During the summer of 1959 on the banks of Au Sable River in Michigan, the national organization of Trout Unlimited was founded. The 16 fishermen were gathered at the home of George Griffith and were discussing the ability of fish to become far superior if left to their own devices. This new organization was dedicated to ensuring that wild and native trout populations were allowed to thrive, as nature intended.

Jump ahead to 1979. While many fly fishing clubs were thriving, there was a need for an organized effort to sustain Arizona’s limited coldwater resources. Formally named the Zane Grey chapter of Trout Unlimited in 1987, the chapter’s mission is to preserve, protect and enhance trout and salmonid species and the coldwater resources on which they depend.

The Zane Grey Chapter of TU is a group of volunteers dedicated to advancing enlightened fishing regulations that would promote wild trout reproduction to reduce reliance upon hatchery trout where feasible, and supporting environmental and conservation activities to protect Arizona’s coldwater fish habitat and it’s two native trout species: Apache Trout and Gila Trout.

The chapter took it’s name from the famous Arizona writer and angler, Zane Grey who had a cabin in the Mogollon Rim area. Initially, the chapter had several outings and meeting at the Zane Grey cabin near Tonto Creek and taking this esteemed name seemed to be a perfect fit. We believe that Zane Grey would be pleased.