A1 Lake

This waterway was named in honor of the great Apache scout, Chief Alchesay, whose native name proved so difficult for U.S. Army officials to pronounce that they simply referred to him as A-1. The label stuck and became his official U.S. Cavalry serial number. I can't think of a more fitting moniker for this waterway-often the first White Mountain Apache Indian Reservation reservoir seen by anglers. It's most befitting of a scout.


At only 24 surface acres, A-1 may not have the stature of the many nearby White Mountain Lakes, but you can expect to catch rainbow, brook and Apache trout here year round. In fact, it's a popular destination for ice fishermen once it freezes, a time when Apache trout are more catchable than the lake's other species. -G.J Sagi, from the travel handbook Fishing Arizona

Phone Numbers for more information::

Game and Fish (928)367-4281

Restrictions/Season of Use:

Open all year Stocked first in May

Road Conditions:

Paved with a dirt parking lot

Land Ownership:

A1 Lake is owned by the White Mountain Apache Tribe

Ranger Station/District:

Pinetop Game and Fish (928)367-4281 or the Apache Sitgreaves National Forest at (928)333-4301

Entrance Fees/Permits:

Free

Max Surface Acres:

24

River Lake Impounds:

A1 Lake impounds the Black River

Average Depth:

A1 is a swallow lake that freezes in the winter months 15 to 20 feet tops

Bag Limit:

Trout: 5 for adults (15 and over) 3 for juveniles (10-14) 2 for kids (under 10) Bass and Catfish: 15 for adults, 8 for juveniles, 8 for kids All other species "No limit"

Boats to Rent:

No

Swimming:

No

Camping:

Yes

Barrier free Access:

No

Electricity:

No

Launching Area:

Yes

Water Skiing:

No

Marinas:

No marinas at A1 Lake

To get to A1 Lake just drive east on Hwy 260 and just before reaching the 273 south look for the signs to the lake.