Fishing tips and upcoming events
By Chase Newlon, AZGFD Fishing R3 Coordinator
As the temperatures begin to drop, the fishing is starting to heat up!
Recent storms brought much-needed rain to the Rim Country, rejuvenating many streams in the area. This has sparked great opportunities for brown trout fishing. The added runoff has slightly muddied the water, giving fish more cover and making them less wary. As a result, they’re more likely to leave their hiding spots under grass or rocks.
Focus your efforts near large boulders and undercut banks — these areas can be especially productive this time of year.
Before you hit the water is the perfect time to make sure your gear is ready. Whether you're brand new to fishing or a seasoned angler, here are a few tips to help you gear up for a successful fall season.
If you're just getting into fishing and need a versatile setup for cold-water species, I recommend starting with a 7-foot, medium-power, fast-action spinning rod, paired with a 2500-size spinning reel. This all-around combo is well-suited for just about any type of fishing you'll encounter here in Arizona.
For trout, some of my favorite baits include salmon eggs, corn, and PowerBait, rigged with a few split-shots placed about 18 inches up the line. If you prefer artificial lures, fall is a great time to target trout with:
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¼ oz. Kastmasters
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3-1⁄8'' Rapala X-Raps
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⅛ oz. Marabou Jigs
Pair these with 6- to 8-pound fluorocarbon or monofilament lines for best results.
For the fly fishers out there, don’t forget that your fly line deteriorates over time — even with proper care. If it’s been a few years, now might be a good time to replace it. Generally, changing your fly line every 2–3 years helps maintain performance. Your local fly shop can help you choose the right line and spool it properly.
Top fly patterns for the colder months include:
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Mayers Mini Leech Jigged (size 12–14)
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Simi-Seal Leeches (size 8–10)
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Red Twisted Worm (Size 16)
The FishAZ Network is filled with great events for all skill levels by a variety of great partners. For a full list of up-to-date events, visit https://register-ed.com/programs/arizona/239-fishaz-network.
Here are a couple coming soon:
Saturday, Nov. 1, 7-11 a.m. - Hook a Kid on Fishing, City of Glendale, Heroes Regional Park Lake, Glendale. City of Glendale Parks and Recreation would like to "lure" you into getting "hooked" on fishing with a great morning outdoors! All ages are welcome to attend this FREE event. Fishing rods and bait will be available for loan while supplies last. First 100 pre-registered participants will receive a free fishing license the day of this event. No fishing license needed for participants younger than 10 years old. To register, click here.
Saturday, Nov. 22, 9 a.m. to noon - Youth Fishing Clinic, Peoria Park Rangers, Paloma Park, Peoria. Calling all young anglers! Join us for a fishing class and learn from the pros. Kids ages 5-17 can come and enjoy a class on how to master the basics of fishing. We'll provide the poles and permit for the fishing fun. Don't miss out on this reel-y fun opportunity. Space is limited. To register, call 623-773-7137 or visit www.peoriaaz.gov/recplace.
"Big Fish of the Year" and "Arizona State Records" pages updated on AZGFD website
The web pages on the Arizona Game and Fish website for "Big Fish of the Year" and "Arizona State Records" have been updated.
To view the Big Fish of the Year section, visit https://www.azgfd.com/fishing-2/big-fish-of-the-year/.
To view the Arizona State Records section, visit https://www.azgfd.com/fishing-2/arizona-state-fish-records/, then click on the category you are interested in.
Payson angler Jim Strogen says this is a favorite section of Tonto Creek that is quite a challenge to fish in the summer. Once the leaves fall, it's much easier to fish. Photo courtesy of Jim Strogen and the Payson Roundup.
Cooler weather brings trout action to Rim Country
Payson angler Jim Strogen has a great article in the Payson Roundup about fall trout fishing in Rim Country. Not only are trout more active in their feeding, but autumn is always a fun time to explore additional waters that may have been shielded by extra foliage during the summer, now that the leaves have started to fall. Jim says he always seems to find new runs or pools that were hidden and too hard to cast to when the thick summer growth along the streams blocked his access to promising water.
