Northern Arizona Fly Fishing Report: Flagstaff, Williams & Prescott Valley
As we move into summer, the high-country waters around Flagstaff, Williams, and Prescott Valley are in prime condition for fly fishing. While many anglers look to the White Mountains or the Rim Country, this region offers cooler temps, unique water bodies, and far less fishing pressure—perfect for those seeking solitude and strong takes.
Flagstaff Area
The lakes around Flagstaff—such as Ashurst, Lake Mary (Upper and Lower), and Mormon Lake (when it holds water)—are fishing best in the early mornings and evenings, when temps are cooler and fish are more active. Look for cruising rainbows and browns near the shorelines and drop-offs.
- Effective Patterns:
- Leeches (black, olive, and rust)
- Woolly Buggers
- Damsel Nymphs
- Balanced Leeches under an indicator
- Gear Tip: A 9’–10’ lake rod with intermediate or type 1 sinking line will give you excellent presentation across shelves and weed beds. Keep a floating line rigged for indicator setups.
Williams Area
Less popular than other zones, Williams offers several under-the-radar waters like Dogtown Lake, Kaibab Lake, and Cataract Lake—all great for rainbows, and some with surprise holdover browns or stocked tiger trout. The vegetation is lush right now, and surface temps are climbing, so target deeper sections mid-day and stay mobile.
- Technique: Slow-stripping damsels or leeches in deeper coves, or indicator rigs 6–10 ft down
- Bonus: Evening hatches bring some sporadic dry fly activity—try a Parachute Adams or Callibaetis spinner if you see surface risers.
Prescott Valley Waters
Lynx Lake and Goldwater are both producing, especially for stocker rainbows and the occasional brown. These waters warm up fast, so fish early and get deep by midday. A float tube or kayak is a great way to access less-pressured areas.
- Hot Flies:
- Woolly Buggers in darker colors
- Damsel Nymphs with slight twitch retrieves
- Zebra Midges and Scuds below indicators
Nearby Moving Water – Oak Creek
If you’re looking for moving water, Oak Creek remains the top choice for this region. Flows are moderate and clear heading into July, and the trout are actively feeding, especially in shaded pools and pocket water. Expect both wild and stocked rainbows, with some cautious browns hiding in deeper seams.
- Go-To Flies:
- Pheasant Tails, Hare’s Ears, Frenchies
- Damsel nymphs near undercut banks
- Small Chubby Chernobyls with a dropper in the afternoons
Final Notes
- Water clarity is excellent across most lakes and streams. Winds can pick up mid-day—so plan your trips early or fish into the evening.
- A 9- or 10-foot 5- or 6-weight rod is ideal for covering both lakes and moderate-sized creeks.
- Don’t overlook the less-pressured waters around these areas—some of the best summer fly fishing in Arizona happens off the radar.
Tight lines and enjoy the cooler high country!
