Visit Lees Ferry, Arizona

Lees Ferry Flow Data
Lees Ferry Fishing Challenge

VISITING LEES FERRY ON THE COLORADO RIVER, ARIZONA

Nestled at the base of Glen Canyon and just downstream of Lake Powell, Lees Ferry is one of the most breathtaking fishing destinations in the American Southwest. Known as the “Gateway to the Grand Canyon,” this world-famous stretch of the Colorado River offers crystal-clear waters, dramatic red rock scenery, and year-round fishing opportunities.

Lees Ferry sits about 45 minutes from Page, Arizona, and just below Glen Canyon Dam, where cold, nutrient-rich water from Lake Powell creates a perfect trout habitat. This tailwater fishery supports one of the healthiest wild rainbow trout populations in the western United States — and it’s accessible from shore, boat, or drift.

Anglers from around the world travel to Lees Ferry for its combination of scenic grandeur, consistent flows, and excellent fishing for trophy-sized trout.

Anyone 10 and older will need a valid Arizona Fishing License to fish here, available through the Arizona Game and Fish Department (AZGFD) website or at local outfitters in Page.

Fly Fishing Lees Ferry

Lees Ferry is a dream for both spin and fly anglers. With its broad, cold, and clear waters, the Colorado River below Glen Canyon Dam is ideal for sight-fishing and precision casting.

Guided fishing trips are available year-round, offering instruction on local insect hatches, drift techniques, and seasonal fish behavior. The Fish Fast N Easy™ Bubble System is a perfect companion here — especially for anglers looking to cast small nymphs or dry flies long distances without a fly rod.

Popular fly patterns include midges, San Juan worms, scuds, and emergers — all of which can be drifted naturally behind the Fish Fast N Easy™ Bubble for incredible results.

Fish Species

• Rainbow Trout – The main attraction at Lees Ferry, thriving in cold tailwater conditions year-round.
• Brown Trout – Increasingly common downstream from the Ferry toward Marble Canyon.
• Striped Bass – Occasionally found migrating up from Lake Powell.

Amenities

• Lees Ferry Boat Ramp
• Kayak and Drift Boat Rentals
• Guided Fishing Trips
• Picnic and Rest Areas
• Restrooms & Campsites
• Hiking Trails and Scenic Overlooks

Lees Ferry is one of the few places in the region where you can drive directly to the Colorado River. Its combination of accessibility and natural beauty makes it perfect for anglers of all ages.

Lodging

• Marble Canyon Lodge
• Cliff Dwellers Lodge
• Page, AZ Hotels and Resorts

Lodging around Lees Ferry ranges from cozy desert lodges to full-service resorts in nearby Page. Many cater specifically to anglers, offering gear storage, guide connections, and early breakfast options for morning departures.

Camping

• Lees Ferry Campground
• Wahweap Campground (Lake Powell)
• Lone Rock Beach Camping
• Marble Canyon Campground

Camping at Lees Ferry puts you right on the water’s edge. Most sites include shaded tables, grills, and river views. Reservations can be made through the National Park Service or Recreation.gov.

Outside Attractions

• Glen Canyon Dam Overlook
• Horseshoe Bend
• Antelope Canyon
• Paria Canyon–Vermilion Cliffs Wilderness

Between fishing trips, visitors can explore sandstone canyons, kayak the Colorado, or take scenic drives through Vermilion Cliffs. This area is one of the most photographed landscapes in the world.

Fish Fast N Easy™ Bubble Guide
How to Catch Fish at Lees Ferry, Arizona

Overview
Lees Ferry’s tailwater fishery is unique: cold water flows from deep within Lake Powell, maintaining stable temperatures that keep trout active all year. The Fish Fast N Easy™ Bubble makes it effortless to adjust for these changing depths and currents — ideal for this deep, clear section of the Colorado River.

Primary Fish Species:

• Rainbow Trout

• Brown Trout

• Striped Bass (seasonal)

Fishing is open year-round, but always check AZGFD for updated flow data and regulations.

Using the Fish Fast N Easy™ Bubble

1. Fill Your Bubble: Start half-full for drifting midges or scuds near the surface. Fill three-quarters for deep current seams or tailouts.

2. Attach Your Leader: Snap on a lightweight fluorocarbon leader and fly using the patented quick-change pin.

3. Drift Naturally: Let the current carry your fly at trout level — the bubble’s transparent design keeps presentations stealthy.

4. Adjust Depth Instantly: The variable fill feature lets you fine-tune buoyancy without retying.

5. Cover Water Efficiently: Cast upstream and drift through seams and eddies; Lees Ferry’s long runs make this technique deadly effective.

Top Fishing Spots in Lees Ferry

• Walk-In Area (Downstream Access): Great for wade anglers. Fish midges under a half-filled bubble.
• The Narrows: Deep runs and strong currents hold big trout. Use ¾-filled bubble for subsurface scuds or streamers.
• Paria Riffle: Classic riffle-run-pocket structure, easy wading access. Best with drifting nymphs on light tippet.
• Upstream Boat Drift (Near Glen Canyon Dam): Coldest, clearest water — ideal for dry fly action in early morning. The Fish Fast N Easy™ bubble excels for long precision casts.

Pro Tips for Success

• Fish early or late for the best surface action.
• Use 6–7X fluorocarbon for stealth in clear water.
• Adjust bubble fill when changing from riffles to deep runs.
• Watch for midge and blue-winged olive hatches.
• Practice catch-and-release — Lees Ferry’s rainbows are wild treasures.
• Snap a photo with your Fish Fast N Easy™ Bubble and tag #FishFastChallenge.

Bubble Challenge Bonus

Join the fun — play the Fish Fast N Easy™ Bubble Bingo Challenge online at FishingVacations.com/BubbleBingo.
Complete Lees Ferry–based challenges and earn your Bubble Challenge Champion badge!

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