By Scott Smith, Lead Guide As the season begins, I’m already excited for the 2024 guiding campaign. Experiencing a mild off-season in the Calgary area, plenty of winter trout pics fill my social feeds daily. I’m not a winter fly fisher, but I certainly appreciate the need to get on the water at every opportunity. Perhaps tomorrow will be the day? Life as a Bow River Guide Feeling extremely fortunate, I am among an amazing group of outfitters and guides working on the Bow River. Being on the river almost daily, I’ve met and worked with so many great people. Loving our guiding community, we sup ..read more

I am writing this one as a caution. I’ve spent countless hours on the Bow River, especially the stretch referenced in this edition of our blog. I am not proud of what you’ll read below. The caution or lesson is preparation and mitigation. Winter fishing is not typically my thing but we’re experiencing a mild winter so far and anglers are taking advantage of the open water on the Bow. I often walk Hopper, my fishing dog, along a ridge above the river where I can clearly see a five kilometre stretch of water.  As of November 28th, the channels were all ice free where the river splits into t ..read more

A Fly Fishing Boot Camp Perfect for Beginners You’ve been thinking about getting into fly fishing? Jump in with both feet! Well, maybe don’t jump. You’ll spook the fish, and the rocks might be slippery. Better to wade in quietly like a ghost, but excited. Get started with our fly fishing Boot Camp on the Bow River! This is a lot of fun! We’re going to have plenty of laughs while learning and practicing new skills. This is fishing! For most of us it’s a relaxing pastime and a lifelong learning opportunity. Enjoy the process, make mistakes, and laugh at yourself! Most guests tell us, they’re co ..read more

I’m at the back of the truck, tailgate down, packing gear while Hopper impatiently wanders but always has me in sight.  Hopper, a black shepherd, a year, and a half old and my shadow when I fish alone. If you know German Shepherds, she is my shadow ALL THE TIME!  Yes, she is a fly fisherman’s dog, and I named her Hopper, but her nickname is Spaz. Right now, she’s working hard to free a downed fence post from the barbed wire still attached. Spaz.  The streamer rod comes out, then the dry rod. Still rigged up from yesterday’s float.  The dry rod is a 5 weight with a #18 BWO p ..read more

Discover the thrilling adventures of a sports fishing company as they reflect on their busiest season yet on the majestic Bow River. The sports fishing season on the Bow River in southern Alberta has come to a close, and it has been one for the books. Anglers from all over the world flocked to this popular fishing destination to test their skills and catch some impressive fish. The guides at our fly fishing company had their hands full, but they made sure that each and every guest had an unforgettable experience on the water. Another Great Season Fly Fishing in Southern Alberta For yet another ..read more

By Scott Smith, Lead Guide I am a fly fisherman. I have been a student of fly fishing for over 25 years and teach it as well. Fly fishing is more than just throwing a line into the water and waiting for something to bite. It is about balance, mindfulness, and casting away your cares for a moment of rest and relaxation—a respite from life’s worries; a chance to become one with nature; an opportunity to feel at peace with yourself. Fly fishing offers therapy for the mind, body and soul. Essential Elements of Fly Fishing Fly fishing is a sport that requires patience and f ..read more

By Scott Smith, Lead Fly Fishing Guide I’ve spent most of my adult life as a river guide, and I’ve seen all kinds of people come through the doors. Every now and then, though, there’s someone who catches me off guard with their enthusiasm for fly fishing. Usually, they’re kids. Six-year-olds with skinned knees who want to know how to tie on a dry fly because their uncle told them that he did it when he went fishing with his dad. This is great! Kids are the future of our sport, but if we want them to stick around for long enough to develop into lifelong anglers (or even ..read more

If you’re looking for a great fly fishing destination, the Bow River should be at the top of your list. This scenic river offers wild Rainbow and Brown Trout, Rocky Mountain Whitefish, as well as some beautiful scenery. The Bow is also a great place to spend a weekend camping out or staying in Calgary with all of the luxuries and conveniences that the city offers. Keep reading to discover how to choose the best fly fishing company package when coming from overseas, and tips to make the most of your trip in Alberta. Which Fly Fishing Company Offers the Best Packages to International Visitors ..read more

By Scott Smith, Lead Fishing Guide GET OUT THERE! Grab your team, clients, family and friends and get out of the Office! Corporate fly fishing trips hosted by Bow River Fly Fishing Company is a great way to appreciate your team, colleagues and customers. The change of scene and a shared, fun activity provides a unique opportunity for your employees, members and colleagues to build better communication, stronger relationships and most importantly, have fun during an adventure of a lifetime! Bow River Fly Fishing Company is a Bow River Outfitter offering corporate day trips suitable for 12 or l ..read more

By Scott Smith, Lead Fishing Guide  Welcome to Fly Fishing! Snake Oil and Magic Beans. You’ll learn to wave the magic stick over the water and produce fish on every command. You will be flawless in your technique; always make the right fly choice and land every fish you encounter. Your skills will bring fish to your net every time you venture out to your favourite waters. The truth lies somewhere in the pursuit of perfection, the peace it brings, the need to know what’s around the next corner.  At least that’s why I do it. Your reasons can be entirely something else. Somehow, that ma ..read more