Fly Fishing
Come discover
Highwood River
- Highlights: Stunning mountain scenery and diverse fishing opportunities in clear waters.
- Features: Famous for Cutthroat Trout and Bull Trout, with numerous access points for fly wading
Highwood River
Located in the foothills of the Canadian Rockies, just southwest of Calgary, Highwood River is a crystal-clear, mountain-fed river offering exceptional fly-fishing opportunities. Known for its scenic beauty and abundant fish species, including wild trout, it is a prime destination for anglers seeking both tranquility and adventure. The river flows through the stunning Highwood Pass in Kananaskis Country, one of Alberta's most breathtaking wilderness areas, making it an ideal location for those looking to combine world-class fishing with awe-inspiring natural surroundings.
Country
Alberta, Canada
Type of fishing
ON FOOT FISH WITH WADERS
Type of fish
Mostly cutthroat trout. ”Bull trout” and rainbows.
Fishing license needed
You will need your Alberta fishing licence plus your Alberta WIN card.
Width
The Highwood River in Alberta typically has an average width ranging from 15 to 30 feet (4.5 to 9 meters), depending on the specific section
Hatches and Flies
When fly-fishing on Highwood River in Alberta, it’s essential to know which hatches occur throughout the year to maximize your chances of success. Here's a general overview of hatches and flies to use based on the region's ecosystem:Hatches on Highwood River:
Caddisflies (Late Spring to Early Summer)Caddis hatches can be prolific in the spring and early summer, especially in the warmer months.
Common Species: Hydropsyche (Green Caddis) and Rhyacophila.
Flies to Use:
Caddis Pupa
Elk Hair Caddis (Dry)
Pheasant Tail Nymph (for nymphing)
Mayflies (Spring and Fall)Mayfly hatches are most common in the spring and again in the fall. The river has a healthy population of mayflies, which attract a variety of fish species.
Common Species: Baetis (Blue-Winged Olives), Ephemerella (Pale Morning Duns).
Flies to Use:
Blue-Winged Olive Nymph
Pale Morning Dun (PMD)
Parachute Adams (for Dry Flies)
Stoneflies (Spring to Early Summer)Stoneflies hatch in the spring and can continue through early summer, especially after rainstorms.
Common Species: Pteronarcys (Salmonfly) and Capnia (Little Black Stonefly).
Flies to Use:
Stonefly Nymphs (larger patterns)
Stimulator (Dry)
Chubby Chernobyl (Dry)
Midges (Winter to Early Spring)Midges are a year-round hatch and are especially abundant in the colder months, providing fish with food even in winter.
Common Species: Chironomids.
Flies to Use:
Midge Pupae (Black or Olive)
Zebra Midge (for Nymphing)
Tiny Parachute Midge (Dry Fly)
Terrestrial Insects (Late Summer)As the weather warms in late summer, terrestrial insects like grasshoppers, beetles, and ants become a major food source for fish.
Flies to Use:
Hopper Patterns (e.g., Letort Hopper)
Beetle Patterns (e.g., Chernobyl Ant)
