General Information
Silvertip Outfitters specializes in fishing “The Bow Nobody Knows” – a section of the Bow River unknown to most anglers, with almost negligible fishing pressure. The 35-mile stretch of the Bow from Calgary downstream to the weir at Carseland is well-known and heavily used by guides and local anglers. Downstream of the weir, however, the Bow flows through private property for about five miles then enters the Blackfoot-Siksika Indian Reserve, remaining within the Reserve boundaries for nearly 100 river miles. There is one public boat access just below the weir, and no additional public access downstream of that. Silvertip Outfitters uses jet drive-equipped boats to access this area of the Bow, returning each evening to the lodge. Using the jet boats allows for a great deal of flexibility and fishing diversity, and typically anglers are fishing different water each day of their trip. The key to success is always a great guide, and Silvertip has some of the most experienced guides on the river.

Many experienced anglers will argue that the Bow River’s rainbow trout are the hardest fighting strain in all of North America. Fish average 15 to 17 inches and have been caught to up to 28 inches. Brown trout make up only about ten percent of the catch, but they too can reach lengths approaching 30 inches. Silvertip Outfitters offers a unique opportunity to fish for these trout on a piece of river that receives very little pressure. The river also has a population of pike, and fishing for them can be very good depending on conditions. The season usually starts in early July after runoff and continues through September. July offers great fishing on streamers and stoneflies, with evening caddis hatches. Hopper patterns and hoppers with nymph droppers work well August through September. The fall months bring very good hatches of Blue Winged Olives and tricos, bringing up some very nice fish. The river offers good consistent dry fly fishing throughout the summer, with the potential to take a 20-inch fish on a dry most days. Nymphing and streamer fishing is productive at any time. You can expect a mix of fishing from the boat and wading.

When conditions dictate it may be preferable to fish the Bow upstream of the Carseland weir. Silvertip guides are equipped with drift boats and the experience to fish this stretch of river. As well, Silvertip Outfitters guides other southern Alberta waters including the Waterton and Oldman Rivers. The Oldman River below the Oldman dam is a floatable tailwater with large feisty rainbows. Silvertip can create a custom package that might include the Oldman, Waterton, and Crowsnest rivers, all close together and about two and one-half hours south of Calgary.

Boats and Equipment 
Silvertip Outfitters utilizes 16-foot drift or jon boats equipped with jet drive engines. These boats are roomy and comfortable and fully set up for drift fishing. The use of powerboats allows anglers to drift as little or as much as they wish during the day. Guides will also provide high-quality rods and reels if needed at no charge. Although guides are happy to share their favorite flies, Silvertip Outfitters encourages a visit to one of the fly shops in Calgary to ensure that anglers have their own supply of the right flies. They also recommend that anglers bring several rods of their own as they wish for use throughout the day. Loaner rods and reels are available at the lodge at no charge, and flies are available for sale.