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!