Black Hills Fishing Report June 5th, 2026
Summer is here. It is already pushing 80 degrees this morning, and we are looking at highs of 92 degrees Saturday and 87 degrees Sunday. That is hot for early June, and it changes how you need to approach the trout streams. Water temperatures will climb quickly in the afternoons, especially in lower-elevation waters with less shade. Fish early, carry a thermometer, and get off the water when water temps hit 65 to 67 degrees. The good news is that the warmwater lakes are absolutely on fire right now, and this weekend is a great time to chase bass.
Rapid Creek in Town
Running 43 cfs today, well below the historical median of 78 cfs for this date. The creek is low and clear. With high temperatures in the 80s and 90s this weekend, afternoon water temperatures in the in-town water will be a real concern. Fish before 10 a.m. if you can. Early morning is your best window. Fish will be tight to shaded banks, deeper holes, and any spring-fed pockets. Caddis and PMDs are showing up now in addition to midges. Streamer fishing early in low light can still be productive.
Rapid Creek Below Pactola
Cold tailwater from Pactola keeps this stretch in better shape on hot days than in-town water does. Worth considering this weekend as an alternative when afternoon temps get uncomfortable downstream. Flows are around 49 cfs. Still a tough stretch for numbers, but the cold water is a real asset right now. Dont be afraid to cover water to find fish.
Rapid Creek Above Pactola, Silver City
Running low at about 23 cfs, well below the seasonal average. Low, clear, and could get warm by afternoon. Fish very early or skip it this weekend. Smaller browns with the occasional rainbow. If you go, get there at first light.
Spearfish Creek
Around 47 cfs through the canyon. The shaded canyon section will hold better temperatures longer into the day than in-town Rapid Creek. A solid option this weekend, especially in the morning. Caddis are out in the evenings, but watch temps in the afternoon in town and further into the valley.
Castle Creek Below Deerfield
Releases are around 9-10cfs. Cold tailwater out of Deerfield makes this one of the better warm-weather options on a hot weekend. Worth the drive if you want to fish midday without worrying as much about water temps. Fishing above the reservoir can be good too, especially if you like small water and fishing for brookies.
NOW THE GOOD STUFF: Warmwater Fishing
This weekend is made for bass fishing. Water temps in the Black Hills lakes are in the sweet spot, and fish are active. If you have been wanting to throw big flies and watch them get eaten, this is your weekend.
Sheridan Lake
Good largemouth and smallmouth bass fishing right now. Bass are coming off their beds and actively feeding. Boogle Bugs and foam frogs early and late when fish are shallow. A Chocklett's Changer worked along structure and rocky points will draw big strikes. Crawfish patterns are excellent near any rocky bottom. Fish the points, submerged structure, and any visible weed edges.
Stockade Lake
Solid bass fishery in Custer State Park. Same approach as Sheridan. Topwater in the morning with a Boogle Bug or popper along the shoreline, then switch to a Changer or crawfish pattern as the sun gets up. This lake does not get as much pressure and the fish can be very willing.
Angostura Reservoir
Worth the drive for bass, walleye, and pike on the fly. Water temperatures are warm, and fish are active throughout the day. Bass will be on points, rocky structure, and near any submerged timber. A Chocklett's Changer or a large olive Woolly Bugger worked on a sinking line will cover water and find fish. This is a big water fishery, so bring a boat or fish the accessible shoreline points.
Stillwater trout fishing: Deerfield and CSP Lakes
Still producing on chironomids and leeches. A Woolly Bugger on a sinking line is a good all-around option. The trout fishing on these lakes stays good through the summer because of the cooler elevation.
Hot Flies
Bass and Warmwater: Boogle Bug, Rio Foam Slice frog, Chocklett's Changer, crawfish patterns
Streamers: Thin Mint, Woolly Bugger black or olive
Nymphs: Zebra Midge 20-22, Mercury Midge 20-22, Killer Mayfly Nymph 18-20, T-Midge 18-20, Tungsten PMD nymph
Dries: Caddis Dries, Chubbies, Little Yellow Stones, some PMDs
Bottom line: fish the trout streams early this weekend and shift to the warmwater lakes when temps climb. The bass fishing is as good as it gets right now, and it is worth putting time into it.
Stop by or call the shop for flies and current conditions. 605-341-2450
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