Blue Stream Fly Fishing
Fly Fishing Report for:

Spearfish Creek - Spearfish - South Dakota

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 Midday/Early Afternoon #18-#22 Zebra Midge, Griffith's Gnat
February Midges Midday/Early Afternoon #18-#22 Zebra Midge, Griffith's Gnat
March Midges, Early Caddis Midday/Early Afternoon #12-#20 Zebra Midge, Elk Hair Caddis
April Caddis, Midges Morning/Afternoon #12-#22 Elk Hair Caddis, Zebra Midge
May Mayflies, Caddis Morning/Evening #10-#18 Adams Parachute, Elk Hair Caddis
June Mayflies, Caddis Morning/Evening #10-#18 Adams Parachute, Elk Hair Caddis
July Mayflies, Caddis, Stoneflies Morning/ Evening #8-#18 Elk Hair Caddis, Stimulator
August Terrestrials, Caddis Midday/Evening #10-#18 Chubby Chernobyl, Elk Hair Caddis
September Terrestrials, Caddis, Tricos Midday/Evening #14-#20 Chubby Chernobyl, Elk Hair Caddis
October Tricos, Baetis Midday/Evening #18-#22 Rusty Spinner, Blue Wing Olive (BWO)
November Midges, Little Winter Stoneflies Midday/Early Afternoon #18-#22 Zebra Midge, Little Black Stonefly
December Midges Midday/Afternoon #18-#22 Zebra Midge, Griffith's Gnat

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 picturesque Spearfish Creek in Spearfish, South Dakota, is a haven for seasoned and novice fly fishers alike. Known for its lush surroundings and abundant fly fishing opportunities, it never fails to provide an unparalleled fishing experience. Some of the best spots to fly fish on the Spearfish creek include:

  • The Fish Hatchery: This is the starting point of Spearfish Creek and is a popular spot for brook and brown trout. In addition, it has easy access and many fishing spots.
  • Canyon Mouth: Located where the creek flows out of the canyon, this place provides the opportunity to catch larger fish species.
  • Maurice Intake: This is perfect for beginners due to its slower currents and shallow waters. Brook trout is commonly found here.
  • Cheyanne Crossing: This spot is notoriously renowned for its fish sizes and the beauty of its surrounding landscapes.

Remember, a good local guide can help you make the most of these sites.

Best Access Points

Spearfish Creek offers some of the best fly fishing points, whether you’re an amateur or professional. Here are the top ones:

  • The City Park: This is great for amateur fly fishers. This location is within city limits and even provides picnic tables and barbecues for post-fishing relaxation.
  • Hanna Campground: This site will give you access to lots of wild trout. Considered as one of the best fly fishing points in Spearfish Creek.
  • Cheese Ranch: Located near Savoy, this place is ideal for experienced fishers due to its fast flowing water and rocks. However, the catch yield will make the effort worthwhile.
  • Timon Campground: Another great spot for wild trout. The rush of the water combined with the beautiful surroundings make it an attractive option.

These are just a few of the many options available to you when fly fishing on Spearfish Creek.

Local Fish

  • Brown Trout: A popular choice in Spearfish Creek, these are known for their beautiful, golden-brown color and hard fighting spirit.
  • Rainbow Trout: Known for their striking, colourful markings, they are a common sight in the creek and are popular amongst fly fishers.
  • Brook Trout: This small cousin of the salmon is highly sought after for its beautiful speckled appearance.
  • Mountain Whitefish: Considered the underdog of the Spearfish Creek, this species provides a fun challenge for anglers.
  • Black Bullhead: A smaller variant of the catfish, it is quite common in the creek and can be a fun challenge for fly fishing.
  • Yellowstone Cutthroat Trout: Named for the characteristic red slash beneath its jaw, this prized catch can be found in the cooler, deeper parts of the creek.
  • White Sucker: Though not the most glamorous fish, the White Sucker is prevalent and can really put up a fight once hooked.
  • Common Carp: This species is large, tricky and a lot of fun to reel in, making it a worthwhile target for fly fishers in Spearfish Creek.

About The River

Running through Spearfish, a charming city in the North of Black Hills, South Dakota, the ever enchanting Spearfish Creek is a crucial part of the region’s history.

Shaped by the last Ice Age, the biodiversity of its limestone canyon walls and waterfalls are flawless examples of Mother Nature’s craftsmanship. Noted primarily for its clear, cold waters that make for fantastic fly-fishing, it’s said to be the only creek in the world that freezes from the bottom up!

  • The Creek’s name: Derived from the Sioux Indians who, centuries ago, used fish-spearing techniques to gather a rich bounty from its waters.
  • Historical significance: It powered sawmills that fueled Spearfish’s growth during the 19th-century Gold Rush.

Next time you’re in South Dakota, do not miss the chance to take a leisurely stroll along this stunning, historical creek!

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