Arizona Fishing Reports ยท Lakes ยท White Mountains Region
Nelson Reservoir south of Springerville has stocked rainbows and brown trout.
Looking for the latest Nelson Reservoir 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 Nelson Reservoir.
Water level
There is no public daily water level gauge for Nelson Reservoir that we can show here. Check with the managing agency or a local shop for the latest.
Wind forecast
Nelson Reservoir fishing report
Updated November 7, 2026.
The White Mountains are cold, and fishing is best in the afternoon.
Leeches, damsels and small nymphs near weed edges.
Stocking report
See the Arizona Game and Fish stocking schedule for the latest stocking at Nelson Reservoir and other Arizona waters.
Load your fly box
Before you head to Nelson Reservoir, 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.
Nelson Reservoir lake details
| Access | Ramp and shoreline. |
|---|---|
| Elevation | About 7,400 ft |
| Nearest town | Springerville, Arizona |
| Best season | Spring through fall |
| Fish | Rainbow and brown 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 | Ice fishing some winters, when safe. |
| Camping | Camp in Springerville |
| Kids | Yes. |
| Good to know | Wind comes up fast at high elevation. |
Fishing by season
Winter
Ice or closed roads.
Spring
Ice-out and stocking.
Summer
Callibaetis and damsels.
Fall
Big fish before winter.
How to get there
From Springerville, take US-191 south.