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We will be posting photos and talking about the river conditions and fish activity we are seeing on the various waters we visit. With this, you are able to read about the water you're coming to fly fish before you even get here! Journal entries each year will start in mid-April and continue right through to late fall. Updates will be posted fairly regularly as time permits. Check back again or call Tom at 1-866-974-8522 for a personal report.

August Fly Fishing August 18, 2010 Posted by Bill on Thursday, August 19, 2010 Although the morning was foggy as Dad, Tom and I headed to the river, the day was to be a blistering hot day full of sunshine and only the occasional hint of a breeze. There was very little insect activity on the water, however, downstream of the Highwood confluence the grassland was alive with grasshoppers ... a good sign for the weeks ahead. Fishing was a little slow out of the gate with the first trout coming a couple of hundred yards from the launch. Fishing never really did get particularly hot although it was consitent down to the Highwood. From there on, as is usual of late, the trout were small and a long way apart. The Honey Hole and Mansion Run were the best producers on the day and although we hit the shelf at the tail of the Mansion Run hard with hopper-dropper, nymphs and streamers, it was not up to its usual standard. With several very respectable trout brought to hand and a day fly fishing the Bow as a trio, we are tremenously fortunate to be able to enjoy a day, river and fishing like this together.

Keeping in Touch August 15, 2010 Posted by Bill on Tuesday, August 17, 2010 Tom, Jason Brown and I put on the river to do a little fishing and test the effectiveness of some different techinques. Jason was bound and determined he was going to nymph streamers for the day, Tom started out stripping streamers and switched to nymphing after a couple of hours of precious little action, I was to chuck a hopper-dropper set. If Jason's nymphing streamers and my chucking the hooper-dropper is an accurate gauge of the trout activity, the trout were not on the banks. Jason turned several fish but nothing of any notable size, I turned fewer trout the best of which was a thick 19 inch Brown (pictured), Tom schooled us on fishing on this day with a fair amount of success on his nymph rod. The day was hot and sunny with only a hint of a breeze from time to time which may have had something to do with the lack of trout on the banks. There was a lot of debris floating in the river from garbage and weeds to branches and shrubs requiring constant hook cleaning. Although fishing productivity wasn't what we're used to, it was a great day on the river with terrific fishing partners, a bunch of trout and the Bow River.

Watson et. al. August 14, 2010 Posted by Bill on Tuesday, August 17, 2010 Greg Watson, Cam, Marcel and Ken joined us on the river from Edmonton for a day of fly fishing. Neither Cam nor Marcel had fly fished before, Greg and Ken had some experience chucking flies although not on the Bow and not from a drift boat. Although Cam nailed a Rainbow right out of the gate, fishing was a little slow for the first couple of hours on the river. Action made an abrupt turn with Cam hooking up on and landing a 20 1/2 Brown (pictured lower-left). From that point on eats were fairly consistent and all four anglers had many opportunities to tie into trout. Samples taken from landed trout showed little change in the menu over the last week or so. Although we tried a number of different flies, those that produced were the same as have been producing for days. Greg's highlight of the trip, a 19 1/2 inch Brown (pictured lower-right), came late in the day from a shallow, fast run on a hopper-dropper setup on his own 5 weight rod. Marcel had some difficulty mastering the hook setting technique throughout the day and Ken found the presentation to be a challenge. Nonetheless, all fishers took trout and enjoyed a wonderful day on the Bow River. All four were very enjoyable company in the boats and all four will be better prepared for their next float down the river. All in all it was a great day. Thanks guys.

Elite Atheletes/Trainers Chuck Flies August 10, 2010 Posted by Bill on Friday, August 13, 2010 Bryan Davies booked this trip for a group of elite athetes and their trainers as an escape from the rigours of off-season training. The morning was cool with the threat of rain that never materialized. Scattered clouds, no wind and active trout made for a very enjoyable day fly fishing the Bow. Some of the fishers were brand new to fly fishing while others had varying degrees of experience. Zach Boychuk (AB), a first time fly fisher, was quick to master fly fishing techniques, was adequately back casting within a half-hour of launch and outfished most of the experienced fly casters. Zach is pictured with his best trout of the day, a 19 1/2 inch Rainbow. This wasn't the catch of the day but for a first time fly fisher, he demonstrated poise and control casting, presenting the flies and fighting trout ... he is a natural fly fisher. Doug Crashey (AB) let his best two trout of the day, both Browns, escape in the distance. Samples taken from caught trout confirmed little change in the fish menu even though a huge Midge hatch mid-day blanketed the river. This was a thoroughly enjoyable day with a group of fellows just happy to be on the river catching fish and away from the pressures of off-season training.

A Day of Browns August 3, 2010 Posted by Bill on Wednesday, August 4, 2010 Dad and I headed for the river under questionable weather conditions but determined to fish nonetheless. As we approached city center, Jason texted indicating that visibility at Policeman's Flats was less than a foot (Jason and Randy Brown were also intending to float the river). A quick switch in plans had us heading to Fish Creek Park to check out water conditions there. Fish Creek was flowing mud and visibility at the launch site was disheartening, only about a foot. As Dad and I crossed over the Calf Robe Bridge earlier, the river at that point looked much cleaner so we headed back to the Glenmore launch to check it out. With 3 or more feet of visibility we launched at Glenmore, Jason and Randy joining us. This was a Brown day, both in trout and anglers. Jason and Randy (Brown) netted a dozen Browns 20 inches or better. Dad and I did not fair as well although we caught some lovely fish including the 21 inch and 19 1/2 inch Browns pictured. The lower image in the picture is the 19 1/2 inch Brown laying in our newly devised measuring trough. I am very pleased with this new measuring device; it allows us to keep the trout in the water, allows the trout to continue to ventilate, presents a safe means of measuring the trout without fear of hurting or overhandling them, gives highly visible measurements, and makes the release easy and smooth without further stress on the trout (the trout and trough are out of the water for picture purposes). Samples taken from caught trout showed Caddis larvae and other small nymphs on the menu. Insect activity was entirely absent until takeout when Caddis were coming off the water in clouds. All in all this was a wonderful day on the river, one of those rare days when virtually all the trout moved were Brown Trout.

