the fishing was slow and spotty, the weather was picture perfect for a day of floating the river. A variety of flies turned fish on this day and it seemed nothing was consistent or constant with each passing turn of the river. Nymphs under a strike indicator and hopper were both productive albeit not fast or furious. The San Juan worm had its moments as did the Bow River Bugger. Even stone flies turned a few trout on various stretches. What was missing in the fishing was replaced by the glorious cloudless sunny skies and the variety of flora and fauna along the river course. It was a wonderful day to be fishing the river with two great people. Thanks for a terrific day Ben and Kay.
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The Bow - July 19, 2008
Posted by Tom on Tuesday, August 19, 2008
James and Cathy Cash from Tennasse joined me for three days on the river. Three tough days on the river, we caught a number of fish and at times the river showed off what it is capable of, but we shouldn't have to work that hard for them. We again had most of our success on the golden stone and a black leech. It was a very enjoyable three days with a couple of great people. If you ever come back to Canada hopefully you will look me up.
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The Bow - July 18, 2008
Posted by Tom on Tuesday, August 19, 2008
Chris Brown and his wife from Vancouver Island fished with me today. And what a day it was, beautiful and sunny in the morning, heavy rain and hail in the afternoon. Even with the bad thunderstorms the Brown's found only positives out of it all and were most enjoyable to have in the boat. Although both were realatively new to fly fishing both caught a number of fish. Choice flies on the day were the golden stone and a black leech. Hope to see you both back real soon.
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The Bow - July 17, 2008
Posted by Bill on Monday, July 21, 2008
Jim Chroniaris (Calgary) and Les (Bassano) are beginning fly fishers and eager to put all they learned in their recently completed fly fishing course to good use on the Bow. Unfortunately, much of what they were taught had lead them astray so much of this day was spent assisting them get back on track and fishing "Bow River" style. Both were eager students and quick studies as they picked up the casting and mending like far more seasoned fly casters. Even getting out of the boat and working seams and runs was undaunting to them as they quickly learned to effortlessly cast their offerings to the trout. It is days like these when I am know why I do what I do. Their excitement over the fish and their incredible increased proficiency over the course of the day was a joy to witness. I hope both of you have countless hours of enjoyment fishing the Bow in the years to come and success every day to put to her waters. I look forward to seeing you on the river.
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The Bow - July 16, 2008
Posted by Bill on Monday, July 21, 2008
Ed Margola (Texas) booked four days of fishing with the intent of fishing the Bow for three and hitting the Old Man for one on a walk and wade. After the first day on the Bow, he opted to spend all four days on the Bow as the quality and quantity of trout caught his attention. In the end, his first day was his best of the four days of fishing. Not only did he get into a number of quality fish but conditions were just right and we spotted a number of trout sipping flies off the surface. Of the six fish he took on surface offerings, the best, a 23 inch Rainbow (pictured), took a size 14 caddis fly. Over the four days, Ed landed a number of good fish, missed several takes and exercised the famous "Bow River long-distance release" on a number of others. He was a pleasure to have in the boat and an eager fisher throughout even after our early morning, 6 AM start on the last day. Maybe next time we'll get that Brown you were after Ed.
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The Bow - July 15, 2008
Posted by Tom on Tuesday, August 19, 2008
Devin Mintz of Smith Bits Canada who fished with me last year during the Oilman's float, joined me today with a guest on the first of his three trips he booked this year. fishing in the morning was fairly steady right up to mid day lunch. After lunch things slowed considerably and the fish were much harder to find. Choice flies of the day were the faithful red worm and a black leech.
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The Bow - July 14, 2008
Posted by Bill on Monday, July 21, 2008
Trey Shanks and three buddies (Chris, John and David) travelled from Texas to join us on the Bow. These gents were a pleasure to have on the river with their ever possitive attitude and simple enjoyment of being out on the water. Fishing on the day was a bit tough with seams and runs which usually produce well offering little or no action. Fishing could only be described as spotty with long stretches between fish. With the river clearing and dropping, the trout were on the move and "hot" in the faster water. Nonetheless, it was a wonderful day on the river with four great guys. While the Bow did not show herself and what she can be on this day, we look forward to the next time we see you gents fishing her.
