June 6 is Free Fishing Day: A great time to introduce a novice or youngster to fishing
Many anglers have friends who have never been fishing but are curious to learn. One of the best ways to introduce them to this long-standing pastime is to take them out on Arizona's Free Fishing Day.
This year, Saturday, June 6, is the perfect time to do it, as the Arizona Game and Fish Department will not require fishing licenses at any state waters or community lakes as part of National Free Fishing Day.
“The goal of Free Fishing Day is to encourage people to enjoy the outdoors, spend quality time with friends and family, and experience the fun of fishing,” says Chase Newlon, AZGFD fishing R3 coordinator. "Many people who experience fishing for the first time enjoy it so much that they buy a license so they can continue enjoying it all year."
Fishing is already a bargain. Arizona fishing licenses start at just $37 for resident adults (18 and older) and $55 for nonresident adults. A combination hunt and fish license for youths (ages 10-17, residents or nonresidents) is only $5.
While a fishing license is not needed on June 6 this year, bag limits and other Arizona fishing regulations still apply and must be observed on Free Fishing Day. Children under 10 can fish for free all year in Arizona.
Here are a few events taking place on Free Fishing Day:
Saturday, June 6, 9 a.m. to noon - AZGFD Fly Fishing Clinic at Whitehorse Lake near Williams, Ariz. Ready to cast a line and have a good time? Join us at Whitehorse Lake for a free fly fishing clinic that's perfect for beginners or experienced anglers looking to brush up on their skills. All gear is provided - just bring yourself! No licenses are required for this event on this day. Day-use fees at Whitehorse Lake will be WAIVED for registered participants. The event is recommended for anyone 12 or older. To get to Whitehorse Lake from Williams, turn south onto 4th Street/County Road 73 and drive about 9 miles to Forest Road 110. Turn left and proceed for approximately 7 miles to FR 109. Turn left again and follow for about 3 miles to the campground). Preregistration is required; click HERE to register for the June 6 event. (There is another Fly Fishing Clinic to be held at Whitehorse Lake from 9 a.m. to noon on Saturday, June 20. Click here for details of the June 20 event).
Saturday, June 6, 6 a.m. to noon - AZSCI Free Fishing Day Event, Silverbell Lake, 2955 W. Calle Agua Nueva, Tucson. Come out and enjoy Arizona Free Fishing Day with the Arizona Chapter of Safari Club International. We will have fishing equipment and volunteers helping teach fishing techniques. This event is for all skill levels, so please come out and say hello! We will provide lunch at Ramada #5 at the north end of the lake. Preregistration is required; click here to register.
Saturday, June 6, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. - Reel It In - A barrier-free fishing program by AAWS, Bartlett Lake Marina, 20808 E. Bartlett Dam Rd, Rio Verde, Ariz. This program is conducted by Arizona Adaptive Water Sports, a cross-generational outdoor adaptive watersports program for people with disabilities. Reel It In provides inclusive, structured opportunities for youth, adults, and veterans with physical and cognitive disabilities along with their families to learn and enjoy the sport of fishing. It focuses on beginner-level instruction, with hands-on, supportive teaching in basic fishing skills, equipment use, fish handling, and outdoor safety. Program staff and volunteers will guide participants through each stage of the experience — from casting a line to cooking their catch. Preregistration is required; click here to register.
Saturday, June 6, 8 a.m. to noon – Free Fishing Fun Day – hosted by AZGFD, Deadhorse Ranch State Park, and Prescott National Forest. Held at Dead Horse State Park Ponds, 675 Dead Horse Ranch Road, Cottonwood, Ariz. Waters will be freshly stocked with channel catfish. Bring your own equipment, or loaner rods and reels will be provided. Instruction available and bait provided. No fishing license required. For more information, contact Dead Horse Ranch State Park at 928-634-5283. Preregistration is required; click here register.
For information about fishing and license regulations and places to go, visit https://www.azgfd.com/fishing-2/.
Arizona anglers invited to participate in the Fish250 Challenge
250: Fish 2 Community Fishing Program waters, 5 Arizona lakes or streams, have 0 bad days!
Anglers of all experience levels are invited to explore the incredible fishing opportunities found across Arizona by participating in the Fish250 Challenge.