Gals Day on the Bow July 30, 2010 Posted by Bill on Saturday, July 31, 2010 "They've got another one!", the audible comment from a fisher in another boat anchored along our float path pretty much summed up the day of fly fishing for my wife Kathleen and friend Shawntel. Even though both Kathleen and Shawntel are virtual beginners, the success they were enjoying fly fishing the Bow was being noticed by other anglers along the river. The day started out with a bang as Kathleen took the first trout just a couple of hundred feet out of the gate. Fighting fish from that point on was pretty well non-stop with either the rod in the front of the boat or the rod in the back of the boat bent for the majority of the day. We did have one slow stretch just above the Cottonwood where both rods were straight for a time but a quick switch of offerings and the bent rods were back in action again. Highlights of the day were the tug-of-wars Shawntel lost versus the trout, the quality of trout both gals brought to net, and the sheer enjoyment of just being out on the river. Samples taken from caught trout suggested the fish weren't really on the feed even though we had continuous action throughout the day. A severe thunder storm late in the day forced us to row out from the Highwood confluence, a relief to the girls whose arms were worn out fighting fish. The estrogen edge (girls seem to just have that touch) was most certainly evident this day and I'm looking forward to the next time I have these two gals out fly fishing the Bow.

Windsor Trio July 27, 2010 Posted by Bill on Thursday, July 29, 2010 This was one of those rare days during the season when schedules allow Tom, Dad and me to get on the river together to do a little fishing. Following the deluge of rain in Calgary the night before, the river was markedly coloured, the excuse we're using for the abrupt change in the fish menu. Fishing action could hardly be described as fast and although we had some slow stretches, it couldn't be described as slow either. Dad had the upper hand in number of trout caught which has been the situation for the last few trips we have had together. Although the river was cleaning as the day wore on, it did not recover to the clarity we were seeing prior to the deluge. The Highwood is crystal clear and although it improved visibility downstream of her confluence, fishing below the Highwood is dreadful. Samples taken from caught trout showed very little in the way of feeding choice; samples rendered a couple of caddis nymphs or nothing at all. It is always special when we three get to go fishing together, great company, lots of laughs and the trout that augment the excursion.

Bow River Good to Ed July 23, 2010 Posted by Bill on Sunday, July 25, 2010 After a slow day on the river on day 3, we delayed launch by an hour on day 4 of Ed Margola's 4-day trip because of clouds, rain and a ferocious wind. As it turned out, our decision to delay was a good one. Ed decided he was going keep count on the catch this day so there would be no question as to how effective he was with his fishing. Action started pretty much right out of the gate and was steady all the way down to the Highwood confluence at which point Ed put his rod away and enjoyed the scenery from there to takeout. The catch count at the end of the day was 27 to the net and 14 long distance releases ... he did not keep track of the missed takes. The highlight of the day and the trip was the thick, 23 inch Brown Trout Ed landed (pictured) after a mid-afternoon, nerve racking fight. The 2010 edition of Ed's visit to the Bow concluded under calm, cloudless skies with a host of memories of fishing success. I thoroughly enjoy Ed's trips with us and look forward to his return in 2011. Thanks Ed.

2 of 4 with Margola July 21, 2010 Posted by Bill on Thursday, July 22, 2010 Ed Margola (MA) joined us again this year for another 4 days of fly fishing the Bow. This entry covers the first two days of his trip. The first day could only be considered to be a bit tough in the fishing department. The trout were pretty picky about what they would take and Ed had to work for hookups. With only a dozen or so fish touched on day 1 we left the river with optimism for day 2. Day 2 was a complete reversal of day 1. With a little presentation coaching, Ed had an incredible second day of his trip. Launching at Fish Creek Park, Ed had two hookups on trout before we cleared the 22X bridge, one a beautiful 19 inch Brown. Action was fairly steady down to Policeman's Flats and from that point on the river lit up. There were stretches where Ed had a take on every third cast or less, several times the first cast after having just completed a battle with a trout. With trout to the net numbering in the neighbourhood of 30 and touched trout numbering somewhere around double that, both the Bow and Ed did themselves proud on day 2. Samples taken from caught trout both days showed caddis larvae, small May Fly nymphs, leeches and small stone fly nymphs on the menu. The trout menu hadn't changed from the first day but Ed's presentation technique had. Highlights on the first two days of Ed's trip had to be the 21 inch Brown he took late in the day 2 float, the heavy Rainbow just before lunch on day 2, the beautiful rainbow taken on a hopper-dropper set on day 1, the gorgeous weather and the non-stop bent rod on day 2. Hopefully Ed's next two days will be replicas of his second day fly fishing the Bow.

Courtesy of Larry July 17, 2010 Posted by Bill on Monday, July 19, 2010 Larry, Scott, Ben and Shane joined us on a client appreciation float Larry provided as a different kind of team building exercise. All four anglers were brand new to fly fishing and the Bow River. Although Larry took the longest to get the hang of chucking flies with a fly rod, he was the first to bring a trout to hand. In contrast, Ben took to chucking flies very quickly and although he had many, many hookups, had considerable difficulty bringing one to the net. Scott mastered casting very early in the trip and Shane was just plain scary flinging flies throughout the day. All fishers netted a number of trout (except Ben) and all four had lots of takes on the day. In contrast to the day before, the anglers enjoyed a good day of fishing. Samples taken from trout showed no change in the fish menu and although evidence of a current stone fly hatch was obvious, not a fish was taken on a stone, nymph or adult. Only a slight breeze blew through in the afternoon, so insignificant that it didn't give the anglers any difficulty whatsoever. This was a terrific day on the river with a group of fellas just happy to be out on the water.

Fyles Foursome July 16, 2010 Posted by Bill on Monday, July 19, 2010 Ken, Gregg, Glenn, and Nick Fyles joined us on the river to do a little fishing during Stampede week. Because of the monsoon we had the weekend before, the river was still a little coloured although with visibility in the 4 foot range, the river was certainly fishable. Unlike the preceding few days, fishing was a little tough with many slow sections, lots of casting with little to show for the effort. Samples taken from the caught trout suggested the fish were feeding sporadically on a variety of aquatic life. Caddis nymphs appeared to be the most prevalent item on the menu although even those were found in limited numbers. On a shelf, in a pocket behind a boulder, Gregg took a lovely Brown (pictured) early in the float. Other quality trout were taken on the day but the Bow didn't show herself particularly well. Anglers battled a harsh wind in the afternoon adding to the challenge of chucking flies and hooking up. Regardless, it was a good day to be on the river.

Ducks Unlimited Appreciation Trip July 9, 2010 Posted by Bill on Sunday, July 11, 2010 In appreciation for years of service, Robert Wigg was provided a float trip on the Bow and took his buddy Doug Scratch along for the fun. Both virtual neophytes to fly fishing and the Bow River, Robert was the first to get the hang of casting, presenting the bugs and setting the hook. Although Doug took a little longer to warm up to the techniques, Robert didn't get much of an edge in catching trout. It was a sunny, hot day on the river with only the occasional breeze to give relief from the blistering heat. Fishing action was steady, a bit slow in some sections, one after the other in other sections. The pair figured they brought trout numbering in the mid twenties to hand ranging from small pan fry size to 21 or 22 inches. The entire catch, save one brown, on this day was Rainbow Trout. The Brown Trout, Doug's first, wasn't a monster but was a real treat for a fisher looking to catch as wide array of species as he can. All in all it was a great day ... two fishers who were just happy to be out experiencing the Bow and what she has to offer, sunny skies, warm temperatures and catching trout on a fly.

