Believe it or not, Arizona, with its dry climate, has an abundance of Lakes that anglers love. The Grand Canyon State has an amazing 128 lakes and five beautiful rivers. It is hard to choose the best places to go fishing.
After thoroughly researching all the lakes in Arizona, we have compiled a list of the 21 best fishing lakes in Arizona.
Whether you are a beginner or an experienced angler, Arizona’s fishing lakes offer something for everyone. From the northern Arizona White Mountains to the southern Arizona Mexican border, plenty of great fishing spots have easy access, boat rentals, and picnic areas.
Without further adieu, let’s jump into (pun intended) Arizona’s 21 best fishing lakes.
21 Best Fishing Lakes in Arizona
Arizona is a great place for anglers of any age, offering some of the best spots to catch bass, catfish, trout, and much more.
The Arizona Game and Fish Department have stocked many lakes and rivers with rainbow trout, brown trout, brook trout, channel catfish, flathead catfish, smallmouth bass, largemouth bass, green sunfish, redear sunfish, yellow bass, and cutthroat trout. Here are the 25 best fishing lakes in Arizona.
1. Lake Powell
Fishing at Lake Powell, a man-made reservoir on the Colorado River, straddling the border of Arizona and Utah, offers a unique blend of breathtaking landscapes and rich aquatic biodiversity.
The expansive lake, with its many coves and canyons, is home to a plethora of fish species, including largemouth and smallmouth bass, striped bass, catfish, and crappie.
The lake’s stunning blue waters, set against the contrasting vibrant hues of the surrounding desert, provide a backdrop that enhances the experience of every angler. The clear, deep waters of Lake Powell, combined with its rugged, untouched landscapes, make it a paradise for both novice and experienced fishers.
Top Fishing Spots
- Bullfrog Bay: This vast bay is popular for largemouth and smallmouth bass fishing.
- Padre Bay: Known for its deep waters, this area is ideal for striped bass.
- Wahweap Bay: This area is near marinas and offers excellent catfish fishing opportunities.
- Warm Creek Bay: This bay is a fantastic spot for fishing crappie, especially during the spring season.
- Halls Crossing: This area offers various fish species and is especially popular among more experienced anglers.
2. Roosevelt Lake
Roosevelt Lake in Arizona, the state’s largest lake entirely within its borders, is a renowned spot for anglers of all levels. Nestled in the heart of Tonto National Forest, the lake boasts a bounty of fish species such as largemouth and smallmouth bass, crappie, catfish, and even carp.
The lake’s sparkling turquoise waters, encompassed by high desert landscapes and the Salt River Valley, provides a unique and serene fishing experience. Its wide-open waters and many coves present ideal conditions for fishing, especially in the cooler hours of the day.
Top Fishing Spots
- Indian Point: Renowned for its smallmouth bass fishing, the area also yields abundant catfish.
- Windor Basin: This spot is famous for largemouth bass and provides a secluded fishing experience.
- Schoolhouse Point: Offering shore and boat fishing options, this area is known for its high crappie population.
- Bachelors Cove: With its deep waters, this cove is an ideal spot for catching catfish.
- Salome Cove: Located at the end of the Salome Highway, this area is frequented by carp anglers.
3. Lake Pleasant
Located in the heart of the Sonoran Desert, northwest of Phoenix, Arizona, Lake Pleasant is a sizable body of water spanning over 10,000 acres at full capacity and reaching depths up to 200 feet.
It’s an aquatic oasis amidst the arid environment and is a favored destination for water enthusiasts and anglers. This large lake hosts a variety of fish species, such as largemouth and white bass, striped bass, channel catfish, and crappie.
Top Fishing Spots
- Humbug Cove: This spot is ideal for catching largemouth and white bass.
- Cooper’s Cove: With its calm waters and stunning scenery, this location is a favorite for striped bass fishing.
- Castle Creek: Known for its depth, it’s a popular spot for catching big catfish.
- Fireman’s Cove: This spot is excellent for anglers targeting crappie, particularly in spring.
- Two Cow Cove: This secluded cove is a prime spot for anglers looking for a quiet spot to catch many different fish species.
