West Cataract Creek
West Cataract Creek
- Boat Ramps
- 1
- Access Points
- 1
- Species
- 3
West Cataract Creek is a small stream located in northern Arizona near Flagstaff. This waterway flows through forested areas and is part of the headwaters system feeding into Cataract Lake. The creek is known for its relatively clear, cold waters that support several trout species, making it a serene fishing destination for anglers seeking a quieter alternative to the more popular Cataract Lake. While the creek isn't particularly large or well-known compared to other Arizona fishing waters, it offers anglers the opportunity to catch native and stocked trout in a tranquil setting surrounded by the natural beauty of northern Arizona's landscapes.
Species & education
Learn what type of fish are at West Cataract Creek and what's needed to catch them.
Find which waters have the species you want to catch
Rainbow Trout
Oncorhynchus mykiss
Brown Trout
Salmo trutta
Brook Trout
Salvelinus fontinalis
Fishing spots, boat ramps & amenities
Learn how to get on West Cataract Creek. Uncover great fishing access points, boat ramps, and all the facilities you need for an unforgettable day on the water. Some locations shown may border or include private property. Always check property boundaries and applicable regulations before visiting. onWater's Public & Private Land layer can help you plan your access with confidence.
Know where you can legally fish on West Cataract Creek
See public and private land boundaries along the water, turn on private parcels with owner details to know where permission is required, and find land-trust parcels that offer permitted fishing access.
Arizona licenses and regulations
Arizona Boating Regulations
When using any type of watercraft to access a body of water, it is important to follow all federal, state, and local rules and regulations. These rules and regulations include boat permitting and licensing, invasive species inspections and stamps, life jacket and PFD rules, motor size and horsepower restrictions, noise limitations, restrictions on personal watercraft, and many more. Visit the web link below for the most current rules and regulations for this body of water.
Arizona Fishing License
A valid Arizona fishing license is required for Arizona resident and non-resident anglers 10 years of age or older fishing any public accessible water in Arizona. Youth under the age of 10 and blind residents do not need to purchase a state fishing license to fish in Arizona. Check the Arizona Fishing Regulations for additional information.
Arizona Fishing Regulations
This river has a variety of species and regulations, including potential floating and/or watercraft restrictions. Because this river is specially managed for species, seasons, angling methods, and watercraft, it is strongly encouraged you check all federal, state, and local regulations before fishing. Visit the links below, inquire locally, or contact a local fly shop to learn current regulations and restrictions.
Arizona Steam Access Laws
Determined by the Arizona Navigable Stream Adjudication Commission. ANSAC says for a waterway to be navigable, it must have been capable of commercial trade and travel at the time of statehood (1912). The waterway must also be wet, with water from more than just precipitation. As of 2016, ANSAC only defines the Colorado River as navigable, though decisions are pending for other streams. The federal government and private owners control all other streambeds The extent to which the public has rights in non-navigable watercourses depends upon the ownership of the streambed. For example, if the federal government has retained ownership, the public likely enjoys rights to boat, fish, wade, recreate, and portage. If, on the other hand, the streambed is privately owned, then the public may not boat, fish, or otherwise access the watercourse without the owner's permission.
Take West Cataract Creek with you
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Water and weather conditions (10 day forecast)
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Fishing near West Cataract Creek
Verde River
Oak Creek
Agua Fria River
Cataract Creek
Dogtown Wash
JD Dam Wash
Pumphouse Wash
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Dogtown Reservoir
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