The following report is by King Fisher Fly Fishing in MIssoula:
Hoot Owl Restrictions:
Rock Creek is now under Hoot Owl regulations from the confluence of the West and Middle Forks down to the mouth of Stony Creek. Fishing in this section is only prohibitted from midnight until 2:00 p.m. Please handle fish with care—keep them wet and release quickly to reduce stress during these warm conditions.
Dry Fly Fishing:
The morning dry fly bite has been outstanding. Fish are looking up aggressively for big foam patterns like the Water Walker, Plan B, and Chubby Chernobyls. During active hatches of caddis, Spruce Moths, and PMDs, more delicate patterns like the Cornfed Caddis, Widdow Maker Spruce, and Film Critic PMD have all been reliable producers.
Nymphing:
Subsurface action has remained steady in the mornings, but as temperatures climb, trout will drop into deeper water to rest. At that point, we recommend switching off the nymph rig and giving those fish a break—stick to dries when possible and avoid over-pressuring fish in tough conditions.
A Final Reminder:
As anglers, we share the responsibility of protecting our fisheries. Keep an eye on water temps, and be willing to walk away when things get too warm.
