Are you planning a fishing trip in Alberta’s beautiful Rocky Mountain foothills? The Eastern Slopes Zone 1 (ES1) offers amazing angling. However, navigating the specific ES1 fishing regulations is essential before you cast your line.
This zone protects vulnerable wild trout populations. Because of this, the rules often change based on the specific stream or lake.
This expert guide summarizes the general rules, seasons, and strict ES1 bait rules. We ensure you stay compliant and enjoy a successful trip.
Decoding Alberta’s ES1 Fishing Regulations
Defining the ES1 Watershed Unit
The Eastern Slopes Zone 1 (ES1) is a critical watershed unit. It covers the Oldman River system upstream of Secondary Road 509 near Coalhurst. ES1 also includes the Bow River watershed upstream of Highway 24 near Carseland. This area supports diverse trout and mountain whitefish populations.
The Importance of Compliance
The Eastern Slopes run along the Rocky Mountains. The tributary creeks here flow into major rivers. Strict ES1 fishing regulations are necessary to protect these sensitive cold-water ecosystems. Compliance ensures these fisheries remain healthy for years to come.
Key Distinction: Default Rules vs. Site-Specific Rules
To understand the regulations, you must know the difference between default and site-specific rules. Most major ES1 lakes and streams are listed alphabetically in site-specific tables. If a lake, reservoir, river, stream, or species is not specifically listed, you must follow the general ES1 default regulations. If a listed waterbody lacks a season, it is CLOSED to fishing during that period.
Understanding ES1 Default Regulations and General Limits (ES1 default regulations)
If the stream or lake you are visiting is not named in the lengthy site-specific tables, these ES1 default regulations apply.
Default Stream Regulations in ES1
Flowing waters in ES1 have very strict seasons. Angling is strictly CLOSED from November 1 to June 15.
| Season | Open Period | Trout Total Limit | Mountain Whitefish (MNWH) Limit |
|---|---|---|---|
| Summer | June 16 to Aug 31 | Limit 2 | 5 over 30 cm |
| Fall | Sept 1 to Oct 31 | Limit 0 (Catch & Release) | Limit 0 (Catch & Release) |
During the summer season, any Cutthroat Trout (CTTR) or Rainbow Trout (RNTR) kept must be over 35 cm. Importantly, Bull Trout limit 0 and Arctic Grayling limit 0 apply throughout the entire season for streams.
Default Lake Regulations in the ES1 Watershed
Lakes and reservoirs that are not specifically named generally follow year-round rules.
- Lakes are usually OPEN all year.
- The default Trout limit is 5.
- Bull Trout and Arctic Grayling (ARGR) are always Catch and Release (limit 0).
- Other default limits apply, such as Walleye (WALL) limit 3 over 50 cm and Northern Pike (NRPK) limit 3.
ES1 Bait Rules: Where is Bait Allowed in Eastern Slopes Zone 1 Fishing? (ES1 bait rules)
The rules regarding bait are one of the most vital parts of the ES1 fishing regulations.
Stream Bait Bans in ES1
Fishing with bait in ES1 streams is NOT allowed. This means a mandatory Bait Ban is in effect for all ES1 streams and rivers. Anglers must exclusively use lures or flies where a bait ban is specified.
Bait Rules for ES1 Lakes and Reservoirs
Bait is generally allowed at lakes that do not have specific bait bans listed. However, the use of Bait Fish is NOT allowed in most ES1 waters.
Only a few specific waters in ES1 permit fishing with Bait Fish. These three locations are:
- Payne (Mami) Lake
- Lees Lake
- Ghost Reservoir.
Site-Specific ES1 Regulations for Major Rivers and Creeks (ES1 river regulations)
While the default rules are useful, most popular angling locations have specific site-based ES1 fishing regulations.
