Granite Reef Recreational Area

Granite Reef, Phon D Sutton, and Coon Bluff are all good places

Yup some good bass are in there. I'd go further down near the damn. Less water activity.

To hang out at Granite Reef Rec site, yes. They are currently $8, you can pick them up at the Walgreens on Power Road north of the 202.

Yes, but I would really be careful. there are many submerged dangers as far as deep mud, fish hooks, line, be careful.

Never stayed late but have been on the water at 630am with no issues

Rainbow trout and Bass

Probably

Not certain of county, state, city regulations. I imagine if you are talking a large gathering, say 50+ probably some kind of permit? If it's just 3 to 10, can't imagine it being a problem. Tons of shade.

Yes

Totally. I just did this last night, Goldfield to Granite Reef. Check the Meetup app, you can find several groups that do this fairly regularly.

I like to put in at Granite Reef and see how far up river I can paddle on my kayak. The nice thing is I can do it solo. If I have a couple people with me I'd rather park a ride at Granite Reef and put in further up. Parking at Granite Reef can be a problem though. There are maybe twenty parking spots including handicap so it fills up quickly and is frequently plugged up with traffic.

I would check coons bluff

No overnight camping.

Almost all of the Circle Ks in the area sell them. Ask for a Tonto pass. The pass is good for any of the recreation areas in the Tonto National Forest. Only $8.

I think fishing is all year round. As far as stocking: carp, catfish, and bass are in there all the time and trout too but I don't know when they stock with trout. You do have to have a valid AZ fishing license to fish in any body of water (including canals, i believe) and you may need to get a trout stamp. Licenses last 1 year from the date of purchase unless otherwise specified.

Yes 8 bucks get a tonto pass at a gas station near there or 6 not sure

Yes water access, fishing and kayak launching