These 11 Amazing Spots In Arizona Are Perfect To Go Fishing
By Monica Spencer|Published April 06, 2016
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Monica Spencer
Author
Monica is a Diné (Navajo) freelance writer and photographer based in the Southwest. Born in Gallup and raised in Phoenix, she is Tódich'ii'nii (Bitter Water People) and Tsi'naajinii (Black Streak Wood People). Monica is a staff writer for Only In Your State, photo editor for The Mesa Legend, and previously a staff writer for The Navajo Post. You can reach her at monica.d.spencer@gmail.com.
Arizona is a pretty dry state, but we actually have a pretty large number of fishing options. Who knew, right? Plus, some areas have fishing available year-round, meaning you don’t have to wait until the winter thaw to head out to the lake.
Whether you’re a seasoned angler looking for new scenery or someone completely new to the game, here are a few favorite spots that you may want to check out before your next fishing expedition:
This popular fishing lake is located in the White Mountains a few miles south of Greer. Spring fishing is especially popular and is stocked with several species of trout.
Located 20 minutes west of Safford, Cluff Ranch Ponds are known for their variety of fish species and winter stock of rainbow trout. If fishing isn't for someone in your party, send them over to Pond number three for swimming.
This lake is found in Dead Horse Ranch State Park just north of Cottonwood. Routinely stocked with trout throughout the year, you'll want to head out in June or late September if you're looking for catfish.
Located about seven miles southeast of Williams, this lake is usually a great fall location for trout. However, if you plan on heading out, remember that the area is open for day use only outside of the camping season (May 1 to September 30).
Here's a popular location in the Phoenix area, just a few miles west of Anthem. While fishing results can be mixed, the reservoir does keep a pretty large number of fish here, including varieties of bass, catfish, and tilapia. Plus, who wouldn't want to finish a fishing expedition with this view?
One of our northern reservoirs, this place also happens to be popular among anglers looking to catch some hefty fish. The smallmouth bass, which are active this time of year, are apparently also quite tasty battered and fried.
Looking for rainbow trout? They're stocked throughout the year, but keep in mind this place gets some heavy use during the summer months, so arrive early for a quiet spot.
This reservoir is found a few miles north of the Arizona-Mexico border in the Coronado National Forest. Largemouth bass are popular here, but due to the mercury levels from old mines the trout are the safest to eat since they don't stay in the lake long.
This lake is located in the Pinaleño Mountains, better known as the home to Mount Graham. It is typically well-stocked with various kinds of trout and the beautiful view makes this a perfect fishing spot.
This is another great spot to catch bass and trout, especially some pretty large ones. Just keep in mind that since this lake is located within a reasonable distance of the Phoenix-metro area, it tends to get heavy use throughout the year.
A trout hatchery sits at the head of Tonto Creek, located about 20 miles east of Payson, so I hope you're able to catch something! Access points can be found at the Tonto National Forest website.
What are some other fishing spots you would recommend to your fellow Arizonans? Don’t forget to let us know your thoughts, and remember to buy your fishing license before heading out to any of these spots!
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