The challenge is part of Arizona’s Outdoors250 celebration encouraging people to get outside, try something new, and reconnect with Mother Nature through outdoor recreation. Outdoors250, in turn, is part of America250, a nationwide initiative commemorating the 250th anniversary of the United States.
It’s easy to participate. Just take selfies (or have someone take photos of you) at each of these locations and do the following to fulfill the Fish250 Challenge:
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2 - Fish 2 Community Fishing Program waters
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5 - Fish 5 Arizona lakes or streams
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0 - Have 0 bad days
Once you’ve completed the Fish250 Challenge, fill out the completion form, download your photos, and click on “submit.” If you send in the form before the end of August, you’ll receive the Fish250 Sticker Pack.
“What a wonderful way to celebrate fishing in Arizona. This challenge is about more than the catch — it’s about discovering new places, enjoying the outdoors and recognizing the role anglers play as conservationists who help protect healthy fisheries and waters for generations to come,” says Alec Young, Trout Unlimited’s Angling Recruitment, Retention, Reactivation Manager.
For more information on the Fish250 Challenge, including information on where to fish, license requirements, regulations, how-to videos, and more, visit https://www.azgfd.com/fish250/.
For more information on Arizona’s Outdoors250, visit https://azstateparks.com/Outdoors250.
Fishing tips and upcoming events
By Chase Newlon, AZGFD Fishing R3 Coordinator
Summer is here! With temperatures approaching the 100s, now is a good time to head up north to escape the heat. You aren’t the only ones feeling the heat, some fish are sensitive to warmer temperatures as well. Be sure to check the water temperature before fishing for trout. If the water temperature is above 67 degrees, it is best to fish elsewhere with cooler water temperatures or switch to fishing for a warmwater species.
The creeks along the Mogollon Rim and throughout the White Mountains host a wide range of different trout species; Brown trout, Apache trout, tiger trout, rainbow trout, Gila trout and brook trout. A few of my favorite places are the West Fork Little Colorado River for Apache trout and Tonto Creek for rainbow trout and brown trout.
I have found fly fishing to be an extremely effective way to fish the small pools in these creeks and rivers. A dry dropper rig with a size 12 Chubby Chernobyl and a Pheasant Tail or Perdigon continues to produce fish for me. Small leeches and streamers can also be effective in targeting some bigger fish out of the creeks.
For the conventional gear angler, small Kastmasters, Blue Foxes and Marabou Jigs fished in the larger pools can be productive on these creeks. A 6- to 7-foot light or ultralight action spinning rod with 4- to 6-pound test works great for the small creeks. Click here for a good spinning setup for these small creeks.
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.
Cluff Pond map.
AZGFD creates updated maps of southern Arizona lakes
With assistance from the AZGFD's statewide Aquatic Habitat Program, the Tucson regional Aquatics Program has successfully created maps of all Region 5 lakes and reservoirs.
These maps were created by capturing 2D sonar recordings and then processed using ArcGIS Pro. These maps are now available to the public on the newly refurbished fishandboataz webtool (https://fishandboataz.azgfd.com/) and can thus not only be of use to departmental staff for management purposes, but can also be a tool for anglers to help them understand both the dimensions and bottom contours of the lakes they know and love.
AZGFD offers recommendations for best high country lakes to fish this summer
The Arizona Game and Fish Department offers tips to the recreating public for the best high country waters to visit this summer.
Department staff recommends anglers visit Big Lake, Fool Hollow Lake, and Show Low Lake in the White Mountains area; Knoll Lake, Willow Springs Lake, and Woods Canyon Lake on the Mogollon Rim; and Ashurst Lake, Cataract Lake, City Reservoir, Dogtown Lake, and Santa Fe Reservoir in the Flagstaff/Williams area as waters that are likely to provide the best high country fishing in 2026.
Stocking schedules at other high country waters may be adjusted depending on conditions. Be sure to check the stocking schedule before heading out. Water levels at some waters may impact opportunities to launch watercraft. For current information, contact the jurisdiction for the lake you are planning to visit.
The department will continue to stock fish wherever water quality is good and will continue to provide excellent fishing opportunities where lakes have adequate water levels. For the most up-to-date information on trout stocking in Arizona, please visit the Arizona Game and Fish Department’s Fish Stocking Schedule at https://www.azgfd.com/fishing-2/where-to-fish/fish-stocking-schedule/.
