What’s New for the 2025 Fly Fishing Season on the Bow River
By Scott Smith, Lead Guide
Gearing Up for a Milestone Year on the Bow River
Welcome to 2025! Here’s some news about what we’ve got going on and coming up for fly fishing on the Bow River. Fly orders are nearly completed. The boat is getting shined up and ready to go, along with some new equipment on board for you. There’s nothing like that new rod smell! This is our 9th season at Bow River Fly Fishing Company as an independent outfitter. I’m always humbled by the support from our guests, both returning and new. We meet great people out here, and an argument can be made that this is the greatest vocation in the world.
You all seem to think we have it made and the guide life is just plain living right! Yeah, it’s okay. (insert wink here)
Your Day, Your Way
For guests, the day is all about your success — and you get to define what that looks like. Everyone has different objectives, and our job as guides is to tap into your vibe. We always ask how we can make your day with us a great experience. Then we make sure we take care of the things we can readily control. We’ll always take the lead on the fish hunting part of the day. But if you’ve never been on a float, just know there’s so much more to experience.
Evolving Into an Educational Outfitter
We’ve evolved, on purpose, into an educational outfitter. Learning is always a constant in this sport. You can make it whatever you want it to be. Every guide I know offers tips, tricks, and techniques on their water to help you be your best out there.
When you’re out with us, our hope is that you’ll find something useful to apply or impress your buddies with the next time you head out on your own.
That can be anything from:
- A different way to rig- a new knot
- Approaching water
- How to be more versatile out there
If you click on the Resources tab on the website, you’ll find most of our foundational lesson plan. This gives you an idea of what we’re all about on the water.
Bow River Boot Camp Returns
Last season, our Bow River Boot Camp was very popular. So, we’re offering the two-day program again. There was discussion about teaching the course for the morning and then heading out in the afternoon, but I decided it was just too much information.
We’ll feed you full of useful information on day one. Then we’ll apply your new skills on day two with a float on the Bow River. You’ll get the lesson book and a dozen flies to get you going. This is a great option if you’ve decided you’re going to get into this but just need a foundation beyond YouTube and social media advice.
Introducing the New Intermediate Course for 2025
We’ve added a new “Level Up” Intermediate Course to the mix for 2025 that I’m excited to offer.
This one is a little different. We’re teaching concepts that hopefully get anglers to think about how they’re fishing in relation to what the bugs, water, and weather are dictating for fish behavior. I’ve really enjoyed putting this one together and I’m looking forward to its evolution. This one is great for the average fly caster finding success on the water. We talk a lot about fish behavior and how they react to the environment — both as a concept and in real time.
Planning Your Trip to the Bow River
If you’re planning a multi-day trip to the area, hit us up for some information. We’ve helped several folks get on the right track to some walk-and-wade streams. We’re happy to share some access points for the Bow. If you’re looking for the guided experience, we can personalize a package for you that includes the Bow River and a couple of our amazing mountain streams.
The Power of Firsthand Experience
There’s nothing better than firsthand experience in fly fishing. You just can’t feel videos, books, and commentary — so you have to get out there and do it. Our goal is to help you with some first steps, take the next step, or just dip your toe in the water to see what this is all about.
What’s Included in Your Float or Lesson
Our floats and lessons include everything you need, including:
- All the gear
- Flies
- Leaders
- Tippet
- Food
- Waders and boots (as needed)
If you’d like to explore more about fly fishing on the Bow River, check out our updated Resources section.
Of course, most outfits offer the all-in experience. But there is a trend with add-on charges — so make sure you know what you’re responsible for. Once you book with us, your day is covered — other than your fishing license and any guide gratuity as you see fit.
If you see us on the water, say hello! We’ll see you out there!
Ready to Fish the Bow River in 2025?
Whether you’re just getting started or ready to level up your fly fishing game, we’ve got the knowledge, gear, and passion to make it happen. From floats and lessons to our popular Boot Camp and Intermediate Courses, we’re here to help you learn, explore, and have a great time on the water. Book your Bow River fly fishing adventure today!
