Bow River

Calgary, AB, Canada · Fly Fishing · Intermediate

A tailwater running straight through Calgary and out into the prairie, holding exceptional numbers of wild browns and rainbows. Nutrient-rich water grows big fish in an unlikely urban setting.

Getting there & access

  • Fish from: land-based or boat
  • Boat ramp: Double boat ramp at Fish Creek Provincial Park (off Bow Bottom Trail SE); further ramps at Policeman's Flats, McKinnon Flats, Legacy Island and Johnson Island
  • Parking: Large car park at Fish Creek Provincial Park; gravel parking at the downstream access sites
  • Facilities: Boat ramps, Toilets, Picnic tables, Rubbish bins

Access is managed under Alberta's Bow River Access Plan. Fish Creek Provincial Park is open 8am-10pm in summer with the boat launch operating April to October, and day use is free. Legacy Island requires fording a channel to reach the ramp, which can be difficult in high water or winter ice. Policeman's Flats is about 20 minutes south of Calgary via Highway 2 and Dumbow Road.

Access information source

Species

  • brown trout
  • rainbow trout

Best times to fish

  • Hopper season (Jul-Sep)
  • Autumn streamer fishing
  • Blue-winged olive hatches

Recommended gear

Essential

  • 6-weight fly rod
  • Hopper and streamer patterns
  • Chest waders
  • Polarized sunglasses

Optional

  • Drift boat or raft
  • Wading staff
  • Strike indicators

Regulations and requirements

  • Alberta sportfishing licence and WIN card required
  • Bait bans and catch-and-release rules apply on much of the river
  • Check current Alberta fishing regulations before keeping fish

Rules change regularly — always confirm with the relevant fisheries authority before you fish.

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