Black Hills Fly Fishing Report – August 4, 2025
Recent rains have boosted streamflows across the Black Hills, especially in upper drainages and higher elevations above Pactola Reservoir. Streams are healthier than they were a few weeks ago, but with hot, dry weather returning midweek—forecast highs in the 90s—be mindful of water temperatures. Lower elevation stretches, including Rapid Creek through Rapid City, can reach 67°F or higher by midday. Always carry a thermometer and give trout a break when temps rise.
Reminder: The Sturgis Motorcycle Rally is underway this week. Expect heavier traffic around Sturgis, Deadwood, and Spearfish Canyon. Plan for extra travel time and drive cautiously.
Flows remain below long-term seasonal averages but are currently fishable, with the best fishing early and late in the day. Terrestrial and dry fly fishing remains strong, and trout are actively feeding during cooler periods.
Where to Fish Right Now
Castle Creek & Spearfish Creek
These streams continue to be top picks for reliable trout fishing. Cold, clear water and consistent hatches are keeping fish active. Look for BWOs, caddis, and more PMDs each day. Dry flies, dry-droppers, and small streamers are producing, with cloud cover improving surface activity.
Rapid Creek Conditions
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Below Pactola Reservoir
Cold and clear, but the first two miles below the dam offer limited habitat—this is a quality-over-quantity fishery. The name of the game is hunting one or two solid fish, not racking up numbers. PMDs, BWOs, and caddis are hatching, and technical dry-dropper or nymphing presentations are key. Focus on soft edges, deeper slots, and structure where the few fish in this stretch are holding. -
Silver City (Above Pactola)
Flows have stabilized with recent storms. This water is fishing well early and late. Trout are rising in riffles and seams for caddis and PMDs. Sparkle Duns, PMD emergers, and Foam Caddis are great choices. After rain, water may stain—switch to nymphs or streamers if visibility drops. On clear days, a Chubby with a Perdigon dropper is a go-to rig. -
Rochford and Upstream
Water levels remain healthy from Rochford to Black Fox Campground. Perfect 3-weight dry-dropper water with steady action in runs, pools, and pockets. Fish aren’t large but provide fun, consistent fishing.
In-town Rapid Creek
Tricos are peaking at first light, with fish rising in the calm pools. After 10 a.m., water temps rise quickly—often exceeding safe levels by midday. Stick to the early bite, use light tippet (5X–6X), and pack a thermometer.
Stillwater Fishing Report
Stillwaters are a great option when streams warm up:
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Sylvan, Legion, Center, and Bismarck Lakes – Chironomids, balanced leeches, and small nymphs under indicators in 6–12 feet.
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Deerfield & Pactola Reservoirs – Work weed edges and drop-offs with slow-stripped leeches or wind-drifted nymph rigs.
Warmwater Fishing Update
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Bass – Sheridan and Stockade Lakes are producing topwater action early and late on Boogle Bugs, MFC Bombshells, and Rio Foam Slice Frogs.
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Pike – Pactola remains the top local option. Cover water with flashy streamers on sink-tips during low-light periods.
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Carp – Angostura and Belle Fourche Reservoirs offer fun sight-fishing. Look for tailers on sandy flats; cicadas, hoppers, and small terrestrials are effective.
Go-To Flies This Week
Dry Flies
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CDC Thorax Dun – BWO (#18–20)
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Sparkle Dun – PMD (#16)
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Elk Hair Caddis – Tan/Black (#14–16)
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Trico Spinner – Black/White (#20–22)
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Chubby Chernobyl (#10–18, Tan/Olive/Gold)
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Hippie Stomper (#14–16)
Nymphs
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Perdigon – Olive/Purple (#16–18)
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Zebra Midge – Black/Silver (#18–20)
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Split Case PMD or BWO (#16–18)
Dry-Dropper Combos
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Chubby Chernobyl + Perdigon or Zebra Midge
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Short dropper with PMD/BWO emerger for selective fish
Streamflow Quick Links
Final Thoughts
The rain provided a welcome boost, but midweek heat will challenge lower-elevation streams. Fish mornings, seek shaded stretches, and check water temps. When streams warm, pivot to stillwaters or chase bass, pike, and carp for exciting topwater and sight-fishing opportunities.
And remember: Rally week traffic is heavy—drive carefully and give yourself extra time to reach the water.
Need the right flies or local intel?
Stop by Dakota Angler & Outfitter in Rapid City or visit flyfishsd.com for the latest shop updates and hot flies.
See you on the water,
The Team at Dakota Angler & Outfitter