Arizona’s San Carlos Lake closes after catastrophic fish kill wipes out ‘approximately 100%’ of fish population; best alternatives for fishing and camping

San Carlos Lake, one of Arizona's most popular fishing destinations has been closed to all fishing and recreational activities following a catastrophic fish kill that has affected "approximately 100% of the fish population."

In a Facebook post issued on June 5, the San Carlos Recreation and Wildlife Department announced the closure, saying that "recent drought conditions, combined with water releases from the dam, have resulted in a major fish kill affecting approximately 100% of the fish population within the lake." The department also warned that "decomposing fish may pose health risks to individuals who enter the area or attempt to fish."



As a result, officials said that "for the safety of the public," all fishing, the harvesting or possession of fish from the lake, and any recreational activities associated with fishing are prohibited until further notice.

The Department said it will continue to monitor conditions and provide updates as they become available. It concluded, “We ask all visitors to respect the closure and avoid the affected area for their safety.”

The closure marks a devastating blow for anglers, campers, and local wildlife alike. Once considered a desert oasis with more than 150 miles of shoreline, San Carlos Lake was renowned for boating and trophy fishing, with some of Arizona’s largest catfish, largemouth bass, and rainbow trout caught in its waters over the years.

San Carlos Lake’s warning signs had emerged months before fish kill

While the scale of the die-off is alarming, officials had warned that the situation was becoming increasingly dire. An April 3 update from the San Carlos Recreation and Wildlife Department revealed that the reservoir was at just 1.93% capacity, adding that "water levels are continuing to drop as more water is being released."

The department also cautioned that a fish kill was possible if conditions failed to improve, a prediction that has now become reality.

Best alternatives for fishing and camping in Arizona after San Carlos Lake closure

For visitors who had planned a summer getaway around San Carlos Lake, several other Arizona destinations still offer excellent opportunities for fishing, boating, and camping.

Knoll Lake

Located in northern Arizona, Knoll Lake is known for its clear waters and peaceful setting. The lake is considered one of the state's cleanest and remains a favorite among anglers looking for healthy trout populations. The surrounding forest also makes it a popular destination for camping and hiking.

Big Lake

The 575-acre Big Lake in Arizona’s White Mountains is another top alternative, offering scenic views, fishing, and campgrounds. It is particularly well known for trout fishing and family-friendly outdoor recreation. According to the US Forest Service, the campground season runs from mid-May to mid-September.

Salt River Canyon

East of Phoenix, Salt River Canyon combines fishing opportunities with dramatic landscapes. Visitors can enjoy catching local fish species while also taking advantage of the area's swimming spots and sunset views.

Cattail Cove State Park at Lake Havasu

On Arizona’s western edge, Cattail Cove State Park offers a full range of water-based recreation with comparatively smaller crowds. The park features fishing, boating, camping, and swimming facilities, making it an ideal replacement destination for families affected by the San Carlos closure.

Two white sand beaches, a boat ramp, and 139 campsites provide visitors with plenty of options for outdoor activities, while boat-in campsites are also available along the shoreline. The 2,000-acre park has been operated by the Arizona State Parks Board since 1970.