4. Saguaro Lake
Nestled amidst the scenic landscapes of the Tonto National Forest, northeast of Phoenix, Arizona, Saguaro Lake is an enticing destination for young and old anglers.
This medium-sized lake, encompassing approximately 1,200 acres, and with depths reaching up to 118 feet, is well-stocked with an array of fish species such as largemouth bass, yellow bass, rainbow trout, walleye, and crappie.
The lake’s shimmering waters are fringed by rugged desert cliffs and various cacti, including the iconic saguaro, providing an authentic Arizonian backdrop for a memorable fishing expedition.
Top Fishing Spots
- Shiprock: An excellent spot for largemouth bass fishing, particularly in the early morning or late evening.
- Butcher Jones: This accessible shoreline area is a popular spot for rainbow trout, especially after the winter stocking.
- Bagley Flat: Known for its high yield of crappie, it also offers camping facilities for overnight fishing trips.
- The Points: This spot near the dam is excellent for walleye and yellow bass.
- Piedra Pescado (Fish Rock): A well-known deep water fishing location that’s popular for bass fishing.
5. Apache Lake
Situated in the Superstition Wilderness of Tonto National Forest, Apache Lake in Arizona is a cherished destination for anglers. This long, narrow body of water stretches over 17 miles with a surface area of 2,568 acres and a maximum depth of approximately 266 feet.
Tucked between steep canyon walls, its tranquil and crystal-clear waters teem with abundant fish species, including smallmouth and largemouth bass, walleye, rainbow trout, and yellow bass.
The lake’s secluded location, accessible via the Apache Trail, offers a rustic and serene fishing environment, with the magnificent desert landscapes and azure waters creating a captivating backdrop.
Top fishing spots
- Burnt Corral: An accessible area known for its largemouth bass and crappie populations.
- Three Mile Wash: A renowned spot for walleye fishing, particularly during the cooler months.
- Davis Wash: This area is perfect for rainbow trout fishing, especially after winter stockings.
- Upper Apache Lake: Known for its yellow bass, it’s a popular area for experienced anglers.
- Lower Log: This spot is excellent for largemouth bass and walleye with deep waters.
6. Show Low Lake
Show Low Lake, located in the White Mountains of northeastern Arizona, is a favorite among anglers.
With a surface area of 100 acres and depths reaching up to 50 feet, this small, serene lake is well-stocked with various fish, including rainbow trout, largemouth bass, channel catfish, and green sunfish.
Surrounded by lush pine forests and rolling hills, the pristine waters of Show Low Lake provide an idyllic setting for a relaxing fishing outing. The high altitude and cooler temperatures make this lake a great summer fishing destination, with consistently high yields of quality fish.
Top fishing spots
- Dam Area: Known for its high rainbow trout and channel catfish yield.
- Northeast Shore: This shoreline is great for catching green sunfish and largemouth bass.
- Show Low Creek Inlet: This spot, where the creek feeds into the lake, is popular for trout fishing, especially in spring and fall.
- Southwest Shore: This less crowded area is known for its largemouth bass.
- Cove Near the Boat Ramp: This cove is easily accessed and contains a variety of fish species.
7. Lake Havasu
Located on the Colorado River bordering Arizona and California, Lake Havasu is a renowned fishing destination for its crystal clear waters and abundance of fish.
Spanning over 19,300 acres with a maximum depth of about 90 feet, this vast lake teems with an array of fish species, including largemouth and smallmouth bass, striped bass, catfish, and sunfish.
Its vibrant waters, stunning desert landscapes, and iconic London Bridge provide an unforgettable fishing experience, making it a top choice for both local and visiting anglers.
Top fishing spots
- Bill Williams River National Wildlife Refuge: This spot is known for its largemouth and smallmouth bass.
- Havasu Springs: Located at the southern tip of the lake, this area is famous for striped bass and catfish.
- The Sandbar: A popular spot for boat fishing, this shallow water area is excellent for sunfish.
- Take-Off Point: This area offers diverse species and is particularly good for bass fishing.
- Windsor Beach: This shoreline area provides easy access for anglers and is known for its abundant bass and catfish.
8. Patagonia Lake
Nestled in the rolling hills of southern Arizona, Patagonia Lake is a charming, tranquil body of water that spans 265 acres with a maximum depth of around 70 feet.
