Catfish stockings resume in Phoenix and Tucson community waters this month
Catfish stockings in metropolitan Phoenix and Tucson Community Fishing Program (CFP) waters are resuming this month. Some lakes are being stocked this week, some the following week (see stocking schedule HERE).
CFP waters are still fairly warm, but nighttime low temperatures should help cool the ponds over the next week or so.
Fishing tips and upcoming events
By Chase Newlon, AZGFD Fishing R3 Coordinator
After finally dipping below 100 degrees in our desert areas, it's time to start getting ready for fall. Fall is a great time of year to be fishing in Arizona. Water temperatures will start to cool down and the fish will be on the feed. Trout are one of my favorite species to target this time of year. Many of the lakes and streams on the Mogollon Rim and up into the White Mountains will begin to fish really well in the next couple of weeks.
On the small creeks, try targeting fish with small spoons and spinners such as Kastmasters, Little Cleos, and Silver Foxes. Find some of the deeper, slower moving pools and cast upstream, reeling back toward you with small pauses and pops to entice bites. Fly fishing is typically extremely effective on the smaller creeks. Early fall can produce some great hatches, and terrestrial bugs are abundant. Try a hopper dropper rig with ant, beetle, and hopper patterns as your dry and your favorite nymph 12-18 inches below it. I like to fish thread Frenchies, Perdigons, and Pheasant Tails as my dropper. Below is a graphic on how to set up a Hopper Dropper Rig.
 |
 |
If you are looking to stay local for a day out on the water, try your luck for catfish, which will be stocked at most of the 50+ Community Fishing Waters, many of which are found within the Phoenix and Tucson metro areas, starting the week of September 22 and again the following week. Find one that is close to you here: https://www.azgfd.com/fishing-2/where-to-fish/community-fishing/.
Being that catfish are nocturnal predatory fish, fishing early in the morning as the sun is coming up and later at night when the sun is setting will yield the best results.
Use a slip sinker rig with a 7-foot medium heavy rod to fish bait on the bottom. Shrimp and chunks of pork loin are my favorite baits for catfish; however, worms, hotdogs and dough bait also work well.
The FishAZ Network is filled with great events for all skill levels by a variety of great partners. For an up-to-date list of events, visit: https://register-ed.com/programs/arizona/239-fishaz-network. Two upcoming events are:
Sunday, Sept. 28, 4-8 p.m. - FT3 Fly Fishing Film Tour, AZ Fly Shop, Moon Valley Country Club, Phoenix. The 19th Annual Fly Fishing Film Tour (F3T) is coming to Phoenix—and it’s bigger and better than ever. Whether you’re a seasoned angler, an adventure enthusiast, or simply love incredible outdoor films, this is an event you won’t want to miss. For more information, see article further down in this newsletter or visit https://www.wildlifefortomorrow.org/filmtour.
Saturday, Oct. 4, 5-9 p.m. - Fishing in the Moonlight, AZGFD, West Wetlands Pond, Yuma. A fun night of fishing in the moonlight the whole family can enjoy. There will be music, glow sticks, shaved ice, face painting, and much more. To register for this event, click here.
Silver Creek catch-and-release season opens Oct. 1
Silver Creek will transition to catch-and-release angling with artificial lures and flies only, single barbless hook starting Oct. 1. The upper section will also open Oct. 1, with the same angling restrictions. These tackle restrictions will last through March 31.
Anglers should be aware the AZGFD definition of artificial lures prohibits lures from containing any living or dead organisms, natural or prepared food stuffs, chemicals, or organic materials intended to create scent, flavor, or chemical stimulant. All forms of PowerBait products and scented/salted types of rubber worms are illegal.
Silver Creek will be stocked with rainbow trout averaging over 4 pounds each. To maintain the quality of the catch-and-release fishery, we are asking anglers to come prepared with heavier than normal trout tackle and a net so they can land fish quickly and keep them in the water to release them as quickly as possible. If anglers would like a photo with their catch, they should keep fish in the water until the photographer is ready and then quickly snap a photo before returning the fish back into the creek. We thank you for your cooperation.
See amazing underwater video footage from native fish snorkel survey at Fossil Creek
Check out this VIDEO of Arizona Game and Fish biologists diving into the clear cool water of Fossil Creek to check on the well-being of its native fish populations.
Fossil Creek is a refuge for seven species of native fish. There is a limited catch-and-release season on roundtail chub on a section of Fossil Creek from the first Saturday in October through April 30 (artificial fly and lure only; single-pointed barbless hooks only), a unique opportunity for anglers.
The video was produced by AZGFD's video production section.
