Exploring the Best Fly Fishing Spots on Arizona's Mogollon Rim: Canyon Creek

Once I dipped my toes into Canyon Creek on the Mogollon Rim, I couldn't resist diving in headfirst. My first taste left me craving more, but with only a brief window before sunset, I barely scratched the surface. Determined to unlock its secrets, I returned for a full day of fishing in the upper creek area, and boy, was it a day to remember.

View fullsize

View fullsize

View fullsize

View fullsize

View fullsize

View fullsize

View fullsize

View fullsize

View fullsize

View fullsize

View fullsize

With my trusty streamer setup—mini woolly buggers and a leech—I waded into the water, not knowing what to expect. To my surprise, the fish were practically jumping out of the water to grab my flies. Watching a brown trout smash my woolly bugger right at the surface was a sight I won't soon forget.

Of course, my curiosity led me downstream to lower Canyon Creek, where things got a bit more challenging. Navigating around the barbed wire fencing was a hassle, but I couldn't resist exploring further. Despite the thick brush and tricky banks, I couldn't seem to find the right spots. Still, I glimpsed some promising holes that I'm sure are hiding some real monsters.

Eager for more adventure, I set out to find Willow Creek Springs. Let me tell you, it wasn't easy to locate with no clear directions, but after some searching, I stumbled upon it. The creek was tiny, like, barely wider than my arm in some spots, but it opened up into these beautiful pools filled with fish. I struggled a bit with the fishing, especially as the sun started to set and my shadow gave me away, but the tranquility of the surroundings made it all worth it.

In the end, Canyon Creek and its neighboring waters offer not just great fishing, but a chance to lose yourself in nature's beauty. Each trip brings new challenges and surprises, and I can't wait to see what else these landscapes have in store for me.