Rock Creek

On Montana’s blue ribbon gem, Rock Creek, where the fishing is as exhilarating as the scenery and a legendary salmon fly hatch from which all others are measured. It drains the north eastern edge of the stunning Pintler range before slicing through the Sapphire mountains on its 50 mile course to the Clark Fork.  This pristine, free flowing stream boasts one of the highest trout per mile counts in the state. Rock Creek is a perfect “fly fishing classroom” complete with consistent depth and speed riffles for nymphing, long and smooth tailout dry fly slicks, and boulder-choked fast water corners providing a haven for streamer chase’n trout.

Float fishing here is prohibited after June 30th each year in order coincide with higher water flows and to minimize wader/floater controversy.  Thus, we offer float fishing on the upper reaches during May and June from the Forks confluence down to the forest service boundary and, the fishing can be spectacular.  Fast action casts, tight against willow choked banks or rushing along canyon walls and boulder pour overs with wildly large dry flies is the name of the game here early in the summer.  Later in the season as the boats clear out and the water recedes, wade fishing the Creek with a guide affords any level of angler an opportunity to improve his/her skills. Taking time to hone your river reading, understand currents and casts, identify aquatic insects or just sit along the bank for a bit and take in a herd of nearby bighorn sheep epitomizes a day of wade fishing on Rock Creek.  And, is simply the best chance anywhere in Montana to catch five different trout species while standing on a single rock.

Blackfoot River Outfitters conducts float trips from the Forks downstream for about 15 miles and afford walk/wade guide trips on that portion of Rock Creek that flow through the Lolo National Forest. These wade trips are offered under a very limited special use permit issued from the Lolo National Forest Missoula District Ranger. The permit allows for only 30 client days, which we utilize on a first come – first serve basis.  Blackfoot River Outfitters is an “equal opportunity service provider.”