So, you're dreaming of casting a line in the pristine waters of Calgary and the majestic Rocky Mountains? At River People Guides, we live and breathe fly fishing, and we've crafted a range of guided trips to suit every angler, from the curious beginner to the seasoned veteran. Whether you envision a leisurely float down the iconic Bow River, an adventurous trek into alpine wilderness, or a quick angling fix, we have the perfect package for you.
Let's dive in and compare our offerings to help you find your ideal fly fishing adventure!
Our Premier Fly Fishing Experiences:
1. Gold - Full Day Drift Boat Trip (Bow River)
- The Classic Bow River Immersion: This is our flagship trip and for good reason. Spend a full 6+ hours drifting the legendary Bow River, world-renowned for its thriving populations of wild rainbow and brown trout. From the comfort of our drift boat, you'll access scenic stretches teeming with fish, guided by experts who know every riffle and run.
- Best For: Anglers wanting the complete Bow River experience, those looking to significantly improve their skills, or anyone desiring a full day of dedicated fishing with all the comforts.
- Highlights:
- Full 6+ hour guided float.
- Target: Wild Rainbow and Brown Trout.
- All gear provided (rods, reels, flies, waders if needed).
- Riverside gourmet hot lunch and non-alcoholic beverages included.
- Instruction tailored to your skill level.
- Access to scenic, remote river sections.
- Shuttle service included.
- Experience: From technical dry fly fishing to stripping streamers, this trip covers diverse techniques.
- Cost: $700 per boat (for 2 people)
2. Silver - Half Day Drift Boat Trip (Bow River)
- A Taste of the Bow's Magic: Short on time or new to fly fishing? Our half-day drift boat trip offers a fantastic introduction to the Bow River's world-class fishery. In 3-5 hours, you'll experience the thrill of targeting wild trout from a comfortable drift boat, with expert guidance to get you casting and catching.
- Best For: Beginners, anglers with limited time, or those looking for a focused morning or afternoon session on the water.
- Highlights:
- 3-5 hour guided float.
- Target: Wild Rainbow and Brown Trout.
- Premium fly fishing gear provided.
- Non-alcoholic drinks included.
- Professional local guide.
- Shuttle service included.
- Morning or afternoon departures.
- Experience: A great way to learn the basics or hone existing skills in a shorter timeframe.
- Cost: $600 per boat (for 2 people)
3. Platinum - Alpine River Raft Fishing (Kananaskis Country)
- The Ultimate Wilderness Adventure: For those who crave seclusion and the thrill of truly wild, untouched waters, our Alpine River Raft Fishing trip is unparalleled. Float through the breathtaking alpine wilderness of Kananaskis Country, targeting native Cutthroat, Bull Trout, and other species in glacier-fed freestone rivers. This is an adventure-style experience for the angler seeking solitude and rugged beauty.
- Best For: Adventurous anglers, those seeking remote and less-trafficked waters, and anyone wanting to target native alpine species.
- Highlights:
- Full-day scenic drift through alpine valleys and canyons.
- Target: Native Cutthroat, Brook Trout, Bull Trout, Brown Trout, and Rainbows.
- Customized instruction for all skill levels.
- Gourmet shore lunch and riverside breaks.
- Quiet stretches with no cell service – just wild water.
- Note: May not be suitable for individuals with limited mobility.
- Cost: $800 per boat (for 2 people)
4. Walk & Wade Full Day Trip (Rocky Mountain Streams)
- Immersive Foothills & Mountain Fishing: Step directly into the crystal-clear streams of the Canadian Rockies. Our Walk & Wade trips offer an intimate, hands-on experience, hiking along scenic foothill creeks and freestone rivers. This is about connecting with nature, far from the crowds, and enjoying technical yet rewarding fishing.
- Best For: Anglers who enjoy the physical aspect of hiking and wading, those seeking an intimate connection with smaller waters, and anglers of all skill levels looking for a personalized experience.
- Highlights:
- Full-day guided fishing in stunning front range locations.
- Target: Wild trout species in remote settings.
- Hands-on, immersive experience.
