Fishing Rock Creek in October

October Fishing Strategies for Rock Creek

Rock Creek, from its headwaters, tends to be a series of riffles, runs, and pools. In October, hatches are limited to afternoon blue winged olive hatches in deep pools and slower runs.

The blue winged olive hatches, which occur almost like clockwork around 1 pm, last for about an hour. Getting on the water well ahead of the hatch is a good idea.

Start the day exploring with nymphs and emergers such as a pheasant tail dropped off an October Caddis. Immediately ahead of the hatch small nymphs and emergers work well.

Once you see rising fish, think small. Hatches in October tend to be all small flies. 18-22 do the trick.

After the hatch, either switch back to nymphs or switch to streamers. Choose flies that offer action such as marabou or rabbit strips.

As the sun dips below the western hills, the temp will drop, the fishing will slow; it’s time to head back to the cabin.

The Weather

October brings unsettled weather. It is not unusual to have a small snow storm bring an inch of so to the valley floor this month. As September fades into October, the days grow short and the nights are below 32.

Cold fronts can mess up fishing for a day or two during the month. The fish seem to give up eating when the temps turn cold quickly.

But then there are the magical days. 60 degree days without a cloud in the sky. We generally have quite a few of these which are perfect for fishing, hiking, exploring, and watching the bighorn sheep as they begin the mating season.

So what to pack? Layers, longsleeves, sunglasses, floating line and maybe a sinktip for a late October trip, hats, something hunter orange as the Montana hunting season begins late month.