Bear Canyon Lake Az: Ultimate Fishing Guide

Bear Canyon Lake, located in the heart of Arizona, is a renowned fishing spot that attracts anglers from all over the world. This picturesque lake, nestled in the Apache-Sitgreaves National Forests, offers an exceptional fishing experience with its pristine waters and diverse fish species. In this comprehensive guide, we will delve into the details of Bear Canyon Lake, providing you with the ultimate fishing experience.

Introduction to Bear Canyon Lake

Bear Canyon Lake is a 60-acre lake that was created in 1956 by the construction of a dam on the East Fork of the Black River. The lake is situated at an elevation of 8,060 feet above sea level, making it an ideal spot for trout fishing. The surrounding landscape is characterized by rolling hills, dense forests, and stunning vistas, providing a breathtaking backdrop for a day of fishing.

Fish Species in Bear Canyon Lake

Bear Canyon Lake is home to a variety of fish species, including rainbow trout, brook trout, and brown trout. The Arizona Game and Fish Department stocks the lake with trout on a regular basis, ensuring a healthy population of fish for anglers to catch. In addition to trout, the lake also contains other species such as channel catfish, bluegill, and largemouth bass.

The following table provides a breakdown of the fish species found in Bear Canyon Lake:

Fishing Regulations and Licenses

Before you start fishing in Bear Canyon Lake, it’s essential to familiarize yourself with the fishing regulations and obtain the necessary licenses. The Arizona Game and Fish Department requires anglers to have a valid fishing license, which can be obtained online or at a local tackle shop. The daily bag limit for trout is six fish, with a minimum size limit of 13 inches for rainbow trout and 10 inches for brook trout.

It's also important to note that Bear Canyon Lake has specific fishing hours, which are from 6 am to 8 pm during the summer months and 7 am to 5 pm during the winter months. Additionally, the use of live bait is prohibited, and only artificial lures and flies are allowed.

Fishing Techniques and Gear

Bear Canyon Lake offers a variety of fishing techniques, including fly fishing, spin casting, and trolling. The lake’s crystal-clear waters make it an ideal spot for dry fly fishing, with popular patterns including the elk hair caddis and the stimulator. For spin casting, anglers can use a variety of lures such as spoons, spinners, and plastic worms.

In terms of gear, it's essential to have a medium-weight rod and reel with a good drag system. A 4-6 weight rod with a floating line is ideal for dry fly fishing, while a 6-8 weight rod with a sinking line is better suited for trolling and spin casting.

Best Fishing Spots in Bear Canyon Lake

Bear Canyon Lake has several fishing spots that are known to produce good catches. The east shore of the lake, near the dam, is a popular spot for trout fishing, as it provides a good structure for fish to congregate. The west shore, near the inlet, is also a productive spot, as it offers a mix of sand and rocks that attract fish.

Additionally, the lake's many coves and inlets provide ample opportunities for anglers to catch fish. The following are some of the best fishing spots in Bear Canyon Lake:

• East shore near the dam
• West shore near the inlet
• Coves and inlets along the shoreline
• Submerged logs and rocks

Accommodations and Amenities

Bear Canyon Lake offers a range of accommodations and amenities for anglers, including camping facilities, picnic areas, and restrooms. The lake’s campground, which is operated by the US Forest Service, has 22 sites that are available on a first-come, first-served basis. The campground also has potable water, vault toilets, and a dump station.

In addition to the campground, there are several picnic areas and restrooms located around the lake. The picnic areas have tables, grills, and shade structures, making them ideal for a day of fishing and relaxation.