AZGFD partnering with SonicPure and Apache-Sitgreaves National Forest to improve water quality at Luna Lake
Pilot project will utilize devices to reduce algae in the lake to improve conditions for fish, wildlife and recreationists
The Arizona Game and Fish Department is conducting a pilot project in Luna Lake near Alpine, Ariz., partnering with SonicPure and Apache-Sitgreaves National Forest. The goal of the study is to prevent fish kills and improve water quality at the lake by attempting to eliminate Harmful Algae Blooms (HABs).
HABs are excessive growths of certain types of algae in water bodies, such as lakes, rivers, and oceans. The overgrowth of these blooms can result in harmful effects on the environment, aquatic life, and public health. The most problematic HABs also produce toxins. HABs have been linked to fish kills that have occurred in Luna Lake in three of the past six years.
SonicPure systems transmit precisely tuned ultrasonic waves that travel through the water column, targeting algae at their source. These sound waves interfere with the algae’s buoyancy control, causing cells to sink below the light zone and die naturally. Safe for fish, zooplankton, and aquatic plants, this process restores clarity and keeps the water balanced and healthy without chemicals.
There will be two units anchored to the lakebed in Luna Lake marked by hazard buoys. The public is asked to please not touch, tamper, or remove any equipment, or tie off to or anchor near the equipment. Interfering with the equipment will compromise the study. The department appreciates the public’s cooperation as we work to better understand and manage HABs in Luna Lake.
More information on HABs can be found at the Arizona Department of Environmental Quality’s website (https://azdeq.gov/AZHABs/faqs).
If you have questions about the study, please contact fishinfoaz@azgfd.gov.
Canyon Creek Hatchery stocks retired Gila trout broodstock
The Canyon Creek Fish Hatchery recently retired 134 Gila trout from its broodstock production. Retired brood fish generally range in age from 3 to 5 years old and give anglers the opportunity to catch a mature, larger-size fish.
The 134 Gila trout had an average size of over 14 inches and were stocked into Upper Goldwater Lake in Prescott and spread across a few pools in Oak Creek.
Native and Wild Trout Conference a success
On April 23, the Native Trout and Chub program with the Arizona Chapter of Trout Unlimited hosted the 17th Annual Native and Wild Trout Conference at the Arizona Game and Fish Department headquarters in Phoenix.
Talks included topics such as Gila trout and Apache trout conservation efforts, tactics for successful fishing trips, best spots to catch wild trout in AZGFD Regions 1, 2, and 6, the AML Mines Cleanup Project to benefit trout, the Arizona Fish Advisory Program, and ongoing and future habitat restorations.
Multiple agencies presented at the conference, including talks from Trout Unlimited, AZGFD staff, the Arizona Department of Environmental Quality, and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.
There were also two award presentations. The Gila Trout Award was presented to the Mora National Fish Hatchery manager, Daniel Gallegos, for his dedication to producing Gila trout for recovery stockings in both Arizona and New Mexico. Daniel has achieved success through a combination of infrastructure improvements at the hatchery and changes to their spawning protocol, which have resulted in dramatically increased egg eye-up rate and larval survival after hatching.
The Apache Trout Award was awarded to AZ Fly Shop for its support of a wide range of efforts to support and protect some of our great natural resources – native and wild trout. AZ Fly Shop joins a few organizations that have made long-term contributions to the conservation of these vital resources.
Earth Month lake cleanup events draw more than 300 volunteers
The Arizona Game and Fish Department (AZGFD), Arizona Public Service (APS), U.S. Forest Service, City of Phoenix, City of Prescott, Liberty Wildlife, Lake Pleasant Regional Park and other organizations partnered this year to celebrate Earth Month by conducting cleanup events at several Arizona waters on APS’s 140th Anniversary - Wednesday, April 29.
Cumulatively, more than 300 volunteers turned out at various waters around the state, including Rio Salado Habitat Restoration Area in Phoenix, Lake Pleasant, three Mogollon Rim lakes (Woods Canyon, Willow Springs, Bear Canyon), Ashurst Lake (southeast of Prescott), and Goldwater Lake (near Prescott). They picked up trash and discarded fishing line, and collected other items that, if left untouched, could be harmful to wildlife and spoil these beautiful natural areas. Their efforts help encourage the public to "Keep wildlife wild, pick up your trash."
