Canyon Creek is split into two sections, with the upper Canyon Creek being managed as a put-and-take fishery that gets stocked with rainbows once a week during the summer months until the end of September, while the “Lower Canyon Creek” is managed as a catch-and-release wild brown trout population. The sections are divided by the OW Bridge, with water downstream being designated catch-and release and upstream being put-and-take. Brown trout inhabit both sections of the creek, with a majority being in this lower section. Brown trout are fall spawning fish and are currently in the process of making their redds and other spawning activities. Please take great care to be on the lookout for these structures so as not to step on them if wading. Also, staying away from targeting active spawning fish will ensure better success for the future of this population. Note that spawning active browns will be more active as we continue the fall season with fish chasing small streamers such as Wooly Buggers and leeches, with some fish still being caught on ants and other terrestrial bugs that are falling into the creek.

Please remember, Lower Canyon Creek is under special regulation. This is catch-and-release only for trout; no trout may be kept; artificial fly and lure only; single-pointed barbless hooks only. New Zealand mudsnails are also prevalent in the Lower Section. Please take great care not to transfer this harmful species to other bodies of water by properly disinfecting gear. Anglers who wish to fish both sections should either consider fishing the upper section first, or have a second clean set of gear if they wish to fish the lower section first and then the upper. Actions you can take to prevent the spread of New Zealand mudsnails can be found on our AIS site: https://www.azgfd.com/fishing-2/aquatic-invasive-species/new-zealand-mudsnails/.