Fly Fishing
Come discover
Oldman River
- Highlights: Stunning mountain scenery and diverse fishing opportunities in clear waters.
- Features: Famous for Cutthroat Trout and Bull Trout, with numerous access points for fly wading
Oldman River:
A Fly-Fishing Paradise
Overview
Nestled within the Rocky Mountains Forest Reserve, the upper Oldman River is a crystal-clear, intimate stream offering exceptional fly-fishing opportunities. Native Cutthroat Trout dart gracefully over polished gravel, ever-watchful for the Bull Trout that linger below. With public access, camping opportunities, and stunning mountain views, this river provides an unforgettable fishing experience.
Accessibility
The upper river is paralleled by an all-weather gravel road along Highway 40 (Forestry Trunk Road), making access straightforward.
Fishing Season
The season officially opens on June 16, but the best fishing begins in late June or early July once the spring runoff subsides. The fishing window extends through October, offering months of prime angling conditions.
Exploring the River
As the river flows southward, it merges with the Livingstone River and Racehorse Creek, creating even more opportunities for exploration. The Gap, a narrow opening in the mountain, marks the transition between the upper and middle Oldman, providing a natural boundary for anglers.
Plan Your Trip
Whether you're a seasoned angler or a novice, the upper Oldman River promises an exceptional wilderness fishing experience. With breathtaking scenery and abundant fish, it's a must-visit destination for fly-fishing enthusiasts.
Country
Alberta, Canada
Type of fishing
ON FOOT FISH WITH WADERS
Type of fish
Mostly cutties. Bull trouts and rainbows.
Fishing license needed
You will need your Alberta fishing licence plus your Alberta WIN card.
Width
It averages 15 to 40 feet wide, making it ideal for walk-and-wade fishing.
Hatches and Flies
While not a technical hatch-matching river, the upper Oldman boasts a variety of insect activity. Western Green Drakes, Golden Stones, Pale Morning Duns, and other mayflies and caddis dominate the summer months, with terrestrial activity peaking in late summer.
Effective fly patterns include:
Yellow Stimulators (Size 10-12)
Parachute Adams (Size 14)
Beadhead Pheasant Tail Nymphs (Size 14-16)
Fishing Tips
Most of the action involves prospecting for trout with attractor dry flies, often paired with small beadhead nymphs below. The river is home to predominantly 8- to 15-inch Cutthroat Trout, with occasional surprises lurking in deeper pools.
