This reversed the dry and generally low water conditions the White Mountains and Rim area were experiencing earlier in the summer. Water levels in many lakes rose considerably, such as at Nelson Reservoir and Rainbow Lake, which are currently full, and at Lyman Lake and Lee Valley Lake, which were previously extremely low. Launching a boat is now possible at Lyman Lake. The rise in water levels in the lakes increased water quality conditions, and therefore, fishing conditions. Generally, water temperatures begin to decrease as autumn conditions set in, bringing daytime water temperatures more into optimum range conditions for trout.
Trout become more active and feed heavily before winter sets in.
All types of fishing for trout, whether using bait, lures, or flies, tend to become more productive into October and November. The use of lures and flies results in the greatest increase in success because trout are no longer seeking shelter in deeper waters to avoid high water temperatures near the surface. In addition, fall is the spawning season for brown trout and brook trout. Most fish become particularly aggressive and easier to catch during their spawning season, making this the optimal time to catch bigger brown trout. Large brown trout feed heavily on smaller fish, making the use of minnow-like lures, such as Rapalas and other similar patterned crankbaits, very effective.