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Rather than try to determine the most productive technique (which will undoubtedly put a large number of noses out-out-of-joint regardless of the outcome), would it perhaps be better to consider first a single barbless hook restriction on all fishing on the Bow? That is, no multi-fly rigs, just one at a time, and all flies (or any hardware, etc.) used must have no more than a single barbless hook?

Folks had a good reason to be upset over the river closure. The government had no water temperature data to justify the closure where as the Guides were taking water temps everyday. The Bow is a Tailwater system fed by a cold water source at Bearspaw dam. Hoot Owl fishing restrictions would have been a reasonable measure. This was brought up recently with AEP and they agreed that in the future Hoot Owl restrictions on the Bow will likely be the remedy if the conditions meet the threshold for action. I agree, Brent. One or two fish on the dry is a successful day for me. If I don't find any risers, I don't even make a cast. I spend most of my fishing time observing insects, river conditions, fish movements and lots of endlessly interesting and amazing things the river reveals each outing.

What do you know about it, Brent? You were not involved in these meetings. I think that the experience, knowledge and perspectives of some of the committee members (Jim McLennan), would be highly regarded by most in the angling and scientific community, for good reason. The role of the committee was to question the AEP's data collection methodology, assumptions, conclusions and to raise concerns, give insight, perspective etc. The general consensus was that they were not interested in listening.

Sorry Monger, I see what you want to achieve in your question. Probably not rocket science to say that multi-fly nymph fishing accounts for most hook-ups on most days. I have subsequently talked with a fellow who is part of the team looking at the Bow and he indicated studies from other major rivers in Montana show that getting the catch rate down to 2x would be the goal. Also, it appears that our rainbows in the Bow are most affected, not the Browns. There will be more to come to help us all get 'up to speed' on the science behind the findings. After talking to this fellow, I feel more confident with what will end up being proposed. And yes, I believe 'fishing methods' during certain times of the year will be changing.