Looking for a challenge? Try the Arizona trout and bass challenges for fun fishing opportunities
Arizona’s Trout Challenge Program and Bass Challenge Program were developed to encourage anglers to learn more about fishing opportunities in the state. Arizona Game and Fish Department manages many waters statewide to provide anglers the opportunity to catch several different species of trout and bass.
ARIZONA'S TROUT CHALLENGE. There are two ways to complete the challenge:
-
Catch all five species of wild trout in Arizona. These species include Apache, Brown, Brook, Gila and Rainbow trout.
*Anglers who completed the wild trout challenge without a Gila Trout while the Gila Trout requirement was suspended may submit a photo of a wild Gila Trout they catch for verification along with the stream it was caught at, date caught, and gear type used (fly or lure) to the email or mailing address listed below. You do not need to resubmit the full application. After the Gila Trout is verified it will be added to your certificate and a new wild trout challenge certificate will be issued.
-
Catch at least six of the eight total species in Arizona (including hatchery-raised trout): Gila, Apache, Brown, Brook, Rainbow, Grayling, Cutthroat, and Tiger trout.
To learn more about the trout challenge, rules, how to enter and an application form, visit https://www.azgfd.com/fishing-2/fishing-challenges/azgfd-trout-challenge/.
ARIZONA'S BASS CHALLENGE. To complete the challenge:
- Catch all five species of bass in Arizona. These species include largemouth, smallmouth, striped, white and yellow bass. Where can you find these species?
Striped bass: Lake Powell, Lake Mead, Lake Mohave, Lake Havasu, Lake Pleasant, and the Colorado River.
Yellow bass: Apache Lake, Canyon Lake, Roosevelt Lake, Saguaro Lake and upper Lake Mary.
White bass: Lake Pleasant and the Agua Fria River immediately upstream of Lake Pleasant.
Largemouth bass: Statewide.
Smallmouth bass: Apache Lake, Roosevelt Lake, Lake Powell, Lake Mead, Lake Mohave, Lake Havasu, Colorado River, Show Low Lake, Fool Hollow, Black River, and Verde River above Horseshoe Reservoir.
To learn more about the bass challenge, rules, how to enter and an application form, visit https://www.azgfd.com/fishing-2/fishing-challenges/arizona-bass-challenge/.
Make plans to see stunning fly-fishing films at 19th Annual Fly Fishing Film Tour on Sept. 28
Proceeds from event at Moon Valley Country Club in Phoenix to benefit Wildlife for Tomorrow, conservation projects
The 19th Annual Fly Fishing Film Tour is coming to Phoenix from 4-8 p.m. on Sunday, Sept. 28, at Moon Valley Country Club, 151 W. Moon Valley Drive, Phoenix.
Presented by AZ Fly Shop, this will be an exciting evening of outdoor adventure and stunning fly fishing films, whether you're an experienced angler, an outdoor enthusiast, or simply love incredible wildlife footage.
Proceeds raised will benefit Wildlife for Tomorrow. Since 1990, Wildlife for Tomorrow has served to accelerate and magnify the impact of the Arizona Game and Fish Department’s mission by providing essential financial support to conservation and education projects.
Tickets are $30 per person (plus $2.34 fee), $27.50 per person (plus $2.21 fee) for couples, $25 per person (plus $2.09 fees) for families, or $22 per person (plus $1.93 fees) for clubs and organizations.
For more information and to purchase tickets, visit https://www.wildlifefortomorrow.org/filmtour.
Please clean, drain and dry your boat to help the spread of aquatic invasive species
Boaters and anglers are urged to do their part to help prevent the spread of aquatic invasive species (AIS) such as quagga mussels, New Zealand mudsnails, and the recently discovered (in California) golden mussels.
Although California golden mussels have not yet been found in Arizona, they are a developing threat that people need to be aware of. Boaters and anglers can help keep them out of our Arizona waters. Please clean, drain and dry your watercraft (and pull your plug) before launching in ANY Arizona waterbody. Updates on golden mussels in California can be found at the California Department of Fish and Wildlife website
Please contact the Arizona Game and Fish Department Aquatic Invasive Species (AIS) Program at 623-236-7608 if you have any questions or would like to schedule a boat inspection.
For more information on aquatic invasive species in Arizona, including links to Director's Order #1 (list of aquatic invasive species of Arizona), Director's Order #2 (list of AIS-affected waters in Arizona), and Director's Order #3 (mandatory conditions for movement of watercraft, conveyances and equipment from affected waters), visit
https://www.azgfd.com/fishing-2/aquatic-invasive-species/.
