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Get ready for some top-notch trout fishing in the heart of Arizona's backcountry. We're talking about Payson, folks – a stone's throw from the Mogollon Rim and home to some of the best wild trout action you'll find in the Southwest. With Lo Water Guide Service, you're in for a day of stalking Gila, rainbow, brown, and brook trout in pristine mountain streams. This ain't your average fishing trip – it's a full-on outdoor adventure that'll have you hooked from the get-go.
Picture this: you're hiking through rugged Arizona terrain, surrounded by towering pines and crystal-clear creeks. Our seasoned guides – Hugo, Ryan, or Bare – know these waters like the back of their hand. They'll lead you to secret spots where the trout are practically begging to be caught. We keep it intimate with a max of 6 people, so you'll get plenty of one-on-one time with your guide. Whether you're a seasoned angler or a first-timer, we've got you covered. We run trips year-round, but weekends in spring, summer, and fall are hotter than a Phoenix sidewalk in July – so book early!
Leave your waders at home for this one, folks. We're talking light and nimble here. Slip on some comfy pants, a long-sleeve shirt (trust me, you'll thank me when you're bushwhacking through the brush), and a sturdy pair of hiking boots. Your guide will hook you up with all the fishing gear you need. We're talking ultralight rods, hand-tied flies that'll make even the pickiest trout's mouth water, and all the insider knowledge to put you on fish. It's not just about casting – it's about reading the water, spotting those subtle rises, and presenting your fly just right.
"Great day outdoors, catches some fish and had great time" - Chen
"I went with Hugo who was my guide and he put me on the targeted fish species: Gila Trout. He knew which flies to use and which techniques worked best on catching these fish. Hugo said that usually clients catch 3 Gila Trout but I caught 9 before it got too crowded. So that shows that listening to the guide works!" - Marcus
"Loved going fishing with Hugo, he put me in the right spots! From Alabama, and loved the landscape, was very fortunate to be able to go fishing while I was in Arizona, and it was awesome that I got to catch a few Gilla trout! Super rad experience!" - Seth
Gila Trout: These native beauties are the crown jewel of Arizona trout fishing. Golden-yellow with dark spots, Gilas are as rare as they are stunning. They love fast, tumbling streams and put up a fight that'll make your drag sing. Spring and fall are prime time for these guys. Landing a Gila is like hitting the trout lottery – it's a fish you'll be bragging about for years.
Rainbow Trout: The old reliable of the trout world. These guys are active year-round but really turn on when the water warms up in late spring. Look for them in riffles and pools, eager to smash a well-presented dry fly. Rainbows in these parts aren't just hatchery fish – we're talking wild, stream-bred specimens that'll test your skills and your tackle.
Brown Trout: The wise guys of the creek. Browns are notorious for being selective and spooky, but man, are they worth the effort. These fish grow big in our mountain streams, with some topping 20 inches. They're most active at dawn and dusk, so be ready for some low-light fishing. A big brown on the line is like trying to stop a runaway freight train – pure, heart-pounding excitement.
Brook Trout: Don't let their size fool you – these little dynamos punch way above their weight class. Brookies thrive in the coldest, clearest headwaters. They're aggressive and not too picky, making them perfect for beginners or anyone who wants to rack up some numbers. Plus, with their vibrant colors, they're like living jewels of the stream.
Look, fishing in Payson isn't just about catching trout (though we do plenty of that). It's about disconnecting from the grind and tapping into something primal. One minute you're focused on that perfect drift, the next you're watching an osprey dive for its own catch. Our guests rave about the scenery – we're talking postcard-perfect views at every turn. And the solitude? Man, there's nothing like being the only souls for miles around, with nothing but the sound of rushing water and the occasional plop of a rising trout.
So there you have it, folks – a day of world-class trout fishing in some of Arizona's most stunning backcountry. Whether you're looking to land your first Gila or just need a break from the rat race, we've got you covered. Our flexible start times mean we can work around your schedule, and with year-round availability, there's never a bad time to hit the water. Don't see the date you want? Give us a ring at 602-300-1881, and we'll make it happen. Remember, weekends book up faster than a flash flood, so don't sleep on this. Grab your spot now, and let's go chase some trout in Payson's hidden streams. Trust me, this is one fishing trip you won't forget.
September 5, 2025
I went with Hugo who was my guide and he put me on the targeted fish species: Gila Trout. He knew which flies to use and which techniques worked best on catching these fish. Hugo said that usually clients catch 3 Gila Trout but I caught 9 before it got too crowded. So that shows that listening to the guide works!
May 8, 2023
Loved going fishing with Hugo, he put me in the right spots! From Alabama, and loved the landscape, was very fortunate to be able to go fishing while I was in Arizona, and it was awesome that I got to catch a few Gilla trout! Super rad experience!
October 18, 2023
I fished with Kris. We stalked Gila and Brown Trout in the high elevation creeks about 2 hours from Scottsdale. What a great day. Kris knows his territory and is a true professional and his craft. Had a great hot lunch too on a cold wet day. Fish with him when/if you can. Rob Domico Davidson NC.
January 24, 2024
Derek hooked us up with the guide, Niko is a great guide who loves the sport. We caught 3 different species with his guidance, Gila, Rainbow, and Brown. He was both Ami and knowledgeable. You won’t go wrong if you get him. Forgot some gear and stopped by a great fly shop in Phoenix, Pheasant Tail Fly Shop. If you need any extras before your trip, this is the place. Thank you lowaterguide.com for a great trip 👍👍
March 25, 2024
Brook trout are a feisty little fish that pack a lot of punch for their size. They usually run 8-12 inches around here, though you might land a 16-incher if you're lucky. These guys love cold, clean water and you'll find them hanging out near fallen logs and boulders in small streams. Spring and fall are prime times, when the water's cool and they're actively feeding. Anglers get a kick out of their beautiful colors and the challenge of sneaking up on them in tight spots. They're not the biggest fighters, but they make up for it in spunk. If you're after brookies, try tossing a small spinner or fly into eddies behind rocks - that's where they like to ambush their prey. Just remember to tread lightly - these fish spook easy in shallow water.

Brown trout are the heavyweights of our local streams, often hitting 16-20 inches and putting up a serious fight. You'll find them lurking in deeper pools and undercut banks, especially where there's some overhead cover. These guys are most active in low light, so early mornings or evenings are your best bet. Fall is prime time when they get aggressive before spawning. Browns are popular with our guests because they're challenging to fool and put up a great battle when hooked. They're also excellent eating if you decide to keep one. Here's a local tip: when the water's high and murky, try drifting a nightcrawler near the bottom. Browns have a hard time resisting a fat worm tumbling by in those conditions.

Rainbows are the bread and butter of our local fishery, typically running 12-18 inches. You'll find them in faster riffles and runs, often holding near current seams where they can dart out and grab drifting insects. These fish are active year-round, but spring and fall see them feeding more aggressively. Guests love targeting rainbows for their acrobatic fights - they'll leap clear out of the water when hooked. They're also beautiful fish with their signature pink stripe. If you're new to fly fishing, rainbows are a great species to start with. A local trick: when you see fish rising, try a small parachute adams fly. It imitates a wide range of insects and rainbows can rarely resist it. Just make sure your drag-free drift is on point.

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Great day outdoors, catches some fish and had great time