Alex Regalado, a student in the after-school fly-fishing program, demonstrating how to hold a crappie for easy hook removal and release. Photo courtesy of Jim Strogen and the Payson Roundup.
Fly-fishing program at Julia Randall Elementary School in Payson draws young anglers for 10th year
For the past 10 years, fourth- and fifth-grade students at Julia Randall Elementary (JRE) in Payson have had the opportunity to learn fly fishing in an after-school program. In that time, well over 200 students have caught crappies, bluegills, trout and bass from Green Valley Park lakes.
The program meets once a week for 10 to 12 weeks each semester. In the fall, students learn the basics of setting up a fly rod and casting with a roll cast. They also learn to tie fly patterns that work well in Green Valley lakes and other Rim Country waters. After tying a new pattern, students test their flies the following week on fish in the lakes.
The spring session is open to a new group of students who want to try fly fishing. A few from the fall session often return in the spring as well. Fly tying is not part of the spring curriculum. Instead, students learn essential fly-fishing knots and study aquatic insects and the fly patterns used to imitate them. They also build fly-fishing lanyards stocked with clippers, hemostats, tippet material, a license holder, a bandana for handling fish, and a fly box filled with flies tied by Payson Flycasters Club members. Students then take part in casting practice before spending the remainder of the sessions fishing with a coach available to assist with tangles, offer guidance and help release fish safely.
The Mogollon Sporting Association (MSA) and Payson Flycasters Club (PFC) have supported the program since its beginning. MSA provided fly rods, tying vises, equipment and initial materials. PFC has funded fly-tying and lanyard supplies and provided additional gear and flies tied by club members each year. Students keep their lanyards, tools and flies at the end of the program. They also receive a Rim Country Fishing Guide from the Payson Roundup.
Read the full article by Jim Strogen in the Payson Roundup.
Reminder: It is illegal to transport live fish from one water body to another
Money spent on dealing with illegally introduced fish takes away from funds that could go toward providing more angler opportunities
Anglers are reminded that stocking or moving unauthorized fish from one water body to another in Arizona 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.
See the video on how illegal moving or stocking of fish can do serious damage to native fish populations and ecosystems.
Boaters and anglers: Please help stop the spread of aquatic invasive species
Aquatic invasive species (AIS) are threatening the public’s angling and boating recreation and our state’s water and electrical infrastructure. It is critical for anyone who owns or uses watercraft, or has a business reliant on watercraft, to understand the essential nature of this aquatic invasive species containment effort by the Arizona Game and Fish Department.
The spread of quagga mussels and other aquatic invasive species has far-reaching impacts, both financial and ecological, that can touch virtually every resident of the state. Whether you fish, or boat, or simply get water and electricity to your home, these aquatic invaders WILL affect your lifestyle…and possibly your wallet.
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, 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/.
Important items
Recent stockings
Week of 5/18 to 5/22/26
Stocked with rainbow trout unless otherwise indicated.
Central Arizona: Salt River.
North Central Arizona: Dead Horse Lake (channel catfish), Goldwater Lake (upper), Lynx Lake (channel catfish), Oak Creek.
Flagstaff/Williams: Ashurst Lake, Cataract Lake (rainbow trout and channel catfish), City Reservoir (channel catfish), Frances Short Pond (channel catfish), Mormon Lodge Pond, Santa Fe Reservoir (channel catfish), Whitehorse Lake (channel catfish).
Mogollon Rim: Bear Canyon Lake, Canyon Creek, Christopher Creek, East Verde River, Haigler Creek (Gila trout), Huffer Tank, Knoll Lake, Tonto Creek, Willow Springs Lake, Woods Canyon Lake.
White Mountains: Big Lake (Apache trout), Cow Punch (channel catfish), East Fork Black RIver (Apache trout), River Reservoir, Silver Creek (Apache trout), West Fork Black River (Apache trout), West Fork Little Colorado River (Apache trout - Greer and Sheep's crossing).
Southern Arizona: Rose Canyon Lake.
