One of the best parts of a visit to Calgary, Alberta? No issues when picking between a destination that offers a vibrant, urban energy or scenic, outdoor adventure since Canada's fourth largest destination has both in spades!

When travelers are ready to swap sidewalks and skyscrapers for jaw-dropping landscape views, they'll be met with the majestic Rocky Mountains, big, blue prairie skies, rolling foothills and the beautiful Bow River.

There are countless ways for visitors to enjoy 'the Bow', but the most unique experience is undoubtedly fly fishing. How many people can say that they've fly fished at the world's largest fishing lodge, named so since you can fish right in the center of the city with the downtown skyline as your backdrop.

The glacier-fed Bow River runs from the Rocky Mountains down through the heart of Calgary's city center, bringing with it an abundance of brown trout. In fact, Calgary is the third-best place to fish for brown trout in the world and fly fishermen from across the globe seek out the Bow River's current to cast their line and make a catch.

Whether new to the sport or a seasoned pro, the Bow River welcomes all to test its wealthy waters. Quinn Soonias, Owner of Drift Out West Fly Fishing loves nothing more than sharing his favorite runs, riffles and grassy banks with guests as he guides them on full or half day floats down the Bow. A Plains Cree Native, Quinn finds the experience of fishing on the Bow restorative, and hopes that his guests experience wellness benefits from connecting to nature through fly fishing – benefits that are described in Indigenous sacred medicine circle teachings.

One particular section of the Bow River, called the Blue Ribbon, is where Out Fly Fishing Outfitters focuses their guided raft trips. This stretch of the Bow is famous for being rife with strong, acrobatic rainbow trout and has between 2,000 and 2,500 fish per mile. Guests can borrow their get-up and gear from Out Fly, including waders, boots, rods, reels and line, tippet and flies. With plenty of tips on technique, an experienced guide ensures that each guest is set up with the best chance to hook that fish of a lifetime.

 For earned media story opportunities or to try fly fishing in Calgary Alberta Canada, please contact Aviva Kohen akohen@tourismcalgary.com