Overview

Anglers can look forward to some great fishing opportunities today in Southern Alberta. Most rivers are nearing their summer fishing levels, providing favorable conditions for both fly fishers and spin anglers. Keep an eye on rising flows in some areas and take advantage of lively hatches emerging across several rivers.

River & Lake Conditions

• Sheep River near Okotoks: Currently at a flow of 4.8 m³/s, the river is running near typical summer levels with flows rising by about 25%. Be cautious of changing conditions and fish the banks and side channels for best results.
• Ghost River: Flows at 5.8 m³/s have recently risen, exceeding typical spring high water levels. Despite this, it remains fishable with careful navigation and targeting bank-hugging fish.
• Highwood River near High River: The river is flowing high at 7.6 m³/s and rising swiftly. Plan to fish from the bank and focus on back eddies.
• Crowsnest River: Flowing steadily at 3.2 m³/s and stable. This is an ideal time for wading and fishing primarily with small nymphs or dries as trout are active.
• Bow River near Banff: Flow has decreased slightly to 52.9 m³/s, offering great wading and fly fishing conditions, particularly for those looking to target brown and rainbow trout in calmer waters.

Weather Impact by Area

• Bow Valley / Foothills: Expect winds reaching up to 25 km/h SW on the Bow, making it challenging to present small dry flies. Opt for nymphing or streamer fishing. Clear skies will help keep clarity optimal.
• Crowsnest Pass: Enjoyable fishing conditions today with manageable NW winds around 11 km/h. Afternoon temperatures rising to 24°C should encourage fish activity.
• Central Alberta: Calm weather and clear skies will foster good fishing conditions on the Red Deer and nearby rivers, where stable flows and mild winds are predicted throughout the day.

Hatch Activity & Fly Fishing

• Sheep River: With favorable conditions for Blue-winged Olives, anglers should focus on fishing dries like the BWO Sparkle Dun in the afternoon during overcast periods. Nymphs such as the Pheasant Tail will remain effective throughout the day, with streamers like Woolly Buggers productive in the cooler morning hours.
• Crowsnest River: Midges are active. Dress small emergers and fish them in side channels where water is slower. Sow bugs work well in runs and pools. Opt for nymph fishing using Hare’s Ear or Sow Bug patterns to catch fish for most of the day.
• Bow River near Banff: Nymphing will be productive with San Juan Worms and small Pheasant Tails. If the Blue-winged Olives come off, switch to dry flies in the afternoon.

Spin & Bait Fishing

For those using conventional tackle:

• Sheep River: Use Blue Fox Vibrax spinners in size #2 for trout holding in deeper runs and near cover.
• Ghost River: Large spinners and spoons in brighter colors like chartreuse will attract bull and cutthroat trout taking advantage of cooler water in deep holes.
• Oldman River near Lethbridge: Walleye can be targeted with 1/4 oz jigs tipped with minnows. For northern pike, use large red-eye spoons.

Recent Stocking

Highlighting recently stocked waters:

• Mount Lorette Ponds: Recently stocked with Rainbow and Westslope Cutthroat Trout. Wind conditions are favorable for casting lures or flies.
• Sibbald Lake: Stocked with Rainbow Trout. Ideal conditions for those looking to catch recently stocked, active fish.
• Grotto Mountain Pond: A great spot for targeting Westslope Cutthroat under today’s calm conditions.

Top Picks Today

• Crowsnest River: Consistent flows and active hatches make this an excellent choice. Fly fish with midges and sow bugs, or spin with small Mepps spinners.
• Bow River near Banff: Mild flows and falling water levels offer a great day for targeting trout with nymphs and streamers.
• Sibbald Lake: Recently stocked, promising perfect conditions for catchable trout. Use PowerBait or small spinners in calm afternoons.

Safety & Regulations

• Be cautious of rising waters on the Ghost and Highwood Rivers. Use extra care when approaching the banks under these conditions.
• Bull trout are catch-and-release only throughout Alberta.
• The spawning season is ongoing with some species; avoid disturbing redds and do not target trout actively on spawning gravel.
• Always verify seasons and closures at albertaregulations.ca before heading out for any updates specific to your chosen waterbody.