As of Jan. 1, 2023, the catch-and-release section on Oak Creek has been
expanded to include Oak Creek from the Highway 89A bridge at Slide Rock State Park
upstream to the Sterling Springs Fish Hatchery property boundary including the West Fork
Oak Creek. This section will be catch and release only for trout, artificial fly and lure only,
barbless hooks only. Stream flow is at base flow with a recent reading of 31.9 cfs, stream
temperature 55.9-61.0 F, turbidity 1.7 FNU @ 8:45 a.m. on 4/14/2025. Cave Springs Campground will remain closed for repairs. Access to the Cave Spring area will open April 11 for walk-in and angling access. The Banjo Bill picnic area is closed for repairs. The window to fish Oak Creek before the busy tourist season is rapidly closing. Anglers are finding success on inline spinners and flies. Hellgrammite, Simi-seal leech, midges, elk hair caddis, hoppers, and mayfly patterns are a good bet. Anglers are catching Gila, rainbow, and brown trout. Rainbow trout will be stocked this week.