Bow River (Banff NP downstream to Bassano Dam)
The main channel of the Bow River is open all year. It operates under a strict Bait Ban. For all listed species—including trout, Walleye (WALL), Mountain Whitefish (MNWH), and Burbot (BURB)—the rule is Catch and Release. Read Bow River fishing regulations.
Oldman River (Sections and Limits)
The Oldman River has complex regulations that change depending on the section.
The mainstem downstream from the Oldman Reservoir dam to Secondary Road 509 has a Trout Total limit of 2 from June 16 to October 31. During this season, Rainbow Trout (RNTR) and Cutthroat Trout (CTTR) must be over 35 cm. Brown Trout (BNTR) must be over 40 cm to be kept.
Rivers with Specific Trout Catch Limits
Some creeks have unique limits tailored to specific trout species.
For example:
- Canmore Creek / Policeman Creek: Open April 1 to September 30 with a Bait Ban. The limit for Brook Trout (BKTR) is 2 fish, but Other Trout are Catch and Release (0).
- Castle River (Mainstem from Hwy. 3 to West Castle River): Open June 16 to August 31. The Trout Total limit is 2 fish.
Specific ES1 Regulations for Lakes, Reservoirs, and Ponds (ES1 lake limits)
Reservoirs and lakes often serve as popular year-round destinations. These site-specific rules override the default lake rules.
ES1 High-Profile Lake Regulations
| Waterbody | Season & Bait Rule | Key Limits (Trout Total / Specific Fish) |
|---|---|---|
| Ghost Reservoir | Open All Year, Bait and Bait Fish Allowed | Trout Total 5 (CTTR Catch and Release). |
| Oldman Reservoir | Open All Year, Bait Ban | Trout Total 5. MNWH 5 over 30 cm. |
| Lower/Upper Kananaskis Lake | Open All Year, Bait Ban | Trout Total 1 (RNTR/CTTR over 50 cm). |
| Pine Coulee Reservoir | April 1 to Oct 31, Bait Ban | Trout Total 1 over 50 cm. WALL 3, NRPK 3. |
ES1 Stocked Waterbodies
The Eastern Slopes Zone also includes various stocked lakes. These are managed as “put and take” trout fisheries. They are frequently stocked with catchable-sized trout.
These general regulation stocked lakes typically follow specific limits. These limits include:
- OPEN all year.
- 5 trout of any size.
- Bait is allowed.
- Northern Pike (NRPK) limit 3.
ES1 examples of these stocked waters include Allison Lake, Beaver Mines Lake, and Chain Lakes Reservoir.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about ES1 Fishing Regulations
What species are prohibited or catch-and-release by default in ES1?
By default in all ES1 streams and lakes, the limit for Bull Trout is 0 and the limit for Arctic Grayling (ARGR) is 0. These protected fish must be immediately released unharmed.
What is considered the “Mainstem of a river” under ES1 rules?
The mainstem of a river is defined broadly. It includes the main channel, any side channel, oxbows, and riparian flow channels. It also includes plunge pools found below spillways.
Can I fish through the ice in ES1 flowing waters?
No. Angling is specifically not permitted through the ice into flowing waters within ES1. Ice fishing is also prohibited in beaver ponds.
How can I report a violation of ES1 fishing regulations?
If you suspect a resource violation, you should record specific details. This includes the date, time, location, vehicle description, and details of the violation. You should then contact the nearest Fish and Wildlife office. You can also call the REPORT A POACHER toll-free number at 1-800-642-3800. If your information leads to charges, you may be eligible for a reward.
Final Reminders
Successfully navigating the ES1 fishing regulations depends on knowing your location. ES1 streams enforce a strict bait ban. ES1 lakes allow bait but typically prohibit bait fish.
Always consult the most current official Alberta Guide to Sportfishing Regulations before your trip. Ensure you have a valid Alberta Sportfishing Licence. Respect the resource by practicing careful catch and release where required.
Ready to fish these iconic waters?
Secure your Alberta Sportfishing Licence today and verify the specific regulations for your chosen ES1 river or lake!
