Bear Canyon Lake

Bear Canyon Lake is another popular lake in the White mountains to limit out on rainbow trout and to see spectacular scenery. The lake was popular for Arctic Graylings, but they're no longer any grayling in Bear Canyon Lake. They were managed there in the 1980s and early 1990s, but died out (of old age) after grayling stocking ended in early 1990s. Still great fishing for rainbows. The lake is still stocked at least 5 times a year with Rainbow trout.

The Lake is long and narrow with thick forest surrounding the lake. There are two parking areas, both require a short walk to the shore.

GPS:

Latitude: 34° 24' 9.96"N Longitude: 111° 00' 11.04"W

Phone Numbers for more information::

Game and Fish (928)367-4281 or (928) 535-4481

Restrictions/Season of Use:

Bear Canyon Lake is open all year but check road conditions due to the altitude

Road Conditions:

Paved to dirt

Land Ownership:

Bear Canyon Lake is owned by the Apache Sitgreaves National Forest

Ranger Station/District:

Chevelon/Heber Ranger Districts P.O. Box 968, Overgaard, AZ 85933 (928) 535-4481

Elevation:

7,560 feet

Max Surface Acres:

60-70

River Lake Impounds:

Bear Wallow Creek

Average Depth:

50 ft

Bag Limit:

There will posted signs for bag limits on Rainbow and other species of trout

Boat/Engine Restrictions:

Electric motors only

Swimming:

Yes

Camping:

Bear Canyon Lake has a several nearby campgrounds

Barrier free Access:

No

Electricity:

No

Launching Area:

Yes

Water Skiing:

No

Marinas:

No marinas at Bear Canyon Lake

To get to Bear Canyon Lake, take State Route 260 east out of Payson. Once you climb the Mogollon Rim, turn north toward Woods Canyon Lake. It's only a few miles of dirt, and the signs are easy to follow.