In addition to the general AIS decontamination requirements and protocols described above, anglers should take note of the New Zealand Mudsnail Decontamination Options and Angling Recommendations.
Anglers reminded to not transport live fish from one water body to another
The video above is a good reminder to anglers that stocking or moving unauthorized fish from one water body to another is illegal and can harm existing native fish populations and sport fisheries. Following illegal stocking, fish can move on their own to other locations from where they were introduced and establish new populations.
Colorado River states have spent nearly $100 million to deal with illegally introduced fish – money that could have been better spent providing more angling opportunities. If you see anyone illegally stocking fish into our lakes or rivers, please report it to Operation Game Thief at 1-800-352-0700.
Anglers: Store, retrieve licenses with ease through Arizona E-Tag mobile app
The Arizona Game and Fish Department recommends that anglers download the department's innovative mobile application, “Arizona E-Tag,” from the Apple or Google Play stores before heading out on your trip.
One of the benefits of Arizona E-Tag includes the customer’s ability to store and view fishing and hunting licenses. A convenient feature, this can be particularly time-saving in the field if an angler or hunter should be requested to provide verification of a valid license.
It’s a simple, two-step process:
- Be sure to update to the most recent version of the app, which is compatible with both Apple and Android products.
- A free AZGFD portal account is needed in order to sync licenses with the app. Don’t have an account? Open one by visiting accounts.azgfd.com/Account/Register.
Keep in mind that the app is handy not just for hunters who opt to receive an electronically generated hunt permit-tag, but also as a means for anglers and hunters to store and view their license in the app. This enables the license to be easily available if requested, even in areas or terrain that might not receive cellular network coverage.
For more information about Arizona E-Tag, visit www.azgfd.gov/etag (scroll down the page). Questions? Email: tagmodernization@azgfd.gov.
Recent stockings
Week of 9/15 to 9/19/25
Stocked with rainbow trout unless otherwise indicated.
North Central Arizona: Mingus Lake.
Flagstaff/Williams: Ashurst Lake, Santa Fe Reservoir.
Mogollon Rim: Tonto Creek, Woods Canyon Lake.
White Mountains: Fool Hollow Lake.
Community Fishing Program (stocked with channel catfish).
Prescott area: Fain Lake, Yavapai Lakes.
St. John's area: Patterson Ponds upper and lower.
White Mountains area (Eagar): Cow Punch.
Week of 9/8 to 9/12/25
Stocked with rainbow trout unless otherwise indicated.
Central Arizona: Apache Lake (smallmouth bass).
North Central Arizona: Oak Creek, Watson Lake, Wet Beaver Creek.
Flagstaff/Williams area: Ashurst Lake, City Reservoir, Santa Fe Reservoir.
Mogollon Rim: Bear Canyon Lake, Canyon Creek, Tonto Creek, Willow Springs Lake.
Reports
NORTHERN ARIZONA
The weather forecast for the high country calls for chances of showers and thunderstorms late in the week and into the weekend. Highs will be in the 60s and lows will be in the 40s for Flagstaff, Williams, and the Mogollon Rim. Water temperatures will be in the high 60s to low 70s this week. Lower elevations around the Verde Valley will see a chance of stray showers or thunderstorms late in the week and into the weekend. Highs will be in the mid 70s to low 80s and lows will be in the low to mid 60s for the Verde Valley. Fall is right around the corner, and as temperatures drop, coldwater species like trout will start to become active. Warmwater species will remain active until water temps drop below 60 F. Fall is a great time to pursue warmwater species (bass, bluegill, and catfish) and attempt the department’s new Arizona Bass Challenge. Although fire restrictions have been removed in many areas, it is still wise to check with the appropriate forest prior to planning your next fishing trip for the most up-to-date details and information.
Bait Anglers: Worms, corn, and PowerBait will be your best bet for trout this week. Nightcrawlers are a good bet for walleye, and anchovies are a good approach for northern pike. Catfish are commonly caught on worms, hot dogs, and anchovies. Small pieces of nightcrawlers and mealworms on small hooks are a good approach for panfish (bluegill, black crappie, yellow perch, and yellow bass). Reminder, the use of live minnows and fish as bait is not allowed on any waters in Coconino County including all of the bodies of water listed below.
Lure Anglers: Lures with flash and vibration such as Joes’ Flies, Panther Martins, Mepp’s spinners, Kastmasters, Rooster Tails, crayfish imitations, Pistol Pete’s, and Dare Devils are good choices. Think small for trout, 1/8 – 1/12-ounce lures are best (silver, gold, or copper). For warmwater species, crankbaits, soft plastics, and spinnerbaits have been working well. Pay attention to what is working and duplicate that presentation. Soft plastics are working on some waters.
