Monday, June 30, 2014

Canada Day Fishing Report

Tomorrow is Canada Day! And here is a much happier, and friendlier fishing report.

Bow River Report –June 30, 2014

It has been kind of an “up and down” week, or actually the other way around. Water levels dropped through mid-week last week and fishing got pretty good. Visibility hovered around a foot. Wednesday afternoon the powers that be increased flows from the mid-200 cms range to a very big 305 cms. This made for tough fishing on Thursday, through the weekend.

Levels are now dropping, with a more manageable 260 cms flow.

When on the river last week, we were happy to see lots of bug activity. Throughout the day there are caddis showing up, PMD’s are around in more than sufficient numbers to get fish looking up as the water drops. And there are some Stoneflies kicking around, setting up for a good few weeks coming up.

If the heavy rains stay away we will likely see a pretty sharp drop in water level in the next week and fishing should get very good. Dark and buggy are the order for streamer and nymphs, and as levels drop look for snouts on caddis and PMD’s. Stonefly dries should be up soon as well.

McKinnon`s road and launch area are open. Having said that, we ask that people think twice about using McKinnon’s when we see heavy rainfall. The road will not support rain and vehicles in its present state. Carseland will not open in 2014. City launches, Jansen’s, and Policeman`s are OK.

Hatches: Caddis, Stoneflies, PMD’s

Streamers: Clouser-Brown/White, Geek Leech-Purple, ¼ Pound Bugger-Olive, Silvey’s Scuplin Leech-Olive/Black/White Head, Love Bunny
Nymphs: Heavy Metal Worm, Jimmy Legs-Dark Brown, Chubby Cousin,
Rock ‘n’ Roller Stone
Dry Flies: Elk Hair Caddis, Better Foam Caddis, PMD Parachute, Film Critic-PMD, Chubby Chernobyl-Blk/Tan, Chubby Chernobyl-Orange

Crowsnest River Report – June 30, 2014

After rising into the mid 70 cms range last week, the Crow is now down to 15 cms, much more user friendly. The Crow, and other streams in the area should get very good over the next while. Every day should bring some improvement.


Hatches: Salmonflies. Caddis, PMD’s, etc. should get going this week.

Streamers: Bead Crystal Bugger, Jawbreaker
Nymphs: Jimmy Legs, Rock`n`Roller Stone, WMD Stone.
Dries: Berrett’s Golden Stone-Barred Leg, Morrish Fluttering Stone,
R/L Stimulator-Orange

High Country River Report – June 30, 2014

Basic rule of thumb on the east slope streams right now…the higher up, the clearer they get. As an example, the Highwood runs clear downstream to Cataract. Downstream of that it degrades continuously to brown. Sheep has started to change color around Okotoks.
All of these streams, south to Waterton, are dropping pretty quickly. If it stays dry, they’ll get better every day and likely be very good in a week or so.

Hatches: Stoneflies, Caddis, PMD’s

Streamers: Sleech-Olive, Silveys Sculpin Leech-Tan, Party Boy-Pink
Nymphs: Rock ‘n’ Roller Stone, W.M.D. Stone, Chubby Cousin
Dries: Berrett’s Barred Leg-Golden Stone, Chubby Chernobyl-Orange,
R/L Stimulator-Orange


Monday, June 23, 2014

Fishing Reports - June 23

Your friendly neighbourhood fishing report for this week. Prohibited from being the friendliest...but certainly second!


Bow River Report –June 23, 2014
Never again will we post a fishing report on or about the middle of June extolling the positive fishing and water conditions. A week ago the river was in almost perfect shape and was fishing really well. And then Environment Canada modified their forecast from the sort of wet week to an absolutely drenched week.

Anyways, moving on, the river IS dropping, and if the weather continues dry, start to clean up fairly soon. You should expect the excellent fishing to restart as we see clarity improve and levels drop in the next week.

