Bow River (Glenmore to Carseland) – July Recap

July 2025 has delivered record rainfall to Southern Alberta, significantly impacting fly fishing conditions along the Bow River. Mid-month saw torrential rains causing dramatic spikes in river flows, transforming typically clear waters into muddy torrents and forcing the cancellation of many guided trips. However, as we approach the end of July, conditions are improving daily, with clarity steadily returning and fishing opportunities increasing.

Anglers should currently focus on fishing the banks, where trout have been pushed by the higher flows. Dark-colored streamers and large nymph patterns like stoneflies and San Juan worms have been productive even in murky conditions. As visibility improves, expect excellent dry-fly action with caddis, PMDs, golden stoneflies, and terrestrials such as hoppers becoming prominent.

Southern Alberta Streams – High but Clearing

Streams in the Southern Alberta foothills, including the Oldman, Highwood, Castle, and Livingstone rivers, were similarly affected by heavy mid-July rainfall. These rivers remain slightly elevated and off-color but are gradually clearing. The abundant moisture this summer ensures healthy stream flows and cool temperatures for trout, setting the stage for exceptional August fishing conditions.

Current successful tactics include nymphing deep pools with stonefly and caddis larvae, streamer fishing along banks, and surface action with foam attractor patterns as clarity returns. Watch for consistent insect hatches, particularly Golden Stoneflies, Yellow Sallies, Green Drakes, and abundant terrestrial insects.

The Importance of Trip Cancellation Insurance for Anglers

This summer’s unpredictable weather highlights the importance of trip cancellation insurance for outdoor enthusiasts. Travelers planning fly fishing or outdoor adventures should strongly consider insurance coverage that protects against weather-related cancellations and disruptions. Coverage ensures you can recover expenses and reschedule trips without bearing the full financial burden if severe weather interferes with your plans.

August 2025 Outlook: Excellent Fishing Ahead

Despite July's challenging conditions, the outlook for August is highly promising. The abundant rainfall has ensured strong, cold water flows across Southern Alberta's trout waters. Anglers can anticipate excellent hopper fishing along the Bow River, steady dry-fly activity with caddis and PMDs, and great streamer action for larger trout.

Southern Alberta’s smaller streams are poised for outstanding late-summer fishing as well, with dropping water levels, clearing conditions, and aggressive trout. Anglers should prepare for prime hopper-dropper fishing and outstanding dry-fly opportunities as rivers stabilize and fish resume active feeding patterns.

Overall, August 2025 is shaping up to be an excellent month for fly fishing in Southern Alberta. Stay flexible, and have patience as we work through this wet July together! We look forward to getting everyone back on the rivers ASAP!