When it comes to fly fishing, Arizona may not be the first destination that comes to mind. However, the Grand Canyon State is home to some fantastic bodies of water that offer plenty of opportunities to catch a variety of fish species. In this post, we’ll highlight five amazing bodies of water in Arizona that are perfect for fly fishing.
- Lees Ferry
Located below Glen Canyon Dam on the Colorado River, Lees Ferry is a well-known fly fishing destination that’s home to rainbow and brown trout. The river’s consistent water temperature provides ideal conditions for trout, with some fish weighing up to 20 pounds. The peak season for fishing in Lees Ferry is from March to November. The town of Page is a popular base for anglers fishing Lees Ferry.
- Oak Creek
Oak Creek is a beautiful trout stream that flows through the scenic red rock country of Sedona. The creek is home to wild brown and rainbow trout, as well as some stocked fish. The peak season for fishing in Oak Creek is from March to November. The town of Sedona is a popular base for anglers fishing Oak Creek.
- Lake Pleasant
Lake Pleasant is a popular fishing destination located in the Sonoran Desert near Phoenix. The lake is home to a variety of fish species, including largemouth and striped bass, channel catfish, and crappie. The peak season for fishing in Lake Pleasant is from March to June and from October to December. The towns of Peoria and Surprise are popular bases for anglers fishing Lake Pleasant.
- Black River
The Black River is a picturesque stream that flows through the White Mountains of eastern Arizona. The river is home to a variety of trout species, including rainbow, brown, and Apache trout. The peak season for fishing in the Black River is from May to October. The towns of Springerville and Alpine are popular bases for anglers fishing the Black River.
- Big Lake
Located in the Apache-Sitgreaves National Forest, Big Lake is a high-elevation lake that’s home to rainbow, brown, and cutthroat trout. The lake is stocked regularly with fish, and some specimens can grow up to 20 inches long. The peak season for fishing in Big Lake is from May to October. The town of Eagar is a popular base for anglers fishing Big Lake.
Conclusion
Arizona may not be as well-known as other states when it comes to fly fishing, but there are plenty of fantastic fishing destinations to explore. From the trout-rich waters of Oak Creek and the Black River to the bass-filled Lake Pleasant, there’s something for every angler in Arizona. So pack your gear, book your accommodation, and get ready to discover some of the best fly fishing spots in the Southwest.
If you enjoyed this post, then check out this one with more fly fishing places in the USA.