Arizona · Fishing
Fishing in Show Low, Arizona
Show Low sits at around 6,300 feet on the Mogollon Rim, and that elevation keeps water temperatures cool enough to support decent fishing through much of the year.
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Show Low sits at around 6,300 feet on the Mogollon Rim, and that elevation keeps water temperatures cool enough to support decent fishing through much of the year. The lakes and tanks around town are the main draw here — still-water fishing is the name of the game, with no major river runs in the immediate area. Fool Hollow Lake is the most developed option, sitting inside a recreation area with boat ramps and shoreline access that works for families and anglers who want a bit of infrastructure. Beyond that, you have a spread of smaller waters — Long Lake, White Lake, Section Two Lake, Ned Lake, Sink Hole Lake, South Marsh, Pintail Lake, and a handful of tanks like Section Five Tank and Substation Tank — that see less pressure and reward anglers willing to explore. Martinez Lake rounds out the list. Most of these are managed by Arizona Game and Fish, and stocking schedules vary by water body and season, so checking current reports before you drive out to a smaller tank is worth the five minutes it takes. A valid Arizona fishing license is required for anyone 10 and older. Shore fishing is accessible at most of these spots, and a small kayak or float tube opens up a lot more water on the larger lakes.
Frequently asked questions
What kinds of fish can I expect to catch around Show Low?
The lakes and tanks in the Show Low area are primarily stocked warmwater and coldwater fisheries managed by Arizona Game and Fish. Fool Hollow Lake and several of the other named lakes receive regular stocking, which typically includes trout during cooler months and catfish in warmer seasons, along with resident bass and panfish. Check the Arizona Game and Fish stocking report for current activity on specific waters like Long Lake, White Lake, or Ned Lake before your trip.
Do I need a boat, or can I fish from shore?
Shore fishing is viable at most of these waters. Fool Hollow Lake has the best-developed access with a boat ramp and designated fishing areas. Smaller spots like Section Five Tank, Substation Tank, and South Marsh are compact enough that shore fishing covers most of the fishable water. A kayak or float tube is useful if you want to work the middle of larger lakes like Long Lake or Pintail Lake.
When is the best time of year to fish in Show Low?
Spring and fall are the most productive seasons. Trout stocking typically ramps up in spring and again in fall when water temperatures drop back into a comfortable range. Summer fishing can slow during midday heat even at this elevation, so early morning or evening outings on the lakes tend to produce better results. Winter fishing is possible and often overlooked — Fool Hollow Lake and some of the larger lakes hold fish year-round.
What time of day is best for fishing these lakes?
Early morning is consistently the most productive window, especially in summer when surface temperatures rise quickly after sunrise. Evening is a close second. Midday fishing in July and August is slower across most of the lakes and tanks, though shaded shoreline spots at places like Fool Hollow Lake can still hold fish near structure.
Is this a good destination for beginner anglers or families?
Yes, particularly Fool Hollow Lake Recreation Area, which has parking, restrooms, and easy shoreline access that works well for kids and newer anglers. The stocked lakes around Show Low are forgiving for beginners because fish are actively feeding near the surface after a fresh stocking. Smaller tanks like Substation Tank and Section Five Tank are low-pressure spots where you can fish without much competition, though access roads can be rough depending on conditions.
