Town of Banff

Fishing

We welcome anglers

Although the best fishing actually lies outside the National Park, the upper Bow River, running directly through Banff National Park, is known worldwide among anglers for opportunities to catch brown trout (up to 10 lbs/4 kg), Rocky Mountain whitefish (to 5 lbs/2.2 kg), and the occasional cutthroat, brook, and bull trout.

Lake Minnewanka, the largest lake in Banff National Park, located just minutes from the Banff townsite, is another well-known destination among lake trout anglers.

Several local guides and outfitters are available to lead angling trips, including Banff Fishing Unlimited, Alpine Anglers and Lake Minnewanka Boat Tours.

A National Park Fishing Permit is required. Angling season runs April through October. Further information about angling in Banff National Park is available at the Parks Canada Web site.

Fly Fishing

The fly fishing season begins in May and runs through to October. Dry fly fishing peaks in July, August, and September. Fly fishing guides include Tightline Adventures, Hawgwild Flyfishing Guides, Banff Adventures Unlimited, Alpine Anglers, Upper Bow Fly Fishing Company, and Banff Flyfishing.