Known for its peaceful environment and beautiful scenery, the lake is a favored destination for avid anglers. It is well-stocked with various fish species, such as largemouth bass, channel catfish, bluegill, and crappie, making it an ideal location for sport and leisurely fishing.
Surrounded by the lush landscapes of Patagonia Lake State Park, the area provides a picturesque, serene setting for a memorable fishing experience.
Top fishing spots
- East Shore: This shoreline area offers excellent largemouth bass and bluegill catches.
- Rocky Point: Known for its crappie, this area is also home to various other species.
- Mackey’s Point: This secluded area, accessible only by boat, is a popular spot for channel catfish.
- The Dam: With deeper waters, this area is favored by more experienced anglers and is known for its bass and catfish.
- Patagonia Creek Inlet: The point where the creek enters the lake is an excellent location for various species, especially after rainfall.
9. Alamo Lake
Alamo Lake is located in the Bill Williams River Valley in west-central Arizona and is a remote and serene fishing destination.
This expansive body of water, spanning around 3,500 acres with depths reaching up to 80 feet, is home to an impressive array of fish species, including largemouth bass, channel catfish, bluegill, and crappie.
The lake, formed by the Alamo Dam’s construction, offers a peaceful fishing environment surrounded by rugged desert landscapes. Its isolated location makes it a hidden gem for anglers seeking a tranquil and fruitful fishing excursion.
Top fishing spots
- Cholla Ramp Area: Renowned for largemouth bass, this area is accessible and offers great shoreline fishing opportunities.
- Alamo Dam: This spot, known for its depth, is a favored location for catfish.
- North Shore: This less crowded area is popular for bluegill fishing.
- South Shore: This shoreline area is a hotspot for crappie, particularly during spring.
- Upper Lake: Known for its secluded location and diverse species, it’s a great spot for experienced anglers.
10. Riggs Flat Lake
In the Pinaleño Mountains within the Coronado National Forest in southeastern Arizona, Riggs Flat Lake is a small, tranquil, high-altitude lake well-loved by anglers.
With an approximate surface area of 11 acres and a maximum depth of 45 feet, this intimate lake is known for its cool, clear waters teeming with trout.
Surrounded by lush pine and fir forests, the lake offers a peaceful and beautiful setting for a fishing getaway. The relatively cool summer temperatures make Riggs Flat Lake an attractive spot for those seeking to escape Arizona’s intense heat.
Top fishing spots
- The Dam: Known for its depth, this spot is popular for rainbow trout fishing.
- East Shore: This shoreline area is accessible and yields a good brook trout catch.
- South Shore: This area is a great spot for shore fishing, particularly for brown trout.
- Inlet Area: The spot where the creek enters the lake is favored for trout fishing, especially during the spawning season.
- Northwest Shore: This less crowded spot is known for its rainbow and brook trout.
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11. Reservation Lake
In the White Mountains of northeastern Arizona on the Fort Apache Indian Reservation, Reservation Lake is a high-altitude fishing haven.
Covering approximately 280 acres with depths reaching 40 feet, this remote and tranquil lake is known for its abundant trout populations, including rainbow, brown, and native Apache trout.
Lush coniferous forests surround the lake and offer breathtaking views of Mount Baldy; the lake provides a scenic and serene backdrop for an enjoyable fishing expedition. The cooler temperatures and the lake’s elevation make it a great summer fishing destination.
Top fishing spots
- The Dam: The deep waters near the dam offer excellent opportunities for catching large brown and rainbow trout.
- South Shore: This accessible shoreline area is known for its Apache trout.
- North Shore: A less crowded area known for rainbow trout, particularly in the cooler months.
- East End: The inlet area is a favorite spot for fly anglers targeting spawning fish.
- West End: This area, close to the dam, is preferred for experienced anglers seeking larger trout.
12. Woods Canyon Lake
Nestled in the lush forests of the Mogollon Rim in northern Arizona, Woods Canyon Lake is a picturesque high-altitude lake known for its excellent trout fishing.
This relatively small body of water, covering about 55 acres and reaching depths of around 40 feet, is a cherished destination for anglers. It’s regularly stocked with rainbow trout and hosts a native population of brown trout.