Basically, it looks like an absolutely normal year!!! High and dirty water in June with conditions coming around late in the month and the nearest thing to perfection we get coming right around the first of July. Stay tuned.

McKinnon`s road and launch area are open. Having said that, we ask that people think twice about using McKinnon’s when we see heavy rainfall. The road will not support rain and vehicles in its present state. Carseland will not open in 2014. City launches, Jansen’s, and Policeman`s are OK.

Hatches: Caddis, Stoneflies

Streamers: Clouser-Brown/White, Geek Leech-Purple, ¼ Pound Bugger-Olive, Silvey’s Scuplin Leech-Olive/Black/White Head, Love Bunny
Nymphs: Heavy Metal Worm, Jimmy Legs-Dark Brown, Chubby Cousin,
Rock ‘n’ Roller Stone
Dry Flies: Elk Hair Caddis, Better Foam Caddis, March Brown Parachute, Chubby Chernobyl-Blk/Tan, Chubby Chernobyl-Orange

Crowsnest River Report – June 23, 2014
South streams like the Crow, Oldman, Waterton, etc. got hit much worse by last week’s rains. They saw, in many cases, twice the rainfall amounts that Calgary saw.
As a result the Crow, which was running at 13 cms early last week, is now running in the mid 20’s.
If things stay dry, it won’t take long before it comes back into shape. Likely in a week to ten days.


Hatches: Salmonflies. Caddis, PMD’s, etc. should be going about the time water clears and drops.

Streamers: Bead Crystal Bugger, Jawbreaker
Nymphs: Jimmy Legs, Rock`n`Roller Stone, WMD Stone.
Dries: Berrett’s Golden Stone-Barred Leg, Morrish Fluttering Stone,
R/L Stimulator-Orange

High Country River Report – June 23, 2014There are basically two zones of High Country streams right now. The Highwood and streams north of there as one, and the second being all streams south of the Highwood.

Highwood and north are big and dirty but should come around fairly quick.
The Highwood and Sheep already dropping like crazy. Streams south of the Highwood will take a little bit longer as they saw way more rain.

Never fear, they’ll come around fairly soon and like most years, should be pretty good around July 1 (sooner if you want to nymph and streamer fish).

Hatches: Stoneflies, Caddis, PMD’s

Streamers: Sleech-Olive, Silveys Sculpin Leech-Tan, Party Boy-Pink
Nymphs: Rock ‘n’ Roller Stone, W.M.D. Stone, Chubby Cousin
Dries: Berrett’s Barred Leg-Golden Stone, Chubby Chernobyl-Orange,
R/L Stimulator-Orange


Tuesday, June 17, 2014

C.P. Fly Fishing Getaways for Fall 2014/Winter 2015

2014-2015 Fly Fishing Destinations

We are pleased to announce our Fall 2014 and Winter/Spring 2015 hosted fly fishing adventures.

Country Pleasures offers both scheduled, hosted trips as well as adventures tailored to your individual requirements to a multitude of locations. You never pay more when you book with Country Pleasures, we don't charge extra over and above the lodge packages. When you book with Country Pleasures you deal with us. We don't use "middle man" travel agencies like other shops. We have developed working relationships with our destinations and deal directly with them.

All trips include: Pre-Trip casting instruction as needed, pre and post trip reel service, comprehensive trip information package, and suggested flight information.

If you want to experience a new excitement in fly fishing, or just want to get away from winter, stop by, give us a call, or go to CP Fly Fishing Vacations to find out more. We would love to have you join us!


BABINE NORLAKES LODGE
TROPHY STEELHEAD OF A LIFETIME
*OCTOBER 19-25, 2014. - 1 SPOT LEFT
*OCTOBER 26-NOVEMBER 1, 2014 - 1 SPOT LEFT

In 1965, Babine Norlakes Steelhead camp began a long-standing reputation of astounding the most afflicted of anglers known to have "Steelhead fever". Words cannot describe the magic and power of Steelheading on perhaps the best Steelhead river in the world. Located in northern British Columbia on the Babine River which is part of the Skeena River watershed.

