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C&R angling did not cause the decline in fish populations on the Bow. The 2013 Flood had significant impacts on the rivers Benthos, Riparian area's and Hydrology. Recovery of these natural systems has been slow. The Cumulative Effects of miles and miles of Rip Rap (loss of Riparian areas and disturbance), in-stream construction projects (Bow, Elbow, Highwood, Sheep rivers), harmful flow regimes, (Ghost flood mitigation release of water in May and corresponding high sediment flows), poaching and increased avian predation, have caused further stresses and contributed significantly to the delays of the Bow rivers recovery. Slowly, in the past few seasons, we are seeing these vital, natural systems begin to normalize, with a corresponding recovery of all fish populations, (Rainbows, Browns, Whitefish, Suckers, Ling Cod, Pike, Bait fish species). The Bow is an amazing, resilient river.... ps. Pelicans suck more than bobber's....though bobber's suck a little too, but, fish however you want. Enjoy!

Like the song says "You don't know what you've got till it's gone". Certainly there have been a variety of factors for the crash of trout. Back in the early 80's when I settled my family here. The bug life was profuse. Big hatches of a large variety of mayflies would often coat the water. You had to keep your mouth closed or risk ingestion of an unexpected meal. Now large stone-flies like the Skwala's Drakes and Salmon flies are short seldom seen hatches. Not sure if the conditions/water quality have changed so much as to deplete not only these but other bug-life. Lots of studies about trout number but very few on habitat, food sources and minnow populations.