Grand Canyon Fishing and Outfitters

Grand Canyon Fishing

The Grand Canyon has some great fishing, and in particular fly-fishing.  You can bring your fly rod or casting equipment any time you'll be along the Colorado River, or one of its larger side canyons like Bright Angel Creek whether your hiking or accessing the water from the few roads in the canyon. Lee’s Ferry near the beginning of Grand Canyon National Park is where the local guides and outfitters are based for good reason and the best fishing options need boats for easy access. 

The Grand Canyon has both Rainbows and Brown trout near Lees Ferry and the upper canyon.  If you head further down river on a river trip you'll find striped bass that have been making their way up from Lake Mead, as well as catfish due to the warming water.  Grand Canyon National Park is currently working on the removal and study of these fish species due to their role in the decline of the native humpback chub.  You'll need an AZ fishing license to try your luck, and you can get one day, multi-day and annual licenses with a trout stamp. Read the guide below to learn more, or check out our map of Grand Canyon fishing spots.

Grand Canyon Guru is reader-supported. When you buy through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. Thanks.

More About Grand Canyon Fishing

Fishing and Fly-fishing Lee’s Ferry and the Colorado River

Lees Ferry and the Colorado River upstream to Glen Canyon Dam is actually part of Glen Canyon National Recreation Area, although Lees Ferry itself is a co-op of sorts between Glen Canyon and Grand Canyon National Park.  Most of the Guided trips and Private Fisherman use the section of the river between Lees Ferry and the Dam with the aid of a powerboat.  Having a motorized boat is the only feasible way to fish these waters.  Below Lees Ferry in Marble Canyon, there are several side Canyons including Ryder, Soap, and Jackass the give access to the River for fishing.  These are not the easiest trails, so get a little info on Grand Canyon trails before you head out.

Fishing the Side Streams of Grand Canyon National Park

Several larger side canyons have streams that hold trout within the Grand Canyon. The best and easiest to access (if you’re a backcountry hiker) is Bright Angel Creek next to the Bright Angel Campground and Phantom Ranch.

Private Grand Canyon and Southwest Tours

Private Southwest Tours

The ultimate Tailor-Made Private Tour to the Grand Canyon and top Southwest National Parks.

Popular Tours near the East Rim

Lake Powell & Horseshoe Bend 30–Minute Air Flight

Lake Powell & Horseshoe Bend 30–Minute Air Flight

Duration: 30 minutes
Rating: 4.6 out of 5
from $124 on Get your guide

Book Now

Self Drive: Lower Antelope Canyon Ticket from Page

Self Drive: Lower Antelope Canyon Ticket from Page

Duration: 1-2 hours
Rating: 4.5 out of 5
from $57 on Viator

Book Now

Monument Valley, Zion, Bryce, South Rim, Antelope

Monument Valley, Zion, Bryce, South Rim, Antelope

Duration: 3 days
Rating: 4.8 out of 5
from $695 on Get your guide

Book Now

Monument Valley, Antelope & Horseshoe Bend

Monument Valley, Antelope & Horseshoe Bend

Duration: 3 days
Rating: 4.6 out of 5
from $540 on Get your guide

Book Now

Get Grand Canyon ready

Small Group Grand Canyon Tours

Small Group Adventures

Have the Grand Canyon Guru find the perfect small group tour for your Grand Canyon adventure.

Self-Drive Grand Canyon Tours

Self-Drive Tour Design

Work with our Professional Trip Designers to create a custom Self-Drive Grand Canyon vacation.

DIY Grand Canyon Tour

DIY Adventure Planning

Grand Canyon Guru’s self-guided itineraries will help you plan the ultimate DIY road trip.

Private Grand Canyon Tours

Custom Private Tour Design

Have our Destination Experts design a hand-crafted private tour for a fully guided Grand Canyon experience.

adventure awaits

Download our free guide to the best of the Grand Canyon

Get the guide