Western Arizona: Colorado River.
Community Fishing Program (stocked with channel catfish):
Casa Grande area: Dave White Regional Park Pond.
Phoenix area - Copper Sky Lake, Discovery Pond, Eastmark Park Pond, Friendship Park Pond, Gilbert Regional Park Pond, Greenfield Pond, Heroes Regional Park Pond, McQueen Pond, Pacana Pond, Roadrunner Pond, Tempe Town Lake, Water Ranch Lake.
Prescott area: Fain Lake.
St. John's area: Patterson Ponds (upper and lower).
Week of 5/11 to 5/15/26
Stocked with rainbow trout unless otherwise indicated.
North Central Arizona: Goldwater Lake (upper - Gila trout), Lynx Lake, Mingus Lake, Oak Creek.
Flagstaff/Williams: City Reservoir, Santa Fe Reservoir.
Mogollon Rim: Canyon Creek, C.C. Cragin (Blue Ridge) Reservoir, Christopher Creek, East Verde River (Gila trout), Haigler Creek, Tonto Creek, Willow Springs Lake (tiger trout), Woods Canyon Lake (tiger trout).
White Mountains: Bunch Reservoir, East Fork Black RIver (Apache trout), Hulsey Lake, River Reservoir, Silver Creek (Apache trout), West Fork Black River (Apache trout), West Fork Little Colorado River (Apache trout - Greer and Sheep's crossing).
Southern Arizona: Riggs Flat Lake.
Community Fishing Program (stocked with channel catfish):
Gila Bend - Benders Pond.
Phoenix area - Alamar Park Pond, Chapparal Lake, Desert West Lake, Encanto Lake, Evelyn Hallman Pond, Mansell Carter Oasis Lake, Paloma Lake, Papago Ponds, Pioneer Lake, Red Mountain Lake, Rio Vista Pond, Riverview Lake, Roadrunner Pond, Steele Indian School Pond, Sundance Park, Surprise Lake, Veteran's Oasis Lake.
Prescott area: Fain Lake.
Safford area: Graham County Fairground Pond.
Tucson area: Kennedy Lake, Lakeside Lake, Sahuarita Lake, Silverbell Lake.
Yuma area - Council Avenue Pond, Fortuna Lake, Pacific Avenue Athletic Club Pond, Yuma West Wetlands Pond.
Check the stocking schedules HERE.
Reports
NORTHERN ARIZONA
The forecast for Flagstaff, Williams, and the Mogollon Rim calls for sunny days during the week and into the weekend. Strong winds are expected for Wednesday and Thursday. Highs will be in the 60s to 70s and lows will be in the 30s to 40s. Water temperatures will be in the 60s to 70s. Lower elevations around the Verde Valley will see sunny days this week and into the weekend. Highs will be in the 80s to 90s with lows in the 40s to 50s.
Now is a great time to pursue one of the Department's Trout Challenges (https://www.azgfd.com/fishing-2/fishing-challenges/azgfd-trout-challenge/) or Bass Challenges (https://www.azgfd.com/fishing-2/fishing-challenges/arizona-bass-challenge/). Water temperatures have hit the mid 60s in the lakes around Williams and Flagstaff, which means warmwater species (largemouth bass, bluegill, channel catfish, and black crappie) are active. The lakes are also still cool enough that trout are still biting. Fishing should be excellent this week. Try fishing for trout early in the morning and late in the evening and fish for warmwater species during the middle of the day.
Bait Anglers: Worms, corn, and PowerBait will be your best bets 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 Petes, 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. Warmwater species like largemouth bass, bluegill and black crappie are moving in shallow.
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 day use, boat launch, and campgrounds are now 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. Water temperature 61.84 F, pH 8.58, Dissolved Oxygen (D.O.) 7.72 mg/l, and turbidity 142.4 NTU on 5/14/2026.
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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. Anglers have been catching trout on worms, lures, and flies. Warmwater species like largemouth bass, bluegill, black crappie are also active. Rainbow trout and channel catfish were stocked last week. Water temperature 65.93 F, pH 9.08, D.O. 8.77 mg/l, and turbidity 34.26 NTU on 5/14/2026.
