Blue Stream Fly Fishing
Fly Fishing Report for:

Catabwa River - Rock Hill - South Carolina

Hatch Chart - Best Access/Spots - Local Fish - About

Water Flow Chart

Using Water Flow Charts & Weather Reports: Begin with our water flow charts to grasp stream velocity and volume – look for stable or rising trends to pinpoint ideal fishing times. Learn to interpret sudden spikes or drops, which can indicate potential challenges. Next, consult our weather reports to understand ambient conditions. Pairing the two, you can anticipate fish behavior, choose the right gear, and select the best fishing spots. Use these tools together for a holistic approach to your next fishing adventure.

In-Depth Weather

Directions To Location

Hatch Chart

Month Hatch Time of Day Recommended Fly Sizes Popular Fly Patterns
January Midges Morning and Late Afternoon 18-22 Zebra Midge, Mercury Midge
Winter Stoneflies Noon to 2pm 16-20 Grey Bunny, Black CDC
February Midges Morning and Evening 18-22 Griffith's Gnat, Black Beauty
Blue Wing Olives Morning and Afternoon 18-20 Pheasant Tail Nymph, BWO Dun
March Blue Wing Olives Afternoon 16-18 Sparkle Dun, RS2
Caddis Morning and Evening 12-16 Black Elk Hair Caddis, X-Caddis
April Caddis All Day 12-16 Tan Elk Hair Caddis, Henryville Special
March Browns Afternoon and Evening 12-14 Adams, Hare's Ear Nymph
May Light Cahills Afternoon and Early Evening 12-14 Light Cahill, Spinner Fall
Sulphurs Late Afternoon and Evening 14-18 Sulphur Dun, Sulphur Nymph
June Sulphurs Evening 14-18 Sulphur Parachute, Sulphur Emerger
Terrestrials All Day 10-14 Beetle, Ant and Hopper patterns
July Terrestrials All Day 8-16 Chernobyl Ant, Dave's Hopper
Tricos Morning 20-24 Rusty Spinner, RS2
August Tricos Morning 20-24 Trico Spinner, Trico Dun
Terrestrials All Day 8-16 Cricket, Beetle and Hopper patterns
September Terrestrials All Day 8-12 Morrish Hopper, Black Ant
Blue Wing Olives Late Afternoon and Evening 16-22 Blue Wing Olive, Pheasant Tail Nymph
October Blue Wing Olives Afternoon 16-22 Rusty Spinner, Hare's Ear Nymph
October Caddis Evening 8-10 October Caddis Pupa, Stimulator
November Blue Wing Olives Afternoon 18-22 BWO Dun, Sparkle Dun
Midges Morning and Late Afternoon 20-24 Red Zebra Midge, Foam Emerger Midge
December Midges Morning and Late Afternoon 20-24 Tungsten Zebra Midge, Mercury Midge
Winter Stoneflies Noon to 2pm 16-20 Lil' Black Stone, Black Soft Hackle

While we strive to ensure the precision of our hatch charts, some reflect broader river region insights. Through ongoing partnerships with local guides and fly shops, we’re committed to refining our data. Should you notice any inconsistencies or have feedback, we welcome you to reach out. 

Best Fishing Spots

The Catabwa River in Rock Hill offers a variety of spots ideal for fly fishing, each presenting a unique combination of natural beauty and fishing opportunities.

Here are the best spots:
  • Mountain Island Lake: This lake, formed by the Catabwa River, is rich in fishes such as bass and catfish. Shore fishing spots around the lake are easy to access.
  • Landsford Canal State Park: The tailwaters of the Rock Hill dam are an excellent spot for trout fishing.
  • Great Falls: This area is known for its excellent bass fishing, particularly in the pocket water directly below earthen dams.
  • Lake Wylie: This large impoundment of the Catawba River is popular for crappie fishing, especially in the cooler months.

Each of these locations provides their own unique take on fly fishing, so be sure to give each one a try!

Best Access Points

The Catawba River in Rock Hill is renowned for its prime fly fishing spots. The notable points to access the river are:
  • Lansford Canal State Park: With serene landscapes and ample fly fishing opportunities, this park offers easy river access.
  • Rock Hill Outdoor Center: This center offers boat rentals for easy access to the river’s mid-stream where anglers can fish for a variety of species.
  • Catawba Indian Nation Reservation: Located at the southern end of the river, it offers a quiet but fruitful fishing experience.
  • Riverwalk Community: Situated nearby, it’s an easily-accessible location with numerous fishing spots.
Make sure to check local regulations for licensing requirements and fishing seasons. Always respect private property rights and practice ‘catch and release’ for sustainability of the fish population.

Local Fish

  • Smallmouth Bass: These species are a prime target for fly fishing in the Catawba River. They are known for their aggressive strikes and acrobatic fights.
  • Striped Bass: The Catawba River provides excellent fishing for Striped Bass. Anglers typically use flies that imitate shad or herring, the stripers’ favorite food.
  • White Bass: Popular among fly fishermen, these fish are known for their sporting qualities and are often found in pools and riffles.
  • Channel Catfish: These bottom feeders can be caught using flies that mimic crayfish or other bottom dwelling organisms.
  • Carp: Many fly fishers target carp for the challenge—they can be difficult to catch, but are well worth the effort for their size and fight.
  • Flathead Catfish: Flatheads are not traditionally targeted with flies, but the Catawba River has a healthy population that can be tempting for adventurous anglers.
  • Walleye: Although less common than bass or catfish, the river’s walleye fish offer an exciting catch for fly fishers.
  • Longnose Gar: Longnose Gars represent a non-traditional fly fishing target, but they can offer up plenty of sporting action.

About The River

The Catawba River – Rock Hill is a timeless piece of South Carolina’s natural beauty. This majestic river boasts a rich history dating back to the Native American Catawba tribe, for whom the river was named. The Catawba tribe used the river as their primary water and food source, and as a transport route.

Fast forward to the 19th century, the river’s water was put to new use powering cotton mills, fuelling the local economy and populace growth, transforming Rock Hill into a significant textile manufacturing center.

  • The river spans 220 miles and it’s a primary water source for around 2 million people today.
  • It is a popular hotspot for outdoor activities like fishing, kayaking, and bird watching.
  • Its ecosystem is home to a myriad of fish species and numerous wildlife.

While progress has changed the river’s uses over time, its importance to South Carolinian’s way of life, and to the biodiversity of the region, remains ever significant.

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