Blue Stream Fly Fishing
Fly Fishing Report for:

Little Colorado River - Greer - Arizona

Hatch Chart - Best Access/Spots - Local Fish - About

Water Flow Chart

Using Water Flow Charts & Weather Reports: Begin with our water flow charts to grasp stream velocity and volume – look for stable or rising trends to pinpoint ideal fishing times. Learn to interpret sudden spikes or drops, which can indicate potential challenges. Next, consult our weather reports to understand ambient conditions. Pairing the two, you can anticipate fish behavior, choose the right gear, and select the best fishing spots. Use these tools together for a holistic approach to your next fishing adventure.

In-Depth Weather

Directions To Location

Hatch Chart

Month Hatch Time of Day Recommended Fly Sizes Popular Fly Patterns
January Midges Midday 18 - 22 Zebra Midge
February Midges, Blue Wing Olives Mornings and Evenings 18 - 22 Pheasant Tail, Zebra Midge
March Midges, Blue Wing Olives Mornings and Evenings 16 - 20 Pheasant Tail, Zebra Midge
April Blue Wing Olives, Caddis Afternoon to Dusk 14 - 18 Pheasant Tail, Elk Hair Caddis
May Blue Wing Olives, Caddis, Stoneflies Afternoon to Dusk 12-16 Elk Hair Caddis, Stimulator
June Stoneflies, Caddis, PMD's Afternoon to Dusk 12-16 Stimulator, Elk Hair Caddis
July Caddis, PMD's, Tricos Early Morning, Late Afternoon 14-18 Stimulator, Elk Hair Caddis, Trico Spinner
August Caddis, Tricos, Terrestrials Early Morning, Late Afternoon 14-18 Stimulator, Trico Spinner, Hopper Patterns
September Tricos, Terrestrials, Blue Wing Olives Early Morning, Late Afternoon 16-20 Trico Spinner, Hopper Patterns, Pheasant Tail
October Blue Wing Olives, Midges Mornings and Afternoons 18-22 Pheasant Tail, Zebra Midge
November Midges, Blue Wing Olives Midday 18-22 Pheasant Tail, Zebra Midge
December Midges Midday 18-22 Zebra Midge

While we strive to ensure the precision of our hatch charts, some reflect broader river region insights. Through ongoing partnerships with local guides and fly shops, we’re committed to refining our data. Should you notice any inconsistencies or have feedback, we welcome you to reach out. 

Best Fishing Spots

The Little Colorado River in Greer offers exceptional fly fishing experiences. Some of the best spots include:

  • Sheep’s Crossing: Under the US 60 bridge, this location is nestled in scenic high desert landscapes and provides a great setting for brown and rainbow trout.
  • West Baldy Trail: Located near the Baldy Peak, around a 2.5-mile hike from the Sheep’s Crossing. This spacious fishing spot harbors larger brown and native Apache trout.
  • South Fork: An easily accessible spot at just a mile from the Greer Lodge Resort, it allows access to both the river’s bank and the stream in its middle – a prime fishing spot featuring abundant rainbow, brown, and brook trout.
  • Greer Lakes: By the town itself, they host larger fishes and offer boating options, allowing fishermen to cover more area and potentially make bigger catches.

Remember: Always check fishing regulations for updates on catch limits, bait restrictions, etc., before starting your fishing adventure.

Best Access Points

The Little Colorado River in Greer offers some of the best fly fishing access points in the Southwest. These point are:
  • Greer Lakes: A trio of reservoirs namely, Tunnel, Bunch and River Reservoir. Perfect for catching rainbow, brown and brook trout.
  • Sheep’s Crossing: Located downstream of Greer is popular for summer fly fishing due to high flow rates.
  • South Fork Little River: There are many public access points along this stretch of the river that provide excellent opportunities to fly fish for native Apache trout.
  • Colter Reservoir: Known for its large and aggressive tiger trout.
  • White Moutain Apache Tribe land: This requires a special permit but provides the opportunity to fly fish in pristine and uncrowded waters.
Remember, each of these access points require following local fishing regulations and carrying a valid Arizona fishing license.

Local Fish

  • Rainbow Trout: The Little Colorado River is home to a healthy population of Rainbow Trout, making them a prime target for local fly fishermen.
  • Brown Trout: Considered more challenging to catch, Brown Trout attract experienced fishermen.
  • Cutthroat Trout: Although not as common in the Little Colorado River, Cutthroat Trout are a cherished catch for fly anglers.
  • Apache Trout: A unique native fish of Arizona, Apache Trout are a prized catch on the Little Colorado River.
  • Brook Trout: Known for their vibrant coloration and aggressive behavior, Brook Trout are a fun catch for a variety of anglers.
  • Golden Trout: Although rare, Golden Trout are a beautiful and exciting target for fly fishing in the Little Colorado River.
  • Arctic Grayling: While these Northern cold-water fish are not typically present, they are seasonal in the cooler areas of the river and are also targeted for fly fishing.
  • Bluegill: A popular catch for fly fishermen specifically in the small still waters of the Little Colorado River, these fish offer a fun and challenging experience.

About The River

Curving it’s way through Arizona’s high plateau, the Little Colorado River has been carving history for over a million years. This captivating river originates near Greer, a quaint, picturesque little town nestled in the White Mountains.
Considered a tributary of the much larger Colorado River, the Little Colorado River is no less significant. The verdant banks of the river have provided for generations of indigenous Hopi and Navajo people.
The Little Colorado meanders for about 338 miles, coursing its way through vibrant, arid landscapes, and through the floor of the dazzling Painted Desert, towards the Grand Canyon.

  • Scenic river canyons, rich indigenous history, and diverse wildlife make the Little Colorado River vital to Arizona’s ecological fabric.
  • In addition to its historical and ecological contributions, the river provides numerous recreational opportunities, including fishing, hiking, wildlife viewing and photography.

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