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. Channel catfish were stocked last week. Rainbow trout will be stocked this week. Water temperature 64.55 F, pH 8.63, D.O. 7.72 mg/l, and turbidity 34.84 on 5/21/2026.
Dogtown Lake - The Dogtown Lake campground, day use, and boat launch are now open. The lake level is just below the old boat ramp and launching a boat is a little challenging. 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. Anglers have been catching trout, largemouth bass, and black crappie. Rainbow trout will be stocked this week. Water temperature 64.53 F, pH 8.63, D.O. 7.72 mg/l, and turbidity 34.84 NTU on 5/21/2026. Rainbow trout will be stocked this week.
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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. Anglers have been catching trout on worms, PowerBait, flies (#10 Simi Seal Leeches, #12 Prince nymphs), and lures (Joe’s flies). Channel catfish were stocked last week and are being caught on worms by the dam. Water temperature 64.22 F, pH 8.88, D.O. 8.43 mg/l, and turbidity 11.91 on 5/14/2026.
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 full from recent storms.
Whitehorse Lake - The White Horse Lake campground, day use, and boat launch are now
open. Only boats with a single electric motor are allowed on White Horse Lake. No gas-powered motors. The limit is 2 bass minimum size 13 inches, the limit is 4 channel catfish. The lake is just barely on the boat launch and the water is currently dirty from spring runoff. Anglers are finding success using lures with flash and vibration such as inline spinners and worms. Channel catfish were stocked last week.
Russel Tank - The limit is 4 trout. Access to Russel Tank is open.
FLAGSTAFF LAKES (Coconino National Forest):
Lower Lake Mary - 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. Lower Lake Mary is dry.
Upper Lake Mary - Upper Lake Mary 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. Northern pike and walleye are active.
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. Anglers are finding success catching rainbow trout on worms, inline spinners, and flies (#10 black bead-headed Simi Seal Leech and #10 black and brown Wooly Bugger patterns). Channel catfish were stocked last week. Rainbow trout will be stocked this week. Surface temperature 63.42 F, pH 8.23, D.O. 7.01 mg/l, turbidity 19.81 NTU on 5/21/2026.
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Ashurst Lake - FR 82E to Ashurst Lake and campgrounds is now 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. Fly and lure anglers are catching holdover trout on #10 Black Simi-seal Leeches, #12 Prince Nymphs, and on inline spinners. Water temperature 58.49 F, pH 9.11, D.O. 8.66 mg/l, and turbidity 25.54 NTU on 5/22/2026. Rainbow trout were stocked last week.
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Kinnikinick Lake - FR 125 to Kinnikinick Lake is now open. 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. A few folks have been catching nice channel catfish on bait.
Mormon Lodge Pond - Mormon Lodge and access to the pond are open. Surface temperature 66.05 F, pH 8.16, D.O. 7.50 mg/l, turbidity 9.25 NTU on 5/152026. Rainbow trout were stocked last week.
Marshall Lake - FR 128 to Marshall Lake is now open. Only boats with a single 10-horsepower motor or single electric motor are allowed on Marshall Lake.
CENTRAL ARIZONA
Roosevelt and Bartlett lakes - Gary Senft has recent videos with reports from Roosevelt and Bartlett lakes at https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCUo7QaElWsI7PSQ588tc2XA/videos.
Lake Pleasant - Johnny Johnson has a video titled "Late-Spawn Topwater at Lake Pleasant" at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Q9X2_pSjMLg.
Urban Canals - Kevin Rapkoch has a video titled "Big fish, dry flies, and extreme heat," fishing the urban canals in the Phoenix area: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IkZM5Vfo6U8.
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. Oak Creek stream flow 28.0 cfs, stream temperature 58.60-64.60 F, turbidity 1.5-2.0 FNU on 5/26/2026. Banjo Bill picnic area is closed for repairs. Anglers are finding success using inline spinners and flies. Hellgrammite, Simi Seal leech, Wooly Bugger, Prince Nymph, midges, elk hair caddis, and mayfly patterns are a good bet. Now is a great time to fish the catch-and-release section of Oak Creek. Mornings and weekdays are your best bet to beat the tourist crowd. Rainbow trout will be stocked this week.
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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 19.0-21.5 cfs and stream temperature 64.20-70.50 F on 5/26/2026.