Top fishing spots
- The Dam: The deep waters near the dam are a prime location for larger rainbow and brown trout.
- Boat Ramp Area: This easily accessible area is popular among anglers and is known for its abundant trout.
- Meadow Point: This quiet shoreline spot is great for fly fishing and is frequented by brown trout.
- Aspen Campground Shoreline: This shoreline spot near the campground is a favorite among families and casual anglers for rainbow trout.
- Rocky Ridge: This area, on the eastern side of the lake, offers a more secluded fishing experience and a good catch of both rainbow and brown trout.
13. Parker Canyon Lake
Parker Canyon Lake is a delightful destination for fishing enthusiasts, located in the rolling grasslands of southeastern Arizona near the Mexico border.
Covering approximately 132 acres and reaching depths up to 65 feet, this high-altitude lake is well-stocked with many fish species, including rainbow trout, largemouth bass, sunfish, and catfish.
The lake is enclosed by the stunning landscapes of the Canelo Hills and the Coronado National Forest, making this lake a beautiful spot to cast a line.
Top fishing spots
- Marina Area: This accessible area offers excellent fishing opportunities for largemouth bass and sunfish.
- The Dam: With its deeper waters, this spot is popular among experienced anglers targeting rainbow trout.
- South Shore: This less crowded area is known for its catfish, particularly in the warmer months.
- North Shore: This shoreline spot is a family favorite and provides a good catch of various species.
- East End: This quiet, secluded area is ideal for those looking for a peaceful fishing experience and a chance to catch trout and bass.
14. Bartlett Lake
Bartlett Lake is a popular destination for local anglers in the heart of Tonto National Forest in central Arizona.
This reservoir, with a maximum surface area of about 2,815 acres and reaching depths up to 174 feet, is teeming with an assortment of fish species, including largemouth and smallmouth bass, crappie, sunfish, catfish, and carp.
The lake’s crystalline waters, set against the rugged desert landscapes, provide a unique fishing setting that is both tranquil and captivating. Its proximity to Phoenix makes Bartlett Lake a convenient getaway for a day of fishing and relaxation.
Top fishing spots
- Rattlesnake Cove: This spot is well known for its abundant largemouth bass population.
- Yellow Cliffs: This area is excellent for catching crappie, particularly during the spring spawn.
- SB Cove: Known for its depth, this location is a favorite among anglers targeting catfish.
- Bartlett Flats: This expansive area is popular for carp fishing and offers vast shoreline access.
- Phantom Ship Island: Surrounding waters are a prime spot for smallmouth bass, especially during the cooler months.
15. Lake Mead
Straddling the border of Arizona and Nevada, Lake Mead is one of the largest reservoirs in the United States and a renowned fishing destination.
With an impressive surface area of about 248 square miles and depths reaching up to 532 feet, this massive body of water is home to diverse fish species, including striped bass, largemouth bass, channel catfish, crappie, and bluegill.
Set against the stark beauty of the surrounding desert landscapes and the Hoover Dam’s iconic silhouette, Lake Mead offers an extraordinary setting for a fishing expedition that is both rewarding and visually spectacular.
Top fishing spots
- Boulder Basin: Known for its striped bass and largemouth bass populations.
- Temple Bar: A remote area famous for striped bass and catfish.
- Overton Arm: This northern area of the lake is excellent for crappie fishing.
- Virgin Basin: Popular for its largemouth bass, especially in the cooler months.
- Gregg Basin: This deep water area is a prime location for striped bass.
16. Big Lake
Nestled in the heart of Arizona’s White Mountains, Big Lake is a high-altitude paradise known for its abundant trout population.
Spanning roughly 450 acres and with a maximum depth of about 16 feet, the lake is regularly stocked with rainbow, brook, and cutthroat trout, making it a favored destination for trout anglers.
The lake’s clear waters, surrounded by verdant pine forests and mountain landscapes, offer a tranquil and scenic setting perfect for a fishing expedition. Despite its remote location, its reputation as a top trout fishing lake in Arizona attracts many anglers, especially in summer.
Top fishing spots
- Railroad Cove: This area is known for its high rainbow and brook trout yield.
