Bow River Report
December 11, 2024

Bow River Report

Fly tying season is here, but don't miss out on the warm Chinook days! If you get a chance to get out during one of those warm Chinook days, here’s what you need to know to make the most of it.

Mornings can be cold, and sub-zero temps are still a possibility, so make sure you’ve got a good pair of gloves to keep your hands warm and be ready to de-ice those guides. Water levels on the Bow are typical for winter fishing, so focus on finding deep, walking-pace water and inside seams where the fish are likely to be holding.

Fishing deep is the name of the game right now! Nymphing is your best bet and getting your flies down deep is crucial. Use split shot or weighted flies to increase your chances of success. Fish can be lethargic this time of year, so keep a sharp eye on your bobber. Set the hook on any unusual movement – even the slightest twitch could be a fish!

Dry fly fishing isn’t off the table, especially when you find the right water. On those warm winter days you will often catch a prolific midge hatch, and you'll see some optimistic fish rising to the surface. Matching the hatch and getting your presentation just right can be tricky, especially when you're bundled up in layers with cold hands – so take your time and make those casts count!

Streamer fishing can still be effective even in the winter! Slow down your retrieve and add longer pauses to give fish time to follow your fly and entice strikes. Swinging streamers can also be productive, but make sure you're targeting the right depth where fish are sitting.

Layering is key for comfort and warmth. Merino wool is your best friend as it insulates even when wet, keeping you warm all day long. Start with a moisture-wicking base layer to keep you dry, then add a breathable insulating mid-layer for extra warmth. Need new layers for the season? Stop by the shop – we’ve got everything you need to stay comfortable on the water!

 

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

    Flies:

    • Streamers: Rio's LE Marabou Leech Black or Olive #4, Disco Sasquatch Olive #6, Bunny Leech #6-10, Skiddish Smolt Brown or Olive #6, Peacock Bugger Brown #6-12, Sparkle Minnow Sculpin #8, Wilson's Articulated Sparkle Minnow, Sculpin #4, Taupe Leech #4 & #8, Coyote Clouser #6, Catch's Skullzilla Olive #4, The Grinch #8. 
    • Nymphs: Zebra Midge Black or Red #16-20, Brassie #16, Blowtorch #14-18, TJ's Jig Assassin Natural, TJ's Hooker Brown #6-12, Jimi-Legs olive/Brown #6-12, Bloom's Tungdart #12-18, Peach Fuzz #12-16, Jiggy Prince Nymph #12-16, Jiggy Perdigon Black Tiger #14-18, Quasimodo Pheasant Tail #14-18, Copper John #12-18.
    • Dries: Hi-vis Griffiths Gnat #16-20, Polywing Spinner Trico #16-20, Rocky Mountain Mint Adam's or Purple #16-18, Parachute Adams #14-20, Grizzly Midge Cluster #16-20, Hi-Vis Parachute Trico #18-22, Hi-vis Spinner Rusty #18-20, Pheasant Tail Spinner #14, GT Adult Trico 18-22.