Bear Canyon Lake: One of Arizona’s Most Underrated Fishing Lakes

Many of you may have fond memories of joining family members — maybe your parents, aunts, uncles, or grandparents — for a day of fishing on the lake, especially at one of the hidden fishing spots in Arizona. What a wonderful time to spend with someone, swapping stories and life advice, as you wait for a bite on your fishing line. Then there are those of us who just love the quiet and solitude of casting a line at the edge of a lake all by ourselves; after all, it's a fantastic way to disconnect and recharge our souls' batteries.

If you're looking for a new fishing spot, I found one for you — set in a canyon within Apache-Sitgreaves National Forest's two million acres, there's a hidden Arizona lake escape that can only be accessed on foot. As one of the most underrated fishing spots in Arizona, Bear Canyon Lake is a worthwhile place to cast a line and relax for the day. Are you ready to spend a day at the lake?

Why This Hidden Arizona Fishing Spot Feels Untouched

Bear Canyon Lake is a hidden gem lake in the Bear Canyon Lake Recreation Area by the Mogollon Rim. This relatively unknown body of water sits at an elevation of 7,560 feet, and the closest towns are Heber-Overgaard (25 miles east) and Payson (33 miles west). While it's a peaceful place to laze away an afternoon, it's also an excellent fishing spot that no one, except for locals, seems to know about.

How to Get to This Secluded Lake in Arizona

A narrow body of water located deep within the forest, you will have to drive down a dirt road to reach it. Once you get to the destination, there is a small parking area and a short trail leading to the lake, or you can walk its entire perimeter on the 3.2-mile Bear Canyon Lake Loop.

Once you spot Bear Canyon Lake, you'll notice its beauty, so take a moment and soak it all in. Surrounded by a forest of imposing pine trees, the lake's surface covers 60 acres and reaches a depth of 50 feet in some spots. Spending the day fishing here is the ultimate way to relax.

What You’ll Catch at Bear Canyon Lake

If you're wondering what types of fish are found in the water, the lake is stocked with rainbow trout six times a year. You are allowed a limit of four trout during your visit. Make sure you have a valid Arizona fishing license before you fish at Bear Canyon Lake, and take note that live bait is strictly prohibited.

Best Time of Year to Go Fishing Here

With its location atop the Mogollon Rim in Coconino County, Bear Canyon Lake may be inaccessible due to snow and ice accumulation in the winter. That being said, the best time of year to go fishing at this high-elevation lake is spring through fall, although fishing is allowed here year-round.

Can you picture yourself casting a line from the shore of Bear Canyon Lake? What a peaceful, quiet spot for a day of fishing. If you also love camping in addition to fishing, dispersed camping is an option within the Bear Canyon Lake area. The campground is first-come, first-served, and there is no fee. The camping season opens on April 15 each year. Please note that camp fires are not allowed within the Apache-Sitgreaves National Forests when camp fire restrictions are in place. There's also a "Pack it in - Pack it out" policy for Bear Canyon Lake as there are no trash and recycling facilities.

Did you know Bear Canyon Lake is one of the most underrated fishing lakes in Arizona? Where is your favorite place to go fishing? Head to the U.S. Forest Service website for location information and updates on Bear Canyon Lake, and the Arizona Game & Fish website for fishing licenses and to view a fish stocking schedule.