Fly Anglers: Producing flies this week include #10 bead-headed Simi-seal leeches (brown, black, olive, and wine), #10 bead-headed Wooly Buggers (brown, black, olive, and wine), #10-12 Zug Bug, #12-10 Dragonfly Larvae (olive), #18-16 Zebra Midge, #16-#12 Pheasant Tail, #12-14 Prince Nymph, #12-14 San Juan worm, hoppers, damselfly, stonefly, mayfly, hopper, and caddis fly patterns.
Check the fishing regulations before heading out as many of the lakes around Williams and Flagstaff have special regulations. Reminder, the use of live minnows and fish as bait is not allowed on any waters in Coconino County including all of the bodies of water listed below. Your licenses pay for the fish you catch; poachers are stealing from YOU. It is illegal to transport and release live fish in Arizona including all of the waters listed below; the illegal introduction of unwanted species is costly and diminishes the quality of our fisheries. If you observe a violation, please report it to the Operation Game Thief Hotline (OGT) at 1-800-352-0700.
WILLIAMS LAKES (Kaibab National Forest):
Kaibab Lake - The Kaibab Lake campground, boat launch, and day use areas are open. The limit is 2 bass minimum size 13 inches, the limit is 4 channel catfish, the limit is 4 trout. Only boats with a single 10-horsepower motor (or less) or single electric motor are allowed on Kaibab Lake. The lake is very low and launching a boat is challenging. Surface temperature 65.05 F, pH 8.37, dissolved oxygen (D.O.) 7.45 mg/l, and turbidity 74.62 NTU on 9/5/2025.
.
Cataract Lake - Both the County and Forest Service day use areas are open. Only boats with a 10-horsepower motor (or less) or single electric motor are allowed on Cataract Lake. The limit is 2 bass minimum size 13 inches, the limit is 4 channel catfish, the limit is 4 trout. Surface temperature 66.30 F, pH 8.33, D.O. 7.29 mg/l, and turbidity 65.10 NTU on 9/5/2025.
City Reservoir (Buckskinner Park) - Buckskinner Park and access to City Reservoir is open. The limit is 2 bass minimum size 13 inches, the limit is 4 channel catfish, the limit is 5 sunfish, the limit is 4 trout. Surface temperature 64.07 F, pH 8.23, D.O. 5.95, and turbidity 25.97 on 9/5/2025.
Dogtown Lake - Dogtown Lake Campground, day use area, and boat launch are open. Only boats with a single electric motor are allowed on Dogtown Lake. No gas-powered motors. The limit is 2 bass minimum size 13 inches, the limit is 4 trout. Fishing has been good and anglers are catching trout, bluegill, black crappie, and largemouth bass. Surface temperature 66.48 F, pH 9.70, D.O. 9.42 mg/l, and turbidity 33.49 NTU on 9/5/2025.
Santa Fe Reservoir - Only boats with a single electric motor are allowed on Santa Fe
Reservoir. No gas-powered motors. The limit is 2 bass minimum size 13 inches, the limit is 4 channel catfish, the limit is 4 trout. Channel catfish have been biting on worms. Surface temperature 64.22 F, pH 8.53, D.O. 7.71 mg/l, and turbidity 7.55 NTU on 9/5/2025. Rainbow trout were stocked last week.
JD Dam - JD Dam is catch-and-release only for trout; no trout may be kept; artificial fly and lure only; single-pointed, barbless hooks only. Only boats with a single electric motor are allowed on JD Dam. No gas-powered motors.
Whitehorse Lake - The Whitehorse Lake campground, day use areas, and boat launch are open. Only boats with a single electric motor are allowed on Whitehorse Lake. No gas-powered motors. The lake level is low and launching a boat is difficult. Fish are being caught despite the drop in temperatures. The limit is 2 bass minimum size 13 inches, the limit is 4 channel catfish.
Russel Tank - The limit is 4 trout. Access to Russel Tank is open. The water level of Russel Tank has dropped from last spring and will not be stocked at this time due to lower water levels and water quality issues.
FLAGSTAFF LAKES (Coconino National Forest):
Lower Lake Mary - The lake is currently dry. The day use area is open daily from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. Campgrounds along the Lake Mary Road corridor are open. When there is water, the daily bag limit is 4 trout per day and 4 channel catfish per day. Northern pike are unlimited, but must be immediately killed or released. Only boats with a single 10-horsepower motor (or less) or a single electric motor are allowed on Lower Lake Mary.
