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Apache Lake
Apache Lake was formed in 1927 when the Horse Mesa Dam was completed. Outstanding trout and warm-water fishing. Wet winters bring a profusion of spring flowers. This lake is set among sun-painted canyon walls, which form scenic backdrops to the lake itself. Both Non-motorized and Motorized boating are allowed at Apache Lake. During the summer months Apache Lake is very popular for the cool water and beautiful scenery.
At a Glance
| Permit Info: | Group like fishing tournaments require a permit. Contact the local ranger district. |
|---|---|
| Open Season: | January |
| Restrictions: | Group events may require a permit. Contact the Tonto Basin Ranger Station. The upper end of the lake is closed to water skiing (please observe buoys). Waters near developed sites and many coves are “No wake” areas. Direction of travel on the lake is counter clockwise. Maricopa County Sheriff Office, Arizona Game and Fish Department, and USDA Forest Service personnel enforce lake regulations. Please use trash receptacles when available, or PACK IT IN, PACK IT OUT!! Rules and regulations are posted at all fee station areas. Please read and observe. CAUTION: Rocks and other obstacles may be near the water surface. Be aware that motor boating involves various hazards, and people engaging in this activity assume the associated risks. Arizona State fishing license required to fish. Know the creel limits for the fish you take. Waters near developed sites and many coves are “No wake” areas. Rules and regulations are posted on bulletin boards. Please read and observe. |
| Closest Towns: | Tonto Basin, Punkin Center |
| Water: | Available at Apache Lake Marina/Resort & various recreation sites around lake |
| Restroom: | Available at Apache Lake Marina/Resort & various recreation sites around lake |
| Passes: | America the Beautiful Passes are only accepted at the Picnicking Sites. For boating, a Tonto Daily Pass and Watercraft Sticker or Tonto Discovery Pass are required. Campground fees at various sites around Apache Lake might be separate from the Tonto Daily and Discovery pass. Please call Tonto Basin Ranger District for specific details or visit individual websites. |
| Information Center: | Tonto Basin Ranger District 602-225-5395 |
General Information
Directions:The provided route to the Marina is paved with the exception of the eleven-mile section of State Hwy. 88. From Mesa: Take the Beeline Highway/State Hwy.87 north for approximately 60 miles to the junction of State Hwy. 188. Turn right and follow State Hwy. 188 for 33 miles to the junction with State Hwy. 88. Turn right on State Hwy. 88 and drive past Roosevelt Dam. Follow State Hwy. 88 for 5 miles to Forest Road (FR) 183; turn right and continue an additional mile to the site.
From Claypool (between Globe & Miami: Take State Hwy. 188 northwest for 29 miles tothe junction of State Hwy. 88. Follow State Hwy. 88 (it heads southwest and becomes an unpaved road) for 5 miles to FR 183; turn right and continue an additional mile to the site.
Activities
Lake and Pond Fishing
A sampling of the sport fish present: 3 - 5 lb. Largemouth and Smallmouth Bass 15 lb. Flathead catfish 5 - 6 lb. Rainbow trout Walleye, yellow bass, bluegill, green sunfish, and carp are also present in the lake.
| Fish Species | 3 - 5 lb. Largemouth and Smallmouth Bass 15 lb. Flathead catfish 5 - 6 lb. Rainbow trout Walleye, yellow bass, bluegill, green sunfish, and carp are also present in the lake. |
Boating - Motorized
Burnt Corral Recreation Site (paved) Apache Lake Marina (paved)| Launch Ramps | Paved boat launch |
Boating - Non-Motorized
Burnt Corral Recreation Site (paved) Apache Lake Marina (paved)| Launch Ramps | Paved boat launch |
Waterskiing
Water-skiing season April through October (or longer with a wetsuit)