Jefferson Lake

efferson Lake, located in the Kaibab National Forest near Williams, AZ, is a small, secluded impoundment managed as a seasonal rainbow trout fishery. Stocked during spring and early summer by the Arizona Game and Fish Department, the lake offers peaceful fishing in a rustic, forested setting.

Trout fishing is best following a stocking event, with anglers using PowerBait, worms, and salmon eggs along the shoreline. Fly fishing is effective during early summer hatches, especially with dry flies and small streamers. Because the lake is shallow and highly dependent on precipitation, angling success can fluctuate seasonally.

There are no developed facilities or restrooms at Jefferson Lake, and access often requires a high-clearance vehicle. Boating is not allowed, making it a walk-in fishery for shore anglers only. Its small size and quiet location result in minimal fishing pressure, especially compared to larger, more developed lakes in the region.

Jefferson Lake is best suited to anglers looking for solitude and simplicity rather than high catch rates or large fish. Its charm lies in its remote location, quiet forest backdrop, and opportunities to fish in near solitude—ideal for weekend campers, families, or those exploring lesser-known waters in northern Arizona.