White Mountains & Rim Lakes Fly Fishing Report – Early April 2025
Spring is gradually waking up the high country, and fly fishing in Arizona’s White Mountains and Rim Lakes is starting to heat up. In the White Mountains, Big Lake is shedding its ice and offering improving conditions for fly anglers targeting rainbow, brook, and cutthroat trout. Subsurface patterns like olive or black Woolly Buggers, Prince Nymphs, and Hare’s Ears are proving effective, especially when stripped slowly near the dam or drop-offs where trout are beginning to feed more actively. Mornings remain cold, so a slower presentation is key early in the day, with more aggressive takes likely as water temperatures warm in the afternoon.
Over on the Rim, Willow Springs and Woods Canyon Lake are accessible and beginning to fish well. Both are getting regular stockings and respond well to small streamers, midges, and attractor dry-dropper combos in the shallows. Chevelon Canyon Lake continues to be a gem for dedicated fly fishers willing to hike in. This remote water is home to wild brown and rainbow trout, with success reported on leech patterns, scuds, and crawfish imitations—especially with the help of a float tube or kayak to reach deeper pockets. As runoff begins and insect hatches increase, look for dry fly action to pick up in the coming weeks. Be sure to pack layers, as the weather is still variable, and check access conditions—some forest roads may still be muddy or snow-packed.
You defiantly don’t want to miss the fishing on the Rim Creeks & Streams…right now! Call us for more info or advice.
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