Cyclone Lake Fishing Guide 🎣

YouTube video
Dry Fly Fishing for Big Apache Trout in AZ

Cyclone Lake is a quiet, scenic fishing lake tucked away in Arizona’s beautiful White Mountains. It’s located on the White Mountain Apache Tribal Lands and is the perfect place for folks looking to fish in a peaceful forest setting. This small mountain lake is surrounded by tall pine trees, cool air, and amazing views, making it feel like a peaceful hideaway. The lake is stocked with Apache trout, one of Arizona’s rare native fish. You can fish from shore or use a float tube or small kayak—just remember, gas-powered boats are not allowed. The lake is only open during warmer months, usually from late spring to early fall. You’ll need a special tribal fishing permit to fish here, but it’s worth it for the quiet, uncrowded experience. Whether you’re an experienced angler or just want to relax and try your luck, Cyclone Lake offers a great fishing trip in the heart of nature.

Lake Details

Cyclone Lake Fishing Guide 🎣 :

  • Fishing at Cyclone Lake is a relaxing, back-to-nature experience. It’s the kind of place where you hear the wind in the trees, breathe in the cool mountain air, and wait for a trout to bite. It’s quiet, calm, and full of natural beauty.
  • Lake Detailed Specifications:
    Cyclone Lake is a small high-elevation lake, covering about 20 acres. It sits at around 9,000 feet above sea level in the White Mountains. The lake is part of the White Mountain Apache Tribal Lands, and access is limited to warmer seasons when snow isn’t blocking the roads.
  • Fish Species Types:
    The lake is home to Apache trout, a special fish native to Arizona. These trout are stocked by the tribe and are known for their golden color and black spots. Catching one is a unique experience you won’t find in many other places.
  • Fishing Conditions:
    The best times to fish are early morning and late evening, especially during spring and early fall. The water stays cool thanks to the high elevation, and the fish stay active most of the day. Clear water means fish can be picky, so use light line.
  • Boating Regulation:
    Only non-motorized boats are allowed—no gas motors. Kayaks, float tubes, and canoes are popular. There is no boat ramp, so any boat needs to be light and easy to carry.
  • Fishing Techniques:
    Fly fishing is a favorite here, using dry flies or nymphs. If you prefer spinning gear, try small spinners or worms on light line. Apache trout are smart, so a quiet approach and natural-looking bait will work best.
  • If you’re looking for a quiet lake to catch rare trout and enjoy nature without the crowds, Cyclone Lake is your perfect mountain escape.
Guide To Fly Fishing In Arizona Best Arizona Fishing Books Guides

Top Fish at Cyclone Lake Fishing Guide 🎣

Lake Amenities

  • 🎣 Shoreline access for fishing
  • 🛶 Float tube and kayak friendly
  • 🌲 Surrounded by pine forest
  • 🏞️ Scenic views all around
  • 🅿️ Small parking area nearby
  • 🥾 Nearby hiking trails
  • 🏕️ Primitive camping close by
  • 🚻 Vault-style restrooms nearby
  • 🐦 Great birdwatching and wildlife
  • 🔥 Fire rings at nearby campsites
  • 🧺 Picnic spots with shade
  • 🐕 Pet-friendly (leashes required)

Fish Types

Rainbow Trout Fishing

Fish Spots & Tips

  • Where to Fish for Rainbow Trout:
    Center of the lake offers deeper, cooler waters in the center of the lake are ideal for catching Rainbow Trout. You can reach these areas by casting from the fishing docks or using a small boat if allowed.
  • Rainbow Trout Fishing Tips:
    Suspend these baits on the right at different depths with a bobber.
  • Baits: PowerBait, worms, and small minnows
  • Lures: Spinners, spoons, and small jigs
  • Tackle: Light to medium spinning gear with 4-6 lb test line

Gear & Tackle

Directions

FAQs

Apache trout are the main fish here. They’re native to Arizona and stocked by the White Mountain Apache Tribe.

Yes, you need a White Mountain Apache Tribal Fishing Permit. State fishing licenses are not valid on tribal land.

Yes, but only non-motorized boats like kayaks, canoes, or float tubes. No gas motors allowed.

Late spring through early fall is best. The lake is usually closed in winter due to snow and cold.

Yes! Primitive camping is available nearby, perfect for a weekend fishing trip under the stars.

Similar Posts