Arizona · Fishing
Fishing in Concho, Arizona
Concho sits in the White Mountains region of eastern Arizona at roughly 6,000 feet elevation, and the fishing here is quiet, unhurried, and centered on small stillwater.
3 spotsUpdated dailyFree to access
View on mapFishing · 3 spots
Concho sits in the White Mountains region of eastern Arizona at roughly 6,000 feet elevation, and the fishing here is quiet, unhurried, and centered on small stillwater. The three spots in the area — Concho Lake, Fenceline Tank, and Dad Patterson Tank — are all lake or tank fisheries, meaning you're working the banks or a small boat on contained water rather than wading moving current. Concho Lake is the most established of the three and the one most likely to see stocking activity from Arizona Game and Fish. The tanks are smaller, more remote-feeling, and can be productive early in the season when water levels are up. This isn't a destination you come to for trophy hunting or technical fly fishing challenges. It's the kind of place that suits someone who wants a relaxed morning on the water, a basic setup, and minimal crowds. Elevation keeps summer temperatures manageable compared to the lower desert, which makes late spring through early fall genuinely comfortable fishing weather. If you're driving up from the Phoenix area or passing through on a White Mountains trip, Concho Lake in particular is worth a stop.
Frequently asked questions
What species can I expect to catch at Concho Lake and the nearby tanks?
The activity listings don't specify species by name, and we won't guess. Arizona Game and Fish stocks many White Mountains lakes with rainbow trout and channel catfish, but you should check the AZGFD stocking schedule at azgfd.com before your trip to confirm what's currently in Concho Lake specifically. The tanks may hold warmwater species depending on the season and water level.
Do I need a fishing license to fish Concho Lake or the tanks?
Yes. Arizona requires a valid fishing license for anyone 10 years of age or older. You can purchase one online through the Arizona Game and Fish Department website or at local sporting goods retailers. If you're targeting trout, you'll also need a separate trout stamp.
What's the best time of day to fish here?
Early morning is consistently the most productive window at stillwater fisheries like these, especially in summer when midday sun warms the shallows. At Concho's elevation the evenings can also be good, particularly in late spring and early fall when surface temperatures drop faster after sunset.
What gear should I bring for fishing Concho Lake and the tanks?
A light to medium spinning setup covers most situations at these small stillwater spots. Bring a basic selection of PowerBait, small spinners, and a few bobber rigs if you're targeting stocked trout. For the tanks, which tend to be shallower and more vegetated, weedless rigs can save you a lot of frustration.
Is there boat access at these fishing spots?
Concho Lake has historically allowed small non-motorized watercraft, but access details and any current restrictions should be confirmed with Arizona Game and Fish or the local ranger district before you load up a kayak. Fenceline Tank and Dad Patterson Tank are smaller and likely bank-fishing only given their size.
