UPDATE: After chatting with a guide who opperates out near Canmore and Banff, he said the creeks that flow into the Bow out west are all clearing up nicely. Which means we could see some cleaner water coming down the Bow in the next 7-10 days if we don't get any more storms. Lets cross our fingers the Stonefly Hatch is still happening when the water drops!
Well that didn’t last long, and we’re back in the thick of runoff conditions. As you are all aware it isn’t just the Bow River that is up, all of its tributaries are adding to the lack of clarity once you are below the Elbow confluence. If you do plan on getting out, you’re going to want to likely fish some dark stoneflies under an indicator, or a black streamer with a heavy sink tip. The fish can be found very tight so shore or even up in the grassed or flooded trails. Wade carefully and remember to cover ground and hit lots of deflections from shore. Good Luck out there, we’re all going to need it!
How to attack the river:
- Deflections pools close to shore
- Slow seams and inside bends
- Tailouts below riffles
- Trout Retriever (sizes 14-18)
- Cheater Belly (size 12-16)
- San Juan Worms
- Small leeches
- Tungsten Ryacophia Czech Nymph (Sizes 12-14)
- Chubby Chernobyl Purple or Patriot (sizes 6-10)
- Caddis adults (size 12-16)
- Pale Evening Dun (sizes 14-16)
Things to remember no matter the fishing technique:
- Use sink tips or heavily weighted flies
- Focus on deflcetions and slack water close to shore
Safety Considerations:
- Watch your step and try to avoid wading too deep, the current is strong right now and it is easy to lose your footing.
- Don't forget to wear sun protection at this time of year, though it may not always be hot you can still burn easily being out all day.
