ARIZONA - While Arizona might be known for its desert landscapes and warm climate, the state's higher elevations harbor some surprisingly good trout fishing opportunities.
Trout in the Desert: Your Guide to Arizona's Top Fishing Spots
The White Mountains: Arizona's Trout Heartland
The White Mountains of eastern Arizona offer the best chance to find trout in the Grand Canyon State, with several high-elevation streams and lakes.
- Hotspots:
- Big Lake: This scenic lake is regularly stocked with rainbow trout and offers great shore and boat fishing.
- East Fork of the Little Colorado River: This river harbors wild Apache trout, Arizona's native trout species, along with stocked rainbows.
- Silver Creek: A beautiful spring-fed creek with abundant rainbow trout, providing a picturesque angling experience.
- Tips: During the warmer months, focus on early mornings and evenings when temperatures are cooler. Terrestrial insect patterns, nymphs, and small spinners can all be effective.
Mogollon Rim & Beyond
- Mogollon Rim Lakes: A series of lakes along the Mogollon Rim offer stocked trout fishing opportunities, perfect for families or novice anglers.
- Oak Creek: Near Sedona, this scenic creek holds limited populations of wild and stocked trout, providing a beautiful setting.
Important Considerations
- Seasonality: Trout fishing in Arizona is best during the cooler months, typically from fall through spring. Summer fishing is possible in the highest elevation waters.
- Regulations: Always consult the Arizona Game and Fish Department website for current regulations, licensing, and designated trout waters: https://www.azgfd.com/
- Focus on Stocked Waters: Most Arizona trout fisheries rely on stocking, so check the stocking schedule to target freshly stocked areas.
- Unique Species: Keep an eye out for the beautiful Apache trout, a species native only to Arizona!
Arizona's Trout: A Refreshing Surprise
Arizona might not immediately come to mind for trout fishing, but those venturing into its higher elevations will find enjoyable angling experiences amidst the desert landscapes. If you're in Arizona and craving a cool-water fishing adventure, grab your rod and discover the state's trout fishing scene.