Blue Stream Fly Fishing
Fly Fishing Report for:

Rocky River - Berea - Ohio

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 Afternoon #18-22 Zebra Midges
February Midges, Stoneflies Afternoon #18-22, #14-16 Zebra Midges, Black Stonefly Nymph
March Stoneflies, Midges, Blue wing olives Afternoon #14-16, #18-22, #16-20 Nymphs, Zebra Midges, BWO Nymphs
April Caddis, Blue wing olives Afternoon-Evening #14-18, #16-20 Elk Hair Caddis, BWO Dries
May Green Drakes, Sulphurs, Caddis Evening #8-10, #14-16, #14-18 Green Drake Dries, Sulphur Dries, Elk Hair Caddis
June Sulphurs, Light Cahills, Caddis Evening #14-16, #12-14, #14-18 Sulphur Dries, Light Cahill Dries, Elk Hair Caddis
July Caddis, Tricos, Terrestrials Morning-Evening #14-18, #20-24, #12-16 Elk Hair Caddis, Trico Spinners, Ants/Beetles
August Tricos, Terrestrials Morning-Noon #20-24, #12-16 Trico Spinners, Ants/Beetles
September Terrestrials, Blue Winged Olives Afternoon-Evening #12-16, #16-20 Ants/Beetles, BWO Dries
October Blue Winged Olives, Stoneflies Afternoon #16-20, #14-16 BWO Dries, Stonefly Nymphs
November Midges, Stoneflies Afternoon #18-22, #14-16 Zebra Midges, Black Stonefly Nymph
December Midges Afternoon #18-22 Zebra Midges

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

On Ohio’s northern coast, the vibrant Rocky River in Berea offers numerous fantastic spots for fly fishing, promising an unforgettable angling experience.

  • Rocky River Reservation: Amidst natural beauty, this site provides plentiful trout during the spring and steelheads in the fall. The area surrounding the marina also offers excellent fishing opportunities.
  • Emerald Necklace Marina: Offering a good mix of fish species, the marina is ideal for fly fishers looking for variety. Vaulted spots around the marina are crowd favorites.
  • Berea Falls: Renowned as a great spot for steelheads, especially during fall season. The falls also provide a scenic backdrop for your fly fishing exploits.
  • Mill Stream Run Reservation: Offers excellent trout fishing, particularly during spring stocking season. Its scenic beauty adds to the overall fishing experience.

Best Access Points

Fly fishing in the Rocky River at Berea can offer an excellent experience. Here are some of the best access points:

  • Metcalf Road: Public access is located at the end of this road. Although some wading is involved, this spot is known for steelhead.
  • River Road Picnic Area: Off Vaughan Road, large pools and riffles here attract a variety of fish. Ample parking available.
  • Ford Field: Situated on Nobottom Road, it’s an excellent spot for brown trout and other species. Picnic facilities available.
  • Berea Falls Scenic Overlook: Off Barrett Road, it features pools, pocket water, and whitewater, and perfect for steelhead and brown trout.
  • Wallace Lake: Although not in the river itself, this lake is connected to the Rocky River and is stocked regularly with rainbow trout.

Local Fish

  • Steelhead Trout: This large trout species is one of the main targets for fly fishers in the Rocky River. They are known for their fighting spirit and ability to leap from the water.
  • Brown Trout: These fish are a less common catch, but are still sought after for their beauty and the challenge they present to anglers.
  • Smallmouth Bass: These fish prefer warm, slow-moving water and are a favorite of fly fishers due to their aggressive strikes.
  • Rainbow Trout: An avid jumper and strong fighter, this species presents a different kind of challenge to even the most experienced fly fishers.
  • Carp: Though not usually targeted by fly fishers, these fish can provide a great day of fishing due to their robust size.
  • White Bass: A hard-fighting fish, they can be found in great numbers in the Rocky River during their spring spawning runs.
  • Walleye: While these are typically caught using conventional tackle, fly anglers will have luck catching them during their early spring and late fall migration.
  • Large Mouth Bass: These fish are a staple of many freshwater fishing trips and can bring a lot of excitement to a day of fly fishing.

About The River

The Rocky River that winds through Berea, Ohio boasts a rich history full of intrigue and charm. Berea grew from humble beginnings in 1836, around the storied river known for its impressive sandstone deposits.


The lifeblood of the city, the Rocky River played a pivotal role in cementing Berea as a major sandstone quarrying hub in the 19th century. Berea sandstone, renowned for its high quality, was shipped nationwide igniting economic growth.


  • The natural beauty of the river with its winding trails, lush foliage, and diverse wildlife have always captivated locals and visitors alike.
  • Over time, the river area was transformed into the Rocky River Reservation, a park, part of the Cleveland Metroparks system.

Flexible yet resilient, the Rocky River – Berea mirrors the character of its residents, a testament to the enduring spirit of the heartland.

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