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Black Hills Fishing Report March 5th 2026

Black Hills Fishing Report March 5th 2026

Hans Stephenson |

Black Hills Fly Fishing Report – March 5, 2026

We're kicking off March with a stretch of remarkably warm weather for this time of year. Today's high is sitting right around 62°F in Rapid City — sunny, calm, and feeling more like late April than early March. It won't last. A front moves in tomorrow, Friday, with a chance of snow and highs dropping back into the upper 30s. But this weekend rebounds nicely: mid-50s Saturday and a gorgeous 68°F on Sunday. If you've been itching to get out after a long winter, this weekend is your window.

Lower elevation streams are the play right now. Higher drainages are still locked up in winter mode, but in-town and canyon waters are flowing well and fishing has been noticeably improving with these warmer afternoons.

Stream Conditions

Rapid Creek at Rapid City (In-Town) Running at approximately 48 cfs — a healthy, fishable level for this stretch. Water clarity is good. With today's warm sunshine, midges have been hatching in that 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. window, and we're starting to see fish rising consistently in the slower pools and foam lines. Approach with care, drop down to 5X–6X tippet, and fish size 20–22 midge patterns. Early mornings are slower, but once the sun hits the water, the activity picks up. This is one of the best times of year to have Rapid Creek mostly to yourself.

Rapid Creek Below Pactola Dam This stretch can be a tough one right now — lower flows and limited holding water mean fewer fish, and the ones that are here have seen it all. Don't come expecting numbers. That said, the occasional bigger trout is in play for anglers willing to slow down, read the water carefully, and make precise presentations. Fish the deeper slots, undercut banks, and any structure where a larger fish can hold with minimal effort. Drop to 6X fluorocarbon, downsize your midges, and be patient. If you're looking for more consistent action, you're better off heading to in-town Rapid Creek or down to Spearfish Creek at lower elevations — both are fishing well right now and offer significantly more opportunity.

Castle Creek (Above Deerfield) Still on the colder side at this elevation, but beginning to open up with the recent warmth. Flows are modest and the stream is accessible. Good option for adventurous anglers willing to do some exploring. Midges in early afternoon are about all you'll find for hatch activity right now.

Castle Creek (Below Deerfield) The tailwater below Deerfield Reservoir is fishable and probably your best upper-elevation option. Steady flows, cold and clear water, and rising fish activity during warm afternoon windows. We haven't seen BWOs quite yet, but they're not far off if this weather pattern continues.

Spearfish Creek Running well through the canyon and into town. With its spring-fed character and lower elevation, Spearfish Creek is one of the most consistent early-season options in the Hills. Expect solid midge activity and the first hints of BWO action on overcast afternoons. Fish are active and looking for the warmer stretches of the day. Worth the drive.

What's Hatching

It's midge season, full stop. Size 20–22 is the range — black, olive, and red are all working. We're beginning to see the very first hints of Blue Winged Olive activity on cloudy afternoons, and with the frontal system Friday and then cooler temps mixing in through next week, expect BWOs to become more consistent. Keep a few Baetis nymphs and RS2s in your box alongside your midges.

Fly Recommendations

Nymphs / Subsurface

  • Zebra Midge – Red or Black (#20–22)
  • RS2 – Gray or Olive (#20–22)
  • Soft Hackle Pheasant Tail (#18–20)
  • WD-40 (#20–22)
  • Perdigons

Dry Flies

  • Griffith's Gnat (#18–22) — excellent mid-morning through early afternoon
  • CDC Midge Adult – Black or Olive (#20–22)
  • Parachute BWO (#18–20) — keep a few ready for cloudy windows
  • Sparkle Dun Baetis 18-20
  • Morgan's Midge 18-10

Weekend Outlook

Thursday, March 5 — Sunny and warm, high 62°F. Prime midge fishing from late morning through early afternoon. Get out today if you can.

Friday, March 6 — Front moves through. Snow possible, highs dropping to 39°F. Expect slower fishing and plan accordingly.

Saturday, March 7 — Recovery day. Highs back to 55°F with light wind. Midge fishing returns. Overcast potential could trigger early BWO activity.

Sunday, March 8 — The gem of the weekend. High of 68°F with light wind and plenty of sun. Expect midges and the possibility of your first decent BWO hatch of the season. Don't sleep in.

A Note on Conditions

Early March in the Black Hills is a waiting game — winter still has its grip on the upper drainages, but lower elevation streams and tailwaters are increasingly fishable and surprisingly productive for those willing to put in the effort. Light tippet, careful wading, and patience during the warmest part of the day are the keys right now. We're right on the cusp of spring, and the fishing is only going to get better.

Stop by the shop or visit flyfishsd.com for flies, local intel, and the latest updates. We're open Monday–Saturday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

– Dakota Angler & Outfitter | 1010 Jackson Blvd, Rapid City, SD | 605-341-2450

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