AZGFD has been stocking the East Verde River and Tonto Creek and will continue to do so through the end of October. The department stocked the three Green Valley Lakes with trout last week and will continue to do so every other week until early May.
The last stocking by AZGFD for Woods Canyon and Willow Springs lakes was in September, but shore fishing for trout really comes alive at this time of year, as trout move in from the depths and cruise the shoreline looking for small bait fish and bugs in the shallows. The Mogollon Sporting Association provided a fishing bonus for Rim Country anglers this year, paying for an extra stocking of tiger trout into Willow Springs Lake in September. That means there were even more fish than usual in that lake this fall.
Read the full article in the Payson Roundup.
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:
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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.
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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/.
Prime boating season may have passed, but vigilance for aquatic invasive species should remain high
As we head into fall and winter, Arizona may not be in prime boating season anymore, but boaters and anglers are still 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 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.
New Zealand mudsnails next to a dime.
AZGFD biologist speaks to angler groups about AIS threat and actions anglers can take
Jeff Sorensen, invertebrate wildlife program manager for the Arizona Game and Fish Department, is addressing different angler organizations about the threat that aquatic invasive species (AIS) pose to our state’s waters and how anglers can help prevent their spread.
Sorensen addressed the Payson Flycasters Club on Oct. 25 and spoke about the threat New Zealand mudsnails pose to Tonto Creek and Canyon Creek hatchery operations. Jeff will also give presentations to Desert Flycasters on Dec. 10, Sun Lakes Fly Fishing Club on Jan. 14, Arizona Flycasters Club at a date to be determined in February. In addition, he plans to be on hand at the Trout Unlimited Salt River Cleanup Days on Dec. 13 and March 7 to talk with anglers about AIS.
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.
Make it easy: Auto-renew your fishing license
The Arizona Game and Fish Department reminds anglers that they have the option to automatically renew their fishing, hunting or combo license when it expires.
To opt-in for license auto-renewal, customers must have an AZGFD portal account. Customers who have an existing portal account should use that account. Do not create a new portal account if one already exists. If assistance is needed to fix an existing portal account, email customer service at customer@azgfd.gov.
Selecting license auto-renewal is a three-step process: (1) Purchase a license, or use a valid license; (2) Add a credit card to be used to auto-renew a license; (3) Select the license(s) to be auto-renewed. Click HERE for step-by-step instructions.
Recent stockings
Week of 10/20 to 10/24/25
Stocked with rainbow trout unless otherwise indicated.
North Central Arizona: Goldwater Lake (upper and lower), Mingus Lake, West Clear Creek, Wet Beaver Creek.
Flagstaff/Williams: Kinnikinick Lake (tiger trout).
Mogollon Rim: East Verde River, Tonto Creek.
Southern Arizona: Parker Canyon Lake.
Community Fishing Program (stocked with channel catfish unless otherwise indicated).
Payson area: Green Valley Lakes.
Phoenix area: Alvord Lake, Chapparal Lake, Cortez Lake, Desert Breeze Lake, Desert West Lake, Encanto Lake, Evelyn Hallman Pond, Kiwanis Lake, Mansell Carter Oasis Lake, Paloma Lake, Papago Ponds, Pioneer Lake, Red Mountain Lake, Rio Vista Pond, Riverview Lake, Steele Indian School Pond, Sundance Park, Surprise Lake, Tempe Town Lake, Veteran's Oasis Lake.
Prescott area: Fain Lake, Yavapai Lakes.
Safford area: Graham County Fairground Pond.
Show Low area: Show Low Creek.
St. John's area: Patterson Ponds.
Tucson area: Kennedy Lake (channel catfish and largemouth bass), Sahuarita Lake (channel catfish), Silverbell Lake (channel catfish and largemouth bass).
