Arizona · Fishing
Fishing in St. Johns, Arizona
St. Johns sits on the Colorado Plateau at around 5,700 feet, and the fishing here is almost entirely still-water — lakes, reservoirs, ponds, and stock tanks spread across the high desert.
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St. Johns sits on the Colorado Plateau at around 5,700 feet, and the fishing here is almost entirely still-water — lakes, reservoirs, ponds, and stock tanks spread across the high desert. Lyman Lake is the largest and most accessible option, a state park reservoir on the Little Colorado River that holds catfish and bass alongside the usual warm-water mix. Smaller waters like Wiregrass Lake, Kearn Lake, and The Cienega offer a quieter experience and are worth checking if Lyman is crowded on summer weekends. Patterson Pond and Little Reservoir are compact enough that a simple spinning setup covers the whole water column without much effort. The tank fisheries — Alejandro Tank and Triangle Tank — are classic Arizona stock tanks, which means they can be productive after a wet monsoon season and slower in drought years when water levels drop. Elevation keeps summer temperatures reasonable compared to lower desert fisheries, so early mornings in June through August are genuinely comfortable. Spring and fall are the most consistent seasons overall. This is not a destination for trophy hunting or technical fly fishing — it's accessible, low-pressure still-water angling that rewards anyone willing to show up early and move around if one spot isn't producing.
Frequently asked questions
What fish species can I expect to catch around St. Johns?
The lakes and reservoirs in the St. Johns area are warm-water fisheries, so you're primarily targeting catfish, bass, and sunfish. Lyman Lake is the most documented of the bunch and holds channel catfish along with largemouth bass. The smaller ponds and tanks tend to support bluegill and sunfish populations that are good for light tackle or introducing kids to fishing.
Do I need an Arizona fishing license to fish these waters?
Yes, a valid Arizona fishing license is required for anyone 10 years of age or older. Lyman Lake is inside a state park, so you'll also need to pay the state park entry fee on top of your fishing license. Check the Arizona Game and Fish Department website for current license pricing and any special regulations tied to specific waters before you go.
What's the best time of year to fish in St. Johns?
Spring (April through early June) and fall (September through October) are the most reliable windows. Summer fishing is workable thanks to the elevation keeping air temps in check, but you'll want to be on the water at first light before afternoon winds pick up. The tank fisheries like Alejandro Tank and Triangle Tank are most productive after monsoon rains replenish water levels, typically late July through September.
What gear should I bring for the lakes and ponds here?
A medium-light spinning rod in the 6- to 7-foot range handles most situations across Wiregrass Lake, Patterson Pond, Kearn Lake, and the other smaller waters. For catfish at Lyman Lake, a heavier rod with 12- to 17-pound monofilament and a simple bottom rig with cut bait or chicken liver is standard. None of these waters require a boat — bank fishing is practical at all of them, though a small kayak or float tube opens up more of Lyman Lake.
Are the tank fisheries like Alejandro Tank and Triangle Tank accessible to the public?
Stock tanks in Arizona can sit on a mix of state, federal, or private land, so access varies. Before driving out to Alejandro Tank or Triangle Tank, confirm land ownership through the Arizona State Land Department or check with Arizona Game and Fish. Trespassing on private ranch land to reach a tank is not legal even if the fishing looks good from the road.
