Rock Creek is entering one of its most exciting periods of the season as runoff begins to recede and the famous stonefly hatch gains momentum. Water levels remain higher than average, but clarity continues to improve daily, particularly in the upper and middle sections of the creek. Anglers willing to adapt to changing conditions are finding excellent fishing opportunities throughout the drainage.
Current Conditions
Flows are dropping steadily and fish are moving into classic feeding lanes along the banks, behind structure, and in softer current seams. The upper reaches of Rock Creek are fishing best, though conditions continue to improve downstream as visibility increases.
Salmon Flies are now present throughout portions of the creek, with Golden Stones close behind. Trout are actively looking for large meals, creating some outstanding dry fly opportunities. Green Drakes, PMDs, caddis, and Yellow Sallies are also beginning to contribute to the daily hatch activity.
What's Working
Dry Flies
- Salmon Fly Patterns #4-6
- Golden Stone Patterns #6-8
- Chubby Chernobyls #6-10
- Water Walkers #6-10
- Green Drake Patterns #10-12
- Yellow Sally Patterns #12-16
- Elk Hair Caddis #14-16
Nymphs
- Pat's Rubber Legs #4-8
- Bullet Head Stoneflies #6-10
- TJ Hookers #8-12
- Frenchies #12-16
- Jig PMDs #14-18
- Split Case PMDs #14-16
Streamers
- Sparkle Minnows
- Mini Dungeons
- Sculpzillas
- Swim Coaches
- Olive and Black articulated patterns
Guide's Tip
Rock Creek fish are beginning to key on large stoneflies, especially during the warmest part of the afternoon. Cover water aggressively and focus on undercut banks, log jams, and grassy edges where adult Salmon Flies are likely to fall into the water. A Salmon Fly dry with a stonefly nymph dropper is producing some of the most consistent action.
Outlook
The next several weeks should provide some of the best fishing of the year on Rock Creek. As flows continue to drop and water temperatures rise, expect increasing dry fly activity and aggressive trout feeding behavior. The Salmon Fly hatch is building quickly and should provide exceptional opportunities throughout much of June.
For current hatch locations, river conditions, and the latest fly recommendations, stop by Freestone Fly Shop before heading to Rock Creek.
