Dry Lake

Apparently there are two Dry Lakes. There is one just north of the 277 off the 377 near Snowflake in northern Arizona and the other one that this article is referring to is in the San Carlos Indian Reservation, just outside the town of San Carlos near San Carlos Lake and about 5 miles away from Point of Pines Lake. I will have information on the other Dry Lake Soon.

- Tom


Searching for an off-road fishing destination-one with a nearly iron-clad guarantee of privacy and incredible scenery right here in Arizona? Dry Lake is that destination! Take my word for it, the trip into this small lake (in a good year you can expect roughly 50 surface acres) is an adventure in itself. Once there you can literally drive right next to the water over the dam. The last time I visited Dry Lake it was one of the most enjoyable solitary experiences I have ever had in many years of Fishing Arizona.



It's little wonder though. As if the often rugged four-wheel-drive trail isn't enough, add a small log "bridge" (a pair of split logs that theoretically help you negotiate a deep ravine) with a Volkswagen-sized boulder strategically placed in the ideal spot to "turtle" you into the lake when the water's up, and you have all the making of yet another of Arizona's behind-the-wheel cardiopulmonary workouts. Okay, maybe it's not quite that bad, but it's definitely not a trip for the faint-hearted. Do not try to get into Dry Lake in the winter, early spring of during the monsoons. You might get in, but getting out is another story. -G.J Sagi, from the essential travel handbook Fishing Arizona

Phone Numbers for more information::

an Carlos Apache Tribe Recreation & Wildlife P.O. Box 97 1-888-475-2344

Restrictions/Season of Use:

late spring through summer

Road Conditions:

Paved to dirt

Land Ownership:

Dry Lake is owned by the San Carlos Apache Tribe

Ranger Station/District:

San Carlos Apache Tribe Recreation & Wildlife P.O. Box 97 1-888-475-2344 FAX 928-475-2701 sales@scatrwd.com

Entrance Fees/Permits:

You will need a permit to enter the San Carlos Apache Reservation. For a list of vendors view this list

Elevation:

The elevation at Dry Lake is 6000 feet

Max Surface Acres:

50

Average Depth:

15 to 20

Bag Limit:

This is the bag limit from Point of Pines ( right next to Dry Lake, most likely the same) Trout 10; Bass 10; Catfish 25; and Crappies 25 per day or in possession. Persons under the age of 12 may fish without a permit only if they are accompanied by an adult holding a valid reservation fishing permit. The bag and possession limit for persons under the the age of 12 is half of that of a permit holder.

Boat/Engine Restrictions:

None posted but take a small boat with a electric trolling motor strong enough to deal with the wind up there. The lake is swallow and there are serious trees in the water.

Boats to Rent:

No

Swimming:

You can swim at Dry Lake but the water is not very inviting. It's Green with dead shiners floating on the shore

Camping:

There are developed campsites for sure at Point of Pines not Dry Lake. You can camp right on the shore at Dry Lake and there is no need to bring wood.

Barrier free Access:

Yes

Trailer Spaces:

No

Electricity:

No

Launching Area:

No

Water Skiing:

No

Cleaning Stations:

No

Marinas:

No marinas at Dry Lake

To get to Dry Lake use these directions to Point of Pines. The best way to get to Point of Pines is to take U.S. Route 70 east from Globe, turn north on Indian Route 8 and bear left at the dirt road (north), still on Indian Route 8 toward the dominating rim. Much of this road is dirt, although the short section that crosses Natanes Rim is pave.

There are a number of turnoffs as you ascend the Rim, and in all but the worst weather, you'll be treated to a view that extends for Hundreds of miles, not to mention unparalleled sunsets. Once over the Rom, you drop down into the town of Service location. There is no gas, food or lodging, so be sure to have everything and everybody filled up before you leave.

From the town, just follow the signs. Take your time, since the wild turkey population is pretty healthy, and you'll doubtless see or hear a gobbler or two. -G.J Sagi, from the essential travel handbook Fishing Arizona



Dry Lake's turnoff is just before you reach Point of Pines the road turns to dirt and continues northwest uphill for 4 to 5 miles.

-Tom