The world-renowned Elk River and its tributaries are classic freestone waters, home to native Westslope cutthroat trout as well as notably large resident bull trout. This exceptional dry fly fishery is celebrated for its abundant fish-holding structure and crystal-clear flows. Whether drifting or walk-and-wading, anglers are treated to stunning views of the Canadian Rockies at every turn.
“We have fished the Elk for the last 40 years. Andres is easily the best guide out there. He is very knowledgeable, knows all sections of the river very well and is a great coach on the water. His gear is spotless and top tier. Meal was terrific. Very flexible on the water to do what we wanted. Just the best!!! He should be your first call if you are looking for a great trip.”
Backed by decades of guiding experience, the team brings deep local knowledge and a passion for the water—ensuring every trip is both productive and memorable.
In addition to well-known and famous Elk River, the region is home to many other great waters.
St. Mary River, BC
This river is one of the most scenic float trips in the area and can opportunities at West Slope Cutthroat, Rainbow, cut bow bull trout and even the occasional Eastern Brook trout.
Kootenay River, BC
Some people have heard about and may have fished the Kootenai River in Montana, that comes out from below Libby Dam. But this section of the Kootenai is above the dam across the Canadian border and receives very little attention or pressure from anglers. Late summer and fall in this area can be pretty special on this river if you’re searching for large bull trout.
Oldman River, Alberta
Another great benefit about calling Fernie their homebase on a summertime fishing trip is the water around Alberta. A short 45 minute to one hour drives we’ll put you on the scenic Old Man River that provides consistent tailwater fishing for brown, rainbow cutthroat and bull trout and has some of the best consistent insect hatches of the whole region.
Crowsnest River, Alberta
This is another great opportunity to fish a different stretch of river also within one hour of Fernie. Crowsnest is best known as a rainbow trout fishery and is best focused on in your summertime months.
Lodging
This outfitter has relationships with a variety of different lodging opportunities. Once we the dates, length of stay size of your group then we will work to put together the best package of lodging and fishing to suit your groups needs and desires. Don’t be concerned if someone in your group doesn’t want to fish every day, because Fernie a great small Canadian ski town that offers all the amenities that you would expect for a non-angler.
Travel
We suggest flying into Glacier International (FCA) in Kalispell, Montana and renting a car for the drive to Fernie. Fernie is approximately 118 miles from Kalispell and the drive typically takes about two hours. There is a small airport in Cranbrook, BC (YXC) that has customs and accepts small private planes. You can fly into Calgary as well, renting a car for a beautiful 3-hour drive through the Canadian rockies into Fernie.
FCA-Glacier International airport 2 hours
YCC- Calgary airport 3 hours
YXC-Cranbrook airport 1 Hour
Package Rates
We can arrange Bow River packages as well in conjunction with the Glenmore Inn in Calgary, Alberta and CAN set up Bow River, Elk River combo trips! Please call Fish Nation for details and custom package pricing.
All prices are quoted in US Dollars (USD). The following rates are based on double occupancy in the room and with the guide.
Standard – Fernie Best Western Package – Double Queen Beds
5 Nights / 4 Days of Fishing = $5.390 USD / 2 Anglers. (tax not included)
4 Nights / 3 Days of Fishing = $4.100 USD / 2 Anglers. (tax not included)
Premium – The Historic 901 – 2 Single Bedrooms (Breakfast or Dinner not included, but walking distance for good options)
5 Nights / 4 Days of Fishing = $6.425 USD / 2 Anglers. (tax not included)
4 Nights / 3 Days of Fishing = $5.050 USD / 2 Anglers. (tax not included)
What’s Included
• Lodging in your choice of accommodation
• Choice of any river we offer (except Wigwam and Kootenay River); determined upon arrival based on what is fishing best
• Guided services for 2 anglers.
• Gourmet lunch on the water each day.
• Spare rods, reels, tippets and flies. (Leaders not included)
• Transportation from the fly shop to the fishing
• Breakfast is only included at Best Western Plus
What’s Not Included
• Transportation to Calgary, AB or Fernie, BC
• Fishing licenses + Leaders
• Alcoholic beverages
• Gratuities for the lodge staff and your guide
• Breakfast at Historic 901 (Within walking distance for good options)
• Dinner each evening (Within walking distance)
• Package Sales taxes added to final invoice (GST-PST-MRDT)
• Wigwam and Kootenay river not included on the program.
Daily Rates
Elk River Day Trip = $825.00 USD
Michel Creek. Day Trip = $900.00 USD
St. Mary’s Day Trip = $935.00 USD
Bull River Day Trip = $935.00 USD
WigWam Day Trip = $1025.00 USD
Old Man Tale Water Day Trip = $935.00 USD
Kootenay River Day Trip = $ 1025.00 USD
Travel Insurance Hunt Nation strongly recommends that you protect yourself and the cost of your next adventure by learning more about Redpoint Travel Insurance.
Please visit: https://redpointtravelprotection.com/partner/huntnation/