Week of 10/13 to 10/17/25
Stocked with rainbow trout unless otherwise indicated.
Central Arizona: Salt River.
North Central Arizona: Oak Creek, Goldwater Lake (upper - Gila trout), Goldwater Lake (lower - rainbow trout).
Flagstaff/Williams area: Cataract Lake.
Southern Arizona: Rose Canyon Lake.
Reports
NORTHERN ARIZONA
The forecast calls for sunny days this week and into the weekend. Highs will be in the high 60s and lows will be in the 30s for Flagstaff, Williams, and the Mogollon Rim. Water temperatures will be in the high 50s to low 60s this week. Lower elevations around the Verde Valley will see sunny days this week and into the weekend. Highs will be in the 80s and lows will be in the 30s to 40s for the Verde Valley. Fall is a great time to pursue one of the Departments Trout Challenges https://www.azgfd.com/fishing-2/fishing-challenges/azgfd-trout-challenge/. 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 https://www.azgfd.com/fishing-2/fishing-challenges/arizona-bass-challenge/. This is the time of year when campgrounds start to close; check with the appropriate forest before planning your next trip for updates.
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 - This is the time of year when the campgrounds close for the winter, check with the Kaibab National Forest for updates. The day use and boat launch will remain 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 62.70 F, pH 8.54, dissolved oxygen (D.O.) 7.50 mg/l, and turbidity 80.50 NTU on 10/2/2025.
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 65.11 F, pH 8.48, D.O. 7.55 mg/l, and turbidity 52.63 NTU on 10/2/2025.
City Reservoir (Buckskinner Park) - Buckskinner Park and access to City Reservoir are 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 65.03 F, pH 8.39, D.O. 7.63, and turbidity 32.96 on 10/2/2025.
Dogtown Lake - This is the time of year that the campgrounds close for the winter, check with the Kaibab National Forest for updates. The day use and boat launch will remain 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 63.22 F, pH 9.02, D.O. 8.16 mg/l, and turbidity 22.00 NTU on 10/2/2025.
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 63.29 F, pH 8.31, D.O. 7.64 mg/l, and turbidity 5.16 NTU on 10/2/2025.
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. JD is very low and weedy. Surface temperature 68.51 F, pH 9.05, D.O. 8.79 mg/l, turbidity 0.62 NTU on 10/2/2025.
Whitehorse Lake - This is the time of year when the campground and vehicle access to the boat launch close for the winter season. Check with the Kaibab National Forest for updates on lake access. 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 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. The lake is currently dry.
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, northern pike and a few black crappie on soft plastics 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 54.54 F, pH 7.96, D.O. 6.23 mg/l, and turbidity 6.70 NTU on 10/21/2025.
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Ashurst Lake - This is the time of year when the campgrounds close for the winter season.
Access to the boat launch and day use areas will remain open. Check with the Coconino National Forest for updates. 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 63.38 F, pH 8.81, D.O. 8.05 mg/l, and turbidity 62.47 NTU on 10/2/2025.
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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. Surface temperature 60.13 F, pH 8.42, D.O. 7.74 mg/l, and turbidity 77.05 NTU on 10/2/2025. Fall is a good time of year to target the brown trout and tiger trout that reside in Kinnikinick Lake. Tiger trout were stocked last week.
Marshall Lake - Only boats with a single 10-horsepower motor or single electric motor are allowed on Marshall Lake. The lake is very weedy and low. Given the poor summer time water quality, the lake is likely fishless.
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 with a recent reading of 30.4 cfs, stream
temperature 54.1-57.2 F, turbidity 2.1 FNU @ 8:45 a.m. on 10/27/2025. Banjo Bill picnic area is closed for repairs. The leaves are starting to change color, that means the busy tourist season is in full swing as the leaf peeper crowd descends upon the upper canyon. To beat the crowds, try fishing early in the morning and during the week. 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.