For more info, click on Babine Norlakes Steelhead Camp


PALOMETA CLUB, ASCENSION BAY, MEXICO
IF YOU WANT TO CATCH A PERMIT, THIS IS THE BEST PLACE WE HAVE FOUND TO DO IT!
* NOVEMBER 13-20, 2014
* JANUARY 3-10, 2015
* MARCH 20-27, 2015 **SOLD OUT**
* MAY 15-22, 2015
* MAY 22-29, 2015

This is arguably the best Permit fishery in the world! Combine that with the best complement of guides we have run across and you'll find the best place on the planet to land a Permit. Top flight lodging and five star food make "The Club" a favorite with clients. A huge percentage of CP clients who have fished PC land Permit, often multiple fish in a week. Oh, and we almsot forgot, there's lots of tarpon, Snook, and Bonefish.
For more info, click on Palometa Club


SIGHTCAST - LOS ROQUES, VENEZUELA
*JANUARY 17-24, 2015

Technically an atoll within the Lesser Antilles, the Los Roques' fly fishing region is made up of more than 300 cays, with a vast diversity of saltwater habitats including magnificent coral beds, grass and hard sand flats, pristine beaches, and remarkable "pancake" flats. Better yet, nearly all of the flats fishing is done while wading. While the area abounds with tarpon, barracuda, and jacks, it is the world-class bonefishing that draws anglers back year after year.

Similar to Christmas Island, Los Roques is blessed with consistent weather and water temperatures, not to mention high fish counts. Bonefish average 4 pounds with numerous fish in the 6 to 10 pound class. Meals and accommodations at Acuarela Lodge are greatly enjoyed by anglers and discerning non-anglers alike. For anglers who love flats fishing and to wade fish for high numbers of good sized bonefish, Los Roques is truly one of the finest flats fishing destinations in the world today. Stays of varying lengths are available. Chris Yrazabal, owner of Sight Cast, is a fourteen-year veteran to guiding the Los Roques region
For more info, click on Los Roques


BLACK FLY LODGE, ABACO, BAHAMAS
*APRIL 18-25, 2015

"This is a very private and exclusive fishing excursion thatsome of our anglers have said is the best fishing experiencethey have ever had in the Bahamas." 6 days of fishing for large Bonefish and Permit. Although most people think of Bonefish in the Bahamas, the Abaco area is a very viable permit fishery, with very large Permit to be found.
Blue water opportunities for Dolphin, Tuna, Sailfish, etc. "Five Star" accomodations,
world class guides and equipment. This will be our fourth year going to Black Fly, and everyone loves it!
For more info, click on Black Fly


NICHOLAS DEAN LODGE
LOWER SKEENA SPRING STEELHEAD
*MAY 3-9, 2015

Nestled in the majestic coastal mountains nearTerrace, British Columbia, Canada, the mighty Skeena River and its tributaries form the major arteries that fork through stands of old growth forest and steep valley walls. It is in this river system that some of the strongest runs of large, wild steelhead and salmon left in the world return. Chrome bright Steelhead with more comfortable conditions than fall.
For more info, click on Nicholas Dean Lodge

Fall 2015 destinations to be announced later in the summer.

Monday, June 16, 2014

Fishing Reports - June 16

Bow River Report –June 16, 2014
River came up over the weekend, likely due to rainfall amount. Still not in too bad of shape for mid-June. After we get out of Tuesday this week it’s supposed to dry out and the river should start to drop again.

All through last week the river fished pretty darn good. Guides and anglers pretty much all reported very good fishing.

Caddis around in decent numbers on the warmer days. Lots of Stoneflies in and around the rocks with a few shucks showing up. Even been a few eats on the big foam bugs. And there’s still some March Browns around.

McKinnon`s road and launch area are open. Carseland will not open in 2014. City launches and Policeman`s are OK.

