Elk River

Species Trout Coordinates 49° 10€² 0€³ N, 115° 13€² 0€³ W Location: British Columbia Length: 220 km

Why we chose it

In 2010, Westslope cutthroat trout; Spectacular dry fly and nymphing opportunities When to fish: August through September is prime. Where to fish: There are miles of easily accessible water between Fernie and Sparwood. Tip: Dries, nymphs and large streamers are all very effective on the Elk.

—Todd Oishi, national competition and sponsorship chairman of Fly Fishing Canada

In 2008, Cutthroat trout; Large numbers of 16-inch-plus cutties and incredible scenery When to fish: All season. Where to fish: Breaks and seams, or about 12 to 18 inches out from the bank to raise the big ones. Tip: Dry flies are best, but we’ve also had great success with small, size 16 to 18 nymphs.

—Connor & Michael Gelinas, host of Fishing with the Dodger Bull trout; Large, aggressive feeding fish When to fish: August and September. Where to fish: Deeper pools and runs. Tip: Use baitfish imitations such as Clouser Minnows.

—Colin McKeown, host of The New Fly Fisher Cutthroat trout; Beautiful fish that readily eat big dry flies When to fish: August through October. Where to fish: Anywhere with slower water near current seams, and along cut banks. Tip: Cast Chernobyl foam patterns on 5-weight fly gear from a drift boat.

—Mark Pendlington, host of Sportfishing BC