Bow River Report
August 07, 2026

Bow River Report

The water level has dropped a significant amount in the last week, which has made for some picky fish and tough angling. It still sounds like most of the Terrestrial eats are happening earlier in the day and the streamers are working later in the afternoon. That being said you can always fish a dry dropper rig with a leech or worm then the fishing is tough and that can increase your odds. If you are seeing rising fish in the evenings, it is likely on Caddis flies or some big PMD’s right now. The coming week looks like we are going to have some overcast days, which could make the streamer fishing really turn on, so pack your sink tip and streamer rod.  Flashier streamers seem to still be the main focus right now, and with the water being so clear white and light colours should also fish pretty good. Good luck if you head out this weekend and let us know you did!

How to attack the river:

Nymphing (Most Productive):

Nymphing is always a great way to fish on those hot days when the fish don't want to rise.
Where to Focus:
  • Deflections and pools close to shore 
  • Seams and inside bends and corners
  • Deep drop offs near rip rap banks
Patterns producing the most right now:
  • Tungsten Ready Baetis (sizes 14-18)
  • Copper John (size 12-18)
  • San Juan Worms
  • Small leeches
  • JIggy Dropper PMD (Sizes 14-18)
Both indicator nymphing and Euro nymphing setups are effective. Depth control is critical — don’t hesitate to add weight.

Streamer Fishing:

Streamers can produce fish, especially larger browns, you can even try bottom bouncing a small leech. Try changing your presentation style and speed till you find what's working, some fish are looking for a chase.

Dry Flies

Dry fly eats seem to mostly be happening in the morning and evenings
Best Bet:
  • Juicy Hopper (sizes 8-12)
  • Caddis adults (size 12-16)
  • Para Sipper PMD (14-18)
  • Pav's Cinnamon Toast Ant (10-12)
It is essential to watch closely for subtle rises during midday, when temperatures typically peak.

Things to remember no matter the fishing technique:

  • Use sink tips or heavily weighted flies
  • Focus on deflcetions and slack water close to shore
Run-off fishing on the Bow River can be technical but rewarding. You have to spend a lot fo time searching for fish, but some real big fish can be close inches from 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.

    Weather/Flow Rates, Follow The Link's Below:


    Flies:

    • Streamers: Catch's 4x4 Bighorn #2-4, Bow River Bugger #2-6, Rio's Smolt Brown or Olive #4, Dali Lama Black/Olive #2-6, Wooly Bugger #4-10, Bjoirn's Hog Hooker Black #1, Peacock Bugger Brown #6-12, Coyote Clouser #6, Kreelex Black/Purple/Silver #6, Simi Seal Leech Bloody Olive #8-10, Taupe Leech #4-6, Ron's Cone Leech black or Olive #6-8, Sparkle Minnow Sculpin #4-8, 
    • Nymphs: TJ's Hooker Tan/Brown #6-12, Jimi-Legs Olive/Brown #6-12, Copper John Black #12-16, Purple Prince Nymph #10-14, Theo's Bead Head #14-18, TJ's Jig Assassin Natural #12-16, Jiggy Riffle Drifter Olive #14-18, Quasimodo Pheasant Tail #14-18, BH Squirrel Nymph Rubberlegs #8-12, BH Brassie #14-20, Zebra Midge #16-20, Jiggy Lightning Bug Black #16-18, Optic Nerve Pheasant Tail #12-16, Jiggy Ruberleg Prince #14-18, OCD Caddis Tan #14-16
    • Dries: Adult GT Adams #14-18, Pale Evening Dun #14-16, Elk Hair Caddis #12-16, Parachute PMD #14-18, Pav's Elk Butt #14-18, H&L Variant #12-16, Parachute Adams #14-18, Alex's Biot Parachute Sulphur #14-16