Fishing Report
White Mountain Lakes
At a glance
The White Mountain Apache Reservation is now open to non-members. Many of the res lakes have not been fished hard this summer have been fishing well. Most fish are being taken on midges and chironomids. There have been reports of dry fly action at some lakes so be sure to include foam hoppers, ants as well as cicadas in your fly box!
Tip: Try different color small chironomids. For muddy lakes, callibaetis patterns should work well.
Get the next reportFlies
- Chironomids
- Chirono Cones
- Buzzers sz10 through sz16 Callibaetis
- Hares Ear Nymph Natural Midges
- Zebra Midge Black and Red sz14-sz16
- Balanced Leeches
- Damsel Fly Nymphs
Water Levels
- Lake levels are good with the exception of some (Sunrise Lake)
- Visit USGS website for the latest water levels
Gear
- Rod: 9ft-10ft 6wt Scott Centric or Winston Alpha+ are shop favorites
- Rio Xtream Indicator line or SA Stillwater Intermediate line
- Repyourwater Merino Wool socks Brookie Edition
Mother Nature’s Mood
What to expect
Expect temperatures in the mid-low 90s during the day and dropping into the mid-60s at night. Rain is likely during this time of the year, so pack accordingly and expect to get wet!
Leave your pack at home and opt for a handy lanyard instead.
10 ft 4x leader and air lock indicators for your indicator rigs.
A 9ft 5wt is plenty of rod for these lakes. The Taylor Anomaly Z is a great option.
Gear worth bragging about
Stop guessing which gear to bring
We admit it, the gear doesn’t make the angler…but it definitely helps. The right equipment takes your day on the water from great, to great. Visit us in the shop, online, or by phone to gear up for your next trip (602) 354-8881
- Rod: 9ft-10ft 6wt Scott Centric or Winston Alpha+ are shop favorites
- Rio Xtream Indicator line or SA Stillwater Intermediate line
- Repyourwater Merino Wool socks Brookie Edition
Check the levels and temps before you go!
- Lake levels are good with the exception of some (Sunrise Lake)
- Check out USGS Water Data website for up to date and current water conditions
Is fishing good
White Mountain Lakes
Fishing on the lakes is heating up. Lots and lots of bugs hatching because of this the fish can get a little picky so change flys often until you find something that works!
– We are not responsible for your friends becoming jealous and even angry of your improved catch rate and general ability to ‘out perform’ them on the water.
