Arizona might not be the first place that comes to mind for fly fishing, but its hidden rivers, high-country streams, and desert oases hold incredible angling opportunities. From wild trout in the White Mountains to bass in the Salt River, here’s how to spend an unforgettable month exploring Arizona’s best fly fishing secrets.

Week 1: The White Mountains – Wild Trout Paradise

Lee’s Ferry (Colorado River) 

Start your trip with legendary tailwater fishing for big rainbow trout. The 15-mile stretch below Glen Canyon Dam offers technical nymphing and dry-fly action (try size 18-22 midges and Blue-Winged Olives).

Oak Creek Canyon (Sedona) 

A stunning red-rock canyon with wild browns and rainbows. Fish attractor patterns like Parachute Adams and Pheasant Tails in pocket water

East & West Forks of the Black River

Remote, gin-clear streams with aggressive Apache and rainbow trout. Pack a 3-4wt rod and hike into the Bear Wallow Wilderness for solitude.

Week 2: Mogollon Rim & High Country Gems

Tonto Creek

A spring-fed creek near Payson with eager browns and brookies. Try Elk Hair Caddis and Copper Johns in riffles.

Chevelon Creek 

A challenging but rewarding canyon fishery with wild brown trout. Access requires a hike, but the scenery and untouched fishing are worth it.

Big Lake & Crescent Lake 

High-elevation lakes with fat rainbows and cutthroats. Chironomid patterns and Woolly Buggers work well.

Week 3: Desert Rivers & Bass Adventures

Salt River (Below Saguaro Lake) 

A unique desert fishery with smallmouth bass, carp, and occasional trout. Throw Clouser Minnows and Crayfish patterns for aggressive bass.

Verde River

A mix of warm- and cold-water species, including bass, catfish, and wild trout near Camp Verde. Hopper-dropper rigs slay in summer.

Lake Powell (Warm Creek Bay) 

Stripers and largemouth bass explode on topwater flies at dawn

Week 4: Hidden Gems & Off-the-Beaten-Path

Silver Creek

A spring-fed "stillwater river" near Show Low, famous for selective trout. Tiny midges (#22-26) and Trico spinners are key.

San Juan River (AZ/NM Border) 

A short drive into New Mexico, but worth it for trophy trout on San Juan Worms and RS2s.

Blue River (AZ/NM Border) 

Remote and rugged, with wild browns in a stunning canyon setting.
Pro Tips for Arizona Fly Fishing
1.Seasons Matter – Spring & fall are best for trout; summer is great for bass (fish early/late to avoid heat).
2. Stealth is Key – Many Arizona streams are clear and spooky. Light tippets (5x-7x) and delicate presentations win.
3. Explore the Small Water – Some of the best fishing is in tiny creeks most anglers overlook.
4. Respect the Desert – Carry extra water, watch for rattlesnakes, and leave no trace.
Arizona’s fly fishing scene is full of surprises—whether you’re chasing wild trout in alpine streams or battling bass in desert rivers, a month here will leave you hooked. Tight lines! 🎣
Got a favorite Arizona fly fishing spot? Share it below!