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The Bow - July 13, 2008
Posted by Bill on Monday, July 21, 2008
This day was a guide's fun float day with Tom, Jason Brown, Dan Thompson, Bill Sr. and me venturing to the lower end of the Bow to check out that section of the river. Reports suggested recent action on adult stones was fast and furious on the lower Bow and the only way to confirm the reports was to fish it. Weather may have been our worst enemy on this day as it was clear and sunny throughout the day until a furocious wind took over in the last hour of the float. Reports of fishing action were from overcast, cool days, a polar opposite of this day. Fishing could only be described as deadly slow on surface offerings. A lovely 23 inch Rainbow (pictured) taken on an adult stone imitation was the highlight of an otherwise uneventful day of fishing. Most trout taken came on subsurface offerings. From our findings, fishing on the lower Bow, in contrast to the reports we had heard, is anything but fast and furious.
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The Bow - July 12, 2008
Posted by Bill on Monday, July 21, 2008
Trevor Marten and three other buddies from Lethbridge (Doug, Tim and Sean) joined us on the Bow River again this year to try their hand on Bow River Trout. Although the fishing action wasn't a repeat of the year before, all fishers managed to get into a few trout on the day. Small nymphs were the order of the day although leeches, Bow River Buggers and the San Juan worm produced as well. Fish were in the usual places as expected with many brought to hand and at least an equal number given the long distance release. These gents are a pleasure to have in the boat and likely a welcome addition to angling pressence on any stream. It was a great day guys ... hope to see you again next year.
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The Bow - July 10, 2008
Posted by Bill on Friday, July 11, 2008
The Winwood Corporate Float trip is a trip we annually look forward to. This year would see 14 fishermen in 7 boats trying their luck on the Bow River. This is a great bunch of guys looking for a little relaxation, an escape from the pressures of work with a little fishing thrown in. Depending on the guide piloting the boat, the fishers were exposed to all types of fishing from nymphing to stripping steamers and even presenting dry flies to the trout. Every boat saw fish and every style of fishing was productive on this day. While the focus of the day was the fish and fishing, the real reward was the day away from the office on a gorgeous river in great company. Although the day was a bit on the cool side and windy from time to time, it was a great outting for the Winwood participants and the guides alike. Thanks for a terrific day guys ... we're already looking forward to next year.
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The Bow - July 8, 2008
Posted by Bill on Wednesday, July 9, 2008
Stan and Jon Lakefish, a father/son combo, joined me for a perfect day on the river. Under a cloudless sky and only a hint of a slight breeze from time to time, Stan and Jon planned this escape while on a family vacation in Alberta. Stan, a seasoned caster, pick up the "Bow River" style of fishing very quickly. Jon, a virtual neophyte, took a little longer to warm up to the idea of casting a strike indicator and nymphs although he was into fish very early in the float. It wasn't until late in the day he mastered the "tweek" to give the flies movement. Nonetheless, both fishers were into trout throughout the day. Again, samples taken from fish caught were completely different than the flies the trout would take. Caddis nymphs, Hare's Ears and Copper John's were the flies of choice on this day. While the fishing wasn't what it can be on the Bow, it was an above average fishing day and the attitude both Stan and Jon had toward the entire experience was refreshing. Hope the rest of your vacation was a success Stan and Jon and I look forward to the next time we have you on the Bow.
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The Bow - July 6, 2008
Posted by Bill on Monday, July 7, 2008
This was a extra special day for me as I finally convinced by wife Kathleen to join me on the river. Not only was this her first time on the Bow but it was her first time with a fishing rod of any kind in her hand. With the river high and markedly coloured (16" visibility), fishing for a first-time fisher was tough. Although her casting improved as the day progressed, because of her inexperience she was relegated to fishing nymphs and small streamers in runs and seams. Typically we would have casters pounding the banks with streamers under these conditions but simply getting the fly out was enough challenge for Kathleen. There is little doubt that every fisher on the banks of the Bow within earshot was aware something was happening when she got into a fish. Flies of choice were the Hare's Ear, Copper Johns and Copper Bobs. Several other offerings were made with no results. The best fish on the day was a 21" Brown (pictured) and although a number of other nice trout made up the action, Kathleen's enjoyment of the day was the most rewarding.
