Mogollon Rim Road Crossingon Tonto Creek
Clear and cool fall conditions at Tonto Creek
- 01Clear and cool fall conditions at Tonto Creek.
- 02Active hatches of Blue Winged Olives (BWOs) and Pale Morning Duns (PMDs) are expected.
- 03October Caddis are also emerging, providing a large food source.
- 04Focus on deeper runs and undercut banks below Horton Creek confluence for wild Brown Trout.
- 05Rainbow Trout will be in riffles, seams, and calmer pools.
- 06Stealthy approach is key in clear fall waters; make your first cast count.
What to tie on at Mogollon Rim Road Crossing
Picked from recent reports for this stretch.
Baetis Nymph
Baetis nymphs are active year-round, but particularly during fall BWO hatch periods, providing a consistent subsurface food source.
Little Black Stonefly nymph
Early season stoneflies begin to crawl in late February. This is a high-protein meal that trout will target even in cold water.
PMD (Pale Morning Duns)
Pale Morning Duns are actively hatching in the fall, providing a key food source for opportunistic feeders.
Zebra Midge
Midges are a primary and consistent food source year-round, making this a reliable subsurface pattern for picky fish in fall.
Buy at AmazonOctober Caddis (Dry)
The largest caddis hatch of the year occurs in the fall, making this a highly effective pattern for larger trout.
Buy at AmazonWoolly Bugger (Olive)
A versatile streamer that imitates leeches and baitfish, effective for enticing aggressive strikes from larger trout in colder fall waters.
Trico Spinner
Trico hatches are active in the fall, especially in slower waters during morning hours, targeting rising fish.
Buy at AmazonZebra Midge
Midges are the most prolific and consistent food source in Tonto Creek during the winter months. Black or red colors in small sizes are essential.
Buy at AmazonCopper John
An excellent all-around attractor nymph that is effective year-round in faster freestone water, making it a good choice for spring flows.
Buy at AmazonArizona season by season
What changes on the water through the year, with the flies for each season.
Fly shops nearby
Local flies, current advice and guided trips.