Fishing

Cast A Line in the Gila Valley

The Gila Valley offers some of the most diverse fishing opportunities in southeastern Arizona. From cool mountain lakes on Mount Graham to desert ponds, state parks, rivers, and wildlife areas, anglers can enjoy year-round fishing in a variety of settings. Whether you’re casting for trout at Riggs Flat Lake, fishing for bass and catfish at Roper Lake, enjoying a family outing at Dankworth Pond, or exploring hidden waters throughout Graham County, you’ll find plenty of places to drop a line and enjoy the outdoors. No matter your experience level, the Gila Valley offers fishing adventures for everyone.

Lakes & Reservoirs

Riggs Flat Lake

Fish Species: Rainbow Trout & Brown Trout.

Roper Lake

Fish Species: Rainbow Trout; Largemouth Bass; Bluegill; Channel Catfish.

Frye Mesa Reservoir

Fish Species: Rainbow Trout; Brown Trout (stocked)

San Carlos Lake

Fish Species: Channel Catfish; Flathead Catfish; Carp; Largemouth Bass; Crappie.

Ponds

Dankworth Pond

Fish Species: Largemouth Bass; Rainbow Trout; Bluegill; Green Sunfish; Crappie; Catfish

Cluff Ranch Pond #1

Fish Species: Rainbow Trout; Largemouth Bass; Crappie; Sunfish; Channel Catfish; Carp; White Amur

Cluff Ranch Pond #2

Fish Species: Rainbow Trout; Largemouth Bass; Crappie; Sunfish; Channel Catfish; Carp; White Amur

Cluff Ranch Pond #3

Fish Species: Rainbow Trout; Largemouth Bass; Crappie; Sunfish; Channel Catfish; Carp; White Amur

Rivers & Creeks

Black River

Fish Species: Apache Trout; Rainbow Trout; Brown Trout; Smallmouth Bass

Gila River

Fish Species: Channel Catfish; Carp; Smallmouth Bass; Native Species

San Francisco River

Fish Species: Smallmouth Bass; Catfish; Native Species

Bonita Creek

Fish Species: Native Desert Fish Species

Ash Creek

Fish Species: Trout (seasonal)

Turkey Creek

Fish Species: Apache Trout; Trout Species

Bear Wallow Creek

Fish Species: Apache Trout; Rainbow Trout

Mountain Streams

Marijilda Creek

Fish Species: Wild Trout (seasonal)

Grant Creek

Fish Species: Wild Trout (seasonal)

Little Turkey Creek

Fish Species: Trout (seasonal)

Hospital Flat Creek

Fish Species: Trout (seasonal)

Wildlife Fisheries

Cluff Ranch Wildlife Area

Fish Species: Rainbow Trout; Largemouth Bass; Crappie; Sunfish; Channel Catfish; Carp; White Amur

Frequently Asked Fishing Questions

Where are the best places to fish in the Gila Valley?

Popular fishing destinations include Riggs Flat Lake, Roper Lake State Park, Dankworth Pond State Park, Cluff Ranch Wildlife Area, the Gila River, and several mountain streams and ponds throughout Graham County.

What fish can I catch in Graham County?

Depending on the location and season, anglers may find rainbow trout, bass, catfish, bluegill, crappie, sunfish, and other species.

Is there trout fishing in the Gila Valley?

Yes. Riggs Flat Lake, Dankworth Pond, and Cluff Ranch are among the area's most popular trout fishing destinations.

Do I need a fishing license?

Anyone age 10 and older generally needs a valid Arizona fishing license. Be sure to check current Arizona Game & Fish regulations before fishing.

When is the best time to fish?

Fishing opportunities exist year-round, but spring, summer, and fall are often the most popular seasons depending on the species and location.

Are there family-friendly fishing spots?

Absolutely. Roper Lake State Park, Dankworth Pond, and Cluff Ranch are excellent destinations for families and beginning anglers.

Can I fish from a boat or kayak?

Yes. Roper Lake and Riggs Flat Lake are popular destinations for anglers fishing from boats, kayaks, and paddlecraft.