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Fishing Apache Lake In 2024

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Guide to fishing for largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, channel catfish, flathead catfish, black crappie, walleye, rainbow trout, bluegill and yellow bass at Apache Lake in Arizona.

By Rick Seaman

Apache Lake Bass On A Spinnerbait

Apache Lake, the second lake in the Salt River Chain Of Lakes, is my personal favorite of all the bass fishing lakes in Arizona. It offers some very fine smallmouth bass fishing as well as great largemouth fishing. It is a flooded river channel with awe-inspiring surroundings which include wildlife refuges. You can catch smallmouth and largemouth on back-to-back casts, and the lake is known for top water action during the warm months. Apache lake offers some of the best smallmouth bass fishing in the state. At the Apache Lake Marina there are convenient lodging and camping options, a restaurant, bar and store.

Apache Lake, AZ

Situated below Roosevelt Lake, on the Salt River in central Arizona, Apache Lake is about an hours drive northwest from Apache Junction on State Highway 88. It can also be accessed going south on State Highway 88 from Roosevelt Dam off State Highway 188. Both directions require travel on winding, reasonably-well maintained dirt roads.

Apache Lake, AZ Fishing In 2024

Bass fishing at Apache Lake

This literal bass factory is a true delight for avid anglers. Known for its excellent bass population, the lake offers a haven for those seeking to catch largemouth and smallmouth bass. With its rocky structures, submerged vegetation, and abundant prey, Apache Lake provides the ideal habitat for bass to thrive. Anglers can employ a variety of techniques, such as using topwater lures during the early morning or working jigs and soft plastics near underwater structures. The challenge of outsmarting these cunning bass, combined with the scenic beauty of the lake and the surrounding Sonoran Desert landscape, makes bass fishing at Apache Lake an exhilarating and memorable experience.

This deep-canyon lake is a flooded section of the Salt River. In the upper six or eight miles it looks and feels much more like a river than a lake. There is very little brush or vegetation in the lake, so rock and contours become the structure of choice for bass. There is a healthy population of largemouth bass, but the real attraction are the smallmouth. This lake produces quality smallmouth with 3 and 4-pounders common - and larger smallies not uncommon.

These bass can be caught on shallow points and reefs when the bass are shallow. When they move deeper they can be caught from 10 to 50 foot deep, or deeper. The water is generally clear, so light line is a good choice. Small worms, crankbaits, spinnerbaits, jerkbaits and topwater all work when the bass are shallow. Jigs, spoons and a drop shot work well when the bass move deeper.

Walleye Fishing

One prominent species in Apache Lake is walleye, prized for its firm white flesh and challenging nature. Walleye are often found in deeper, cooler waters near drop-offs and underwater structures. Anglers targeting walleye can use techniques such as vertical jigging with minnows, trolling with crankbaits, or casting with nightcrawlers.

Perch Fishing

Another popular species in Apache Lake is yellow perch, known for their tasty fillets and schooling behavior. Yellow perch can be found near submerged structures and rocky areas. Use small jigs, spinners, or live bait to attract these schooling fish. The challenge lies in locating the schools and adjusting the presentation to match the preferences of these feisty yellow perch.

Catfish Fishing

Channel catfish and flathead catfish also inhabit the depths of Apache Lake, offering an exciting night fishing opportunity. Anglers often use stink baits, cut bait, or live bait to attract these nocturnal predators. Night fishing for catfish in Apache Lake provides a unique and serene experience, with the moonlit waters creating a tranquil setting for anglers seeking the thrill of battling with robust catfish.

Panfish Fishing

Panfish, including bluegill and redear sunfish, are abundant near the lake's shoreline and submerged vegetation. These sunfish provide a family-friendly angling experience, and anglers can use simple techniques like worms, small jigs, or crickets to reel in these colorful and spirited fish.

Apache Lake, located in Arizona, is a hidden gem for fishing enthusiasts and outdoor lovers. Anchored by the Apache Lake Marina & Resort, this is a great getaway for fishing and other water sports. Situated in the heart of the Tonto National Forest, Apache Lake offers a serene and picturesque setting for various recreational activities. Fishing is a major draw at Apache Lake, as it is home to a diverse range of fish species, making it a prime destination for anglers.

