Riggs Flat Lake Fishing Guide 🎣

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Trout Fishing at Riggs Lake 🎣

Riggs Flat Lake is a hidden gem tucked away high up in the Pinaleño Mountains near Safford, Arizona. It’s small, quiet, and surrounded by tall pine trees, making it a perfect place to relax and enjoy some peaceful fishing. This lake is a favorite among folks who like cooler weather and beautiful views. It’s located in the Coronado National Forest and sits over 8,500 feet above sea level—so it’s a great escape from the Arizona heat. The lake is stocked with rainbow trout and sometimes brown trout, especially during the summer months. Fishing from the shoreline is easy, but you can also bring a small boat or float tube. Because it’s in a remote area, it’s best for day trips or weekend getaways. There’s a campground nearby, and the whole place feels like a mountain retreat. If you love fishing in quiet places with cool, clean air and mountain views, Riggs Flat Lake is definitely worth the trip.

Lake Details

Riggs Flat Lake Fishing Guide 🎣 :

  • Highlight Summary:
    Fishing at Riggs Flat Lake is all about peace and quiet. It’s a cool mountain lake where you can get away from the crowds, enjoy nature, and reel in some beautiful trout. With the tall pines, fresh air, and calm waters, it’s the kind of place that feels like a real adventure.
  • Lake Detailed Specifications:
    Riggs Flat Lake is a small reservoir covering about 11 acres. It’s located at an elevation of 8,600 feet in the Pinaleño Mountains and is part of the Coronado National Forest. The lake is only open during the warmer months, usually from May through October, due to snow in the winter.
  • Fish Species Types:
    The lake is stocked with rainbow trout regularly during the open season. You might also catch brown trout, which are known for being a little tougher to hook. These fish thrive in the cool, high-altitude waters.
  • Fishing Conditions:
    Fishing is best early in the morning or late in the evening, especially during summer. The water stays cold year-round, which helps the trout stay active. Because the lake is small, fish are usually easy to reach from the shore.
  • Boating Regulation:
    Boats are allowed, but only with electric motors. Many anglers prefer using float tubes, kayaks, or canoes. There’s no official boat ramp, so make sure your boat is small and easy to launch.
  • Fishing Techniques:
    Trout here love bait like PowerBait, worms, and salmon eggs. You can also use small spinners or spoons. Fly fishing is popular too, especially with dry flies or nymphs. Cast near the drop-offs and deeper parts of the lake for the best luck.
  • If you’re looking for a quiet mountain lake where the trout are hungry and the views are amazing, Riggs Flat Lake is the spot. It’s simple, scenic, and a great place to unplug and catch some fish.
  • 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 Riggs Flat Lake Fishing Guide 🎣

Lake Information

  • Name:
  • Riggs Flat Lake
  • Lake Riggs Flat
  • Lake Information
  • 11 acres
  • Elevation: 8,600 feet
  • Website:
  • Fs.usda.gov
  • Recreation.gov
  • Fishing License: A valid fishing or combination license is required for resident and nonresident anglers 10 years of age or older fishing any public accessible water in Arizona.

Lake Amenities

  • 🎣 Shoreline access for fishing
  • 🛶 Small boat and float tube friendly
  • 🏕️ Campground nearby with basic facilities
  • 🌲 Shaded picnic areas
  • 🚻 Vault restrooms
  • 🅿️ Parking area near the lake
  • 🔥 Fire rings for evening campfires
  • 🥾 Hiking trails in the area
  • 🌄 Scenic mountain views
  • 🧺 Picnic tables for day use
  • 🐿️ Wildlife viewing opportunities
  • 🐕 Pet-friendly (leash 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

You can catch rainbow trout and sometimes brown trout, especially during the summer stocking season.

Yes, a valid Arizona fishing license is required for anyone 10 years or older. Licenses can be purchased online or at outdoor stores.

The lake is open from May through October. It’s closed in winter due to snow and road conditions.

Yes, but only small boats with electric motors are allowed. Most people use float tubes or kayaks since there’s no official boat ramp.

Yes! There’s a basic campground near the lake with picnic tables, fire pits, and restrooms. It’s perfect for an overnight fishing trip.

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