Big Lake - Springerville, AZ


Fish Spot Details

Surface Area:532 acres
Maximum Depth:20+ ft.
Elevation:9000 ft.
Fish Species: Cutthroat Trout, Rainbow Trout, Brook Trout
Big Lake is a 450-acre trout fishery located at 9,000 feet in Arizona’s White Mountains. It supports rainbow, brook, Apache, and cutthroat trout, making it one of the most diverse and productive lakes in the state.

Fishing is best from May through October. Rainbow trout are stocked regularly and readily caught with PowerBait and spinners. Fly anglers succeed with streamers and midges, particularly near weed beds and inlets. Brook and Apache trout add variety and are best targeted with small flies or lures. Occasional cutthroat trout provide trophy potential.

The lake offers multiple boat ramps and campgrounds. Both electric and gas motors are permitted. Its high elevation ensures cool water temperatures even in mid-summer.

Big Lake is a top-tier destination for Arizona trout anglers, providing consistent action and beautiful alpine scenery.



Latest Fish Reports

Date Report Author
5-26-2024 Big Lake has had a good start to the 2024 season
Big Lake has had a good start to... more »		 Arizona Game & Fish Department
7-1-2023 Big Lake Fishing Report
At Big Lake (report courtesy of Sportsman's Warehouse), fishing has... more »		 Arizona Game & Fish Department
12-26-2022 ADEQ issues “Green Light” fishery designation for cutthroat and rainbow trout caught from Big Lake
The Arizona Department of Environmental Quality (ADEQ), in... more »		 Arizona Game & Fish Department
10-19-2022 9.5 Lb. Rainbow
Carol J. reports, "Not only are the trees... more »		 Arizona Game & Fish Department
10-1-2022 Big Lake Fishing Report
At Big Lake (report courtesy of Sportsman's Warehouse), shore fishing... more »		 Arizona Game & Fish Department


Detailed Map