Father/Son Fishing July 7, 2010 Posted by Bill on Wednesday, July 7, 2010 There is something very special about days spent on the river with family. My oldest son Joel was my companion and fishing partner on today's float from Policeman's to McKinnon's. Fishing could only be described as tough on this day as it was a long way between hook ups. Even so, Joel and I managed to get in to twenty or so trout, a pretty good day by most standards. Fish were taken on pretty well every fly we tied on the line indicating there was nothing specific on the menu this day. The photo, courtesy of Todd Clarke on lunch break, is of one of Joel's better Rainbows on the day. In spite of the tough fishing, it was a pleasure to watch my son as his casting and line management skills improved throughout the day. It is a treat to just sit back and watch him cast. He even did a darn good job of rowing on his first time in the pilot seat. He is eager and tenacious, a younger version of the ol' man. I look forward to the next time we put to the water together. Thanks Joel.

The Stones are Advancing July 2, 2010 Posted by Bill on Saturday, July 3, 2010 With the river cleaning after being blown out from spring runoff, Tom and I floated from Fish Creek Park to McKinnon Flats. The river is still high with lots of flow and visibility from launch to takeout was about 4 feet, plenty for a good day of fishing. A small streamer was the fly of choice for the first few hours of the float and although action wasn't fast and furious, it was consistent. As action tapered off, a few bends past Policeman's Flat, the fish menu had changed and a switch to nymphs produced good success from there on. Lower down we noticed adult Stones on the water, rocks and bank vegetation and although we tried a dry imitation, it produced nothing. Although in the early stages, I believe it fair to say the Stone Fly hatch has started and has advanced well past the Highwood confluence. It was a terrific day on the river with over 60 trout and 2 Rockies brought to hand. One can only imagine what the day would have been like with two rods in the boat. It is always special to spend a day fishing with my brother and this day was no exception.

Josh Dubin (NY) June 12, 2010 Posted by Bill on Sunday, June 13, 2010 Although Josh was scheduled to float the Bow on Thursday, the rains through the preceding three days blew the river out forcing us to reschedule the trip to Saturday. With the river clearing we put on the river early Saturday morning. Visibility at launch was about 3 or so feet which was pretty well constant down to the Highwood confluence. The Highwood was pure chocolate but the muddy contamination stayed on the south bank all the way to takeout where visibility on the north bank was about 2 feet. Although water conditions weren't the best, the weather was absolutely picture perfect with sunny skies all day long and only a couple of 15 minute breezy bursts in the afternoon. Having been with us twice before, Josh was fairly familiar with the river, the trout and what to expect. In terms of fishing this was hardly a stellar day although with Josh being into well over 20 trout, a dozen or more to the net, it wasn't a poor day either. Highlights of the day were the incredible weather, Josh's first German Brown, the biggest Rainbow he's ever caught, the ones he fought but didn't bring to hand, those he did bring to hand and another thoroughly enjoyable day on the river with Josh. His utter enjoyment of the day with and without fish makes this annual outing one of my favourite trips of the year.

Parks and Newman June 6, 2010 Posted by Bill on Monday, June 7, 2010 Dave Parks and Greg Newman (Calgary) booked this trip to kick off their 2010 fishing season. Having purchased their fly fishing equipment in 2009 and having no success on the Bow, they wanted to learn about fly fishing the river; access points, reading the water, fishing techniques and the trout so they would be able to successfully fish the river on their own. It took a few bends for them to get the hang of casting a nymph rig and presenting the bugs but once they started getting into fish, action was fairly consistent all the way to take-out. There were several highlights on this day of fly fishing; the wonderful weather through the morning, Dave's and Greg's first trout on a fly rod, the improvement in their casting as the day wore on and many, many trout brought to the net. With three or more double-headers and a number of trout pushing the tape beyond 18 inches, the most notable trout of the day was Greg's heavy, thick 24 inch Brown landed late in the day (see the Photo Gallery). Both Dave and Greg were eager students, quick studies and a pleasure to have in the boat. Thanks for a great day guys. I hope this trip is just the start of your continued success and enjoyment of the river for years to come.

Dad's Day on the Bow June 2, 2010 Posted by Bill on Friday, June 4, 2010 Following a week of horrid spring weather, Tom, Dad and I picked the first day with a forecast for warm and dry conditions to get back onto the Bow. Although it didn't turn out to be all that warm, it didn't rain and we only had to fight the wind through occasional bursts. The river was slightly coloured at Policeman's launch with about 3 to 4 feet of visibility. The Highwood was chocolate reducing visibility below her confluence significantly, especially on the south bank. Although water and weather conditions weren't perfect, fishing was very good. There can be only one way to describe this day ... Dad's day. Fishing started out a little slow out of the gate but after the first couple of bends Dad started getting into trout. Once he started he never let up, even below the muddy mix contributed by the Highwood. The Brown Trout pictured was one of 30 or more of his catches on the day. Samples taken from trout suggested they weren't on the feed although many small risers were spotted throughout the float. An insignificant Caddis hatch took place mid-afternoon and otherwise there was very little bug life on the water. It was a terrific day on the river with great fishing partners.

Gelfant and Bows are Back May 22, 2010 Posted by Bill on Sunday, May 23, 2010 In spite of a less than favourable weather forecast, Ben Gelfant joined me on the river for an early season fly fishing float down the Bow. Although the forecast was for cold (which it was), windy (challenged us late in the day) and precipitation (we saw none), it was a terrific day of fly fishing. Having been with us on the Bow before, Ben was fairly well prepared for fly fishing Bow River trout. Even so, many trout on the line received a long-distance-release, a sacrifice fly fishers make using barbless hooks. It took a couple of bends and sampling a few trout to zero in on the trout table-fare but once we identified suitable imitations, eats were fairly consistent throughout the day. With trout brought to hand numbering close to 20, long-distance-releases exceeding the catch and missed takes surpassing both, one would have to concede that, under less than perfect conditions, this was a great day of fly fishing. Visibility was about 3 feet at launch reduced to about 8 inches below the confluence of the muddy Highwood. Highlights of the day had to be the big Brown that exploded in shallow water, spitting the hook several inches above the surface and the run tail that produced 7 catches, 7 LDRs and several misses. The predominance of spawn spent mature Rainbows in the catch marks the return of the Rainbows to the river. Ben is an accomplished fly caster and enjoyable company in the boat. His enjoyment of the river, the float and the trout is a reminder of how fortunate we are to have the Bow River in our backyard.