- Instruction tailored to your ability.
- Abundant wildlife viewing opportunities.
- Experience: Authentic Canadian Rockies fishing rooted in skill, stewardship, and adventure.
- Cost: $800 per boat (for 2 people)
5. Bronze - 2hr Jet Boat Fishing
- The Quick Fishing Fix: Need a fast and fun fishing escape? Our 2-hour Jet Boat Fishing adventure is perfect! Zip along the water and get straight to the action. It's an exciting way to experience the river and get a few casts in when time is of the essence.
- Best For: Those extremely short on time, looking for a quick taste of fishing, or wanting the thrill of a jet boat ride combined with angling.
- Highlights:
- Exciting 2-hour jet boat fishing.
- Fly fishing gear included.
- Non-alcoholic drinks provided.
- Knowledgeable guide.
- Shuttle service.
- Cost: $300 per boat (for 2 people)
6. Pike On The Fly (Remote Lakes & Backwaters)
- Adrenaline-Pumping Predator Action: Looking for a different kind of thrill? Target Northern Pike on the fly! These aggressive predators offer explosive takes and heart-pounding fights. We'll hunt them in the shallows of remote lakes and slow-moving backwaters near the Alberta foothills, using big flies and stout rods.
- Best For: Adventurous anglers seeking a change from trout, those who love visual and aggressive strikes, and anyone ready for a raw, powerful fishing experience.
- Highlights:
- Full-day targeting Northern Pike.
- Focus on visual, shallow-water fishing.
- Big flies, stout rods, and expert tactics.
- Experience wild northern landscapes.
- Experience: Fast-paced, visceral, and utterly unforgettable.
- Cost: $800 per boat (for 2 people)
Quick Comparison Chart:
| Package Name | Duration | Primary Water | Target Species | Boat Type | Key Feature | Price (per boat/2 ppl) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Gold - Full Day Drift | 6+ Hours | Bow River | Rainbow & Brown Trout | Drift Boat | All-inclusive, gourmet lunch | $700 |
| Silver - Half Day Drift | 3-5 Hours | Bow River | Rainbow & Brown Trout | Drift Boat | Great for beginners/short time | $600 |
| Platinum - Alpine Raft | Full Day | Kananaskis Alpine Rivers | Cutthroat, Bull, Brook, Brown, Rainbow Trout | Raft | Remote wilderness adventure | $800 |
| Walk & Wade Full Day | Full Day | Rocky Mountain Streams | Wild Trout (various) | N/A (Wade) | Immersive, hiking | $800 |
| Bronze - 2hr Jet Boat | 2 Hours | River (varies) | Varies (often Trout) | Jet Boat | Quick, exciting | $300 |
| Pike On The Fly | Full Day | Lakes/Backwaters | Northern Pike | Varies | Aggressive, unique predator | $800 |
How to Choose Your Adventure:
Consider these factors when selecting your River People Guides package:
- Time Commitment: Do you have a full day, half a day, or just a couple of hours?
- Your Experience Level: Are you new to fly fishing (Silver, Bronze might be great starts) or a seasoned pro looking for a challenge (Platinum, Pike on the Fly, Gold)? All our trips are tailored, but some naturally suit different levels.
- Desired Scenery & Environment: Do you prefer the broad, famous Bow River, intimate mountain streams, remote alpine wilderness, or still waters?
- Target Species: Are you set on classic Bow River Rainbows and Browns, eager for native alpine species, or ready to battle toothy Pike?
- Physicality: Our Walk & Wade and Alpine Raft trips involve more physical activity than our drift boat options.
- Budget: We offer a range of price points to match your adventure investment.
Ready to Cast Your Line?
No matter which adventure you choose, River People Guides is committed to providing an unforgettable fly fishing experience. Our passionate, knowledgeable guides, top-quality gear, and access to incredible waters ensure you're in the best hands.
Still unsure? We're here to help! Contact us today, and we'll gladly discuss your preferences and help you select the perfect guided fly fishing trips in Calgary or the stunning Rocky Mountains.
Book your adventure with River People Guides and discover the magic of Alberta's fisheries!