Arizona Fishing Reports ยท Lakes ยท Northern Region
Cataract Lake is a small lake on the edge of Williams with stocked trout and easy shoreline access.
Looking for the latest Cataract Lake river report? This page is updated by the AvidMax fly shop team with live flows, current conditions, hatches and the flies working now on the Cataract Lake.
Water level
There is no public daily water level gauge for Cataract Lake that we can show here. Check with the managing agency or a local shop for the latest.
Wind forecast
Cataract Lake fishing report
Updated November 7, 2026.
The Rim lakes are cold, and the road may close with the first big snow.
Leeches and small nymphs along the shoreline on sunny afternoons.
Stocking report
See the Arizona Game and Fish stocking schedule for the latest stocking at Cataract Lake and other Arizona waters.
Load your fly box
Before you head to Cataract Lake, bring: Woolly Bugger #6-10, Mini Leech #8-10, Zebra Midge #14-18, Pheasant Tail Nymph #14-16, Parachute Adams #14-18, Balanced Leech #10-12, Balanced Bou Leech #10-12, Slump Buster #6-8, Egg #12-14.
Flies working right now
The flies above that we have in stock right now.
Cataract Lake lake details
| Access | Shoreline access from the campground. |
|---|---|
| Elevation | About 6,800 ft |
| Nearest town | Williams, Arizona |
| Best season | May through October |
| Fish | Rainbow trout |
| Regulations | Check the Arizona Game and Fish Department regulations before you go. An Arizona fishing license is required for anglers 10 and older. |
| Leaders and tippet | 9 ft leaders, 4X to 5X |
| Ice fishing | Snow closes the roads in winter. |
| Camping | Cataract Lake Campground |
| Kids | Yes. |
| Good to know | Gas motors are limited on many Rim lakes. Check before you launch. |
Fishing by season
Winter
Roads closed.
Spring
Opening and stocking.
Summer
Stocked trout, early and late in the day.
Fall
Cooler water and active trout.
How to get there
From Williams, take Cataract Lake Road off I-40.