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The Bow - July 1, 2008
Posted by Tom on Saturday, July 5, 2008
Happy birthday Canada, I celebrated by spending a day on the river with Steven and his grandfather Jim. This will by far be one of the best stories of the season. Kaley Rich, Steve's fiancé booked this float trip for Steve for his birthday. Steve asked his grandfather, who is from Ontario, to join him. After hearing this story I knew this family will see many more birthdays together. Steve has had some experience fly fishing but Jim none and both were very new to the sport but took to the casting very quickly. Jim had a little more difficulty hooking and landing than Steve but both had lots of long distance releases. The most notable fish was a 23" Cut Bow, which is a cross between a Rainbow and a Cutthroat. I haven't seen one of the on the Bow for about three years and never one this big. In all it was a great day on the river with over 40 fish hooked, great company, and even decent weather. Thanks to Kaley who originated the trip. Steve you are a lucky guy.
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The Bow - June 30, 2008
Posted by Bill on Monday, June 30, 2008
The Windsor trio (Tom, Dad and I) hit the river today for a fun float. Under cloudless skies through the morning and early afternoon, it was a very hot day and the cloud cover late in the afternoon brought welcome relief. Fishing was spotty and it seemed that whatever the fish appeared to be eating from samples taken from netted fish, anything but those imitations had hits. Beautiful fish were admired throughout the day but the highlight was Dad's colourful, heavy 24 inch Brown (pictured) taken on a size 14 Hare's Ear. Spotty fishing and slow strectches during the day are all forgotten when a monster like this is the prize of the day. Samples taken showed the fish were eating leeches, crane fly larvae, water worms, and caddis larvae. As is the norm, it was a great day to be on the water with great fishing partners.
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The Bow - June 28, 2008
Posted by Tom on Saturday, July 5, 2008
Darrell Boer of Ontario and his brother in law Gordon, of Calgary booked a float trip today. Darrell, mainly a bass fisherman with spinning equipment and Gordon a non fisherman, wanted to give fly fishing the Bow River trout a try. It didn't take long to get these guys effectively fly fishing "Bow River" style and Darrell was into the first fish within 100 yards of the launch, and Gord with his first shortly after. The hook set and landing was a different story, but then this is a big river, the fish are "hot" and this is fly fishing barbless, so I guess the long distance release is understandable. The morning was slow with probably only a dozen fish stung by lunch. The afternoon was a different story with very consistent fishing right to the take out. Not sure who enjoyed the trip more, the bass fisherman, the non fisherman or myself. This is by far one of the best jobs there is, hard, frustrating, humiliating, and long some days, but very rewarding every day. Thanks guys for a great day. Hope to see you again in the near future.
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The Bow - June 27, 2008
Posted by Bill on Saturday, June 28, 2008
Rick Bartlett (Georgia) was in town on business and decided to set one day aside for fishing the Bow. Under cloudless, blue skies, the river had been fishing well and cleaning with every passing hour. Unlike previous days, the trip started out slow. By the lunch break only 4 trout had been brought to hand even though samples taken from the fish suggested the imitations we were offering were among the items on the fish menu. Fishing picked up considerably after lunch. By day's end, 18 trout had seen the net and Rick figured he had touched over 40 fish in one way or another. A wide assortment of flies turned fish on this day and the only thing consistent was inconsistency. While Rick didn't bring a wall-hanger Brown to the boat, he marvelled at the consistently high quality of fish the Bow produces. Maybe next time we'll get that Brown for you Rick.
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The Bow - June 27, 2008
Posted by Tom on Saturday, July 5, 2008
Ron Fry who did a few trips with me last year brought his other son Justin on a float trip today. As this was Justin's first attempt at fly fishing, it took a bit to get in the groove but wasn't long until he landed his first Bow River trout and on a fly no less. The fishing was not quiet as good as yesterday, but still fairly steady throughout the day. There were lots of long distance releases today and so not quite as many in the net as the day previous. Again a great way to spend a day on the river with a couple of great people. The river is dropping steadily now and cleaning seemingly by the hour. The fish have moved off the banks for the most part and we are now finding them in the runs and buckets more accustom to summer time. Samples from fish today was a repeat of yesterday, the difference was if we found something in a fish and tried something completely different we caught fish. Doesn't make sense but then if it was easy it wouldn't be the Bow. Hope to see you again later in the year Ron.
