The Elbow River, flowing from the Rocky Mountains through Calgary, is a popular destination for anglers in Alberta's Eastern Slopes Zone 1 (ES1). However, fishing regulations vary significantly along its course to protect fish populations and ensure sustainable angling opportunities. Understanding these rules is crucial before casting a line.
This guide breaks down the specific fishing regulations for different sections of the Elbow River, based on the official Alberta Guide to Sportfishing Regulations. Always consult the latest official guide before your trip, as regulations can change.
Key Things to Note Across Most Sections:
- Zone: The Elbow River falls within Alberta's Eastern Slopes Zone 1 (ES1).
- Bait Ban: A bait ban is in effect for all specified sections of the Elbow River. This generally means only artificial lures or flies are permitted. Bait fish are not allowed.
- "0 Fish" Limit: This means catch-and-release only for that specific species.
- Size Limits: Where size limits are mentioned (e.g., "over 30 cm," "over 35 cm"), fish must meet that minimum size requirement to be kept, up to the species and total possession limit.
- Trout Total: This indicates the maximum aggregate number of trout (of the species specified with limits in that section) you can possess.
Elbow River Sections & Specific Regulations:
Here are the regulations broken down by river section:
1. Headwaters downstream to Elbow Falls (and tributaries, except Quirk Creek)
- Open Season: June 16 to October 31
- Bait: Bait Ban
- Fish Limits:
- Mountain Whitefish: 0 fish (Catch and release only)
- Brook Trout: 2 fish
- Trout Total: 2 (In this section, applies only to Brook Trout as other trout have a 0 limit implicitly or explicitly stated as "Other trout 0")
2. Mainstem: Elbow Falls downstream to Canyon Creek
- Open Season: CLOSED ALL YEAR
- Bait: N/A (Closed to fishing)
- Fish Limits: No fishing is permitted in this section.
3. Mainstem: Canyon Creek downstream to Hwy. 22
- Open Season: June 16 to October 31
- Bait: Bait Ban
- Fish Limits:
- Mountain Whitefish: 0 fish (Catch and release only)
- Trout Total: 0 (Catch and release only for all trout species)
4. Mainstem: Hwy. 22 downstream to Glenmore Reservoir (including tributaries)
- Open Season: June 16 to October 31
- Bait: Bait Ban
- Fish Limits:
- Mountain Whitefish: 5 fish, must be over 30 cm
- Cutthroat Trout: Must be over 35 cm (contributes to Trout Total)
- Rainbow Trout: Must be over 35 cm (contributes to Trout Total)
- Trout Total: 2 (Maximum combined total of Cutthroat and/or Rainbow Trout meeting the size requirements)
5. Mainstem: From Glenmore Reservoir downstream to Bow River
- Open Season: Open All Year
- Bait: Bait Ban
- Fish Limits:
- Walleye: 0 fish (Catch and release only)
- Northern Pike: 0 fish (Catch and release only)
- Burbot: 0 fish (Catch and release only)
- Mountain Whitefish: 0 fish (Catch and release only)
- Trout Total: 0 (Catch and release only for all trout species)
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Summary & Important Reminders
Fishing the Elbow River requires careful attention to the specific section you are in. Key takeaways include:
- No Fishing: The section between Elbow Falls and Canyon Creek is closed year-round.
- Catch and Release: Many sections, especially below Highway 22 and within Calgary city limits (downstream of Glenmore Reservoir), are strictly catch-and-release for trout and other game fish.
- Limited Harvest: Opportunities for harvest are limited and specific (e.g., Brook Trout in the headwaters, specific sized trout/whitefish between Hwy 22 and Glenmore Reservoir).
- Bait Ban: Remember the universal bait ban on these regulated sections.
Always double-check the current Alberta Guide to Sportfishing Regulations before heading out. Following these rules helps conserve the Elbow River's valuable fishery for future generations. Fish responsibly and enjoy your time on the water!
FAQ
1. Can I use bait like worms or minnows when fishing the Elbow River?
No, a bait ban is in effect for all specified sections of the Elbow River covered in these regulations. This generally means only artificial lures or flies are permitted, and bait fish are prohibited.
2. Are the fishing rules the same for the entire Elbow River?
No, the regulations change significantly depending on the section of the river. Rules for open seasons, fish species, size limits, and possession limits vary greatly from the headwaters down to where it meets the Bow River. Always check the rules for the specific section you plan to fish.
3. Is any part of the Elbow River closed to fishing?
Yes, the mainstem of the Elbow River from Elbow Falls downstream to Canyon Creek is CLOSED ALL YEAR to fishing.
4. Where on the Elbow River can I actually keep trout, and what are the limits?
Harvest opportunities are limited. You can keep up to 2 Brook Trout (as the "Trout Total") in the headwaters section (downstream to Elbow Falls). Between Hwy 22 and Glenmore Reservoir, you can keep a total of 2 trout (Cutthroat or Rainbow), but they must be over 35 cm. Most other sections are catch-and-release only for trout.