Apache Lake is canyon water on the Salt River, held behind Horse Mesa Dam. Steep shores and access roads make it worth picking a launch before planning the fishing. Bass, crappie and catfish are more useful starting targets than treating every species ever listed here as an equal prospect.
Lake facts
- Water type: Salt River canyon reservoir behind Horse Mesa Dam
- Main fish: Largemouth and smallmouth bass, crappie and catfish
- Named access: Apache Lake Marina and Burnt Corral
Where to fish
Rocky points and breaks give bass anglers a sensible way to narrow the search. Start with a crankbait or small swimbait, then slow down with a jig or plastic when you locate fish. For crappie, look for actual submerged cover and nearby depth changes. Catfish call for a separate bait setup rather than hoping the bass rod will cover everything.
When and how to fish it
Water level and boat traffic can change how a section fishes. An early session lets you work accessible shoreline before recreational use builds. In cooler water, give a slower presentation time to work. The canyon may look similar from one bend to the next, so note which rock, depth and baitfish combination produces bites instead of running the whole lake.
Access and things to do
Burnt Corral and Apache Lake Marina are named places to investigate for camping and boat access. Boating and canyon scenery keep the rest of the visit on this reservoir. Check the current approach road before bringing a trailer; an old route description is not proof that every section of the Apache Trail is suitable. Verify passes, launch access and campground arrangements with the Forest Service or operator.
Sources for this lake guide
Nearby fishing waters
Explore nearby waters, including local Featured destinations. Check each page for access and fishing restrictions.
Distances are straight-line estimates between mapped water locations.