Bow River

The Bow River is Alberta’s most iconic trout fishery — a legendary tailwater that flows through the heart of Calgary and into the vast prairie landscape, offering world-class fishing just minutes from the city. Known for its wild, hard-fighting rainbow and brown trout, the Bow is a must-fish destination for both local anglers and traveling fly fishers seeking consistent action and the chance at a true trophy.

With its broad channels, deep runs, and long gravel bars, the Bow River provides prime habitat for trout and some of the most productive dry fly, nymph, and streamer fishing in Western Canada.

Key Features of the Bow River

As a tailwater fishery flowing out of the Bearspaw and Glenmore Reservoirs, the Bow benefits from consistent flows and stable water temperatures — ideal conditions for thriving insect life and healthy trout populations. Rainbows dominate much of the river, offering aggressive takes and aerial fights, while brown trout lurk near structure, undercut banks, and deeper runs, often tipping the scales at 20+ inches.

Hatches of Blue-Winged Olives, caddis, midges, and stoneflies create reliable dry fly windows throughout the season, while the river’s size and depth also make it perfect for drifting nymph rigs and swinging streamers year-round.

Despite flowing through an urban environment, the Bow retains a wild feel. With abundant bird life, lush riparian zones, and sections that feel entirely remote, it offers a unique blend of accessibility and solitude.

Outdoor Activities

Beyond fishing, the Bow River corridor is a hub for recreation. Walking and cycling paths, rafting, birding, and photography are all popular along its banks. The stretch from Calgary to Carseland offers both public and private access options, with boat launches available for float trips that cover long stretches of prime water.

Urban and rural parks along the Bow provide great spots for family outings, day trips, and picnic-style fly fishing sessions. In the summer months, float fishing becomes the preferred method, allowing anglers to cover miles of productive water in a single day.

Access

The Bow River offers unmatched accessibility. Numerous public access points are located throughout Calgary and downstream toward the town of Carseland. Popular launches include Fish Creek Park, Glenmore Trail, Policeman’s Flats, McKinnon Flats, and Legacy Island.

Drift boats and rafts are commonly used to cover water, though many great wading opportunities exist within city limits and at key outside points. Float trips are easily planned with help from local fly shops and guide services.

Fishing Tips for the Bow River

The Bow fishes well year-round, but peak seasons run from late May through October.

• Dry Fly Action peaks during caddis hatches in June and into late summer with hoppers and terrestrials.
• Nymphing with Pheasant Tails, Hare’s Ears, and stonefly imitations produces consistent results in seams and deeper slots.
• Streamers like Woolly Buggers, Clouser Minnows, and Sex Dungeons move big browns during early morning or overcast days.

Anglers should focus on structure — seams, ledges, drop-offs, and undercut banks. Long drifts and stealthy presentation often lead to success, especially in pressured areas near Calgary.

Regulations

• Catch-and-Release 
• Alberta sportfishing regulations apply
  Click here for full regulations

Plan Your Adventure

The Bow River delivers legendary trout fishing with unbeatable access. Whether you’re walking into a side channel in the city or floating miles of prairie water downstream, the Bow has something for every angler — big fish, long drifts, and endless opportunity. With a little local knowledge and the right presentation, this river can produce the fish of a lifetime.