Blue Ridge Reservoir - C.C. Cragin

Blue Ridge Reservoir, aka C.C. Cragin, is one of the best lakes in Arizona to catch monster trout when there biting. The best part about Blue Ridge is that you can catch 10 lb plus Brown Trout. The lake is a long narrow body of water that spans more than 275 surface acres, with an average width of 30 feet. The lake was created by Phelps Dodge in exchange for water usage at mining facility. Today its by far the one of the best and only places in Arizona to catch brown trout. There is only one launching area at Blue Ridge Reservoir and its a little steep and rough. Its worth braving to get a boat down thought because the majority of the lake is only accessible by boat. The lake is closed during winter months so plan to visit the lake in spring and summer to avoid the ice.

Restrictions/Season of Use:

If the roads are wet, or if it's snowing, you'll want to have a four wheel drive

Road Conditions:

All of the roads to the boat ramps at Blue Ridge Reservoir are paved. There is a dirt road off the 87 that does not require a 4 wheel drive but the boat ramp is harry.

Elevation:

6720

Max Surface Acres:

275

River Lake Impounds:

Black River

Average Depth:

120

Fishing Allowed:

Yes

Boat/Engine Restrictions:

8 horse max engine

Boats to Rent:

No

Swimming:

There will be warning signs about swimming near the spillway

Barrier free Access:

No - boat access only

Electricity:

No

Launching Area:

The launching area is dirt

Water Skiing:

No

Cleaning Stations:

No

Marinas:

No

To get directions to Blue Ridge Reservoir AZ you can use the interactive map on this site. Out of Phoenix you want to take the 87 North pass Strawberry and Pine, stay on the 87 and turn south on Forest Service Rd 751 "there will be a sign" and stay on that till you see the lake. Its about 4 miles down the gravel Rd.