Bow River Fishing Report & Conditions (Glenmore Bridge to Carseland Weir) – June 2025

Bow River Fishing Report & Conditions (Glenmore Bridge to Carseland Weir) – June 2025

River Flows, Water Clarity & Temperature

As of early June 2025, the Bow River in Calgary is experiencing full spring runoff, with flows near 200 m³/s (7,000 cfs). This rise from mid-April levels (~60 m³/s) is due to annual snowmelt. Water clarity has significantly diminished, turning the river muddy and turbid, especially from Policeman’s Flats downstream. Visibility is marginally better closer to Glenmore Bridge. Water temperatures range from 8–12°C, keeping trout more active in the warmer afternoons.

Hatch Activity & Insect Trends

Late May saw strong hatches of midges, Blue-Winged Olives (BWOs), and Mother’s Day Caddis. However, current runoff has temporarily suppressed hatch activity. Surface feeding is limited, with trout mostly feeding subsurface on midges and emergers in pockets of clearer water. Expect resurgence in hatches like caddisflies, stoneflies, and PMDs by mid to late June as clarity improves.

Best Fly Fishing Techniques for High Water

High flows call for subsurface methods and targeted bank fishing. Effective tactics include:

• Nymphing: Use heavy rigs with large attractors (San Juan Worms, Pat’s Rubber Legs) paired with smaller trailing nymphs (Pheasant Tails, Prince Nymphs).
• Streamer Fishing: Dark, bulky streamers (Sex Dungeon, Bow River Bugger, Woolly Buggers) fished slow and deep near bank structure.
• Dry-Dropper Rigs: Employ large foam dries (Stimulators, Chubby Chernobyl) as indicators with nymph droppers near shorelines.

Recommended Fly Patterns:

• Nymphs: Pat’s Rubber Legs (#6–10), San Juan Worm (#8–12), TJ Hooker, Prince Nymph (#10–14)
• Streamers: Sex Dungeon (Black/Olive), Bow River Bugger (#2–6), Woolly Buggers (#4–8)
• Dries: Elk Hair Caddis (#14–16), Griffith’s Gnat (#18–20), Large Foam Stonefly/Hopper (#8–10)

Snowpack Levels & Runoff Outlook

The 2025 snowpack for Southern Alberta’s Bow River Basin is below average, resulting in an earlier, shorter runoff period. River flows are expected to peak early in June and recede quicker than normal. This suggests improving fishing conditions by mid to late June but potential lower water levels later this summer.

Water Management (Dams & Reservoirs)

Water managers are balancing flood control and drought concerns. Ghost Reservoir releases have caused noticeable daily fluctuations, while Glenmore Reservoir is intentionally kept higher to prepare for potential drought conditions. Expect moderate flow variations to continue as reservoir management shifts towards summer storage.

Fishing Report: Last Week Recap & Next 14-Day Outlook

Recent Conditions:

Late May delivered excellent fishing initially, but deteriorating clarity and rising flows by early June made fishing tougher. Anglers have adjusted by fishing tighter to the banks with larger nymphs and streamers.

Two-Week Outlook:

Early June fishing remains challenging with high water and limited visibility. Anglers should utilize heavy nymph rigs and streamers. However, conditions should improve significantly by mid-June as flows decrease and hatches return. Watch closely for improving clarity, insect activity, and increased surface action.

Final Thoughts

Stay informed on real-time river conditions via local resources such as the Alberta Rivers App. The Bow River’s runoff period will likely shorten, offering earlier summer-like fishing opportunities. Be safe, adapt to conditions, and prepare for some excellent fishing ahead.