Upper Lake Mary - Upper Lake Mary and Narrows boat launches are open. Statewide limits apply for the fish species in Upper Lake Mary, check your regulations (page 6). The lake level is low and launching a boat can be challenging at the current lake level. Anglers have been catching some nice walleye and a few crappie on lures and nightcrawlers.
Frances Short Pond - The limit is 2 bass minimum size 13 inches, the limit is 4 channel catfish, the limit is 5 sunfish, the limit is 4 trout. Frances Short Pond suffered a fish kill on 7/16/2025 due to low dissolved oxygen levels. AZGFD will likely not stock the pond again until the fall or when water quality parameters improve and stabilize. Surface temperature 69.62 F, pH 9.24, D.O. 10.95 mg/l, and turbidity 18.52 NTU on 9/5/2025.
 |
Ashurst Lake - The Ashurst Lake and Forked Pine Campgrounds are open. Only boats with a single 10-horsepower motor (or less) or a single electric motor are allowed on Ashurst Lake. The limit is 4 trout. Northern pike and green sunfish were illegally introduced and are not managed for in Ashurst Lake. Northern pike and green sunfish are unlimited in Ashurst Lake, please kill any northern pike and green sunfish caught. The lake is low and the boat launch is challenging, be cautious when launching trailered boats. Surface temperature 67.24 F, pH 8.62, D.O. 7.35 mg/l, and turbidity 26.54 NTU on 9/5/2025. Rainbow trout were stocked last week.
Kinnikinick Lake - Only boats with a single 10-horsepower motor or single electric motor are allowed on Kinnikinick Lake. Please do not put rocks on the boat launch: As the lake levels rise, the rocks become hazards for boats and trailers and block access to the lake for boat anglers.
Marshall Lake - Only boats with a single 10-horsepower motor or single electric motor are allowed on Marshall Lake. The lake is very weedy, making fishing challenging. Surface pH levels are high enough to kill fish.
VERDE VALLEY STREAMS (Red Rock Ranger District, Coconino National Forest)
Oak Creek - As of Jan. 1, 2023, the catch-and-release section on Oak Creek has been expanded to include Oak Creek from the Highway 89A bridge at Slide Rock State Park upstream to the Sterling Springs Fish Hatchery property boundary including the West Fork Oak Creek. This section will be catch and release only for trout, artificial fly and lure only, barbless hooks only. Stream flow is at base flow conditions with a recent reading of 30.4 cfs, stream temperature 62.6-64.6 F, turbidity 2.8 FNU @ 8:45 a.m. on 9/22/2025. The Banjo Bill picnic area is closed for repairs. The busy tourist season is in full swing. To beat the crowds, try fishing early in the morning. Anglers are finding success on inline spinners and flies. Hellgrammite, Simi-seal leech, midges, elk hair caddis, hoppers, and mayfly patterns are a good bet. Anglers are catching Gila, rainbow, and brown trout. Rainbow trout will be stocked this week.
 |
West Clear Creek - Smallmouth bass are unlimited harvest in West Clear Creek. Roundtail chub are often caught in sections of West Clear Creek; please release them unharmed. The limit is 4 trout. Stream flow (near Camp Verde) is above base flow (12-15 cfs) with a recent reading of 21.5 cfs and stream temperature 67.8-69.4 F @ 8:45 a.m. on 9/22/2025.
Wet Beaver Creek/Beaver Creek - Bass are unlimited harvest in Wet Beaver and Beaver Creeks. There is the potential to catch a native sucker or roundtail chub; please release them unharmed. The limit is 4 trout. Stream flow (near Rimrock) is stable with a recent reading of 7.44 cfs @ 8:45 a.m. on 9/22/2025. Average base flow is about 4-9 cfs for Wet Beaver Creek.
CENTRAL ARIZONA
Bartlett Lake - Report courtesy of Sportsman's Warehouse. Fishing is rated as good. As of late, bass have been caught in the highest number, although catfish can still be found. The water level is currently on the lower side, but at this time of the year it is still best to fish the shallower water. It has also been found that the mornings are the most productive time on the water currently. For bass, there is hardly a wrong rig to go with, as drop shots, Texas rigs and Shaky Heads have all been showing success. When using soft plastics, natural colors have been fishing the best. Robo worms especially have been reported to be getting bites. Catfish still take to the same bait, with worms, stink baits, and chicken liver all having success. Make sure to bait on a hook sized 4-8. For location, banks, the flats and Rattlesnake Cove have been producing lots of fish recently.
