Unbeknown to most, the Colorado River within Grand Canyon and some of its tributaries have fantastic fishing. Every day Lees Ferry Anglers launches at Lees Ferry heading upstream for the best fishing below Glen Canyon Dam. While not quite as good, high quality fishing continues while rafting the Colorado River from Lees Ferry down to the Little Colorado River when the river runs clear.

Fishing Lees Ferry and Horseshoe Bend

Just downstream from Lees Ferry the Paria River routinely adds a large amount of sediment to the river after summer monsoon rains. Upstream of the Paria you will see many people fishing the banks of the river. Around and upstream of Lees Ferry many people fish using motorized boats and kayaks.

The water coming out of Glen Canyon Dam is typically cold providing excellent habitat for rainbow trout and surprisingly fly fishing is the preferred method of fishing in the Colorado River below the dam.

See Lees Ferry Anglers Availability

The information below is mostly for people running the downstream in the whitewater section. However there is some helpful information for fishing at Lees Ferry. The “outfitters” referred to below run the whitewater rafting trips in Grand Canyon.

Fly Fishing Grand Canyon

In addition, anglers enjoy fly fishing many of the side-streams, particularly those flowing in on the north side of the river. Best creeks to fly fish include Tapeats Creek (rainbows), Bright Angel Creek (rainbows and browns), and Shinumo Creek. 

Fishing Permits are Required in Grand Canyon 

Anglers 10 years old or older must purchase an Arizona Fishing License to fish in Grand Canyon. In addition to the license, a trout stamp is required for the trout of the Colorado River. A valid Arizona Fishing License must be on hand whenever fishing.

It is easiest to get an Arizona Fishing license online. Licenses can be purchased at the trading post in Marble Canyon for those meeting their outfitter there. Big 5 Sporting Goods, and Wal-Mart sell permits in Flagstaff.

Common Fish

Rainbow Trout are mostly caught in the main river while Cutthroat and German Brown Trout flourish in the side streams. In general, fish can be kept but expect to clean and keep the fish cool on your own. Check-in with your outfitter to find out their specific practices.

The endangered humpback chub does best around the Little Colorado River with its warmer and more turbid waters. Typically it is best to not fish in this area. Below the Little Colorado River the humpbacks are more common and must be released if caught. 

Best Time to Fish in Grand Canyon 

Before or after Monsoon season (mid-June through mid-August) fish seem more active. During Monsoon season the Colorado River is often muddy and warmer. The side-streams also go muddy more often during Monsoon season but clear up much more quickly. The river rarely gets muddy in Glen Canyon between the dam and Lees Ferry.

When to Fish on a Trip 

It is possible to fish during a lunch stop but much more often people fish at camp. Sometimes anglers will pass up on a side canyon hike to fish. Outfitters may ask you to use a lifejackets when fishing in the main river. 

Preferred Fishing Equipment

Outfitters will expect you to bring a light-weight, collapsible rod stored in a hard case. Most people choose to fly-fish with 9-foot rod with a 5-weight line though spinning rods work well in the main stem to get fish sitting deeper in the river.