Bows Not Back Yet May 17, 2010 Posted by Bill on Tuesday, May 18, 2010 On the hottest day so far this year Dad, Jason and I floated from Police to Mac. Until the sun was hidden by clouds, it was a very hot day with only the occasional slight breeze. Later in the afternoon clouds rolled in and gave us a break from the blazing sun. Fishing started out fairly hot with 5 trout on the line in the first half hour of the float. However, from that point on the fishing was spotty, not entirely unexpected at this time of the year. Samples taken from landed trout suggested that the flies we were using were part of the day's fish menu but the action was anything but fast and furious. The beautifully coloured Brown (pictured) was taken early in the trip. Surprisingly, the majority of the catch this day was Rainbows of the non-mature variety ... the Bows aren't back from spawning yet. The Highwood was flowing mud as it dumped into the Bow severely colouring the water on the south bank from its confluence to take-out. It was a beautiful spring day to be on the river enjoying the water, the valley and its inhabitants.

McCormack/Brown May 8, 2010 Posted by Bill on Sunday, May 9, 2010 Planning float trips early in the year has its upsides and downsides. The upsides are many. It's wonderful to be on the river. The catch is predominately Brown Trout with the mature Rainbows on their spawn run. Signs of renewing life is everywhere; budding trees, a massive mayfly hatch and the first set of goslings of the year. The downside is Alberta's unpredictable spring weather. This day the temperature above the water was colder than the temperature in the water and gale force winds hammered the valley. Randy Brown and brother-in-law John McCormack joined me on this float trip to endure the cold, battle the wind and hunt for Bow River browns. By early May standards we had a pretty darn good day. Four very respectable Brown Trout were brought to hand, John completed his maiden voyage of the Bow River and the overall catch numbered in the high teens. The river was slightly coloured although the contribution from the Highwood was crystal clear. With rain and snow in the forecast, it may be a few days before we're back on the river.

Spring has Sprung April 20, 2010 Posted by Bill on Wednesday, April 21, 2010 The first float of the year is always special, there are so many things on the river to check out. Have the eagles returned to their nest? Are the osprey and herons back yet? How well did the trout winter? What changes in the river did the ice pack carve out? Dad, Jason and I have been planning this float for days with new recipes from the fly tying bench and eager anticipation. Under clear blue skies, Dad was the first to hook-up on, what appeared to be, a spawn spent Rainbow (pictured) a short distance into the float. Fishing was spotty which is expected on early season floats. What wasn't expected was the predominance of Rainbows in the catch. Although expected but not welcome, the wind picked up in the afternoon making fishing and piloting the boat difficult. The midge hatch throughout the day was incredible and the Franklin's Gulls, a common sight on the river, took full advantage of the easy pickings they presented. Chucking streamers was entirely unproductive, nymphing produced some trout and a hopper-dropper setup was effective at times. All in all it was a great day on the Bow.

Onx Corporate Trip September 24, 2009 Posted by Bill on Saturday, September 26, 2009 Organized by Russell Skeet of AM 1140 and the Weekend Angler, the OnX Corporate trip saw 7 boats on the water presenting Bow River fly fishing to 10 anglers. Only two of the ten fishers had ever held a fly rod in their hands before but that didn't affect the fishing result ... everyone caught trout. The trip started out with presentations of caps, rods, reels and lines to each of the participating fishers setting the tone for the entire day thanks to OnX Enterprise Solutions. After initial presentations the guides took over and showed this group of fishers why the Bow River is famous ... many, many trophy trout. A recap of the day aired on AM 1140 on Friday morning courtesy of Russell Skeet, morning News and Sport DJ over AM 1140 broadcasting out of High River. Thanks to Mark Spencer of OnX, Russell and all the participating anglers for a wonderful day on the river. OnX Corporate Trip Recap Requires Windows Media Player

van der Vooren Clan September 20, 2009 Posted by Bill on Monday, September 21, 2009 Tony Sr., Tony Jr., Randy, Jessica and Duncan van der Vooren joined us for two days of fishing the Bow River. The first day was a gorgeous day weatherwise if you don't count the gale force wind we battled all afternoon. It was sunny and warm, although windy, as this fivesome learned the craft of fly fishing the Bow. With an early start on the second day, the temperatures had dipped severely, it rained periodically through the morning tempered by a strong northwester throughout the day. However, fishing was somewhat better than average, especially for Jessica. The fish menu made an abrupt turn over night and with a new string of offerings and a few thousand casts, Jessica mastered the art of presentation. Nymphing was the order of the two-day trip not only because this group was entirely new to fly fishing but also because of the menu change. The van der Voorens are a wonderful family and a pleasure to have in the boats. While the men had two days of good fishing, they fell victim to the "estrogen edge" as Jessica schooled them on Bow River fly fishing.

Hesseler Group September 18, 2009 Posted by Bill on Monday, September 21, 2009 John Hesseler, John Hill, Nunsio DeSantis, Mike Meneffee and Matt Clear joined us for two days of fishing the Bow following two days on the Elk River. The first day was a constant battle with the wind and although all fishers nailed fish, it was an average day of fishing on the Bow. The second day, with an earlier start, was entirely absent of wind and a far more pleasant day to be on the water. Fishing was in keeping with the weather and all fishers had a tremendous day. Over the course of the two days of fishing the Bow, well over thirty, 20 plus inch trout were brought to hand punctuating the second half of a 4-day fishing excursion for this group. By far the flavour of the two days, as far as the fish were concerned, was a hopper-dropper set producing a catch that will be hard to duplicate in the future. This is a great group of guys looking for nothing but a good time fishing and in the process made it terrific for everyone involved.

Batty and Browns September 14, 2009 Posted by Bill on Tuesday, September 15, 2009 All Peter Batty (MD) was hoping for was a 20 inch Brown Trout when he booked his Bow River fly fishing trip with us. With cloudless skies and a hot summer-like sun, I was skeptical about his chances in fulfilling that desire as we put into the water. Through the first couple of bends, action was slow further eroding my confidence in getting into a big brown. However, mid-way through the morning a few clouds started rolling in casting huge shadows on the water and after a number of rainbows, the best a 21 incher, Peter tied into a small brown. Clouds continued to build and at just under the half-way point, Peter hooked a good brown, a thick, heavy 23 inch Brown (pictured), well into spawn colouring and strong on the line. I joked about not yet getting that 20 incher he was looking for but a few hundred yards further downstream he landed a 20 inch Brown hen (see the Photo Gallery). Peter is an accomplished caster and a treat to have in the boat. He sets the hook on everything and was adept at incorporating everything I suggested into his fishing technique. To say this was a great day of fishing would be the understatement of the month ... it was a big fish day, both in quality and quantity. Peter marvelled at five 19 inch plus trout from a run the size of a pickup truck, 3 more along a hundred feet of bank on a hopper-dropper set, and of course the Browns. The river showed herself for the fishery she is on this day. I'm just glad I was there to share it with you Peter.

