Arizona Fishing Reports · Lakes · Mogollon Rim Region
Willow Springs Lake is a deep Rim lake just off State Route 260 with stocked rainbows.
Looking for the latest Willow Springs 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 Willow Springs Lake.
Water level
There is no public daily water level gauge for Willow Springs Lake that we can show here. Check with the managing agency or a local shop for the latest.
Wind forecast
Willow Springs 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 Willow Springs Lake and other Arizona waters.
Load your fly box
Before you head to Willow Springs 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, Elk Hair Caddis #12-16.
Flies working right now
The flies above that we have in stock right now.
Willow Springs Lake lake details
| Access | Ramp and shoreline access. |
|---|---|
| Elevation | About 7,500 ft |
| Nearest town | Forest Lakes, 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 | Sinkhole 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 Payson, take State Route 260 east to the Willow Springs Lake turnoff.