Christopher Creek - Christopher Creek, AZ

Christopher Creek, located just below Arizona’s Mogollon Rim, is a small but productive trout stream flowing through mixed pine forest at 6,300 feet elevation. Regularly stocked with rainbow trout during spring and summer, and home to wild brown trout, it offers anglers both convenient access and the potential for wild, technical water.

The lower portions of the creek, especially around campgrounds and day-use areas, receive frequent stockings. These fish are easily caught using worms, PowerBait, and small spinners. Fly anglers find success with dry flies like elk hair caddis and Adams in the mornings and evenings.

Upper sections of Christopher Creek contain narrow, shaded runs and deep pools where wild browns thrive. These require stealthy presentation and light tackle. Dry-dropper rigs and small nymphs are effective in these quiet waters.

Access is excellent, with multiple roads, trails, and developed campgrounds nearby. Though often crowded in peak summer, fishing pressure drops substantially with a short walk away from public areas.

Best fishing conditions occur from May through July and again in early autumn. The creek’s limited size and fragile habitat demand ethical catch-and-release practices in less-stocked reaches. For anglers seeking a blend of convenience, scenery, and quality trout fishing, Christopher Creek remains one of central Arizona’s top seasonal streams.