Hatches: Caddis, Stoneflies, March Browns

Streamers: Clouser-Brown/White, Geek Leech-Purple, ¼ Pound Bugger-Olive, Silvey’s Scuplin Leech-Olive/Black/White Head, Love Bunny
Nymphs: Heavy Metal Worm, Jimmy Legs-Dark Brown, Chubby Cousin,
Rock ‘n’ Roller Stone
Dry Flies: Elk Hair Caddis, Better Foam Caddis, March Brown Parachute, Chubby Chernobyl-Blk/Tan, Chubby Chernobyl-Orange

Crowsnest River Report – June 16 2014
The Crow was dropping fairly steadily last week but late week and weekend rains kicked the flows up a bit again. Current flows at about 13 cms and dropping.
Salmonflies are happening!


Hatches: Salmonflies. Caddis, PMD’s, etc. should start any day!

Streamers: Bead Crystal Bugger, Jawbreaker
Nymphs: Jimmy Legs, Rock`n`Roller Stone, WMD Stone.
Dries: Berrett’s Golden Stone-Barred Leg, Morrish Fluttering Stone,
R/L Stimulator-Orange

High Country River Report – June 16, 2014
High Country Streams opened today (Yipeee!). Although we haven’t had a chance to check them out yet, reports indicate high, but clearing water conditions.
The way things have been shaping up, if we don’t get a bunch of rain or too much hot weather, the high country should be in great shape soon.

Hatches: Stoneflies, Caddis, PMD’s will be along shortly.

Streamers: Sleech-Olive, Silveys Sculpin Leech-Tan, Party Boy-Pink
Nymphs: Rock ‘n’ Roller Stone, W.M.D. Stone, Chubby Cousin
Dries: Berrett’s Barred Leg-Golden Stone, Chubby Chernobyl-Orange,
R/L Stimulator-Orange

Monday, June 9, 2014

Fishing Reports-June 9

Bow River Report –June 9, 2014
After peaking at just over 300 cms, the river has dropped to a more manageable 189 cms. Color is starting to improve and it should continue to do so as long as we don’t receive any significant rainfall.

Those who have been fishing the river in the last week report marginal success but are catching fish. The rainbows seem to be just returning from the Highwood system in numbers, which is a bit late. With the rainbows back, fishing will improve with the higher number of hungry mouths to feed.

Judging by my Wild Rosebushes at home we are about 2-3 weeks from seeing the first Stoneflies. With better water conditions leading up to this than the last couple of years we can hopefully expect the fish to key on the adults.

Keep your fingers crossed for relatively dry conditions over the next 2-3 weeks.

McKinnon`s road and launch area are open. Carseland will not open in 2014. City launches and Policeman`s are OK.

Hatches: Caddis, PMD’s

Streamers: Clouser-Brown/White, Geek Leech-Purple, ¼ Pound Bugger-Olive
Nymphs: Heavy Metal Worm, Jimmy Legs-Dark Brown, G/B R/L Hares Ear
Dry Flies: Elk Hair Caddis, Better Foam Caddis

Stunning rainbow caught just before runoff started.

Crowsnest River Report – June 9, 2014
The Crow has dropped to 16 cms. Still pretty high flows. Around 12 cms is where it gets to where you can fish it without fear of dying.
It’s still running pretty dirty and even the most positive anglers wouldn’t call it fishable. Should improve considerably over the next two weeks.

Check your regs for sectional closures on the Crow right now.

Hatches: Caddis

Streamers: Bead Crystal Bugger, Jawbreaker
Nymphs: Jimmy Legs, Rock`n`Roller Stone, G/B R/L Hares Ear, WMD Stone.
Dries: Film Berrett’s Golden Stone-Barred Leg, Morrish Fluttering Stone.

High Country River Report – June 9, 2014
High Country Streams are closed until June 16, 2014.

Fathers Day Ideas

Sunday, June 8, 2014

Flies!

After the fly supply catastrophe that was 2013, we have flies again!
Streamers, nymphs, dries, old stanbys, new and cool.
We have tons!