Len and Warren September 13, 2009 Posted by Bill on Tuesday, September 15, 2009 Len Stevens and his best buddy Warren joined us on the river for a new experience ... fly fishing. Although both had taken a one-day fly casting course several years ago, nymphing "Bow River style" was entirely new to them. Both casters, seasoned hardware chuckers, had many habits typical of open faced reel fishers that either don't work or have to be broken when fishing with a fly rod. Although they're not going to win any awards with their casting, they were effectively fishing the Bow at the close of the day. Samples taken from caught fish indicate the menu remains the same, nymphs in the size 28 class, and for two newbies to fly fishing, both Len and Warren handled the trout remarkably well on microscopic flies. Although the wind was brutal for both casters, it was still a great day of fishing on the Bow with some great guys.

Kammer and Blyth September 11, 2009 Posted by Bill on Friday, September 11, 2009 In spite of a horrific wind, Jamie Kammer and Darren Blyth enjoyed a wonderful day of fly fishing the Bow River. Although the forecast was calling for a virtually calm day, the wind started blowing shortly after we got on the river and never let up until take out. Regardless, both fishers rose to the challenge and chucked flies non-stop, all day long. While samples taken from trout brought to hand indicated the fish were feeding on subsurface nymphs in the size 28 class, both fishers successfully fooled many trout into eating what we were offering. In the final count, twenty plus fish were brought to hand on a day more suited to wind surfing than fly fishing. Most enjoyable was their eagerness to learn and improvement over the course of the day. Although they bugged me about being like a nagging wife, coaching them with each cast, it was a great day on the river with a couple of great guys.

Fish 'N Chips Fundraiser September 10, 2009 Posted by Bill on Thursday, September 10, 2009 As part of the Fish 'N Chips Fundraiser for the Canadian Mental Health Association, Calgary Region and Calgary Horizon Housing I had Kim and Jamie join me for a condensed float on the Bow. Although Jamie had held a fly rod a time or two and Kim had seen a fly rod before, both were virtual neophytes to fly fishing. Jamie was fairly quick to catch on to presenting the flies to the trout and nailed his first Rainbow a few hundred yards out of the gate. Kim took a little longer to get the hang of the whole process and went several bends down the river before tieing into his frist Bow River trout. In the end, it was a great day of fishing. Highlights of the day were Jamie's 20 inch Brown (inset, see the Photo Gallery) and Kim's 20 inch Rainbow (pictured, see the Photo Gallery). Jamie's brown was thick and heavy from nose to tail and dressed in pre-spawn colour. Aside from the fishing, the whole affair was focused on this very worthwhile cause to help people in our community in need. Thanks for a great day Jamie and Kim.

Mintz Men September 5, 2009 Posted by Bill on Sunday, September 6, 2009 Don, Todd, Trevor and Devin Mintz (AB) were enthusiastic as we put on the water although the forecast was for wind and cooler temperatures. The day started out wonderfully with Devin missing a few takes and Todd getting his first trout on a fly rod within a quarter of a mile of the launch. Action was steady through the morning although a ferocious wind challenged us from mid-morning on. Devin, having been on trips with us before, had an obvious edge as his experience with a fly rod and fishing the Bow River had him hooking up often. The catch this day consisted of quite a few smaller fish and those in the 17 to 19 inch class. Although the trout are fat and healthy, no fish that would stretch the tape over 20 inches came to hand. In spite of the wind, all four fishers were diligent and fished hard throughout the day. Thanks for your patience guys and a great day on the river.

Wason Group September 4, 2009 Posted by Bill on Sunday, September 6, 2009 Bill Wason, Bill, Bert and Bob (TN) joined us for 3 days of fishing the Bow River. Day one was picture perfect with little to no wind, good activity from the trout and a number of tight lines. Day two we got an early start to avoid other activities on the river, was a little slower in terms of fishing and ended in a gale force wind that literally blew us off the river. Day three, another early start, was arguably the best of the three days. Fish were on the take, the skies were cloudless blue and action was consistent throughout the float. Samples taken from trout show the menu remains the same as it has been over the last week and a half. A fairly significant Trico hatch bloomed mid-morning prompting some very short lived surface activity. The river has cooled with the shortening days promising good fishing as we move into September.

Nelson Men August 31, 2009 Posted by Bill on Tuesday, September 1, 2009 Greg, Curt, Ken and Jeff Nelson (AZ) joined us for three days of fishing, two days on the Bow River and the final day on the Oldman River. This was three days of endless humour and great fishing. Much to the dismay of the other three, Jeff probably took the honours in terms of the number of fish caught and possibly the biggest fish. Seldom were there moments throughout the three days that the brothers and Dad (Greg) weren't taking shots at each other ... all in fun ... all in just enjoying each other's company. If they weren't talking about fishing they were talking about enhanced performance automotives. This was a delightful three days with four "good ol' boys" who are just out to enjoy the excursion at hand.

Our Day Off August 26, 2009 Posted by Bill on Wednesday, August 26, 2009 One might wonder what a fishing guide does on a day when he doesn't have clients to pilot down the river. I can't say what other guides do but, we go fishing. There was no ulterior motive as we set to the water other than to have a relaxing day of fishing and enjoy the river and the company. Dad, Tom and I got a relatively early start to the day and to getting into fish. Tom hooked the first Rainbow right out of the gate and action was fairly consistent from that point on. The river level dropped significantly over night ... shelves, buckets and benches in the river bed are becoming clearly defined. Shallow banks that held water and fish a month ago are now choked with weeds and exposed rocks. It was a wonderful day, warm, lots of fish and not a breath of wind. We are spoiled to live near and on such a tremendous fishery.

