Other Waters

The Best of Alberta in Striking Range

From a flyfisher’s perspective, the Palmer Ranch is strategically located to sample perhaps the greatest diversity of quality rivers, and species of trout worldwide. The numbers and size of trout are recognized as special to the area, and historically attract only the most savvy and knowledgeable fly fishermen. Many days you will find yourself alone on a stretch of moving water without seeing another fisherman. Because much of the access is on private land, mid-week pressure on water bodies is remarkably low.

From native westslope cutthroats, to trophy rainbow, brown, and bull trout fished for on the Blue Ribbon Elk and Bow Rivers, we are never more than a two-hour excursion from the ranch. Most of the destination waters – including the Crowsnest, Oldman, foothills tributaries, and the Waterton River adjacent to the ranch property – can return us to the ranch each day to fish the evening rise on the spring fed ponds. The unique proximity of the environments we fish allow us the flexibility to react daily to changing water and weather conditions.

A selection from the streams within easy reach.

The Elk River

The Elk is a world-famous dry fly fishery within easy reach of the Palmer Ranch. Spend the day fishing for native Westslope Cutthroat from our deluxe driftboats. The big valley scenery just might distract you from the task at hand.

The Crowsnest River

The Crowsnest River is a classic freestone walk and wade stream. Feisty rainbows and small water make this an enjoyable day for the intermediate and advanced anglers.

The Waterton River

The Waterton River is a guide’s favorite. Every year trophy brown trout are taken. And while you won’t experience huge numbers of fish, the opportunity to take a five pound brown on a dry fly is very real. The average size of trout is what makes this river so special. Twenty-inch browns are common. Due to much of the river being in private property the pressure on this stream is very low.

Make it personal: Custom Fishing Trips

All of these options contribute to a superb flyfishing experience, characterized by a combination of walk and wade, and drift boat fishing through stunning rivervalleys. A diversity of ecosystems may be explored from the Palmer ranch: fresh mountain creeks, clear-running foothills streams, and meandering prairie rivers are all within your range.

We are pleased to design a personal and customized fly fishing package that offers you an opportunity to select from a variety of alternatives depending on seasonal conditions. We can put you on some of the most productive trout streams in North America.
Contact us for more information.