Key facts
- San Carlos Lake is closed to all fishing and recreational activities due to a massive fish kill.
- Approximately 100% of the fish population in the lake has been wiped out.
- Drought conditions and water releases from the dam are identified as the causes of the fish kill.
- The closure is in effect for public safety, as decomposing fish may pose health risks.
- The lake was previously a popular destination for boating and trophy fishing.
San Carlos Lake, a prominent fishing and recreational spot in Arizona, has been closed indefinitely following a catastrophic fish kill that has decimated its fish population. The San Carlos Recreation and Wildlife Department announced the closure on June 5, citing "recent drought conditions, combined with water releases from the dam" as the cause for the die-off, which has affected "approximately 100% of the fish population."
Officials warned that decomposing fish could pose health risks, leading to a prohibition on all fishing, harvesting, and recreational activities within the area for public safety. The department stated it would monitor conditions and provide updates. The closure represents a significant loss for anglers and the local ecosystem, as San Carlos Lake was known for its trophy-sized catfish, largemouth bass, and rainbow trout.
Concerns about the lake's condition had been raised months prior, with an April update indicating the reservoir was at just 1.93% capacity due to ongoing water releases. At that time, the department cautioned that a fish kill was a possibility if conditions did not improve.
For those who had planned trips to San Carlos Lake, several alternative destinations are available in Arizona. Knoll Lake in northern Arizona offers trout fishing and camping in a serene environment. Big Lake in the White Mountains is another option for trout fishing and family recreation, with campgrounds open from mid-May to mid-September. Salt River Canyon provides fishing opportunities amidst dramatic landscapes, along with swimming spots. On the western edge of the state, Cattail Cove State Park at Lake Havasu offers a comprehensive range of water-based activities, including fishing, boating, camping, and swimming, with 139 campsites and boat-in options.