Kathleen outfishes Bill August 23, 2009 Posted by Bill on Monday, August 24, 2009 One would think that years of fly fishing experience, familiarity with the fish, countless hours of covering the water and having spent most of one's life outdoors would give a fisher a bit of an edge over a virtual beginner. Not so when it comes to fishing the Bow River. For perspective purposes, Kathleen is the type of gal who believes she's roughing it when her hotel room doesn't have satellite TV or wireless Internet. Donned in a dress appropriate for 8th Avenue Mall shopping, we put to the water for a leisurely day of fishing, Kathleen's fourth day of fishing in her life. The morning passed with Kathleen missing several strikes ... she was gazing at scenery, birdlife or the fisher across the river ... a few lost and a few landed. As we floated over the water of a fast run known to be a good feeding bench for trout, Kathleen announced she'd hooked a good one. Nonchalantly she fought the trout as I positioned the boat for landing. As the Brown rolled beside the boat just beyond the reach of the net I suddenly realized that this wasn't just a good one, it was a BIG fish. Although the pictures don't do this trout justice, this was a tremendous 24 inch Brown, thick from snout to tail, deep throughout and magnificently coloured. Other good trout were taken on the day but none compared. A ferocious wind blew us off the river mid-day thwarting my chances at matching Kathleen's catch. Notes for future trips with Kathleen ... make sure there's a third in the boat 'cuz Kathleen won't hold the trout for pictures and I need a bigger boat to carry her wardrobe!

Jochems through DU August 21, 2009 Posted by Bill on Saturday, August 22, 2009 Earlier in the spring, Bow River Hookers donated a one-day float to the local Ducks Unlimited Committee for auction at their Annual Fundraiser Auction. Greg Jochems purchased the trip and invited his buddy Gerry Samoisette to join him. Neither of these gentlemen are new to angling but their experience with fly fishing equipment was limited. It took both casters a couple of bends to get the hang of casting a fly and a few more to come to terms with the art of presenting the bugs to Bow River trout. Gerry owned the morning in terms of landed fish while Greg monopolized the catch in the afternoon. Of the twenty trout brought to hand, highlights of the day were Greg's hefty 18 inch Brown (pictured) and Jerry's 19 inch, late-day, Rainbow (inset). The big fish of the day never made it to the net but showed himself with some above surface acrobatics much to the delight of both casters. Bow River Hookers is proud to be part of the water conservation efforts of Ducks Unlimited Canada and would like to thank Greg and his wife Sandy for purchasing the donated trip.

Grasse Brothers August 20, 2009 Posted by Bill on Monday, August 24, 2009 Ron and Lowell Grasse (AB) joined us on the river for what turned out to be an incredible day of fishing. Lowell is a neophyte to fly fishing while Ron is an experienced fly caster on waters much smaller than the Bow River. With his experience, Ron picked up on fishing the river quickly and was into trout a short distance from the launch. Lowell took a bit longer to get the hang of casting, presenting the bugs and setting the hook although Ron didn't get much of an edge from his experience as Lowell also took trout early in the float. Ron commented later in the day that you know you've had a good day of fishing when you turn down the opportunity to take pictures of 19 inch fish. Lowell, an avid photographer, assumed the photographic responsibilities of the day and provided all photos of the trip. Highlights of the day were Ron's 22 inch, deep, thick Brown Trout and Lowell's 20 inch, beautifully coloured Rainbow. With three double-headers on the day and 40 plus trout brought to hand, this was the kind of day when the Bow River really shows her stuff. This was a thoroughly enjoyable trip with two gentlemen who just relished in the experience, were enthusiastic about everything and never complained about anything. If attitude is reflected in fishing success, these two casters should always be holding a bent rod.

Emily and Tom August 18, 2009 Posted by Bill on Wednesday, August 19, 2009 Emily and Tom Wooding (AB) joined us for a father/daughter float on the Bow River. Tom, with some fly fishing exposure, wanted to give his daughter a new fishing experience. Emily was accustomed to open face reels and pike of northern Alberta waters. Although this was Emily's first time fly fishing, she is a natural caster mastering backcasting with a fly rod before the mid-day lunch break. Fishing was a bit slow out of the gate but once we found the fly the fish would eat (identified from a sample taken from a fish) the frequency of eats took an abrupt turn. Timely setting of the hook was a challenge throughout the day as was landing these energetic trout for both fishers. Nonetheless, both Tom and Emily brought a number of Rainbows to the boat ... the Browns hooked were released in the distance. Highlights of the day had to be Emily's 22 inch Rainbow (see the Photo Gallery), her heavy 19 inch Rainbow (pictured) and Tom's utter enjoyment of the entire experience even though he fell victim to the estrogen edge. In the end, this was a great day of fishing with a pair of wonderful people. Thanks Tom and Emily for a terrific day on the river.

Me and my son August 16, 2009 Posted by Bill on Monday, August 17, 2009 This was a special day for me, fishing with my son Joel. Amid hectic schedules for both of us, it took all summer to find a day when both of us were free to get onto the water and do a little fishing. While fishing was our focus, it wouldn't have really mattered if we hadn't caught a trout, just spending the day together would have been enough. The bonus was a great day of fishing. Trout were taken on nymph rigs, hopper-dropper setups and dry flies ... streamers weren't to the trout's liking on this day. The early part of the day produced mainly browns, the afternoon and evening catch was predominantly rainbows. We shared thoughts about politics, electronics, movies, the economy and fishing ... something we haven't done for a long time. It was indeed a great day on the river ... and the fishing was good too.

Keeping in Touch August 12, 2009 Posted by Bill on Thursday, August 13, 2009 This was one of the rare occasions through the summer when Tom and I get to fish the river together. While we were out to just enjoy the day and do a little fishing, we were also testing the waters with different methods, approaches and bugs. Nymphing was the most productive although the fish size average was below what we would have expected for this time of the year. Hopper-dropper setups netted mature trout, as expected, but it was many, many casts between eats. Streamers attracted attention below the Highwood confluence but precious little above. The river has cleaned considerably over the last couple of days and as the level continues to drop, the trout are becoming more concentrated. Samples taken from fish suggest the menu has changed slightly with nymphs in the size 28 class making up the bulk of the feed. It was a great day of fishing, relaxing and just being on the water. I look forward to our next day together on the river.

Day of Nymphing August 2, 2009 Posted by Bill on Monday, August 3, 2009 Doug Jacobsen, California, in Calgary on business, joined us for a float on the long weekend. The river was busy with recreationalists of all kinds on the water. In spite of the pontooners, rafts, rubby dingies, canoes, bank anglers and boats of every description, fishing was good. We spent the morning nymphing with stones, leeches and small nymphs enjoying consistent and constant success. Hopper-droppers in the afternoon produced a couple of fish but nymphing was again the most productive. Doug seemed to be most effective when he had an audience picking fish after fish in front of other onlooking anglers. Highlights of the day were a 19 inch Brown (pictured) and a 21 inch Rainbow (inset). The river temperature is starting to have an effect on fish activity and the forecast rain will be a blessing, cooling the river down.