Lake Video

Apache Lake is renowned for its abundant population of largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, walleye, crappie, catfish, and sunfish. Anglers can test their skills and try various fishing techniques, whether it's casting from the shore, trolling along the lake's expansive waters, or finding the perfect spot to drop a line. The diverse species present in Apache Lake provide anglers with a great opportunity to catch a variety of fish and have an exciting day on the water.

The purpose of this page is to deliver an overview of this lake, the fishing options, and area amenities. Our goal is to provide info to first time visitors, as well as beginner and novice anglers. We gathered details from personal experience, numerous trusted websites that each offer select bits of information, and videos of fishing activity on the lake. These websites include the Arizona Game and Fish Department, marinas at the lake, campgrounds, boat rental agencies and others. By consolidating this information to one page it allows visitors to see the entire picture, all in one place.

Take your time, drive slow and enjoy the scenery. This 2,600-acre lake is one of the most scenic lakes in central Arizona, with some of the most spectacular sunrises and sunsets seen in the southwest deserts.

Primary fish species residing in Apache Lake

Click images for fishing tips and details about each species.

Largemouth bass Smallmouth bass Channel catfish Flathead catfish Black crappie Walleye Rainbow trout Bluegill Yellow Bass

Fishing Boats For Rent In Arizona

Read an article about fishing at Apache Lake.

Other species in Apache Lake

Catfish, crappie, trout, sunfish and walleye also reside in Apache lake. Any of which occasionally attack bass lures, but the main attraction are the largemouth and smallmouth bass.

Apache Lake Amenities

Marina: YES
Boat Rental: YES
Boat Launch Ramp: YES
Campgrounds: YES
RV Hookups: YES
Lodging: YES
Convenience Store: YES
Bait & Tackle: YES
Restaurant: YES

Today's Weather & Forecast

Boating enthusiasts will also find Apache Lake to be a haven for their favorite water activities. With its crystal-clear waters and over 17 miles of shoreline, the lake is ideal for boating adventures. Whether you prefer power boating, sailing, or kayaking, Apache Lake offers ample space to explore and enjoy the surrounding natural beauty. From cruising along the calm waters to water skiing or wakeboarding, boaters will find plenty of opportunities for fun and excitement.

Fishing Boat Rentals

Apache Lake Marina & Boat Rental
Rentals: Pontoon boats and kayaks for rent
928 923-6690

Marinas

Apache Lake Marina & Resort
229.5 Mile Marker
Roosevelt, AZ 85545
928 923-6690

Boat Launch Ramps & Landings

Apache Lake Marina
229.5 Mile Marker
Roosevelt, AZ 85545
Paved ramp, mid-lake on the on the east side of the lake.
928 923-6690

Burnt Coral Boat Launch
Paved ramp, six miles from the Roosevelt Lake dam, on the east side of the lake.

Three-Mile Boat Launch
Dirt ramp, 3 miles from the Roosevelt Lake dam, on the east side of the lake.

Click here for a Arizona Fishing License.

For those who wish to immerse themselves in nature and extend their stay, camping is a popular option at Apache Lake. The lake features several campgrounds with various amenities, including both tent and RV camping options. With stunning views of the water and the surrounding desert landscape, camping at Apache Lake provides a unique opportunity to disconnect from the bustle of everyday life and reconnect with nature. Campers can enjoy activities such as hiking nearby trails, bird watching, or simply relaxing by the campfire under a star-filled sky.

Campgrounds & RV Parks Nearby

Apache Lake Campground - 928 467-2511

Burnt Corral Campground - 602 225-5200

Apache Lake AZ Map - Fishing & Camping Areas

Contact Information

Apache Lake
Apache Lake Marina & Campground
229.5 Mile Marker
Roosevelt, AZ 85545
928 467-2511


Bass Fishing Book By Rick Seaman & Dan Westfall

Rick Seaman is a bass fishing enthusiast with over five decades of bass fishing experience, a retired bass tournament fisherman and co-author of the book "Bass Fishing. It's not WHAT you throw, It's WHERE you throw it" .


 

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