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 9.58-10.6 cfs on 5/26/2026.
NORTH CENTRAL ARIZONA
Dead Horse State Park Lagoons - It has been two months since the last rainbow trout stocking and thus not many have been caught this month. Instead, anglers are targeting largemouth bass and channel catfish, the latter of which was stocked in April on the week of the 28th and May on the week of the 19th. Anglers are catching largemouth bass using small 6-inch plastic swimbaits and soft plastic worms. Catfish are being caught using chicken liver, corn, and stink baits. Special Regulations: The limit is 4 trout, 2 bass, 4 catfish, and 10 sunfish. For species not listed, or bodies of water without special regulations, refer to the statewide fishing regulations.
Fain Lake - Fain Lake was recently stocked with catfish on the week of May 18, and with rainbow trout on the week of May 11, meaning the fishing opportunity is great here. Anglers have been catching catfish using nightcrawlers and chicken liver, and trout using PowerBait, PowerEggs, and inline spinners. Special Regulations: The limit is 2 bass (minimum of 13 inches), 4 catfish, 10 sunfish, and 4 trout. For species not listed, or bodies of water without special regulations, refer to the statewide fishing regulations.
Goldwater Lake (Upper) - Upper Goldwater was last stocked with rainbow trout on the week of the 4th and the 18th of May, and some Gila trout were stocked on the week of the 11th, meaning there are still plenty of trout to be caught. Aside from the trout, anglers are reported catching some nice catfish as well. Anglers typically use spinners/spoons, small (1- 2-inch) soft plastics, and PowerBait for trout, while using chicken liver/hearts, raw shrimp, or nightcrawlers for catfish. Largemouth bass will be pushing up shallow this time of year and can be found keying in on smaller moving baits and plastics. 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) - While no stockings have occurred in Lower Goldwater this month, the trout bite is still going strong. Both rainbow and Gila trout are plentiful here, and are usually caught by fly fishermen using leech imitations and different midge varieties. Small inline spinners such as Panther Martins or Mepps are also a great choice for any trout. Largemouth bass will be pushing up shallow this time of year and can be found keying in on smaller moving baits and plastics. 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 - Rainbow trout were last stocked at Mingus Lake on the week of May 11. To catch these trout, 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 - Anglers are catching largemouth bass, channel catfish, and rainbow trout at Watson Lake this time of year. Anglers have found success catching bass using soft plastics, inline spinners, and frogs. Catfish are also being caught out of the lake, typically on anchovies, nightcrawlers, and cut-up hotdogs. Rainbow trout were not stocked this month but can still be caught using PowerBait, PowerEggs, and small spinners. Special Regulations: None. For species not listed, or bodies of water without special regulations, refer to the statewide fishing regulations.
Yavapai Lakes - The Yavapai Lakes have been suffering from poor water quality this month and thus the scheduled catfish stocking has been postponed until June. While fishing may be poorer than usual, anglers can still catch largemouth bass using both soft and hard plastics, especially crankbaits. Channel catfish can be caught using nightcrawlers, chicken liver, and cut-up hotdogs. Special Regulations: The limit is 2 bass (minimum size 13 inches), 4 catfish, 10 sunfish, and 4 trout. 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 - Rock Crossing campground is now pen. 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. The boat launch is open, but the lake level is not up to the concrete boat launch, making launching challenging, but feasible. An algae bloom is present and trout have moved to 10-15 feet deep. Reservoir elevation 6,697.72 feet, current volume is at 9,814 acre feet or 65% full, surface temperature is 63.87 F, pH is 9.64, D.O. is 10.58 mg/l, turbidity is 5.65 NTU on 5/26/2026.
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Knoll Lake - FR 300 and FR 295E into Knoll Lake are now open. Only boats with a single electric motor are allowed on Knoll Lake. The lake level is just barely on the end of the boat launch and launching a boat is feasible, but a little challenging. No gas-powered motors. Reminder, the statewide limit is 4 trout per licensed angler per day. Anglers are finding success trolling inline spinners such as Joe’s flies. Rainbow trout were stocked last week.
