A Powerful Fishery from Bighorn Dam to Rocky Mountain House

Why Fish the North Saskatchewan River?

The North Saskatchewan River, flowing from Bighorn Dam down to Rocky Mountain House, is a mighty, fast-moving river that holds a diverse and exciting fishery. This section of the river offers large, hard-fighting fish, stunning scenery, and a true big-water angling experience. With Bull Trout, Brown Trout, Mountain Whitefish, and Walleye among its primary species, this stretch provides a mix of trout fishing in the upper reaches and multi-species opportunities as it progresses downstream.

With deep runs, boulder-strewn riffles, and long gravel bars, this section of the North Saskatchewan rewards boat anglers and waders alike. Whether you’re casting streamers for predatory bull trout, drifting dry flies for browns, or jigging for walleye, this stretch offers something for every angler.

Key Features of the North Saskatchewan River:

Originating in the glaciers of the Rocky Mountains, the North Saskatchewan is a powerful freestone river with varying flows, deep holes, and vast gravel flats. The section from Bighorn Dam to Rocky Mountain House is particularly productive for trout, thanks to the consistent cold water release from the dam. Bull trout dominate the upper reaches, while brown trout become more common as you move downstream, often holding near structure, log jams, and deep seams. Mountain whitefish are present in huge numbers, providing fast action on nymph rigs. Further downstream, walleye and northern pike start appearing, making for an interesting mix of game fish.

The North Saskatchewan is not an easy river to fish—it’s big, fast, and constantly changing. However, for those willing to put in the time and effort, it offers some of the best opportunities for trophy-sized fish in Alberta.

Outdoor Activities:

This stretch of the river is popular for more than just fishing. Rafting, kayaking, camping, and wildlife viewing are all excellent in this area. With its remote sections and rugged terrain, anglers can enjoy wildlife encounters, including moose, bears, bald eagles, and osprey. The river corridor provides stunning views, with its steep cliffs, rolling foothills, and towering rock formations creating an unforgettable backdrop.

Access:

Access along this section of the North Saskatchewan River varies, with some points easily reachable by vehicle and others requiring boats or longer hikes. The best way to fish much of this stretch is by drifting in a jet boat, raft, or drift boat, allowing anglers to cover more ground and access less-pressured water.

Fishing Tips for the North Saskatchewan River:

Fishing this stretch of the North Saskatchewan River requires a strategic approach due to its size and flow variability. For bull trout, swinging or stripping large streamers in deep pools, near cliffs and log jams, is the most effective technique. White Zonkers, Articulated Sculpins, and big Double Deceivers are all excellent choices.

For brown trout, anglers should focus on undercut banks, side channels, and slower seams, particularly in the mid-to-lower section of this reach. Hoppers, Elk Hair Caddis, and big attractor dries can produce in late summer, while Stonefly nymphs, Prince Nymphs, and Pheasant Tails work well year-round.

If you’re targeting walleye, fishing deep holes and slack water with streamers, soft plastics, or jigs is the best approach. Pike can also be found in backwaters, particularly in the lower part of this stretch, with big deceivers, bunny leeches, or conventional lures proving effective.

The best time to fish is typically from June through October, with early summer bringing high flows and runoff challenges, while fall provides some of the best streamer fishing for big predatory trout.

Regulations:

Catch-and-Release for Bull Trout

Click here for regulations

Plan Your Adventure:

The North Saskatchewan River from Bighorn Dam to Rocky Mountain House offers a big-water experience unlike any other in Alberta. With its hard-fighting bull trout, technical brown trout fishing, and multi-species potential, it provides a challenging but rewarding fishery. Whether you’re casting streamers for trophy trout, drifting nymphs through deep runs, or chasing walleye in the lower stretches, this river delivers an unforgettable fishing adventure.

For those willing to put in the time, adapt to changing conditions, and explore its many features, the North Saskatchewan River remains one of Alberta’s most exciting and unknown fisheries.