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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 is at base flow with a recent reading of 3.49 cfs and stream temperature 56.5-60.1 F @ 8:45 a.m. on 10/27/2025. Base flow is 12-15 cfs. Rainbow trout were stocked last week.
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 is at base flow with a recent reading of 7.89 cfs @ 8:45 a.m. on 10/27/2025. Average base flow is ~4-9 cfs for Wet Beaver Creek. Rainbow trout were stocked last week.
CENTRAL ARIZONA
At Bartlett Lake, pro angler Gary Senft and his fishing partner were out on Bartlett Lake one day last week fishing with no graphs. They caught 39 fish. Best estimate is they were caught in 10 to 25 feet of water, shallow early and then moving deeper. Best baits were jerk baits, SR5 Rapala crankbaits, and then went to drop shot and then mini Carolina Rig. Best worms were the 5150 Money Shot and Ringworm with dipped tail. Water temp was 75 F. See the video.
At the Lower Salt River, fall/winter trout stockings started up again earlier this month and trout will continue to be stocked the rest of this year and into 2026. Consult the public stocking calendar to see when it will be stocked next. Salt River water flows are still high but will come down over the following months as we get into the winter season. Fishing has been good for stocked rainbows with indicator rigs in the deeper pools and riffle seams. Various nymphs and sizes will work as well as small streamers stripped. PowerBait and worms are also working for anglers. Largemouth bass are also being caught by anglers on a variety of gear – both spin and fly tackle.
NORTH CENTRAL ARIZONA
Deadhorse State Park Lagoons - Catfish and largemouth bass continue to be caught well at Deadhorse. Anglers targeting largemouth bass are having the most success with finesse set ups that are being fished slow. Some anglers have also reported largemouth bass success when fishing with bluegill imitations. The channel catfish are seeming to like nightcrawlers and chicken livers. Deadhorse was last stocked with channel catfish the week of Sept. 22. 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 nightcrawlers, chicken livers, or anchovies. Upper Goldwater was last stocked with channel catfish the week of Aug. 22 and with rainbow trout the week of Sept. 29 and again the week of Oct. 20. 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 is picking up with these lower temperatures. Trout anglers typically do well on inline spinners like Panther Martins or Mepps. Largemouth bass can still be caught as the water temperatures cool, but anglers may want to use smaller and slower moving presentations as the fish slow down before the winter months. Lower Goldwater Lake was last stocked with Gila trout the week of Oct. 6 and with rainbow trout the week of Oct. 20. 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 - Anglers are reporting large numbers of trout being caught out of Mingus. The lake was last stocked with rainbow trout the week of Sept. 29. 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.
MOGOLLON RIM LAKES
Blue Ridge/C.C. Cragin Reservoir - This is the time of year when the campground closes for the winter; check with the Coconino National Forest for updates. 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 6,664.16 feet, current volume is at 4,412 acre feet or 30% full and dropping on 10/27/2025. The gate at the top of the boat launch is locked. Boaters can hand carry or drag small water craft the ~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.
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Knoll Lake - Knoll lake is currently fishless following AZGFD's efforts to remove illegally
stocked green sunfish. The department plans to restock Knoll Lake in the spring of 2026.
The illegal stocking of unwanted fish diminished the quality of our fisheries, costs the
department time and money, and in some cases restricts public access to fisheries while
removal efforts are being conducted. If you see anyone illegally stocking fish into any of the
state's fisheries, please contact the Operation Game Thief Hotline at 1-800-352-0700. 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. Reminder, the statewide limit is 4 trout per licensed angler per day.
Huffer Tank - Huffer tank is likely fishless following very low conditions this summer.
