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Some might think of Rock Creek in Western Montana as a river and others as a creek. It seems to be on the borderline between the two. I like to think of it as a little river with a large reputation that it has earned the hard way, by consistently producing above average size trout. Its headwaters are in the Lolo National Forest near the charming town of Philipsburg, where there is a confluence of its east, west, and middle forks, along with Ross Creek. From there it tumbles and winds fifty two miles until it empties into the Clark Fork near Clinton in Western Montana. It flows south to North, parallel with the Sapphire Mountains. Once in a great while one may stumble upon a sapphire stone nestled along the bank. In addition to excellent fishing, this area is known as a good place to view big game such as big horn sheep, elk, deer, moose and less frequently black bear and mountain lions. It is a favorite of wade anglers because, as it flows through public lands, there is often excellent access from a rather rough gravel road with plenty of pot-holes. Anglers and non anglers who enjoy an adventure of driving back country roads should consider Rock Creek Backcountry Drive. It begins at Clinton, which is just off Interstate 90. From there the byway heads south. The first 8 miles are paved. At the border of the National Forest the road turns to gravel for the next 30 miles. While it gets bumpy and twisty, the good news is that it parallels a premiere trout fishery. Wade fishers can park anywhere to gain easy access to the river. Many local anglers believe that after the first of July, when the snow melt begins to subside and the water level drops, Rock Creek is the best place in Montana to hunt the wily trout. Most prefer to fish the lower end of Rock Creek because of the migration of larger brown trout that come up from the Clark Fork to spawn. There the average size can exceed fourteen inches. Be ready, however, you might just tie into a trophy. Rock Creek is well known for a prolific salmon fly hatch, which shifts into high gear between late May and early June. During that time, don’t be surprised if you have to share the river with others. If you want less crowded conditions it is best to go early or late in the season. Rock Creek provides consistent nymph fishing all season long. The trick is to overweight your flies so you can get them deeper through those pockets of fast moving current. Be sure to check with local regulations. There are sections where only artificial lures are permitted, except for anglers less than fourteen years of age. Now with your appetite whetted, are you ready for your next Big Sky Country adventure? Marshall Hoffman,the owner of MH Marketing is on a mission to motivate families to spend more time in the great outdoors and experience the fun and unity, which such an adventure offers
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