- South Cove: This spot, easily accessible by the main road, is popular for cutthroat trout.
- West Shore: This shoreline spot is a favorite for fly fishing and is frequented by various trout species.
- A and B Coves: These secluded spots on the lake’s eastern side are excellent for rainbow trout.
- Boat Dock Area: This area is known for its diverse species and is easily accessible for boat anglers.
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17. Chevelon Canyon Lake
Tucked away in the Apache-Sitgreaves National Forests of northeastern Arizona, Chevelon Canyon Lake is a remote, high-altitude fishing destination.
This slender, canyon-bound lake spans approximately 208 acres and has a depth of up to 80 feet, making it one of the deepest lakes in the region.
The lake is known for its abundant populations of rainbow and brown trout, which thrive in its cool, clear waters. Enclosed by steep canyon walls and dense forests, Chevelon Canyon Lake offers a tranquil and picturesque setting.
Top fishing spots
- Dam Area: The deep waters near the dam are known for larger rainbow and brown trout.
- North Shoreline: This less crowded shoreline spot is favored by experienced anglers seeking a good catch of rainbow trout.
- Outlet Cove: Located at the lake’s southwestern end, this area is popular for both rainbow and brown trout.
- South Shoreline: This more accessible area offers good fishing spots for rainbow trout.
- Inlet Area: The area where Chevelon Creek feeds the lake is known for its brown trout, especially during the spawning season.
18. Upper Lake Mary
Located just southeast of Flagstaff in northern Arizona, Upper Lake Mary is a long, narrow reservoir popular among local anglers.
The lake spans approximately 759 acres, with varying depths reaching 38 feet in some areas. It is renowned for its abundant populations of northern pike, walleye, and yellow perch, as well as occasional large channel catfish.
Its proximity to Flagstaff makes Upper Lake Mary a convenient spot for those seeking a quick fishing trip away from the city.
Top fishing spots
- Dam Area: Known for its depth, this spot is favored for northern pike and walleye.
- Pine Grove Campground Area: This accessible area offers excellent opportunities for yellow perch.
- Narrows Area: This spot, where the lake constricts, is popular for northern pike and walleye.
- South Shoreline: This less crowded area is known for its catfish, particularly during the warmer months.
- Marshy Inlet Area: This spot, where Walnut Creek feeds the lake, is excellent for walleye and yellow perch, especially in the spring.
19. Lower Lake Mary
A short drive southeast of Flagstaff in northern Arizona, Lower Lake Mary is the smaller and more accessible sister to Upper Lake Mary.
Covering approximately 200 acres when full, with varying depths, this lake is an angler’s delight when it’s sufficiently filled with water, which primarily depends on the snow runoff and rains.
Stocked with rainbow trout, channel catfish, and occasionally northern pike, Lower Lake Mary offers a rewarding fishing experience amidst the beautiful ponderosa pine country.
Top fishing spots
- Dam Area: Known for its depth, this spot is favored for trout and catfish.
- Picnic Area: This easily accessible spot offers excellent opportunities for shoreline fishing.
- Southern Shores: Known for its tranquility and a good spot to catch of trout, especially during the stocking periods.
- Middle Lake Area: This area, where the lake widens, is excellent for trout and occasionally northern pike.
- North End: This marshy area where runoff feeds the lake is popular for trout fishing in the early season.
20. Hawley Lake
Located on the Fort Apache Indian Reservation in eastern Arizona, Hawley Lake is a high-altitude fishing retreat known for its breathtaking scenery and cool summer temperatures.
The lake, with an area of approximately 300 acres and depths up to 60 feet, is home to an impressive variety of fish, including rainbow, brown, brook trout, and catfish.
Nestled amongst lush pine forests and rolling hills, Hawley Lake offers an idyllic setting for a relaxing fishing trip, attracting local and visiting anglers.
Top fishing spots
- The Dam: Known for its deep waters, this spot is a prime location for catching large trout.
- North Shore: This area, near the boat dock, offers excellent fishing opportunities for rainbow trout.
- South Shore: Known for its catfish, this spot is popular among local anglers.
- East End: The inlet area is favored for its brook trout, especially during the spawning season.