MOGOLLON RIM STREAMS
Fall is now definitely in the air with the fall colors in deep bloom on many of the regional creeks. Stream flows in all of the Mogollon Rim creeks have increased after the last two
hurricane remnant rains we’ve had in the last few weeks. With this boost in precipitation, our
creeks have been looking the best they have all summer which will translate into better fishing this fall and more opportunities. Rim stream temperatures are also continuing to go down with headwater sections around 52 degrees and cooling by the day. Ambient highs for the Payson area will be in the 60-70s with nights cooling off nicely into the 40s as our fishing days are getting shorter. A few of our creeks (Tonto Creek and East Verde River) have received a few stockings as they are getting fish off station before winter hits. Stockings in these put-and-take fisheries will create opportunities for rainbow trout and native Gila trout.
East Verde River - Upper East Verde River has been fishing well for wild rainbow trout with a handful of bugs working well. The fish here (and other wild trout in the region) are very opportunistic and have been still eating the dry fly. Mini hoppers and other dry flies have been working well in the late mornings to early evening, whereas a more subsurface presentation will be better in the morning as it warms up. Various small nymphs presented well around habitat will entice these fish to come out to eat. Try pheasant tails, hares ears, or prince nymphs as well as leeches (black or olive). Please remember, this is a special regulation water upstream of the Pumphouse. This is catch-and-release only for trout; no trout may be kept; artificial fly and lure only; single-pointed barbless hooks only.
This month the East Verde has been receiving supplemental stockings of rainbow trout as well as one stocking of native Gila trout. These stockings have been taking place at the various recreation sites along the creek. Anglers have been having the most success fishing at 1st Crossing and Waterwheel, which has the best water with the deepest stocking pools. Anglers are using a variety of techniques. including worms/PowerBait, small in-line spinners, as well as flies. Streamers and nymphs will work the best for the stocked trout.
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Dude Creek - Dude Creek is a special regulation water that is managed as a Gila trout recovery stream. This is catch-and-release only for trout; no trout may be kept; artificial fly and lure only; single-pointed barbless hooks only. Now is a great time to fish this creek whether you are working on your Arizona Wild Trout Challenge or the Western Native Trout Challenge for a Gila. The creek is fishing better now that stream and ambient temperatures are coming down after a long summer. Wild Gila trout in Dude Creek seem to orient to in-stream cover such as boulders, large woody debris and undercuts but will come out to investigate a well-presented fly. Hot head leeches seem to be the ticket as they are worked along cover. Recently, I did observe a Gila trout sipping bugs off the surface – we switched to a size 16 elk hair caddis and eventually caught the fish! Some dry fly opportunities arise here but throwing subsurface flies will produce the most success.
Arizona Trout Unlimited and AZGFD have a volunteer opportunity coming up on Saturday, Nov. 15 on Dude Creek. Volunteers and department personnel will be planting riparian vegetation along a recently renovated section of the creek. This is important work to help Gila trout and other wildlife in the area by providing better fish habitat, cooling shade, and bank stability. Here is the volunteer link: https://volunteer.azgfd.gov/need/detail/?need_id=1159729.
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Canyon Creek - Canyon Creek is split into two sections, with the upper Canyon Creek being managed as a put-and-take fishery that gets stocked with rainbows once a week during the summer months until the end of September, while the “Lower Canyon Creek” is managed as a catch-and-release wild brown trout population. The sections are divided by the OW Bridge, with water downstream being designated catch-and release and upstream being put-and-take. Brown trout inhabit both sections of the creek with a majority being in this lower section. Brown trout are fall spawning fish and are currently in the process of making their redds and other spawning activities. Please take great care to be on the lookout for these structures so as not to step on them if wading. Also, staying away from targeting active spawning fish will ensure better success for the future of this population. Note spawning active browns will be more active as we continue the fall season with fish chasing small streamers such as wooly buggers and leeches with some fish still being caught on ants and other terrestrial bugs that are falling into the creek.
