Blue Stream Fly Fishing
Fly Fishing Report for:

Whitewood Creek - Vale - 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 Warmer parts of the day #20-24 Griffith's Gnat, Zebra Midge
Winter Stoneflies Midday #16-20 Black Stonefly Nymph
February Midges Warmer parts of the day #20-24 Griffith's Gnat, Zebra Midge
Winter Stoneflies Midday #16-20 Black Stonefly Nymph
March Midges Warmer parts of the day #20-24 Griffith's Gnat, Zebra Midge
Blue-Winged Olives Afternoon #16-20 BWO Emerger, BWO Dry
April Blue-Winged Olives Afternoon #16-20 BWO Emerger, BWO Dry
Caddis Afternoon to early evening #14-18 Elk Hair Caddis, Pupa patterns
Little Black Stoneflies Midday #14-18 Black Stonefly Nymph, Adult patterns
May Caddis Afternoon to early evening #14-18 Elk Hair Caddis, Pupa patterns
Sulphurs Late afternoon to dusk #14-18 Sulphur Dun, Emerger
Golden Stones Midday to evening #10-12 Golden Stonefly Nymph, Dry
June Yellow Sallies Afternoon to evening #14-16 Yellow Sally Dry, Nymph
PMDs Midday #14-16 PMD Dry, Emerger
July Terrestrials All day #10-16 Ants, Beetles, Hoppers
Tricos Early morning #20-24 Trico Spinner, Dun
August Terrestrials All day #10-16 Ants, Beetles, Hoppers
Tricos Early morning #20-24 Trico Spinner, Dun
September Terrestrials All day #10-16 Ants, Beetles, Hoppers
Blue-Winged Olives Cloudy days, afternoon #16-20 BWO Emerger, BWO Dry
October Blue-Winged Olives Cloudy days, afternoon #16-20 BWO Emerger, BWO Dry
Terrestrials All day #10-16 Ants, Beetles, Hoppers
November Blue-Winged Olives Cloudy days, afternoon #16-20 BWO Emerger, BWO Dry
December Midges Warmer parts of the day #20-24 Griffith's Gnat, Zebra Midge

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 Whitewood Creek – Vale possesses numerous worthy fly fishing spots teeming with fish species like Rainbow Trout, Brook Trout, and Brown Trout. Explore the following spots for exceptional fishing experiences:

  • Pirate’s Cove: A popular region to fly fish with a setting of panoramic beauty. It’s rich aquatic insect life make it a hot spot for trout.
  • Ravine Point: Noted for its easy accessibility, Ravine Point is a great spot to cast your line, especially during the spring spawn.
  • Tiger Creek Falls: Perfect for anglers seeking the thrill of catching trout in fast-moving water.
  • Whitty Pond: A serene location with less fishing pressure; offers excellent fly fishing opportunities for beginners to experts.
  • Shadow Cliffs: Best visited during the late summer and early fall; the high concentration of Rainbow and Brown Trout make it a favorite among seasoned fly fishers.

Best Access Points

Fly fishing in Whitewood Creek – Vale offers an unforgettable experience for fishing enthusiasts. The following is a list of the most recommended access points:

  • Whitewood City Park: This spot, situated close to the city center, is accessible and offers an authentic fly fishing experience.
  • St. Onge Bridge: Accessible from Vale Road, the bridge that crosses the creek, offers deep pools and ideal locations for trout.
  • Strait Creek: A favorable spot located north of Whitewood, featuring a calm environment and a variety of fish species.
  • Vetrini Forest: Accessing the creek from this dense forest section challenges your fishing skills and rewards with the splendid scenic beauty.
  • Mathews Lane access: This spot is quite popular among locals, and great for beginners due to its slower current and rich fish population.

Local Fish

  • Brown Trout
  • Rainbow Trout
  • Brook Trout
  • Cutthroat Trout
  • Northern Pike
  • Yellow Perch
  • Black Crappie
  • Walleye

About The River

Meandering through the scenic landscapes of South Dakota, Whitewood Creek to Vale is a verdant, charming route. Affiliated with important historical events, the creek itself springs into existence in the northern Black Hills, flowing through the former gold rush town of Deadwood.

In the late 19th century, it was so potently affected by gold mining that its course was labeled ‘Miners Draw’.
These mining activities severely polluted the creek, making it a topic of environmental concern until remediation efforts in recent years.

  • Whitewood Creek played a significant role during the Gold Rush, serving as a conduits for transporting gold.
  • In the late 20th century, it became part of the Whitewood Creek Superfund site due to severe mining pollution.
  • Commendable cleanup efforts have substantially improved water quality, restoring its natural ambience.

Today, the serenity of Whitewood Creek to Vale makes it an idyllic paradise for nature lovers, narrating stories of a turbulent yet intriguing past.

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