Little Bear Lake Fishing Tips: Best Bait and Tackle Guide 🎣

Little Bear Lake (Shush Bezahze) is a peaceful, tucked-away fishing spot in Arizona’s White Mountains, surrounded by pine trees and clean mountain air. This small lake is perfect for a relaxing day of fishing, especially if you want to get away from the crowds. It’s located on the White Mountain Apache Tribal Lands, so you’ll need a special tribal fishing permit to fish here. The lake is home to Apache trout, a rare and beautiful fish that’s only found in this part of the state. You can fish from the shore or float in a small kayak or tube. The lake doesn’t allow gas-powered boats, which keeps the water calm and quiet. Fishing is best during spring, summer, and early fall, when the weather is cool and the fish are active. Whether you’re fly fishing, using spinning gear, or just soaking in the peaceful vibes, Little Bear Lake is a hidden gem that’s perfect for anyone who loves nature, mountains, and a great day of trout fishing.

Lake Details

Little Bear Lake Fishing Tips: Best Bait and Tackle Guide 🎣 :

  • Fishing at Little Bear Lake (Shush Bezahze) is calm, easy, and great for all kinds of anglers. It’s a small mountain lake that offers amazing views, fresh air, and a peaceful setting to catch fish and relax. It’s a great spot for solo fishers, families, or anyone looking to unwind.
  • Lake Detailed Specifications:
    Little Bear Lake covers around 10–15 acres and sits at an elevation of about 8,500 to 9,000 feet in the White Mountains. The lake is located on the White Mountain Apache Tribal Lands and is usually open for fishing from late spring through early fall.
  • Fish Species Types:
    The lake is stocked with Apache trout, a rare native fish to Arizona. These trout are colorful and fun to catch, making the lake a special place to fish.
  • Fishing Conditions:
    Trout are most active in the cooler hours—early morning and evening. The water stays cool thanks to the high elevation, and the best times to fish are spring and fall. Summer can be good too, but afternoon thunderstorms are common.
  • Boating Regulation:
    Only non-motorized boats are allowed. This includes kayaks, float tubes, and canoes. There’s no formal boat ramp, so any boat must be small and easy to carry.
  • Fishing Techniques:
    Fly fishing is popular here, using dry flies and nymphs. Light spinning rods with small spinners, worms, or salmon eggs also work well. Use light line and fish near deeper water or shaded areas for the best results.
  • If you’re looking for a quiet, scenic lake with great trout fishing, Little Bear Lake is the perfect spot. It’s peaceful, beautiful, and a great place to connect with nature.
Guide To Fly Fishing In Arizona Best Arizona Fishing Books Guides

Top Fish at Little Bear Lake Fishing Tips: Best Bait and Tackle Guide 🎣

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

The lake is stocked with Apache trout, a rare native fish found only in parts of Arizona.

Yes, you’ll need a White Mountain Apache Tribal Fishing Permit. Arizona state licenses are not valid here.

Yes, but only non-motorized boats like kayaks, canoes, or float tubes are allowed.

Spring and fall are best. Trout are more active in cool weather, especially in the early morning or late evening.

Yes! There are primitive campsites nearby, but bring your own supplies—facilities are limited.

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