Anyone Fished The Black Hills?

[Outside Bend]

I'm headed out west for six months in May, figuring stopping in the Black Hills for a day or two of stream fishing would be a good way to break up the monotony of a 16 hour car ride. Anyone fished the area, and know what the water will be like in early to mid May? Any good flyshops, restaurants, or attractions I should take a look at while I'm out there?

Thanks!

[flytyer57]

I'm headed out west for six months in May, figuring stopping in the Black Hills for a day or two of stream fishing would be a good way to break up the monotony of a 16 hour car ride. Anyone fished the area, and know what the water will be like in early to mid May? Any good flyshops, restaurants, or attractions I should take a look at while I'm out there?

Thanks!

I Googled "black hills fly fishing" and came up with a link for a fly shop up there. Might want to give them a call or stop in. They should be able to help you out. Their website also looks very helpful.

Dakota Angler & Outfitter

[podum]

I fished Spearfish Creek in Spearfish Canyon a few years back. Small water but fun. LOTS of small browns (12 inches and less) in the upper end of the creek. Small caddis imitators and adams parachutes will do well. It is beautiful. Flows will be heavy in May. I fished in July when flows were low and very clear. Most of the streams in the Hills are small and stealth will be key. Spooky fish. Good luck.

[kcfishnerd]

How was the trip to the black hills? I was up there the 3rd week and had snow and rain.

[Outside Bend]

I wound up just driving through- lots of tornadic storms in Iowa and Nebraska, snow and sustained winds of 45-50 mph in the Black Hills while I was there didn't make fishing seem like a fun enterprise.

I have been catching my fair share of brookies, cutts, and rainbows out here in Wyoming though, may go visit the Park this weekend or next for grayling. It's a tough life

[kcfishnerd]

I didnt fish the park at all but did quite well on Rapid below Pactola as well as Spring Creek. A pink SJW with gold bead and a beadhead squirl were doing the trick. I actually caught my biggest fish ever(brown) at Spring Creek. If you get a chance you should give em a try. I have better luck at those rivers than anywhere else in the hills.