What Fool Hollow Lake Offers

Fool Hollow Lake is a 150-acre reservoir in Show Low, Arizona, sitting at 7,300 feet elevation in the White Mountains. The lake holds largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, catfish, and sunfish, making it a solid choice for anglers who want a mix of species without the crowds of larger Arizona reservoirs. The setting is forested and relatively quiet — you'll see ponderosa pines and juniper rather than desert scrub, and the water stays cool year-round because of the altitude.

The lake is managed by the City of Show Low and is open to the public with a day-use fee. There's a boat ramp, a fishing pier, picnic areas, and a small campground on-site, so you can make a full day or overnight trip without driving far from town. The shoreline is accessible in most places, and the lake is shallow enough in spots that wade fishing is possible, though a boat gives you more water to cover.

Key Takeaways

  • Fool Hollow Lake holds largemouth and smallmouth bass, catfish, and sunfish at 7,300 feet elevation in Show Low's White Mountains.
  • A day-use fee is required; the lake has a boat ramp, fishing pier, and campground managed by the City of Show Low.
  • Spring and fall are the most reliable seasons for bass; summer can be productive early and late in the day when water temperatures are cooler.
  • Arizona fishing license and any required stamps are mandatory; check current regulations for species-specific rules before you fish.
  • The lake is 30 minutes from Show Low town center and accessible year-round, though winter snow can occasionally close access roads.

Bass Fishing and Seasonal Patterns

Largemouth bass are the primary draw at Fool Hollow. They respond well to topwater lures in early morning and late evening, especially in spring (March through May) when water temperatures are warming and fish move into shallower areas to spawn. Soft plastics — crawfish imitations and small shad patterns — work consistently throughout the year if you fish deeper structure during midday heat.

Smallmouth bass are present but less abundant than largemouths. They tend to hold on rocky points and deeper ledges, so jigging and drop-shot rigs are more effective than topwater. Fall (September through November) is when both species feed aggressively before winter, making it one of the best windows for consistent action. Summer fishing is possible but requires early starts and late finishes; midday heat pushes fish deep, and the lake can feel slow between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.

Winter (December through February) slows the bite noticeably. Bass are lethargic in cold water, but patient anglers working slow presentations near deeper holes can still catch fish. The advantage is solitude — very few people fish Fool Hollow in winter, so you'll have the lake largely to yourself.

Catfish and Sunfish Opportunities

Channel catfish are stocked regularly and provide a reliable alternative to bass fishing. They bite best at night or early morning on cut bait, chicken liver, or commercial stink baits. If you're bringing family members who don't want to chase bass, catfish offer a more relaxed, sit-and-wait style of fishing that works well from the pier or shoreline.

Sunfish (bluegill and pumpkinseed) are abundant and eager to bite small jigs, inline spinners, or live crickets. They're excellent for children or anyone looking for consistent action without technical skill. Summer is peak sunfish season, and they'll bite throughout the day from shallow weed beds and brush.

Access, Facilities, and Day-Use Information

Fool Hollow Lake is located on the east side of Show Low, roughly 30 minutes from downtown. From Arizona Highway 260, follow the signs to the lake; the road is paved and well-marked. A day-use fee is charged at the entrance — check the City of Show Low Parks and Recreation website or call ahead for current rates, as fees can change seasonally.

The lake has a concrete boat ramp suitable for small to mid-size boats, a fishing pier that requires no boat, and several shoreline access points. A small campground with RV hookups and tent sites is available if you want to stay overnight; reservations are recommended during summer weekends. Picnic tables, grills, and restrooms are distributed around the lake, and there's a small concession area near the entrance.

The lake is open year-round, but winter snow can occasionally close access roads for a day or two. Call ahead if you're planning a winter trip. Cell service is spotty in the area, so download maps or directions before you arrive.

Regulations and Licensing Requirements

You must have a valid Arizona fishing license to fish Fool Hollow Lake. Licenses are available online through the Arizona Game and Fish Department website, at sporting goods stores in Show Low, or at the lake entrance. A one-day license is the most affordable option if you're visiting for a single trip; annual licenses are better value if you plan multiple visits.

Bass have a 12-inch minimum length limit and a daily bag limit of six fish (combined largemouth and smallmouth). Catfish have no minimum size but a 25-fish daily limit. Sunfish have no size limit and a 50-fish daily limit. These regulations can change, so check the Arizona Game and Fish Department's current regulations before you fish — regulations are posted online and often available in printed form at the lake entrance.

No live baitfish may be transported into the lake; only dead bait or artificial lures are permitted. This rule prevents the introduction of invasive species and is strictly enforced.

When to Fish and Weather Considerations

Spring (March through May) and fall (September through November) are the most reliable seasons. Water temperatures are moderate, fish are active, and the weather is comfortable for a full day on the water. Spring offers spawning activity and aggressive feeding; fall offers pre-winter feeding binges and cooler daytime temperatures that keep you comfortable.

Summer (June through August) can be productive if you fish early (sunrise to 9 a.m.) and late (5 p.m. onward), but midday is slow and the sun exposure is intense at 7,300 feet elevation. Bring extra water and sunscreen. Winter (December through February) is quiet and cold, with occasional snow, but the lake rarely freezes solid enough to prevent fishing. If you're comfortable in cold weather and want solitude, winter can be rewarding.

Afternoon thunderstorms are common in July and August; they can arrive quickly and create dangerous conditions on the water. Check the forecast before you launch, and be prepared to head in if storms develop. Wind is generally light to moderate, but the lake can get choppy on windy afternoons, especially in spring.

Gear and Tackle Recommendations

For bass, bring a medium-power spinning rod (6 to 7 feet) or a baitcasting setup if you're comfortable with one. Topwater lures, soft plastics (4 to 6 inches), crankbaits, and jigs all work. A tackle box with a variety of colors — natural shades like green, brown, and black, plus brighter patterns for low-light conditions — covers most situations.

For catfish, a medium-heavy rod with a reel that holds at least 200 yards of line is standard. Bring a rod holder or stake so you can set the rod down and wait. Cut bait (shad or bluegill) is effective and easy to obtain; bring a cooler to keep it fresh.

For sunfish, a light spinning rod and small jigs or spinners are all you need. A net makes landing easier, especially if children are fishing. Polarized sunglasses help you spot fish in shallow water and reduce eye strain.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a boat to fish Fool Hollow Lake?

No. The fishing pier is open to the public and doesn't require a boat. Shoreline access is available around much of the lake, and catfish and sunfish bite well from shore or the pier. A boat gives you more water to cover and access to deeper structure, but it's not necessary.

Can I fish at night?

Night fishing is permitted for catfish and is often the most productive time for them. The lake entrance closes at dusk, so confirm hours with the City of Show Low Parks and Recreation before planning a night trip. Some areas may have lighting; others do not.

What's the closest town for supplies?

Show Low is 30 minutes away and has grocery stores, gas stations, and sporting goods shops. Bring tackle and bait with you if possible, as the lake's concession area has limited inventory. Payson is about 45 minutes south and also has full services.

Is the lake stocked regularly?

Yes. The Arizona Game and Fish Department stocks catfish and trout periodically. Bass and sunfish reproduce naturally in the lake. Check the Game and Fish website or call the Show Low Parks office for current stocking schedules if you're targeting a specific species.

What should I do if I catch a trophy bass?

Take a photo with your phone or camera, measure it against your rod, and release it carefully if you're practicing catch-and-release. If you want to keep it, follow the bag and size limits. The Arizona Game and Fish Department runs a voluntary trophy fish program; you can report large catches online, which helps biologists track population health.