Yes, you can fish at Pacheta Falls, but a permit is required since it’s located on the Fort Apache Indian Reservation.
Visitors visiting this remote and scenic spot in Arizona’s White Mountains can expect to catch rainbow trout, with the possibility of Apache trout in the surrounding watershed.
This guide covers everything you need to know—how to get a fishing permit, what regulations to follow, which bait works best, how to access the falls, and tips to make your trip safe, legal, and rewarding.
Table of Contents
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1. Permits and Regulations
Do You Need a Permit to Fish at Pacheta Falls?
Yes, you do. Pacheta Falls is located within the Fort Apache Indian Reservation, and any non-tribal member must obtain a recreational permit to enter, hike, or fish in the area.
Fishing without a permit is strictly prohibited and may result in fines or removal from the land.
Where to Get a Fishing Permit
There are a few ways to get your hands on a fishing permit for Pacheta Falls:
- Online through the White Mountain Apache Tribe’s official website (if available).
- In person at locations such as Hon-Dah Outdoor Sports near Pinetop.
- At lakes like Hawley Lake or Horseshoe Lake, which also serve as permit vendors.
In some cases, a specific Pacheta Falls Access Permit may be required in addition to your general fishing license. Be sure to double-check the current rules before heading out.
What Fishing Regulations Apply?
- One fishing pole per person is allowed.
- Use of live baitfish is prohibited.
- Only artificial lures, flies, or worms may be permitted depending on the lake.
- Daily bag limits vary by location but often include restrictions on the number of trout you can keep.
- Do not clean fish in the water. Use designated cleaning stations if available.
Always refer to the latest White Mountain Apache Tribal Fishing and Boating Regulations for updates.
2. Fish Species at Pacheta Falls
What Can You Catch?
The waters around Pacheta Falls, including the nearby Pacheta Lake, are most commonly known for Rainbow Trout.
These fish are stocked regularly and offer a reliable fishing experience for both beginners and seasoned anglers.
In the broader region, Apache Trout is a rare and native species which can also be found, especially in conservation areas.
While it’s not guaranteed that you’ll find Apache Trout directly at the falls, the surrounding watershed is considered prime habitat.
3. Fishing Conditions and Tips
What Are the Fishing Conditions Like?
Fishing conditions at Pacheta Falls can vary throughout the year depending on snowmelt, monsoon season, and general weather. Most anglers look for:
- Clear water with moderate flow
- Cool temperatures (ideal for trout)
- Recent stocking reports, especially at nearby lakes
Unfortunately, there is no official site that provides real-time fishing conditions for the falls, so your best bet is to call Hon-Dah Outdoor Sports or check regional fishing forums.
What Lures or Baits Work Best?
If you’re targeting trout in this kind of terrain, the following lures and flies are highly recommended:
- Woolly Buggers
- Minnow imitations
- Pheasant Tail Nymphs
- Zebra Midges
- Spinners like Panther Martins or Rooster Tails
Early morning and late afternoon are often the best times to fish when trout are most active and temperatures are ideal.
Best Time of Year to Fish
The prime fishing season typically runs from late spring to early fall, usually May through September.
During these months, access roads are more reliable, and fish activity peaks due to favorable water temperatures.
Snow can make the area inaccessible during the winter.
Are Guided Fishing Trips Available?
While there are no official guided trips specifically marketed for Pacheta Falls, several local outfitters around Pinetop-Lakeside and Show Low offer guided trout fishing trips in the White Mountains.
With advance inquiry, you may be able to arrange a custom tour that includes the Pacheta area.
Fishing Near a Waterfall: Tips
Fishing near waterfalls presents unique opportunities. Here’s how to approach it:
- Cast into the “plunge pool” at the base of the falls.
- Look for “dig-out pockets” where the current slows and fish wait for food.
- Use heavier flies or lures to penetrate turbulence.
- Be cautious of slippery rocks and fast-moving water.
Conclusion
Yes, you can fish here but you need a fish permit.
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