Salt River, Mesa, AZ – Blue Point recreation area, June 26, 2023
Pretty solid day for trout fishing just upstream of the bridge. We arrived at 6 AM and had a fish on the line on my first cast. We fished until about 10 AM and caught seven fish between the two of us. I mainly stayed near the overhead line And floated the current downstream. I was using various types of power bait dough on a sliding sinker rig with a barbless treble hook. I caught six out of the seven of those fish. The trout ranged in size from 8 to 14 inches. All of them were beautiful rainbows most likely all stocked My friend tried multiple different rigs, mostly using a drop shot variation, but didn’t have as much luck. We believe his weight was too heavy and he kept getting gnarled up in the grass beds.
As expected around nine 9:30 AM the float traffic started to pick up and the fish started to slow down. We did mess around with my fly rod but didn’t see any action on it. We couldn’t do much casting because of how much the float traffic was flowing.
Water temp: 56 | Air temp: 89-95
The Gear I used:
- Rod: Okuma Celilo Graphite Lightweight Ultra Light Freshwater Rods, CE-S-662ULb (link)
- Reel: Okuma C-30-CL Ceymar Spinning Reel (link)
- Line: SpiderWire Stealth Braid Fishing Line Hi-Viz 20lb (link) | Seaguar Tatsu 6lb leader (link) | Barrel Swivel size 12 (link) | Treble Hooks Size 10 (link)
- Bait: Berkley Powerbait – Corn (link) | Berkley Powerbait – Garlic (link)
- Clothing: Free Fly Men’s Bamboo Lightweight Hoodie (link) | Free Fly Men’s Breeze Pant (link) | Chaco Mens Z/1 Classic (link)
- Other Gear: KastKing BlowBak Tactical Fishing Sling Tackle Storage Bag (link) |
About the Salt River
Nestled amidst breathtaking landscapes, the Salt River offers an abundance of trout and an opportunity to hone your angling skills. In this article, we’ll delve into the ins and outs of Salt River trout fishing, covering the best locations, essential techniques, and valuable tips to help you reel in the big ones.
- Exploring the Salt River:
The Salt River, known for its stunning beauty and crystal-clear waters, is a haven for trout. It meanders through serene valleys, gorges, and canyons, creating an idyllic backdrop for fishing enthusiasts. From the upper reaches to the lower stretches, the river presents various fishing opportunities, making it an appealing destination for anglers of all skill levels. - Prime Fishing Spots:
While the Salt River offers abundant fishing spots, a few locations stand out for their trout population and angler-friendly conditions. Cast your line at the scenic Sycamore Creek or try your luck at the Lower Salt River, known for its trophy-sized rainbow trout. Other promising areas include the Salt River Canyon, where you can enjoy fishing while surrounded by stunning canyon walls. - Techniques for Success:
Successful trout fishing in the Salt River demands a combination of skill and strategy. Consider using lightweight fishing gear, such as a 4-6 weight rod, to maintain finesse and precision. Match your flies to the prevalent insect hatches, as trout in this river are known for their selective feeding habits. Popular fly patterns include Adams, Elk Hair Caddis, and Blue-Winged Olives. Remember to perfect your presentation and drift techniques to entice these wily fish. - Valuable Tips for Anglers:
a. Time your fishing trips: Early mornings and late evenings often yield the best results as trout are more active during these periods.
b. Practice catch and release: Help preserve the trout population by practicing responsible fishing. Return your catch to the river, ensuring its continued growth and sustainability.
c. Pack essential gear: Don’t forget to bring waders, polarized sunglasses, sunscreen, and insect repellent to make your fishing excursion comfortable and enjoyable.
Conclusion:
For passionate anglers seeking a memorable fishing experience, the Salt River is a treasure trove of trout fishing opportunities. Its scenic beauty, coupled with an abundance of trout, makes it a must-visit destination. Armed with the right techniques and tips, you can maximize your chances of landing that prized catch. So, pack your gear, head to the Salt River, and embark on an angling adventure that will leave you with unforgettable memories. Keep checking back here for updated fishing reports around the valley.