Fall Temperatures Are Here!
Some of Arizona’s Best Fishing Opportunities Are Just Getting Started
Fall is one of the best times of year for variety in Arizona, and with cooler temperatures settling in, there are plenty of opportunities to get out on the water.
From carp in the Valley canals to trout on the Salt River and stillwater opportunities in the mountains, there’s a little something for everyone right now.
Valley Canals & Salt River
We’re on the tail end of some really active carp fishing in the Valley canals. Recent rainfall has left some of the canal water looking muddy, but there are still opportunities to target these fish as temperatures continue to cool.
Meanwhile, the Salt River season is getting underway for anglers chasing trout, bass, carp, and, of course, suckers!
With flows recently reported below 50 CFS, the river has become much more wading-friendly, opening up opportunities to explore different stretches of water.
Be sure to check current flows before heading out, as conditions can change.
We’ll also be hosting Salt River classes covering river access, productive bugs, and rigging techniques, so be sure to catch one this month or next!
Rim Country & White Mountains
Stillwater Season Is Here!
The recent moisture across Arizona has us excited about the stillwater fishing opportunities in Rim Country and the White Mountains.
Fishing lakes from a float tube with a balanced leech rig can continue to produce fish, particularly around drop-offs and weed lines.
This time of year can also be especially productive for throwing larger streamers, making it a great opportunity to pull out some bigger flies and heavier gear!
Consider articulated streamers in olive, black, and occasionally white. Larger patterns with 2-by-4-inch or 1-by-2-inch profiles can be worth experimenting with depending on the fish you’re targeting.
If you’re fishing streamers from shore, a longer leader on a floating line might be enough to reach the appropriate depth. However, I’d recommend having an intermediate or sink-tip line available for different conditions and fly presentations.
For anglers fishing from a float tube, I’d bring a sinking line for stripping streamers and a floating line for indicator rigs.
A sinking line with a 24–25-foot sinking section is a versatile option for working those deeper areas.
Silver Creek
Trophy Trout Opportunities Continue!
Silver Creek continues to produce opportunities for trophy trout, and we want to give a special thank-you to the Silver Creek Hatchery team for their continued work!
Black and white leeches remain confidence flies for the creek, along with small red or black midge varieties in sizes 18–20.
Be mindful of the seasonal regulations, including catch-and-release requirements, and make sure you’re using the appropriate flies and equipment before heading out.
A Final Reminder
With the recent rainy season bringing some well-earned water to our state, be sure to keep an eye on weather forecasts and changing road conditions, especially when accessing backcountry areas.
There’s plenty of great fishing to be had this fall, so grab your gear, get outside, and enjoy everything Arizona has to offer!
Tight Lines!
