Al, I read Crane as in the bird. Looking at the picture and not seeing a Crane (bird). Reread post and looked more carefully and realized ,not bird, but crane( construction) lol !

A backpack with what ever cold weather clothing you may need

Fishing has been good at Big Lake recently. Trolling has been productive. I don't know what they are using. The guy who owns the store at the marina there is very knowledgeable and could help you with information.

Boat? No boat?
There are several lakes off of hwy 260, between Payson and Show Low. East and south of Show Low you have Big Lake and several lakes on the Indian res. Those on the res require licenses from the Indian reservation. I have not fished on the res but I have heard that the fishing can be quite good.

I find a wading staff essential when in moving water. Two point of contact with the bottom at all times will keep you vertical, especially when turning to change directions and returning to shore. It will also lend a more stabile platform when shuffling your feet along the bottom.

Stop by FishHeads fly shop in Heber. They will help you with flies and information on the river and current conditions on the river .

We've only fished the part of the river off the old highway road. Left turn at the first light as you come down from above the reservoir, then another first left on to the old highway Rd. Park at the access area , usually a few cars there. We walk in and south along the river . We fish the deeper pools.
We were using small 20-22 beadhead nymphs and no see um dry flies size 20. Orange/tan body light grey or white hackle. Imitates calebaetis. They were hatching when we were there .
As to your question about the other area no knowledge. We are not from the area only familiar with Provo River at Heber.

Provo river in Heber Valley. We were there 4 weeks ago. Good fish on drys and nymphs.
Fish the river below Jordanelle reservoir dam.
Stop by Fish heads fly shop. They will hook you up with the necessary flies for this time of year.

What is CCA anyway?

Hire a guide in the area . They know the water, have the gear, have the knowledge to teach you fly fishing techniques and will be able to put you on fish.

Haven't heard from Iteachflyfishing either.

I would add that to accomplish a dead drift you should cast up stream at about 45 degrees across current. You also need the mend your line so that it doesn't create drag on the fly. This goes for both dry flies and nymphing.

Is this a trick question

Wow! Those are some deep philosophical questions you are asking there. I am not sure there are any answers

Tie a 5x 7.5 ft or 9 ft tapered leader to your fly line. Cut of about 2 ft off the thin end and tie on 3 or 4 ft of 5x tippet . Also practice your casting technique. Let your line completely unwind at your back cast before bringing your rod forward. Orvis has good you tube videos on casting.