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The Bow - June 26, 2008
Posted by Tom on Saturday, July 5, 2008
Burt and Corey Turnbull of Youngstown Alberta joined me on the river today for a post run-off float trip. The weather was good and the river has cleaned nicely with three feet of visibility. Burt was very interested in fishing the Bow this time of year as it usually produces good numbers of browns. And that it did, not necessarily monsters but very nice browns and a few rainbows as well. Fishing was very good in the morning and slowed in the afternoon, however in all it was a very decent day with over 40 hooked, and at least 20 were put in the net. Samples taken throughout the day showed fish were eating mayfly nymphs, leeches, worms, and the odd caddis pupa. It was another great day on the water with a couple of very enthusiastic, friendly, fellow Albertans.
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The Bow - June 24, 2008
Posted by Bill on Wednesday, June 25, 2008
Although the water had coloured and risen a bit compared to the day before, Ned Pankhurst would not be denied his day on the Bow. Ned, a fish biologist from Australia, was here for a symposium at the University and booked this day for his road trip, the Bow his road, the drift boat his vehicle. Fishing was spotty throughout the day with pods of feeding fish in pockets and a fair distance apart. Picking fish was a challenge and although not continuous, it was consistent throughout the float. Ned's thriteenth and final fish of the day was an extremely heavy 24 inch Brown, Ned's biggest to date, that had both drift boat and fisher navigating the stream to track him down in the swift current. An accomplished fly caster and experienced fisher, Ned was a treat to have in the boat. Through his experience with fishery research and various postings, there was never a dull moment on this day. When the fishing was slow, the tidbits of information about fish and fisheries made this day very special for me. Thanks Ned for a great day of fishing and the wealth of information.
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The Bow - June 23, 2008
Posted by Bill on Wednesday, June 25, 2008
For the first really fishable day on the Bow after the spring run-off, Larry Delf (Calgary) and his son-in-law Josh Dubin (New York) joined me on the Bow for a wonderful day of fishing. Both fishers were virtual neophytes to fly fishing and virgins to the Bow. It took a little while for Josh to get the hang of Bow River nymph fishing but once he got the hang of casting, presentation and setting the hook, he was on fire most of the day. Larry took a little longer to warm up to the art of setting the hook although his casting was adequate very early in the float. Many were the frustrations of missed set and even more frustrating, the long-distance releases. Nonetheless, these eager and persistent fishers managed to bring 18 or so fish to hand and a new appreciation for the river and its fish. It was a wonderful day of June fishing with very enjoyable company. Thanks guys. I'm looking forward to having both of you on the water again.
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Beaver Lake - June 2, 2008
Posted by Bill on Tuesday, June 3, 2008
For a fun day of fishing while the Bow River is blown out, Tom, Bill Sr., Jason and Bill headed north and west to Beaver Lake, a small lake west of Caroline stocked with Rainbow Trout and aerated to ensure winter survival. Beaver Lake is a beautiful little lake covering about 120 acres and offers the fly fisher a variety of scenic views, bird life and Rainbow Trout. Tom and Jason were on fire shortly after putting onto the lake and the action remained steady and high throughout the day. Although the majority of the fish caught were in the 10 to 12 inch class, a fair number of better trout in the 16 to 18 inch range were also brought to hand. The lunkers this lake is known to house eluded us on this day. Olive buggers were the order of the day although a number of fish were turned on a variety of other flies. Although the skies were cloudy and the temperatures cool, this was a wonderful day of fishing warmed by a catch of well over 60 fish and terrific fishing companions.
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Eagle Lake - May 31, 2008
Posted by Bill on Monday, June 2, 2008
At this time of year when the Bow River is blown out and unfishable, those of us who are insanely keen fly fisherman search for other water and other fish to take the edge off of not being able to fish the Bow. On this day, Tom and I explored some water just east of Calgary, Eagle Lake. The lake is inhabited by Northern Pike and Walleye and the focus of our attention on this trip was for the Northern Pike. It was of interest to us that there was very little bird life on the south end of the lake and we assume that is because of a lack of vegetation on the south shore. Most of the Pike caught, about 20 on the day, were of relatively the same size although one smaller one was brought to hand. The day started out windy but as time passed the wind subsided and by early evening, the lake was like glass. It was a great day on the water even though it wasn't the Bow and trout.