Roosevelt Lake - Report courtesy of Sporsman's Warehouse. Fishing is rated as very good. Roosevelt has been producing great numbers. This last month an angler pulled a 16-pound largemouth with a drop shot. Some good baits to use right now since we are slowly transitioning into fall would be drop shot rigs and some topwater like Buzz Baits and poppers. Spinner baits and bladed jigs have been good in windy conditions. For slow days, try Senkos Wacky rigged or Neko rigged. The crappie bite is still here, with the best luck near drop offs in schools. Good baits to use are jigs and spoons. Catfish are biting on live bait and Punch Bait. For best luck, try fishing the dam.
NORTH CENTRAL ARIZONA
Deadhorse State Park Lagoons - Catfish and largemouth bass continue to be caught at Deadhorse. Anglers targeting largemouth bass are having the most success with finesse setups that are being fished slow. The channel catfish are being caught on the typical baits: cut-up hot dogs, chicken livers, and anchovies. Deadhorse was last stocked with channel catfish the week of Aug. 18 and was scheduled to be stocked again with channel catfish the week of Sept. 22, assuming water quality measurements permit stocking. Special Regulations: The limit is 2 bass, 4 catfish, and 10 sunfish. For species not listed, or bodies of water without special regulations, refer to the statewide fishing regulations.
Goldwater Lake (Upper) - With the water beginning to cool off in Prescott, the trout bite should be picking up soon. Anglers targeting trout typically do well with PowerBait, Power Eggs, or small inline spinners. Those targeting channel catfish may find success with cut-up hot dogs, chicken livers, or anchovies. The lake was recently surveyed by department personnel and resulted in the sampling of channel catfish measuring over two feet and just over six pounds. Upper Goldwater was last stocked with channel catfish the week of Aug. 18. Special Regulations: The limit is 1 bass; minimum of 13 inches. Single electric motor only. For species not listed, or bodies of water without special regulations, refer to the statewide fishing regulations.
 |
Goldwater Lake (Lower) - Artificial Fly and Lure Only. Similar to the upper lake, the trout fishing should improve on lower Goldwater Lake as the water temperatures begin to fall. Trout anglers typically do well on inline spinners like Panther Martins or Mepps. The largemouth bass are expected to be active this fall. As the water temperatures cool, the bass may key in on more finesse style presentations. Small soft plastic lures would be a good place to start. Department personnel recently surveyed the lake and sampled a few big largemouth bass, the biggest of which was measured to be about 21 inches and 7 pounds. Special Regulations: Catch and release only, artificial flies and lures only. Float tube only watercraft restriction. For species not listed, or bodies of water without special regulations, refer to the statewide fishing regulations.
 |
Mingus Lake - Mingus was stocked with rainbow trout the week of Sept. 15. Anglers may want to try PowerBait, inline spinners, or small soft plastic tubes when trout fishing. Special Regulations: None. For species not listed, or bodies of water without special regulations, refer to the statewide fishing regulations.
Watson Lake - Channel catfish are still being caught out of Watson Lake. If targeting catfish, try nightcrawlers, cut hot dogs, and anchovies, as they are always great bait for catfish. Largemouth bass push up into the shallower water this time of year and can be targeted with many different techniques, but smaller plastics are a good place to start. Channel catfish were last stocked the week of Sept. 8. Special Regulations: None. For species not listed, or bodies of water without special regulations, refer to the statewide fishing regulations.
MOGOLLON RIM LAKES
Blue Ridge/C.C. Cragin Reservoir - The Blue Ridge Campground is open. Only boats with a single 10-horsepower (or less) motor or a single electric motor are allowed on C.C. Cragin Reservoir. Green sunfish and golden shiner are unlimited and invasive; please remove them if caught. Reservoir elevation 6,649.18 feet, current volume is at 2,683 acre feet or 18% full and stable on 9/22/2025. The gate at the top of the boat launch is locked. Boaters can hand carry or drag small watercraft the approximately 100-200 yards down the boat launch to the water. Launching a boat becomes more difficult as the lake drops. Launching a trailered boat is not feasible at this time due to the locked gate. Check with the Mogollon Ranger District of the Coconino National Forest for updates on access.
 |
Knoll Lake - Only boats with a single electric motor are allowed on Knoll lake. The lake level is low and the boat launch is out of the water, making launching a boat difficult. No gas-powered motors. Green sunfish were illegally stocked into the lake, please lethally remove all green sunfish caught. Reminder, the statewide limit is 4 trout per licensed angler per day.
Huffer Tank - Huffer tank is very low and likely fishless.
