Knoll Lake Fishing Guide 🎣

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HUGE RAINBOW TROUT AT CHEVELON LAKE!

Hey there! If you’re looking for a peaceful and fun place to fish, Knoll Lake near Happy Jack, Arizona is a great spot. This lake sits high up in the cool pines, so it’s a perfect getaway from the heat. People love coming here to fish for rainbow trout, which are stocked during the warmer months. You can fish from the shore or take a small boat or kayak out on the water. The lake is calm and quiet, which makes it really relaxing. Even if the fish aren’t biting, the views are amazing and there’s plenty of wildlife to see. It’s also a good place to bring the family, have a picnic, and enjoy the fresh mountain air. Just make sure to check if the road is open, since snow can close it in the winter. All in all, Knoll Lake is a hidden gem for any fishing fan!

Lake Details

Knoll Lake Fishing Guide 🎣 :

  • Knoll Lake, nestled near Happy Jack, Arizona, is a serene spot perfect for fishing enthusiasts. Surrounded by towering ponderosa pines and featuring a charming island at its center, the lake offers a picturesque setting for a relaxing day outdoors. Whether you’re casting a line from the shore or a small boat, Knoll Lake provides a peaceful escape into nature. ​
  • Lake Details: Covering about 75 acres and reaching depths of up to 50 feet, Knoll Lake sits at an elevation of 7,340 feet. The clear, cool waters are ideal for trout, making it a favored destination for anglers. The surrounding forest enhances the tranquil atmosphere, offering plenty of shaded spots to relax between casts. ​
  • Fish Species: Anglers at Knoll Lake can expect to find rainbow trout, brown trout, and brook trout. Rainbow trout are regularly stocked during the warmer months, ensuring a good chance of a catch. Brown and brook trout are also present, offering variety for those seeking different challenges. Additionally, green sunfish have been found in the lake; if caught, it’s recommended to remove them to help maintain the lake’s ecological balance.​
  • Fishing Conditions: Fishing conditions at Knoll Lake vary with the seasons. During summer, trout tend to move to deeper, cooler waters. In winter, the lake may develop ice, limiting access and making ice fishing unsafe. It’s always a good idea to check current conditions before planning your trip to ensure a safe and successful outing.​
  • Boating Regulations: Only boats with single electric motors are permitted on Knoll Lake; gas-powered motors are not allowed. This regulation helps maintain the lake’s peaceful environment. Ensure you have the necessary life jackets and boating permits before heading out. Be aware that during periods of low water levels, the boat launch may be out of service, making launching more challenging.​
  • Fishing Techniques: Effective bait choices include worms, PowerBait, and corn. Fishing deeper parts of the lake can increase your chances of landing larger trout. Fly anglers might find success with dry and dropper combos, especially when cicadas are active in the area. Always be prepared for sudden weather changes, as the Mogollon Rim region is known for unexpected storms.​
  • For the most current information on fishing conditions, regulations, and amenities, it’s advisable to consult the Arizona Game and Fish Department‘s official resources or contact local authorities directly.
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Top Fish at Knoll Lake Fishing Guide 🎣

Lake Information

Lake Amenities

  • Picnic Tables – Great for lunch breaks or just hanging out with friends and family between casts.
  • Vault Toilets – Basic restrooms are available, so you don’t have to head back to town.
  • Parking Area – There’s a designated spot to park your car close to the lake.
  • Boat Ramp – You can launch a small boat, kayak, or canoe (electric motors only).
  • Shaded Areas – Plenty of tall pine trees offer cool, shaded spots to relax out of the sun.
  • Fishing Access – Easy shoreline access and spots where you can fish from the bank.
  • Scenic Views – Beautiful forest views and a peaceful lake setting with a little island in the middle.

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

Bass Fishing

Fish Spots & Tips

  • Where to Fish for Bass:
    Fishing along the shoreline and inlets is great for catching Bass. Look for spots with vegetation, fallen branches, and rocks where these fish like to hide.
  • Bass Fishing Tips:
    Bass thrive in warmer waters and are most active during the spring and summer
  • Baits: Live shad, crayfish, and plastic worms
  • Lures: Crankbaits, spinnerbaits, and topwater lures
  • Tackle: Medium to heavy spinning or baitcasting gear with 8-12 lb test line

SunFish Fishing

Fish Spots & Tips

  • Where to Fish for Sunfish:
    Sunfish are commonly found in the shallow areas of the lake, especially around docks and vegetation.
  • Sunfish Fishing Tips:
    They are active throughout the day, particularly in the summer.
  • Baits: Worms, crickets, and small pieces of bread
  • Lures: Tiny jigs and small spinners
  • Tackle: Ultra-light spinning gear with 2-4 lb test line

CatFish Fishing

Fish Spots & Tips

  • Where to Fish for Catfish:
    Channel Catfish are bottom dwellers and can be found in the deeper, murkier parts of the lake.
  • Catfish Fishing Tips:
    Catfish are popular among night anglers. They are most active after sunset.
  • Baits: Stink bait, chicken liver, and cut bait
  • Lures: Not commonly used, as they prefer natural baits
  • Tackle: Medium to heavy spinning or baitcasting gear with 12-20 lb test line

Gear & Tackle

Directions

FAQs

Yes, you do! Everyone 10 years old and up needs an Arizona fishing license, even if you’re just catching and releasing. You can grab one online or at local outdoor stores.

You’ll mostly catch rainbow trout, which are stocked during the warmer months. There are also brown and brook trout in the lake, and sometimes you’ll hook a green sunfish too!

Yep, but only if it has an electric motor. Gas motors aren’t allowed to keep the lake nice and quiet. Canoes, kayaks, and small boats are perfect here. Just make sure you bring life jackets and check if the boat ramp is open!

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