Huffer Tank - Huffer Tank is full due to recent snow melt runoff. Rainbow trout were stocked last week. Anglers were finding success on flies (Simi-seal Leech #10, Prince Nymph #12, and Pistol Pete) and lures (Joe’s Flies in black and royal coachman). Rainbow trout were stocked last week. Surface temperature: 64.18 F, pH: 8.52, D.O.: 8.14 mg/l, turbidity: 2.22 NTU on 5/15/2026.
LEES FERRY/LAKE POWELL
Lees Ferry - Water temperature on 5/26/2026: 56.8-57.70 F; Dissolved Oxygen: 8.0-9.5 mg/l; pH: 8.0-8.3 std units; Discharge Rate: 6,150-8,170 cfs; Turbidity: 0.4-0.5 FNU. Fishing has been slow with most anglers landing 0-7 fish per day. Fish are holding deep 10-15 feet. Lees Ferry Anglers river reports posted at https://leesferry.com/river-report/.
Lake Powell - Water surface temperature (Wahweap Bay) on 5/26/2026: 73.0-78.0 F. Lake Elevation: 3,527.87 MSL (and rising). Note: Please be advised that each calendar year, Utah has requirements for motorized boats before launching at a Utah waterbody. Read the following:
1. Register your vessel with your state’s Division of Motor Vehicles (or the equivalent in any
state/province for boat registration) — you will need your bow number to enroll in the
Utah AIS program.
2. Complete the annual DWR mussel-aware boater education course. Print out your proof of course completion or download it to your DWR Hunting and Fishing app.
3. Enroll your vessel in the Utah AIS Program. An annual fee per watercraft applies: $20 for
Utah residents and $25 for non-resident vessels.
4. A current-year AIS decal will be mailed to you; affix it to your boat with the instructions
enclosed in the mailer.
Important: You must have a professional decontamination completed before launching your
vessel in any Utah waterbody — regardless of season — if:
- You are entering Utah from another state.
- You have been at a mussel-infested water and not met the 30-day dry time required
for complex boats (vessels containing inboard motors, inboard/outboard motors,
ballast tanks, bilges, live wells, generators, AC units and any other raw water
systems).
More information available at: https://stdofthesea.utah.gov/ais/motorized/.
The latest (March 26) report is courtesy of Dan Keller on www.wayneswords.net. See the report HERE.
WESTERN ARIZONA
Colorado River below Davis Dam - The fishing below Davis Dam has been good for striped bass and smallmouth bass, and people have been catching rainbow trout as well. Anglers are typically catching bass using anchovies and swimbaits from boats and offshore. Rainbow trout are being caught using PowerBait and small spinners. Popular fishing spots below the dam include the Parkway Bridge and the Colorado River Nature Center. Rusty of Riviera Marina reports local angler Ron B. was recently fishing from shore near the Parkway Bridge when he landed a striper that weighed 30.62 pounds and measured 40 inches long. He caught the fish using a homemade swimbait he has been developing. Special Regulations: 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 - Striped bass tend to be found offshore in the cooler water. They can be targeted with both hard and soft plastic swimbaits and anchovies. When selecting swimbait colors, shad imitations are a good starting point. Channel catfish can also be caught well this time of year. Anchovies, nightcrawlers, and squid tend to attract bites. The best times to catch both striped bass and channel catfish are in the early morning hours and right before sunset. Special Regulations: The limit has been changed to unlimited striped bass of any size, 5 trout, and 15 crappie. For species not listed, or bodies of water without special regulations, refer to the statewide fishing regulations.
Lake Mohave - Nice sized largemouth, smallmouth, and striped bass have been being caught at Lake Mohave this time of year. Anglers have been reported catching these fish using anchovies and lures such as Bucktail Jigs while trolling, or using soft plastics in the shape of worms or crayfish such as the Z-man TubeZ. Special Regulations: The limit is 5 trout, there is no longer a limit for striped bass over 20 inches. 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 striper fishing at Willow Beach has been hot this month. Anglers are catching stripers using swim baits, and trout imitation baits have seen a lot of success. The Willow Beach Fish Hatchery has been putting out lots of rainbow trout too (1,000 stocked at the Willow Beach Fishing Pier on May 14), and they can be caught using PowerBait or small inline spinners. Special Regulations: The limit is 5 trout, there is no longer a limit for striped bass over 20 inches. 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.
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