Why Fish the Clearwater River?

The Clearwater River is a spectacular freestone river that flows through the rugged Alberta foothills, potentially offering some of the best fly fishing in the region. Known for its healthy brown trout population, aggressive bull trout, and abundant mountain whitefish, this river is a favorite among anglers who enjoy a true wilderness experience. The diverse water types, from riffles and deep pools to undercut banks and log jams, create prime habitat for trophy fish and exciting angling opportunities.

Key Features of the Clearwater River:

The Clearwater River lives up to its name, boasting crystal-clear water with a strong, fast current that carves through deep canyons, gravel bars, and log-strewn banks. Brown trout are the dominant sport fish, often found in pocket water, deeper runs, and undercut banks, rising to dry flies in the summer months. Bull trout, Alberta’s native apex predator, lurk in deeper pools and ambush points, aggressively attacking streamers. Mountain whitefish are plentiful throughout the system, providing consistent action, especially for nymph anglers.

While cutthroat trout have been rumored to exist in the extreme upper reaches of the Clearwater system, they remain unverified, making this primarily a brown and bull trout fishery. Unlike more popular trout rivers in Alberta, the Clearwater sees moderate angling pressure, making it an excellent choice for those who prefer solitude on the water.

Outdoor Activities:

The Clearwater River isn’t just a fishing destination—it’s a backcountry paradise. In addition to angling, the river is popular for hiking, camping, paddling, and wildlife viewing. Its remote stretches provide incredible rafting and kayaking opportunities, while the surrounding foothills are home to elk, moose, black bears, and bald eagles. Whether you’re spending the day on the water or setting up camp along the banks, the Clearwater offers an immersive wilderness experience.

There are certain sections of this river that need to be avoided if you are planning to float it, particularly from the bridge on Cutoff Creek Road down to the Clear Creek Confluence. Although not impossible for very advanced paddlers, this section of river is constantly changing every runoff cycle. Its not uncommon to change course, leaving many river spanning log jams, sweepers and strainers.  If you are looking to float, It becomes much more tame below the Hwy 22 bridge. Use caution when on this river. 

Access:

The Clearwater River runs west of Rocky Mountain House, with multiple access points along Forestry Trunk Road (Highway 734) and secondary roads leading to the river. While some sections are easily accessible, others require hiking or floating to reach prime fishing waters.

Fishing Tips for the Clearwater River:

The Clearwater is a classic freestone trout river, with brown trout actively feeding on dry flies throughout the summer and bull trout hunting in deeper pools. Mayflies, stoneflies, and terrestrials dominate the insect life, making Chubby Chernobyls, Stimulators, Elk Hair Caddis, and Parachute Adams essential patterns for brown trout. Matching the hatch is key, as fish can become selective during prolific emergences.

For anglers targeting bull trout, swinging or stripping large streamers in deep pools and log jams is the best approach. White Zonkers, Articulated Sculpins, and Muddler Minnows are all great choices. Nymphing with Pheasant Tails, Prince Nymphs, and Stonefly patterns is effective in fast-moving runs and deeper slots, especially when dry fly action slows down.

The best fishing is typically from late July through October, with early summer offering aggressive dry fly takes and fall producing some of the best streamer fishing of the year.

Regulations:

Catch-and-Release for Bull Trout

Click here for regulations

Plan Your Adventure:

For anglers seeking wild fish, breathtaking scenery, and a true backcountry experience, the Clearwater River is a must-visit destination. Whether you’re casting dry flies to rising brown trout, hunting bull trout in deep pools, or drifting nymphs through riffles, the Clearwater delivers incredible fishing and unforgettable days on the water. With its remote access, stunning terrain, and strong fish this river is truly a diamond in the rough.