Bow River Report
February 03, 2026

Bow River Report

Just a reminder it's time for a new license folks!

Looks like this snow hit just in time for McKinnon Flats to open, there is still some broken up ice in the boat launch so use it at your own discretion. Don’t let this storm fool you, spring is around the corner with temps hitting the 20’s next week, so expect to see some pretty nasty ground run off with all this snow melting so keep that in mind. Successful fishing tactics still haven’t changed much, dead drifting worms, stoneflies and leeches is still the ticket. There have been some Skwala sightings out on the water, so try throwing some those in your nymph rig. If you see any fish rising on the warmer days it might be worth throwing a skwala hopper dropper combo over them. Don’t let this weather scare you, we hope you get out this weekend and have some great fishing!

How to attack the river:

Nymphing (Most Productive):

Nymphing continues to be the most effective method this week.
Where to Focus:
  • Deep runs and pools
  • Slow seams and inside bends
  • Tailouts below riffles
Patterns producing the most right now:
  • Midge larva and pupa (sizes 16–22)
  • Bloodworms
  • San Juan Worms
  • Small leeches
  • Zebra midges and similar midge patterns
  • Black Copper John
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, when fished slow and deep. You can even try bottom bouncing a small leech. The slower the streamer moves the better really.

Dry Flies

Dry fly opportunities are limited but not impossible.
Best Bet:
  • Small midge adults or emegers
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 deep bends, structure, and winter holding water
  • Slow, deliberate retrieves are key
Winter fishing on the Bow River can be technical but rewarding. While peak dry-fly fishing typically occurs from mid-May through October, winter anglers who focus on subsurface techniques can still find consistent success.

Safety Considerations:

  • Most of the ice in the city has melted, but south of the city there are still some ice shelves so watch your step out there!
  • Dress appropriately for it may not be cold weather wise, but prolonged wading can wear on you.

    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, Brassie #12-16, , 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
    • Dries: Rocky Mountain Mint Adam's #14-18, Hi-Vis Griffith's Gnat #16-20, CDC Midge #18-20, Midge Emerger #18-20, Cluster Midge #16-18, Stillborn Midge Black #18-20, Parachute Trico #20-22, Last Chance Cripple BWO #18-20