Gear Suggestions

Recommended Fishing Gear

Fly Fishing

If you are going to be fly fishing, my recommendation is an 8’6” – 9’ 4 wt or 5 wt, 4 piece fly rod with floating line and a 4x 9’ (monofilament) leader and 4x AND 5x (monofilament) tippet.

For flies I recommend a variety of trout dry flies, nymphs and micro leeches. Here are some examples: sz14 & 16 – Caddis imitations (Elk Hair Caddis various colours), Mayfly patterns (Adams, Adams Irresistible), and small (sz 12 or smaller) “Stonefly” imitations (e.g. Stimulators) , Humpies (variety of colours), Royal Wulff patterns have worked best for me in the past (for dry fly – bring dry fly floatant and a desiccant). For streamers, I recommend, sz 8 or 10 olive, black or brown bead head buggers, and olive, black, brown micro leeches (make sure you have a variety of split shot - please note that lead is prohibited within the National Parks, and if possible a “sink tip” for the specific line you are using (recommended but not required).

Spin Casting

If you will be spin casting, I would recommend a light or ultra light spinning rod and reel with 2–4 lb test. A telescopic or pack rod (or a 2 piece at the very least), with variety #0 or #1 Panther Martin or Mepps spinners, or similar (make sure to purchase small barrel swivels and split shot weights – please note that lead is prohibited within the National Parks), as well as small spoons in silver and gold, “Five of Diamonds”, etc. You can also use various techniques to fish with dry files, wet flies (leeches) and nymphs by using a small “slip bobber” (you will small need barrel swivels for this technique, as well). I can provide more information if you want to try this technique, but it is better to discuss in person or over the phone if you are not familiar with this technique. I would suggest that you switch all your treble hooks to single barbless (or you can just clip off 2 of the 3 hooks), this helps lessen “hook mortality”.

Recommended Hiking Gear

  • 30 to 35 liter well-fitting backpack (waterproofed with a pack cover).
  • Lunches and snacks
  • 1 to 2 litres of water (in water bottle or bladder)
  • Hooded rain jacket and rain pants (Waterproof/Breathable material)
  • Down Jacket/Vest or Fleece warm layer
  • Warm hat and mitts or gloves
  • Personal first aid supplies, medications, and blister kit
  • Sunscreen, sunglasses, lip balm with SPF
  • Hiking boots with good tread (waterproof and above the ankle recommended)
  • 1 or 2 hiking poles
  • Sun hat with brim
  • Small closed-cell foam pad (to sit on)
  • Bug repellent
  • Camera

**You can rent hiking boots, rain gear, hiking poles and backpacks from the University of Calgary Outdoor Centre. **

Recommended Backpacking Gear

  • 60 to 80 litre well-fitting internal-frame backpack (waterproofed with a pack cover or garbage bag liner).
  • 1 or 2 person tent (Of good quality with full coverage rain fly).
  • Sleeping pad (lightweight self-inflating or air pad)
  • Sleeping bag (Recommend a 3 season -9 C/15 F, Down filled or Synthetic filled mummy bag)
  • Personal Clothes (to be discussed prior to trip)
  • Lightweight backpacking stove
  • Lightweight backpacking pot set
  • Eating utensils and dishes (insulated mug/bowl/plate)
  • Lunches and snacks (breakfast and dinner sharing will be discussed prior to trip)
  • 1 to 2 litres of water (in water bottle or bladder)
  • Hooded rain jacket and rain pants (Waterproof/Breathable material)
  • Down Jacket/Vest or Fleece warm layer
  • Warm hat and mitts or gloves
  • Waterproof gaiters
  • Personal first aid supplies, medications, and blister kit
  • Personal toiletries (to be discussed prior to trip)
  • Sunscreen, sunglasses, lip balm with SPF
  • Headlamp or small flashlight
  • Hiking boots with good tread (waterproof and above the ankle recommended)
  • 1 or 2 hiking poles
  • Sun hat with brim
  • Small closed-cell foam pad (to sit on)
  • Bug repellent
  • Camera

**You can rent hiking boots, rain gear, hiking poles, gaiters, sleeping bags and pads, tents and backpacks from the University of Calgary Outdoor Centre**

As always, don’t forget I’m always here to discuss any questions you have in more detail. Don’t hesitate to email or contact me for more information.