The saying goes that a day fishing is a day well spent. Around these parts, with our mountain views, bluffs and meandering rivers and creeks – that saying holds even more true. David Thompson Country offers some of the best fly fishing spots in all of Alberta. Here are 3 of our favourites in west Central Alberta:
Ram River
About Ram River
This river has a breathtaking scenery, with a variety of beautiful waterfalls and deep canyons throughout its entirety. This river was the first Catch and Release river in Alberta, in an attempt to protect the cutthroat trout in the area. Access to this area is considered to be difficult. We recommend this area for intermediate to experienced levels.
How to get there
South Ram River – The Trunk Road crosses Ram River about 60 km south of Nordegg.
North Ram River – Crossed by the Trunk Road about 30 km south of Nordegg.
Accommodations
South Ram River- There are camping accommodations available at Ram Falls.
North Ram River- There is a campground located at the bridge.
Shunda Creek
About Shunda Creek
This serene stream has an abundance of smaller trout, with larger fish reported to be as long as 18-20 inches. We recommend this as the perfect spot for beginners, with plentiful fish and a calming atmosphere. Much of the area is slow and flat, with portions of the creek on the rockier side creating riffles and pools.
How to get there
Travel west on Highway 11 from Rocky Mountain House. The highway first crosses Shunda Creek, about 16 km east of Nordegg at the Harlech Campground. It is crossed by five more bridge where there is plenty of access.
Accommodations
Upper Shunda Creek Campground is situated along Shunda Creek. This clean, well-maintained family campground offers three separate camping loops to suit your preference, great for tents, RVs and Big Rigs.
Please note: There are no motors allowed on the pond at Beaver Dam Day Use Site.
Prairie Creek
About Prairie Creek
Fish for trout, northern pike, walleye and mountain whitefish at one of the most iconic brown trout streams in Central Alberta.
How to get there
Take Highway 752, about 22 kms southwest from Rocky Mountain House to Strachan, where the road crosses Prairie Creek. North and centre forks join west of Strachan. The North Fork Prairie Creek Road follows the north fork of the creek; Highway 752 follows the centre fork.
Accommodations
There are campgrounds located 2 km and 13 km west of Strachan. Catch and Release regulations apply from the North Fork Prairie Creek Road downstream to the Clearwater River.
Before you check out any of these pristine fly-fishing destinations please check the Alberta Fishing Guide for regulations, catch limits and restrictions. As always, make sure you have your Alberta Fishing Licence before you go. Hope to see you casting around these parts soon!
Other Blog Articles
Explore David Thompson Country
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May 3, 2017
Siffleur Falls: One of Alberta’s Most Underrated Hikes
Featuring a breathtaking suspension bridge, two river crossings (North Saskatchewan and Siffleur), a boardwalk portion, panoramic canyon and mountain views, lush forested sections, the quietude of the Alberta backcountry and 3 thundering waterfalls – Siffleur Falls Trail is a impressive hike.
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October 6, 2020
Landslide Lake Hiking and Backcountry Camping – by Dustin Cressey
Landslide Lake Hiking and Backcountry Camping – by Dustin Cressey A pinnacle of David Thompson Country, this turquoise blue lake and the surrounding wilderness lie undisturbed, only accessible by air or foot. Thankfully, with a bit of preparation and commitment, you will find yourself watching the sunset from its welcoming shores, awaiting Alberta’s starry skies. […]
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July 20, 2020
Scrambles around Nordegg and Abraham Lake in David Thompson Country
We are very blessed with hikes and trails of varying difficulty and unique beauty. Scrambles have become quite popular over the past several years. Brett Pawlyk has written a book about Scrambles in David Thompson Country and has graciously shared the following excerpt with us. The complete book with descriptions and maps of many scrambles […]