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The Bow - May 17, 2008
Posted by Tom on Monday, May 19, 2008
Morey Benton, from Ontario, booked a Spring Special trip again this year. Again we floated the "city" section with 2 feet of visibility at best and even more white algae floating. Fishing was tough and very frustrating, however the day started off very good with four fish hooked in the first run not 100 yards from the launch. The longest fish on the day was a 19 1/2 inch brown which was to date Morey's best. In all I figure we netted a dozen fish and lost at least that many, one of which was heavy near the end of the day that we never saw, maybe next year. Over all it was a beautiful day, great company, and not a bad day fishing for only one guy considering the river conditions.
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The Bow - May 16, 2008
Posted by Tom on Monday, May 19, 2008
Steve and Chad, a couple of local fly fisherman who have had limited success on the Bow, booked a Spring Special trip to try and figure this river out. Due to the recent snow storm and with Fish Creek dumping mud into the river we were forced to float the "city", Glenmore to Police. The day started off slow but once we hit Fish Creek Park things picked up. In all over 20 fish were hooked on the day with lots of long distance releases. Most of the fish were taken in likely spots while out of the boat walking and wading. With only 2 1/2 feet of visibility and lots of white algae floating the fishing was tough and samples throughout the day showed the fish were not eating. Both Steve and Chad were nymphing effectively by the end of the day and hopefully they now have confidence in this amazing river.
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The Bow - May 15, 2008
Posted by Bill on Friday, May 16, 2008
Tom and I spent the day on the river keeping in touch with the river and fish. It was a spectacular day of cloudless skies, hot sun and fishing. The day was hampered by a farily strong NW wind and cloudy water conditions. Visibility at Glenmore was about 3 feet but the chocolate contribution by Fish Creek reduced visibility considerably below her confluence although the river held her contamination to the right bank for several bends. At Police, visibility on the left bank was about 18 inches while on the right bank it was only about 6 inches. Nonetheless, we had a pretty good day of fishing. Tom nailed four browns right out the gate which ended up being the most productive stretch of fishing from the boat. For the remainder of the trip, productivity was highest out of the boat working seams and runs. Although we touched well over 40 fish on the day, nothing of any particular size was brought to hand. Several beautiful, fat trout in the 18 inch range made up the catch highlights of the day. The other highlight, the gosslings have hit the water and although not everywhere, several clutches distracted our attention from fishing throughout the day.
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The Bow - May 13, 2008
Posted by Bill on Tuesday, May 13, 2008
Today was a fun float day although the wind and cool temperature made it somewhat less than perfect. Joining Dad and me on the river was Diana Cerda, an exchange student from Mexico, who had never fished before let alone fly fished on a river like the Bow. Diana is a quick study and took to the casting of flies with a nymph rig like fish take to water. With a little coaching she was stripping, backcasting and shooting line like a far more experienced fly caster. Although she was reluctant to actually handle her catches, we did manage to coax her into holding one (pictured). She brought a rainbow and brown to hand and turned a number of other trout that threw the hook in the distance.Fish Creek is flowing mud and colouring the Bow significantly below her confluence. The east bank below Fish Creek has about 5 feet of visibility while on the west bank it is only about 2 inches. A bend or two above the Deerfoot extension the mix extends across the entire river with about 18 inches of visibility from there to Policeman's. Fishing success was significantly higher above the mix on the clearer side of the river. Worms were the order of the day even though a number of offerings were presented.
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The Bow - May 5, 2008
Posted by Tom on Tuesday, May 6, 2008
Today we put two boats on the water with five guides and fisherman for a fun float. We again got access to the private launch at Policeman's and floated to there from Fish Creek. The day started off cool with a strong southeast wind but shortly after launching the boats the wind died down and it turn into a beautiful spring day. Dad, Bill, Jason, Clint, and myself were the group for the day. First trip of the year for Clint and second trip of the year we were able to float downstream of Calgary. Although a few fish were taken on streamers and small nymphs, the majority of fish came on the worms both our new red wire and our special chenille. In all over 50 fish were hooked during our 6 hour outing. During one of our stops in a favorite run the river produced over a dozen for Bill. The largest fish brought to hand was a 24" brown Bill landed and I'm sure we saw this same fish on our last trip on this section. There was a very heavy blue winged olive hatch with the water temperature around the 50°F mark. With the trees starting to bud, hopefully this trip will signal the official start of spring and we will continue to see increased insect activity with each passing day. A great day on the river with a great bunch of guys.