MOGOLLON RIM STREAMS
(New section contributed by Sam Simmons). Fall is in the air up in Rim Country with overall pleasant weather conditions as we transition out of monsoon season. Ambient highs for the Payson area are in the upper 70s-80s, with lows in the 50s but cooler temps on the regional creeks with highs in the 70s and lows in the mid-40s. This is a great time of year to target trout as water temperatures continue to cool off. A lack of winter and a relatively poor monsoon season has led to modification of stockings throughout the region this season. Many of the regional put-and-take creeks have not been stocked this month due to low water levels and poor water quality (mainly high temperature). Despite low water levels, there is still good fishing that provides great opportunities for wild trout and some holdover summer trout.
East Verde River - There are two sections of the East Verde River – the upper portion upstream of the SRP pumphouse is managed for wild rainbow trout. This is catch-and-release only for trout; no trout may be kept; artificial fly and lure only; single-pointed barbless hooks only. Trout must be immediately released, unharmed. This section of creek is low and clear, which makes angling more difficult as fish are spookier in these conditions. Nonetheless, anglers are having good success on a variety of fly patterns from Elk Hair Caddis (size #16), mini hoppers, mini leeches, and various nymphs and midges. My favorite technique has been using small jug streamers to work undercut banks and boulders, as many fish are hiding under them. Water temperature is 55 F. The section downstream of the SRP pumphouse is managed as a put-and-take fishery with statewide bag limits applying for trout. With low and warmer water conditions on this reach, stocking has ceased until conditions improve. Second Crossing Rec Site to Third Crossing is dry, with low water reappearing as you near Verde Glenn. Best water (and the best chance to catch rainbow trout and the occasional Gila trout) is at First Crossing and Waterwheel. Water clarity is more turbid here, but anglers are having success on PowerBait and fishing large nymphs or jig streamers under indicators. Fishing is best in the early morning hours before the heat of the day. Water temperature 68-72 F.
 |
Bonita Creek - This Rim stream is managed as a new recreational Gila trout fishery. In November 2024, 1,000 Main Diamond lineage Gila trout were stocked into the creek upstream of the Bonita Creek Estates. Access to the creek is provided by entry on the Tonto National Forest using FR144, which is east of the drainage and following the Highline Trail over to the west. Please do not use Bonita Creek Estates, as that is private land. Please respect private property. Small stream fly fishing tactics such as dabbing and bow-n-arrow casting is essential on this small, brushy creek. Himalayan blackberries choke a few areas of the creek out. Eager Gila trout will eat a variety of flies, including dries, nymphs, and streamers. They have not been very picky as long as it is presented in front of them. Foam ants and beetles as well as black and brown mini leeches have been the ticket. Targeting plunge pools, undercuts, logs, and other fish holding habitat will provide success. Water temperature 53-55 F.
 |
Horton Creek - Horton Creek is catch-and-release only for trout; no trout may be kept; artificial fly and lure only; single-pointed, barbless hooks only. This is one of the more popular fisheries for wild brown trout. There is great fishing to be had throughout the creek, with fish inhabiting pools under waterfalls, small plunge pools, boulders, large woody debris, and undercuts. Anglers have been having success on black foam ants and various dry flies in the afternoon when conditions warm up, and small streamers have been working in the morning and the evening. I recently had good success stripping size 12 black bead-headed Wooly Buggers in pools early in the morning, then switching on and off to mini hoppers later in the day as fish became more active. Fishing will only get better as brown trout become more aggressive as they approach their spawn in the late fall. Water temperature 54-55 F.
 |
Christopher Creek - Christopher Creek is one of the lowest and clearest creeks in Rim Country right now. Small pocket water is still prevalent in the headwater portion upstream of See Canyon Trail to the See Spring, but lack of good flowing water has made angling difficult with fish spooking easier (fish darting around some isolated pools). Anglers have been having some success on Elk Hair Caddis and Parachute Adams being dabbed into smaller pools. The lower portions of the creek upstream and downstream of Christopher Creek Campground are now dry with no flowing water. Stocking has ceased throughout the creek until water conditions improve.
 |
Haigler Creek - Haigler Creek is one of the lower elevation Rim streams originating closer to the Naeglin Rim near Young, Ariz. It does experience higher water temperatures compared to other Rim streams. Trout stockings have ceased due to warm water temperatures at the stocking locations from the Haigler Creek Campground all the way down to Alderwood Campground. Some rainbow trout and potentially Gila trout are still holding into some of the deeper and larger stocking pools. Try throwing PowerBait of various colors, Panther Martin spinners, or streamers stripped through the deeper holes. Upstream around Fisherman’s Point (FP) will hold wild rainbow and brown trout that will readily take a fly. Dry flies such as elk hair caddis, ants, hoppers are great options as well as mini jig leeches worked under the waterfalls and deeper pockets. Access to the creek upstream of Fisherman’s Point requires a ½ mile, steep hike to get to the water and into wild trout. Water temperatures 64 F (FP), 70-72 F (downstream of CG).ck to edit this placeholder text.
