Sunrise Lake

Sunrise Lake is often called the best fishery resource on the White Mountain Apache Indian Reservation. Big fish in the 5-pound range regularly surrender here, although most anglers just go prepared to accept limiting out. Not a bad prospect!

If you're fishing from a boat, troll the middle of the lake with cowbells. During the summer, fishermen who trail their cowbells with live nightcrawlers or green and brown flies can land at least one 3-ounder in a day. Anglers who work from the shore will find deep areas near the dam some of the most protective. -G.J. Sagi, from the essential travel handbook Fishing Arizona

Phone Numbers for more information::

Game and Fish (928)338-4385

Restrictions/Season of Use:

Open all year Stocked first in May

Road Conditions:

Paved

Land Ownership:

Sunrise 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:

9200

Max Surface Acres:

900

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:

10 horse Max

Boats to Rent:

Yes "seasonal"

Swimming:

No

Camping:

Yes camping 200 units that fill quickly are available at Sunrise Lake

Barrier free Access:

Yes

Launching Area:

Yes

Water Skiing:

No

Marinas:

No the Sunrise Marina has been closed for some time

To get to Sunrise Lake take State Route 260 east from McNary and turn south on the 273. It's only a few minutes away and you will see signs.