The Angler's Guide to Fishing in Rim Country

You've asked, and we're delivering! Thanks to some of our fishing friends (@arizonatravelideas on Instagram!), we've been able to put together a comprehensive guide to fishing in Rim Country! In this post, you'll find top fishing locations, what you'll need, local regulations, and some bonus info.

First up, where to fish?

• Christopher Creek Day Use Area

  • Easily accessible spot ideal for trout fishing.

  • Family-friendly and well-maintained picnic areas.

  • Stocked with rainbow trout seasonally.

• Tonto Creek

  • Park at various pull-offs along the creek or at Horton Creek Trailhead (to fish Tonto).

  • Great for spin fishing or fly fishing.

  • Often stocked with rainbow trout.

  • Horton Creek Trail is also a scenic hike with fishing opportunities (*note Horton Creek has special catch and release regulations that are different from Tonto Creek).

• East Verde River (at various crossings)

  • Several easy-to-access pull-off points.

  • Known for stocking Gila Trout – a rare species you can find ONLY in AZ & NM!

  • Beautiful surroundings, less crowded.

• Willow Springs Lake

  • Larger lake, popular with boaters and shore anglers.

  • Stocked regularly with trout (rainbow and tiger).

  • Good for spin fishing with lures, bait, or fly fishing from the shore or kayak.

• Woods Canyon Lake

  • One of the most popular lakes in the area.

  • Regularly stocked, known for high catch rates.

  • Offers boat rentals, accessible fishing docks, and shoreline access.

What You Need to Fish:

• Fishing License:

  • Purchase online through Arizona Game & Fish website.

  • Options for daily or annual non-resident and resident licenses.

  • Youth under 10 fish free!

• Stocking Schedules:

  • Arizona Game & Fish provides updated schedules and locations for trout stocking.

  • Check before you go to maximize chances.

Types of Fishing:

• Trout Fishing Techniques:

  • Spin Fishing: Use trout lures such as Panther Martins, Mepps spinners, Kastmasters.

  • Bait Fishing: PowerBait, worms, salmon eggs are all great options.

  • Fly Fishing: Dry flies, nymphs, or streamers depending on water conditions.

  • Always check local conditions and hatches if fly fishing.

Regulations & Conservation:

• Check specific regulations for each body of water:

  • Barbless hooks may be required in some catch-and-release areas.

  • Know the bag limits and species-specific rules (especially for Gila Trout).

  • Always practice ethical fishing and Leave No Trace principles.

Bonus:

You can visit a hatchery if you want to see fish and learn about Arizona’s hatchery programs

• Tonto Creek Hatchery: small visitor center and fun way to see how AZ Game and Fish raises the fish they stock our waters with

• Canyon Creek Hatchery: Further drive but home to the Gila Trout breeding program.

Pro Tip: The Strawberry Inn is centrally located to all of these spots making it a perfect location for the ultimate Rim Country outdoor fishing experience!