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Rock Creek's headwaters are comprised of the East, Middle,
Ross, and West Forks. Route 38 crosses the river where
the forks all finally come together to form the main
Rock Creek. From here Rock Creek flows for approximately
50 miles before spilling into the Clark Fork River near
Clinton. It flows past fir and pine trees along with
beautiful rock formations and steep cliffs and banks
for much of its length. Boulders, logs, and sharp bends
are a few of the great attributes that create holding
water for the trout that reside here and also for the
browns that migrate into the creek during the fall from
the Clark Fork River to spawn. |
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With gentle riffles and pools to swift runs and pockets,
Rock Creek has water to please almost every angler and
trout. From its headwaters to where Hogback Creek empties
in, it is made up mainly of soft flowing riffles and
runs. Cutthroat trout are prolific here and account for
the majority of the population. Hogback Creek to Henry's
Flat is where the river picks up pace and is characterized
mostly by swift riffles and pockets. The holding water
in this section is generally less abundant yet it is
a wonderful stretch of river to fish (especially if you
prefer nymph fishing). This section has a fair population
of all species of trout although rainbows seem to account
for the majority. From Henry's Flat to its end at the
Clark Fork River, Rock Creek is characterized by swift
riffles, deep runs and classic pools. Brown trout are
prolific here and there is an abundance of larger fish.
Access to Rock Creek can be found in many places along
its path. Rock Creek Road follows the creek from Route
32 near its headwaters to Route 90 where it ends at
the Clark Fork River. Wading is generally easy aside
from the slippery rocks that line the bottom of the
river. Boats are only allowed on the river from December
1st until June 30th. From July 1st until November 30th
only wade fishing is allowed. Hiring a guide during
the boating or wade fishing period is a great way to
learn this tremendous fishery and increase your odds.
Hatches on Rock Creek include a fair variety of mayflies,
stoneflies and caddis. Mayflies include Blue-winged
Olive (baetis), Pale Morning Duns, Green Drakes,
some Brown Drakes and Gray Drakes. The two most important
stonefly hatches on the river are the famed Salmon
Fly hatch and the Golden Stone hatch. These flies are
sure to bring some of the largest fish of the season
to the surface. The Salmon Fly hatch usually occurs
during the middle of runoff which usually runs from
early May to late June. Caddis are made up of variety
of sizes and colors. Tan and gray are two excellent
colors for caddis ranging in size from 12-18. In the
fall orange sedge hit the water and at times are an
effective fly. Midges and terrestrials fill the gaps
when the other insects are not on the water.
Rock Creek is a tremendous fishery often overlooked
by many anglers. It has a diversity of water and a
great population of trout. Dry fly, nymph, and streamer
fishing are all productive methods on this scenic river.
If you're going to be in western Montana or planning
a unique fishing trip somewhere, consider Rock Creek.
You'll be glad you did! |
