Fly fishing in the Black Hills
The Black Hills offer some of the best small stream fishing in the country. The unique geology of the hills, combined with its striking scenery, and plentiful trout create the perfect atmosphere for the fly fisher. Black Hills trout water ranges from tailwaters, freestones, spring creeks, meandering mountain streams, and includes numerous small reservoirs. Regardless of preference, there are fishing opportunities for everyone.
The Black Hills combine great small stream fishing with unsurpassed scenery. Fishing is solid from mid March to mid November. Options for winter fishing exist during December, January and February. Unique weather patterns routinely deliver warm days throughout the winter. Some of the best fishing of the year can be found on a warm winter day. Midge hatches offer great dry fly fishing in January and February.
Black Hills streams and lakes are home to rainbow, brown, and brook trout. Tiger trout have been introduced to a couple area lakes. Streams in the hills are managed to have naturally reproducing populations. Three sections of stream have been designated catch and release fishing areas. The catch and release stretch of Rapid Creek below Pactola Reservoir offers some of the finest fishing in the area. Other great streams are Spearfish Creek, Castle Creek, Whitewood Creek, Crow Creek, and Sand Creek. With improving moisture Spring Creek, Box Elder Creek, and French Creek will once again offer great fishing.
We have great hatches from April through September. Reliable hatches of Baetis, Caddis, PMD’s, Tricos, and Little Yellow Stone Flies occur during the season. Terrestrial fishing can be fantastic starting in mid-summer with beetle and ant imitations. Hopper fishing in late summer is always something to look forward to. Midges hatch year round with some of the best action happening on warm winter days.
Our lakes are also great places to spend some time chasing big trout. We have three larger lakes in the Hills (Pactola reservoir, Sheridan Lake and Deerfield Lake) as well as many smaller lakes that all hold good populations of trout. You can fish from shore but the best way to fish most lakes would be from a float tube or pontoon boat. Damsel and Dragon fly imitations and streamers are a good bet when fishing the lakes.
Come out and experience the scenic beauty of the Hills. It is easy to be spoiled by the relaxed atmosphere, great country, and awesome fishing.
See you in the Hills!
Send mail to flyfish@rapidnet.com with questions or comments. Dakota Angler & Outfitter 513 7th St. Rapid City, SD 57701 Phone - 605-341-2450 Fax - 605-341-1457