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The Bow - May 2, 2008
Posted by Tom on Monday, May 5, 2008
On the river today with Bill and Dad for Dad's first float of the year. It was quite windy and cool and the fishing started off quite slow. We floated the city section today as the boat launches south of Calgary are either still iced up or not ready for use yet. It wasn't until about 1/2 way through the trip the fishing picked up. Again there was a midge hatch and a sparse scattering of BWO's. For the most part, fish came on the San Juan however about 30% came on small nymphs imitating the midges and BWO's. In all about 30 fish were hooked on the day, however only about 18 were brought to hand, lots were given the famous long distance release. Most of the fish were found in slower deeper holes as the water temperature is still cold. Today, as expected during this time of year, all the mature fish were browns. The only rainbows we saw were of the pre-spawn size 17" or less. Despite the wind and consequently the cool day it was great to get out on the river and now hopefully this will be a regular event as the weather should get better and better as summer approaches.
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The Bow - April 26, 2008
Posted by Bill on Sunday, April 27, 2008
There are some days on the river that are purely exceptional. The second day for Fred Jr. and Fred Sr. from Austria was one of those days. Lauching at 17th Ave. under a cloudless, sunny sky, expectations were high. Those expectations gradually waned as bend after bend no fish were to be seen. After having a good Brown chase a nymph right up to the boat but no take, a quick switch to a streamer produced a beautiful 21 incher. That was the only landed trout until mid-afternoon. After the hot river-side lunch both fishers and fish were recharged. From that point on the Bow made good on her reputation producing close to 20 trout in the 18 plus inch class. After landing a couple of good Rainbows, Fred Jr. caught a 25 inch female Brown, a trout many fishermen fish the Bow all year for. Half an hour later he caught another 25 inch Brown (pictured), this time a male, dark and heavy. Despite the cold of the previous day and the lack of action through the morning on this day, both Freds were troopers and battled through adversity to finally bask in the glory the Bow River and its trout can present, a pair of trophies most fishers only dream of. I trust their memories of these trophy trout will stay with them until next time we have them on the river.
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The Bow - April 25, 2008
Posted by Bill on Sunday, April 27, 2008
April fly fishing on the Bow River can be a test of fortitude. Such was the case on this day as Fred Jr. and Fred Sr. from Austria joined us for a very cold day of fishing. With considerable cooperation from the folks responsible for twinning the Glenmore bridge, we put in at the brand new Glenmore launch, the first boat to use that launch according to the workers. Fishing was spotty from start to finish as is expected for April. The count at the end of the day was 4 Rockies and 6 Rainbows. Several other fish, approximately a dozen, were turned or fought but escaped as both Freds practiced their long-distance release techniques. Of those, one notable Brown was brought to the surface for viewing but not to the net for pictures. The prizes of the day were a 21 inch Rainbow and a 20 inch Rainbow (pictured) Fred Jr. caught mid-way through the day. The biggest challenge of the day was the continual clearing of ice that built up in the eyes of the rods. In spite of the frigid temperatures, both Freds were a treat to have in the boat and on the River. They tirelessly sent offerings to reluctant trout from put in to take out.
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The Bow - April 16, 2008
Posted by Tom on Saturday, April 19, 2008
Finally we are officially back on the river. With the recent bad weather and the boat launch construction this float was a long time coming. Jay, Bill and I did a short float today for the first one Fish Creek to the new boat launch at Policeman's Flats. The weather was less than ideal with a very cool northwest wind but the fish didn't seem to mind. Within 100 yards of the launch Jay landed the first fish of the year, a beautiful 18" brown. Then things slowed until our first stop where we got out of the boat and fished a very nice run. In all over 20 fish were netted on the day with only 3 under 16". Surprisingly, we even managed to fool 4 rainbows over 20". Usually they are out of the river on their spawning run. The browns over the 20" mark are still very colorful and remarkably healthly. There was an amazing midge hatch that made the boat black that I'm sure the fish keep full on throughout the winter. Fish were taken on worms, leeches, and small nymphs and they seemed to prefer them with some movement.
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