Fishing Report: Mogollon Rim

Late summer trout fishing on the Mogollon Rim lakes and streams has been reported as excellent. Experienced fly anglers call this “hopper season.” Hopper dropper rigging is highly successful and Copper Johns is the go-to bait.

During the summer months, water temperatures become extreme for trout. It’s important to release trout back into the water as quickly as possible. One technique experienced fly anglers use is to remove the barb from the hooks. This is done by simply flattening it using a pair of pliers. Removing the barb allows the hook to easily be removed without even taking the trout out of the water.

Early morning is the best time of day for trout fishing. Immediately following a monsoon storm, the trout activity increases dramatically for a short period of time. Bryce Sisson, the AZGFD Tonto Creek Fish Hatchery Supervisor, reported that they are currently stocking Tonto and Haigler Creeks and the East Verde River. Stockings of Haigler Creek and the East Verde River will end this month while the Tonto Creek will be stocked through September.

Jim Goughnour of Rim Country Custom Rods can be reached at 480-495-1351