At least it is in mid-elevation and lower elevation waters where we do our trout stockings.

Try the one-two punch of the Lower Salt River and Saguaro Lake because they are close to one another, and are being stocked. The Lower Salt is being stocked this week and Saguaro will be stocked the week of Dec. 16.

Jeremy Hoffman, the north Phoenix Sportsman's Warehouse fishing manager, suggests fly fishing in all trout-stocked waters such as the Lower Salt. He reported that Copper johns, prince nymphs, and egg patterns are working well for your sub-surface flies, and for dries anglers can try stimulators and elk hair caddis. Hoffman said if you are spin fishing try small Rooster Tails with a gold blade in the slower moving water. See more in the full Lower Salt report.

Saguaro has lots of fishing piers, especially in the Key Hole area just up from the marina. Power Bait is effective, but anglers may also want to try nightcrawlers that entice largemouth bass, yellow bass, bluegill and catfish. If you've learned how to tie a dropshot rig, try one with a nightcrawlers or even mealworm.

Don't forget the Urban Program lakes are stocked with trout in the winter. There may be times when the urban lakes are offering some of the best trout fishing in the state. On Jan. 1, in addition to the current 21 waters, another 15 new waters will be added. See the Urban Fishing report for more details.

And be sure to check the entire winter stocking schedule.

Also, keep up with the Arizona Department of Transportation for the latest road closures.