Nelson Family August 1, 2009 Posted by Bill on Saturday, August 1, 2009 Chris, Hae Kyong, Haegen Lee (9) and Jacob (7) Nelson of North Carolina joined us on the river for a split trip, Chris a full day, the rest of the family a half-day. The day was picture perfect weather wise but the fish were a bit reluctant to take our offerings. Fishing was tough through the morning although Chris did manage to land a couple of very nice Browns. However, the highlight of the morning had to be Haegen Lee's 19 inch Rainbow (pictured). After a few missed takes, this 9 year old sweetheart hooked, fought and landed the trout all by herself with only a little coaching. It was our sincere pleasure to have this family in the boats and on the river. Their enjoyment of the entire experience was a reminder to us that there is a lot to see and do on a float down the Bow.

Guides Fun Float July 30, 2009 Posted by Bill on Friday, July 31, 2009 With the river fishing very well of late and not much opportunity to be handling the rods ourselves, an open day in our schedules allowed Jason and I to get on the river. Jason invited JD, a beginner fisher, to join us and try her hand at fly fishing the Bow. In terms of a guide's day of checking out the river, it was a great day. In terms of weather, the day wasn't the best with rain, wind and thunder storms in the afternoon and evening. The fish menu remains the same as it has been for over two weeks and the clear water has small nymphs producing very well. Highlights of the day were JD's 9 trout to the net, her first trout on a fly rod (inset), a 21 inch Rainbow (pictured) and a 22 inch Brown Trout so heavy and thick it almost defies description (see the Photo Gallery). Although it seems to be becoming common place for inclement weather any time Jason and I spend a day on the river together, we had a terrific day of floating, fishing and just enjoying the Bow.

Proudlock Foursome July 29, 2009 Posted by Bill on Thursday, July 30, 2009 Mel, Malcolm, George and Gordon joined us from the UK for 3 days of fishing the Bow. Their first day, fishing the middle stretch of the Blue Ribbon Bow, was an incredible day with close to 70 fish brought to the net. Their second day, fishing the lower stretch, was a bit tougher chucking dry flies to banks and nymphing in between. Their third day, back on the middle stretch of the river, was a repeat of the first day with over 70 fish brought to the net. All four casters were keen fishermen and a pleasure to have in the boats. One an only imagine what they would have done if they'd have landed all the fish they were into. Hope you enjoy the rest of your tour gents.

Shawntel and Kathleen July 25, 2009 Posted by Bill on Sunday, July 26, 2009 With an open day to get on the river I took my wife, Kathleen, and invited Shawntel Graybill to join us for a day of fishing. This was Kathleen's third time on the river, third time with a fly rod in her hands and first time to fish with female companionship. This was Shawntel's maiden voyage both on the Bow River and fly fishing. Shawntel, a seasoned hardware chucker, found casting a nymph rig a bit of a challenge to start with, "so many things to remember", but got a handle on the technique a few bends into the float. Her open-face reel experience was an asset when it came to handling a fish on the line and although she didn't manage to land anything big, she did well fighting and landing the trout after getting hooked up. Kathleen, a fair weather fisher, improved with both fighting and landing fish as the day went on. With over 20 trout brought to hand on the day, the girls enjoyed a tremendous day of fishing. But only a tremendous day by my measure as both girls were just happy to be on the river, enjoying the sunshine, visiting, relaxing and laughing with a little fishing thrown into the mix. It is such a treat to be on the river with people who are thrilled just to be there. Thanks for a thoroughly enjoyable day girls.

The Bow July 23, 2009 Posted by Bill on Friday, July 24, 2009 Josh Dubin (NY) is a repeat guest having enjoyed an exceptional day on the river in 2008. Expectations were high for this year's excursion as we launched the boat at Fish Creek Park. The tenor of the day was set not 20 feet from the launch as Josh hooked up on his first trout of the day. Action was constant from start to finish, 26 trout to the net, many released in the distance and many more that eluded Josh's set that he calmly referred to as a bounce off the bottom. Highlights of the day were two Brown Trout the first of which was gorgeously coloured. The second (pictured) could only be referred to as a pig, heavy from nose to tail, thick across the shoulders and deep throughout. This was without a doubt, a fine day to be on the river ... fabulous weather, fish on the feed and a fisher who was just happy to be out on the water enjoying a great day of fishing. It was a pleasure Josh ... I'm already looking forward to next year.

NuFarm Corporate Trip July 21, 2009 Posted by Bill on Wednesday, July 22, 2009 The day was picture perfect for the NuFarm multi-boat corporate trip under completely sunny skies, only fair weather clouds in sight and virtually no wind movement at all. What was originally planned as an 8 fisher excursion ended up being 6 fishers with only one fisher in each of two boats. None of the fishers had ever held a fly rod in their hands let alone fished with a fly rod. Regardless, it wasn't long after launch before all fishers were casting well enough to be catching Bow River trout ... the hooking up, fighting and landing them took a little longer. By the end of the float the six brand new fly fishers had stung over 100 trout. To say the river is fishing well would be a serious understatement. It was a great day of fishing, relaxing and enjoying workmates and nature. Thanks for a terrific day guys.

The Bow July 10, 2009 Posted by Bill on Saturday, July 11, 2009 Dad and I got a late start on the river and an equally late finish. Under quickly disipating cloudy skies, the first couple of hours of the trip were the most productive. While we had a somewhat tough day of fishing, other boats, on the river ealier, reported good success from start to finish. The Golden Stone Fly hatch has advanced past Policeman's Flats and samples taken from landed fish indicate the menu hasn't changed much over the last couple of weeks. Fishing highlights of the day were a heavy, thick Rainbow (pictured) taken on a size 14 stone nymph and a thicker and heavier 22 inch Brown taken on a surface stone. As always, the best part of a day like this is getting out with my Dad.

Helping DU - Bow River Style July 9, 2009 Posted by Bill on Saturday, July 11, 2009 Jason Brander and Bruce Dunn purchased their fishing trip at a Ducks Unlimited fundraiser banquet in 2008. As neither of these gents have done a lot of fly fishing, the day was to be an experience ... and it was. Bruce landed his first trout on a fly rod and Jason caught his first Brown Trout. That is not to say they only landed two fish, they landed eleven on the day. Nor is it to say that's all they had on the line. They had a lot more take their flies, they just had a little trouble hooking them, fighting them and landing them. Highlights of the day were Jason's 23 inch Brown, 22 inch Rainbow (pictured) and Bruce's 21 inch Rainbow. Bow River Hookers is proud to support the conservation efforts of Ducks Unlimited. Thanks for the great day guys.