Please remember, Lower Canyon Creek is under special regulation. This is catch-and-release only for trout; no trout may be kept; artificial fly and lure only; single-pointed barbless hooks only. New Zealand mudsnails are also prevalent in the Lower Section. Please take great care not to transfer this harmful species to other bodies of water by properly disinfecting gear. Actions you can take to prevent their spread can be found on our AIS site: https://www.azgfd.com/fishing-2/aquatic-invasive-
species/new-zealand-mudsnails/.
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Tonto Creek - Tonto Creek has been getting stocked with nice sized rainbows throughout the month of October at various recreation sites (primarily downstream of the powerlines) as well as at Bear Flats. The best chance to catch them is the first few days post stocking on a variety of gear types. I had success earlier this month with a black copper john about one foot under an indicator, casting it into some of the deeper pools and pockets. Orange and salmon peach PowerBait will also work for rainbow trout. Tonto Creek also has a population of wild brown trout that are becoming more active and transitioning into the spawning season. Please take care to watch out for spawning redds. This is the time of year for an opportunity for really nice brown trout in deeper pools by stripping large streamers or throwing jiggy streamers under an indicator. Tonto Creek has New Zealand mudsnails documented in the creek, although not as prevalent as Canyon Creek. Please check fishing gear and disinfect to stop the spread of these aquatic invasives.
LEES FERRY/LAKE POWELL
Lees Ferry - Water Temperature: 62.1-63.0 F; D.O.: 5.9-6.9 mg/l; pH: 7.9-8.1 std units; Discharge Rate: 8,660-5,950 cfs; Turbidity 10.0 FNU as of 10/27/2025. See the Lees Ferry Anglers River Report at https://leesferry.com/river-report/.
Lake Powell - Water surface temperature (Wahweap Bay) 59-65 F. Lake Elevation 3,545.65 MSL (and stable) as of 10/27/2025. 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, but the bass seem to be a bit smaller. Trout-colored swimbaits and anchovies have been the go-to so far this season. The trout fishing in this reach is picking up. 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 in white color schemes and anchovies seem to be the crowd favorite when targeting striped bass. Anglers are also reporting success with different small jigs in white color schemes. 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, jigs, 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 during the early morning hours and at night. 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. 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.
SOUTHERN ARIZONA
Rose Canyon Lake campground gate closed on Oct. 26. Anglers are still able to park their car at the top parking lot by the gate and hike in after Oct. 26 to fish the lake. Goldfish were illegally introduced to Rose Canyon Lake, please lethally remove all goldfish caught.
Riggs Flat Lake has recently had a new dock installed for angler access. The road to Riggs Flat Lake will be closed to the public in mid November. Be aware that water levels at both lakes are incredibly low. As temperatures drop, trout in both lakes will be more active; target fish during sunrise or sunset with lures or flies instead of bait for a greater chance of a hookup. For fly anglers: small streamers will be the ticket for most of the day, while a switch to dry flies at dusk would be prudent.
Cluff Ranch Pond #3 is open to the public, yet water levels are still incredibly low. Cluff Ranch Pond #3 remains catch and release for all species (excluding rainbow trout) through May 31, 2026.
Parker Canyon Lake, Patagonia Lake, and Pena Blanca Lake are all still very low, despite recent rain from the remnants of Hurricane Priscilla. Use caution when backing boats into the water and do so at your own risk. Certain anglers have reported being able to launch their boats at the aforementioned lakes while others have claimed that they were unable to do so.
At Patagonia Lake, only one side of the main boat ramp by the marina is currently open. Boats on trailers are currently still not able to be launched at Arivaca Lake, meaning that float tubes and kayaks are the way to go for the time being down there.
Reports are that plastic worms have generally been the most effective at the four southern reservoirs (Arivaca, Parker Canyon, Patagonia, and Pena Blanca) lately, with wacky and dropshot rigs appearing to be the most effective soft plastic setups currently. The stocking of rainbow trout into low elevation lakes in the region will kick off in late October with Parker Canyon being the first low elevation lake in the region to receive trout.
Catfish will continue to be stocked in Region 5 Community Fishing Program waters through early November.
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.
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