- West End: This more secluded area is popular for brown trout fishing.
21. Dogtown Lake
Located in the Kaibab National Forest near Williams in northern Arizona, Dogtown Lake is a serene high-altitude retreat cherished by fishing enthusiasts.
Covering approximately 55 acres with depths up to 50 feet, this charming lake is home to various fish species, including rainbow trout, brown trout, and channel catfish.
Given the lake’s proximity to historic Route 66 and the Grand Canyon, Dogtown Lake offers a peaceful fishing getaway amid Arizona’s captivating landscapes.
Top fishing spots
- The Dam: Known for its depth, this spot is a favorite among anglers targeting large trout.
- Boat Launch Area: This accessible area is excellent for rainbow trout fishing.
- Southeast Shore: This less crowded area is known for its channel catfish, particularly during the warmer months.
- North Shore: This shoreline spot is a family favorite and provides a good catch of various species.
- West End: This quiet, secluded area is ideal for those seeking brown trout.
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Obtaining an Arizona Fishing License
Obtaining a fishing license in Arizona is a straightforward process. Residents and non-residents of Arizona aged 10 years and older must have a valid fishing license.
Different types of fishing licenses are available, including short-term, annual, and lifetime licenses, and they can be purchased online, at any Arizona Game and Fish Department office, or from a licensed dealer.
When purchasing a license online, it’s as simple as visiting the Arizona Game and Fish Department website, selecting the appropriate license, filling out the necessary information, and paying. After purchase, the license can be printed at home or stored on a mobile device.
Specifically, for residents aged 10-17, there is a Youth Combination Hunt and Fish license. For those over 18, there are options for General Fishing licenses and a Community Fishing license.
Non-residents have options for a General Fishing or Short-Term General Fishing license. Veterans and active-duty military members also have special licensing provisions.
It’s important to note that fishing on Native American reservations requires a separate permit, obtainable from the individual tribal authorities, as the Arizona Game and Fish Department do not govern these areas.
Conclusion – Best Fishing Lakes in Arizona
Arizona is a great place for fishing, with plenty of options for all skill levels. Visitors must have a valid Arizona fishing license or a valid fishing license from another state to fish in Arizona.
With easy access to visitor centers, boat ramps, and parking lots, Arizona’s lakes and rivers are the perfect place for a fishing trip.
If you have fished at any of the lakes mentioned in the article, please leave a comment in the section below and say something about your fishing experience on the lake. Until next time Happy Fishing!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What are some of the best fishing lakes in Arizona?
Arizona offers a wide range of fishing opportunities. Arizona’s best fishing lakes include Lake Havasu, Roosevelt Lake, Lake Pleasant, Big Lake, and Alamo Lake. Each lake has a unique selection of fish species, from bass to trout, providing a diverse fishing experience.
What types of fish can I expect to catch in Arizona’s lakes?
Arizona’s lakes are home to a variety of fish species. These include largemouth and smallmouth bass, crappie, catfish, bluegill, and rainbow trout. In higher elevation lakes like Big Lake, you can find trout species, including Apache, Rainbow, Brook, and Brown trout.
Do I need a fishing license to fish in Arizona’s lakes?
Yes, a valid fishing license is required for any person age 10 and older to fish in the state of Arizona. You can purchase a fishing license from the Arizona Game and Fish Department’s website or at authorized license dealers around the state.
What are the best times of year to fish in Arizona’s lakes?
While you can fish year-round in Arizona, the best times often depend on the type of fish you’re after. For bass, the best fishing is usually in the spring and fall. Trout fishing is generally best in the cooler months or at higher elevations during the summer. Winter months can be excellent for crappie and catfish.
Are there boat rentals available on these lakes?
Yes, many of the larger lakes in Arizona, such as Lake Havasu, Roosevelt Lake, and Lake Pleasant, offer boat rentals. Options typically include fishing boats, pontoons, kayaks, and canoes. It’s best to check with the specific lake’s marina or visitor center for details about boat rentals and regulations.
Cory Haasnoot
Cory is a content writer-editor and founder of Tackle Box Talk. Favorite Quote: "Give a man a fish, and you feed him for a day. Teach a man to fish, and you feed him for a lifetime."