The Stones are Here! July 5, 2009 Posted by Bill on Wednesday, July 8, 2009 Of the fishing seasons through the year, this is one we always look forward to. The Golden Stone Flies are emerging and the adults are prime targets for Bow River trout. This window of opportunity for taking trout on a large surface fly only lasts a week or two and leaves as quickly as it comes. Unlike the take on a size 14 Elk Hair Caddis or Blue Winged Olive, the take on an adult stone fly immitation is explosive, a thrill for even the most seasoned fly fisher. Additionally, the vast majority of trout coming up to take the stone will be mature trout, in the 21 plus inch class ... a fly caster's dream ... big trout, surface fishing. Jason and I hit the Bow looking to take advantage of this situation and were not disappointed. In addition to the stones, fish were taken on nymph rigs, hopper-droppers, steamers and other dry flies. It is a wonderfully diverse time to be on the river.

The Bow July 3, 2009 Posted by BIll on Saturday, July 4, 2009 Dad and I got a late start today, not because of other obligations but rather by design. I wanted to take in the evening hatch if there was one. It was approaching noon by the time we set onto the water and the clear morning skies were giving way to fluffy, cotton ball clouds. Three hours after putting on the water we finally turned the corner, losing sight of the launch. We weren't slow to move down the river because of complications, we were slow moving down the river because of fishing and fighting fish. Over the course of the day, samples taken from fish indicate the menu is the same as it has been over the last few days (an imitation pattern awaits me at my fly tying bench). Trout were taken nymphing, on streamers, with hopper-dropper setups and on drys, close to 50 in total. As we loaded the boat in the dark (11 PM) we decided we had an exceptionally good day of fishing.

The Bow June 27, 2009 Posted by Bill on Saturday, June 27, 2009 Today Dad, Tom and I went looking for rising trout. At least, that was the focus as we put onto the water. As the hours in the day passed with nil to very little hatch activity taking place, we simply nymphed our way down the river. In the beginning we stopped several times looking for snouts but the stops became less frequent as we made our way down the river. This is not to say the trip was a poor day of fishing. Quite the contrary. It was an excellent afternoon of fishing. We caught some small trout ... promise for the future, and we caught some good trout ... the Brown pictured was about today's average. The ratio of Rainbow to Browns was about 3 to 1 and the Rainbows are recovering nicely from the spawn. It was a great day to be on the river with sunny skies, lots of trout and great fishing partners.

The Bow June 24, 2009 Posted by Bill on Wednesday, June 24, 2009 This is our first entry in quite a while. Not that we haven't been fishing ... we have. And not that we haven't been having success ... we have. No excuses. Today Tom, Dad and I floated the Bow on what turned out to be a glorious day. With virtually cloudless skies and only short spirts of wind, this was a very enjoyable day on the river. Stones, May Flys and Caddis made up the bulk of the hatches today. We were surprised by the condition of the Rainbows. As evidence by the trout pictured, the Rainbows are in remarkable condition in their recovery from spawning. Although not nearly as full as they will be a month from now, they are in far better condition on this date than in other years. The absence of a spring blowout may have something to do with it. Of the 30 or so fish we touched today, the majority were Rainbows which is also surprising given the cloudy water conditions.

The Bow May 26, 2009 Posted by Bill on Thursday, May 28, 2009 Randy, Jason and I took a chance on this day and floated from Policeman's to McKinnon's. The river had been fishing tough over the last week or so and the rising water level was warning of the upcoming spring runoff. Reduced visibility in the 18 inch to 2 foot range was constant all the way to the Highwood confluence where the chocolate flow from the Highwood and Sheep ended the fishable water. Randy and Jason each took a mature Rainbow skinny and spent from the rigours of spawning but marking the return of the Rainbows to the river. An moderately significant mayfly hatch bloomed at mid-day but feeding fish were many, many casts apart. Brown trout made up the bulk of the catch although fishing continues to be tough. This may mark our last entry before the spring runoff hits and the river blows out. Hopefully the river will hang in there for another couple of days.

The Bow May 24, 2009 Posted by Bill on Monday, May 25, 2009 Due to a fairly strong wind in the early morning, Dad and I got a late start on the river. Although we had every intention of getting on the river early, the wind forced us to sit around and wait for it to subside. By noon the wind had pretty well died off as we left the launch. The river is coloured, not as much as the Friday before but coloured just the same. The Didymo floating in the current is a constant frustration as it fouls the flies with every cast. Samples taken from fish confirmed that the fish are feeding sporatically or not feeding at all. As a result, fishing was anything but consistent. The spawn spent Rainbow pictured had plenty of length but very little in weight and visibility is obviously severely reduced. Nonetheless it was a gorgeous day to be on the water with lots and lots of sunshine, signs of spring everywhere and wonderful fishing company.

The Bow May 22, 2009 Posted by Bill on Saturday, May 23, 2009 Occassionally there are days where you wonder what on earth you're doing on the water. This was one of those days. With a slight breeze from the southeast, Dad and I launched the boat at Fish Creek Park anticipating another glorious day on the river. By Cranston corner the wind had picked up to a gentle gale and as we passed the pump the gale was in full force. It was a bitter wind forcing us to pack on layers of clothing. Although the skies were clear and sunny with only fair weather clouds in sight, it was a miserable day for floating the Bow. Fishing was in keeping with the weather, not that great. The water level was up about 4 inches and dirty. Visibility deteriorated through the day and the floating debris meant constant hook cleaning. Although it wasn't the greatest day to be on the river it is still better than many other alternatives.

The Bow May 16, 2009 Posted by Bill on Sunday, May 17, 2009 With the river quite coloured, Tom, Bill and Bill Sr. joined Jason and Randy Brown for a fun float from Policeman's to McKinnon's. Visibility at launch was about 3 feet although that deteriorated throughout the trip. Fishing wasn't exactly "hot" although fish were taken from launch to takeout. Randy took the highlights of the day, a couple of browns (pictured) several river miles apart. Bill Sr. was the most consistent angler taking half of the catch on this day. Although fishing may not have been at its finest, the day was a gorgeous spring day full of sunshine and very little wind. The Bald Eagle has returned to her nest, the Heronry was virtually void of Herons, the Rainbows have yet to return from their spawning run, Osprey have returned to their nests and we saw our first clutch of goslings of the year. We are reminded that floating the Bow River is about far more than just the fish.

The Bow May 2, 2009 Posted by Bill on Saturday, May 2, 2009 After far too long a winter and an unusually cold spring, today's trip marked our first float of the year. Dad joined me on the river to enjoy glorious blue skies, virtually no wind and a very good day of fishing. Although somewhat spotty, fishing could only be considered to be very good with twenty plus fish being touched today. The trip started out with a bang as Dad tied into his first fish of the day, and year, not 80 feet from the launch. Surprisingly, the catch was pretty evenly split between Browns and Rainbows (most of the mature Rainbows are absent from the river on their spawning run). Dad's Rocky Mountain Whitefish rounded out our 3-species catch today. With the first really decent fishing day of the year, the river was busy with both bank and floating anglers. Our Cabin Fever is finally broken with a wonderful day on the river.