Blue Stream Fly Fishing
Fly Fishing Report for:

Whitewood Creek - Whitewood - 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

If you’re a fly fishing enthusiast, the Whitewood Creek in Whitewood is an ideal choice. Numerous hotspots along the creek promise a rewarding experience. Here’s a list of top fishing spots to consider:

  • Crow Peak: This is the primary fly fishing spot with rushing waters that charm a plethora of trout.
  • Spearfish Canyon: Renowned for its exceptional surroundings, you’ll fall in love with its rainbow trout population.
  • Englewood Bridge: A perfect gathering spot for walleye making it an ideal fishing location.

In addition to the spots above, the tailwaters downstream from Tinton Falls and sections near the Deadwood should not be missed. Don’t forget to check with local fishing regulations in Whitewood as size limits and catch and release areas can vary.

Best Access Points

The Whitewood Creek in Whitewood is a popular spot for fly fishers who may access the area at the following points:

  • Locust Street Access: This provides an easy access point in downtown Whitewood for rainbows and brown trout fishing. Here, the river is easy to wade.
  • Evans Park: This park, situated downstream of Whitewood, has a great creek access point providing opportunities for catching large brown trout.
  • Roughlock Falls: Offering both lake and creek fishing, this location is popular for brook and rainbow trout fishing. Spots at the falls provide easy fishing access.
  • Spearfish Canyon: A best kept secret among locals, the Spearfish Canyon provides excellent pools and runs that are home to a good population of brown and brook trout.

Please note that South Dakota fishing regulations apply to all these sites, including fishing licenses and restrictions.

Local Fish

  • Walleye: Known for their fighting spirit and delicious meat, Walleye are a popular target for fly fishing in Whitewood Creek.
  • Brown Trout: An elusive species, Brown Trout is a rewarding catch for any angler.
  • Rainbow Trout: With their vibrant colors, Rainbow Trout are just as much a treat to sight as they are to catch.
  • Northern Pike: With their sharp teeth and ferocious fighting style, Northern Pike provide a challenging fly fishing experience.
  • Brook Trout: These delicate creatures are not as easy to catch, thus great skill and patience is required to bag Brook Trout.
  • Yellow Perch: Yellow Perch makes for an exciting fly fishing target due to their sporty nature.
  • Bluegill: Known for their aggressive bites, Bluegill makes for a fun and thrilling fly fishing experience.
  • Crappie: Crappie offers great sport for anglers, primarily due to their hard and fast strike.

About The River

Nestled in the picturesque landscapes of South Dakota, Whitewood Creek never fails to mesmerize visitors with its serene beauty. The creek is a historic site, rich with stories from the past. Notably, the establishment of the first gold mill by George Hearst along its banks in 1876.

  • The rush of panners that followed Hearst’s discovery turned the region into a bustling hub of industry.
  • The creek served as a natural conduit for transporting logs to the Homestake Mining Company in nearby Lead.

Over time, the creek’s environment felt the effects of heavy mining activities. But, the Whitewood Creek Superfund site was created to clean and restore it. Today, you can leisurely stroll along the Whitewood walking trail feeling echoes of history in every rustling leaf and gurgling ripple.

Despite the challenges it has faced, Whitewood Creek continues to thrive, carrying with it traces of a rich and colorful past.

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