Reservation Lake

Reservation Lake, which is at a frigid elevation of 9,000 feet above sea level, is rather out-of-the-way destination on the White Mountain Apache Indian Reservation. Once you get there though you'll find 280 surface acres of trout-infested waters that include rainbow, brook, brown and Apache.

Try Working the shorelines with small Mepps spinners in red and yellow or any of the marshmallow-style trout baits. When trolling (remember only electric trolling motors are allowed), use cowbells and work deep, especially during the daytime. A silver Rapala probably isn't a bad idea either.. -G.J Sagi, from the essential travel handbook Fishing Arizona



The south end of the lake and the dam are accessible for shore fishermen and the rock-dam is a popular spot often filled with fishermen all the way across. I've had the best luck at this lake with Rainbow Power Bait.

- Tom

Phone Numbers for more information::

Game and Fish (928)338-4385

Restrictions/Season of Use:

Open all year Stocked first in May when weather permits, The roads to Reservation lake often closed in the winter so call ahead

Road Conditions:

Paved to dirt road filled with potholes

Land Ownership:

Reservation Lake is owned by the White Mountain Apache Tribe

Ranger Station/District:

Pinetop Game and Fish (928)3674281

Entrance Fees/Permits:

White Mountains Permit

Elevation:

9000 feet

Max Surface Acres:

280

River Lake Impounds:

Black River, White River

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"

Boat/Engine Restrictions:

Electric only

Boats to Rent:

No

Swimming:

No

Camping:

Yes

Barrier free Access:

Yes you can get a vehicle pretty close say within 20 feet of the water

Water Skiing:

No

Marinas:

No marinas at Reservation Lake

Take State Route 273 to the Big Lake turnoff take a right at Service Road 116 this will lead you south to Reservation Lake.Information for Reservation Lake Arizona