Fly Fish Oak Creek

Oak Creek is spring fed from the upper reaches of Oak Creek Canyon. It flows into the Verde River and the upper sections provide for some excellent trout fishing. The trout is stocked from Page Springs Hatchery, below this area the water becomes to warm for trout to survive. While in the area, you will need to purchase a Red Rock Pass.

 During the summer months, the lower section from Page Springs Hatchery to Grasshopper point can get quite warm and busy with tourists. Above Grasshopper Point, the river is capable of supporting trout year-round with the upper 12 miles of the stream being the best for fly fishing. Here are a few recommended spots for fly fishing:

Page Springs

In the Page Springs area, Oak Creek is accessible by taking Forest Road #119 off of Highway 89A, which will take you to Page Springs Road and to this area of Oak Creek. 

Grasshopper Point

This is a very popular picnic and swimming area making it not an ideal place to fly fish. However, if you travel about 0.5 miles past Grasshopper Point, you will come across the Caner Canyon Trail which will drop you down into some beautiful and secluded pools for fly fishing. 

West Fork of Oak Creek

This area requires hiking and provides several miles of trout fishing. You will want to park at the Call of the Canyon Parking area where you will hike upstream. 

Recommendations

The best time to fish is in the fall & winter. Unfortunately, the summer months are extremely busy which can make for some difficult fishing. I recommend 3 or 4 weight, 7 1/2' rod, leaders 6x 71/2' with waders and boots. Dries: Parachute Adams, Blue Winged Olive and Hoppers. Nymphs: Pheasant Tail, Hare's Ear and Fly Formerly Known as Prince. Streamers: Woolly Bugger. Hopper/Dropper is always an excellent setup. 

To learn more about the history of Oak Creek Canyon, click here. 

Directions

From Phoenix, take I-17 north to State Route 179. From Sedona continue north on 89 to reach Oak Creek.