Monday, June 2, 2014

Palometa Club Trip Report

The last two hosted trips for the winter/spring of 2014 just finished up at the end of May. We had two separate groups, back to back, with 12 anglers each week down to The Palometa Club at Ascension Bay Mexico. Ascension bay offers good fishing for Tarpon, Bonefish, Snook, Permit, as well as other species like Barracuda and Snapper. Most everybody who joined us on both weeks were mainly hunting for Permit.

Our first week was comprised of a mix of first time flats anglers, anglers who had never caught a Permit, and experienced flats/Permit anglers. Our arrival coincided perfectly with a rare, strong north wind. A strong north flow is fairly rare in May in the Carribean. Although not packing any punch in terms of cold air, the 25 MPH winds from the north made things tough through most of the week. A north or East wind of any strength is not a great thing when fishing Ascension Bay.
A beautiful example of Ascension Bay Permit

Stunning, 26 pound Permit, thanks to Greg B.



Everyone plodded through the less than perfect weather and a few Permit were caught during the first week. Certainly not a banner week for our Palometa Club trips (thanks to the weather) but five Permit landed is better than most places you'l travel to. One of the couples on the trip, Graeme and Mary, had never fly fished on the salt water flats before and did a great job cutting their teeth catching Tarpon, Snook, Bonefish, and gave it their all trying to get a Permit. They were a real treat to have along.

Looking for the nasty critters…with bad light.


One of the high lights of the week was Maureen getting her very first Permit. A very respectable 14 pounder is a great first!
First Permit for Maureen
Then, on the last day of the week, she followed up with a very impressive fish of just over 30 pounds!

Second Permit for Maureen, somewhat larger than the first.
A big thanks to Bob L., Ron R., Graeme D., Mary C., Doug L., Bob K., Raza T., Greg B., Dave P, and Terry A. for joining us and making such a great group.


On the day that our first group headed home the weather started to improve markedly. With our second group not arriving until later that evening, it allowed me and one of the guides to go "play fishing" for the day. The better weather translated into happier fish very quickly. The number of shots at happier fish was better than I had seen all week. A couple of Permit stuck made for a very nice day.

Relaxing at the bar.

Our second group offered up a more experienced flats fishing crew on the whole. Some had never caught Permit before but had spent a lot of time in the salt. The first part of the week you couldn't have made any of this group hunt anything but Permit…no matter what you threatened them with.

The weather cooperated reasonably well for the first part of the week, with good light and average, 12-15 knot winds. Even the wind direction was shifting to a more normal SE flow. 

Chris D. with his first Mexico Permit





Permit were landed almost every day, with Ryan W, Doug P., and Andy W. getting their first Permit ever. Completely awesome!
Cloud cover increased over the last couple of days with higher wind speeds, making for tougher conditions.  A few of the guys headed off to do some Tarpon fishing rather than fighting the weather with decent success on the smaller, resident Tarpon of Ascension.
Two others went and caught about 20 Bonefish in about an hour to take their minds off the deteriorating weather.


Doug P. with his first ever Permit. On his first week ever Permit fishing!
All in all, a pretty good week, with twelve Permit landed, others lost, and a great time had by all. A couple twenty plus pound fish in the mix as well. The merry band of Sean F., Chad., Jeff D., Ryan W., Doug P, Greg P., Dave I., Andy W., Andy G., Chris D. are all awesome. Special note to Dave P., missed you and glad you're OK.

Fall 2014 and Spring 2015 Palometa Club trip dates are all set. Check the dates at
Country Pleasures Travel - Palometa Club  All of us at CP, and the Permit of Ascension, would love to have you join us.


Sunday, June 1, 2014

Summer Hours!

Starting today, we are now on summer hours here at the shop.

Monday to Friday: 8 AM to 6 PM

Saturday: 8 AM to 5 PM

Sunday: 8 AM to 4 PM

Feels good after a long winter.