 |
LEES FERRY/LAKE POWELL
Lees Ferry - Water Temperature: 54.9-62.6 F; D.O.: 5.6-11.6 mg/l; pH: 7.8-8.2 std units; Discharge Rate: 8,280-12,000 cfs; Turbidity 16 FNU as of 9/15/2025. See the Lees Ferry Anglers River Report at https://leesferry.com/river-report/.
Lake Powell - Water surface temperature (Wahweap Bay) 72-80 F. Lake Elevation 3,545.67 MSL (and dropping) as of 9/22/2025. Read more at https://wayneswords.net/forums/dwr-dans-updates.43/.
WESTERN ARIZONA
Colorado River Below Davis Dam - Striped bass fishing below Davis Dam is still producing. Trout-colored swimbaits and anchovies have been the go-to so far this season. Rainbow trout are also being caught out of this stretch. PowerBait has been very popular, but anglers may also try some inline spinners or small tube jigs when targeting trout. Special Regulations: From Separation Canyon to Hoover Dam (including Lake Mead): The limit is 20 striped bass: minimum of 20 inches, unlimited striped bass under 20 inches, 5 trout, and 15 crappie. From Hoover Dam to Davis Dam (including Lake Mohave and Willow Beach): The limit is 20 striped bass: minimum of 20 inches, unlimited striped bass under 20 inches, and 5 trout in any combination. Striped bass may be taken by spear or spear gun from that portion of Lake Mohave between Hoover Dam and Cottonwood Landing. From Davis Dam to the California-Nevada boundary: The limit is 6 bass; minimum size 13 inches, and 5 trout in any combination. For species not listed, or bodies of water without special regulations, refer to the statewide fishing regulations.
Lake Mead - Lake Mead has historically fished well this time of year. Striped bass are being found largely by trolling. Main lake points would be a good spot to start until a school is found. Swimbaits and anchovies seem to be the crowd favorite when targeting striped bass. Look for the largemouth bass to move into the shallower water later this month. Once up shallow, they can be caught on many different presentations. Special Regulations: The limit is 20 striped bass: minimum of 20 inches, unlimited striped bass under 20 inches, 5 trout, and 15 crappie. For species not listed, or bodies of water without special regulations, refer to the statewide fishing regulations.
Lake Mohave - Striped bass anglers are reporting success when trolling swimbaits and when fishing with anchovies. Sticking to shad imitations for your swimbaits would be a good place to start if trolling. Largemouth bass should be up shallow in the coves. Finesse presentations while the bass are up shallow in cover may be a good starting point. Smallmouth bass can also be caught this time of year. Similar to the largemouth bass, smallmouth bass will also key in on these finesse presentations. Soft plastic crayfish and small jigs may produce well. Special Regulations: The limit is 20 striped bass: minimum of 20 inches, unlimited striped bass under 20 inches, and 5 trout in any combination. Striped bass may be taken by spear or spear gun from that portion of Lake Mohave between Hoover Dam and Cottonwood Landing. For species not listed, or bodies of water without special regulations, refer to the statewide fishing regulations.
Willow Beach on Colorado River - The patterns down at Willow Beach are holding consistent. Trout fishing has been best the couple days following stockings by the hatchery. Anglers are doing well with PowerBait and nightcrawlers. Striped bass fishermen are doing well on swimbaits and plugs. This area is experiencing some algae growth, so anglers trolling may be snagging weeds more often than before. Special Regulations: The limit is 20 striped bass: minimum of 20 inches, unlimited striped bass under 20 inches, and 5 trout in any combination. Striped bass may be taken by spear or spear gun from that portion of Lake Mohave between Hoover Dam and Cottonwood Landing. For species not listed, or bodies of water without special regulations, refer to the statewide fishing regulations.
Angler posts
For each edition of the Fishing Report, we'll select some photos and reports submitted by members of the angling public either through the Fish AZ Facebook Group or through the bfishing@azgfd.gov email address. If you'd like your photo/report considered for publication here, please indicate the species, place, date, name (we only publish first name and last initial), and any other information you'd like to provide. For more photos (including new photos each day), visit the Fish AZ Facebook Group.
|
" 
