SAN CARLOS, Ariz. — Arizona officials have indefinitely closed San Carlos Lake after a large-scale fish die-off eliminated virtually the entire fish population in the reservoir, according to local authorities.
The San Carlos Recreation and Wildlife Department announced Friday that ongoing drought conditions combined with water releases from Coolidge Dam caused environmental conditions that resulted in what officials described as a “major fish kill” affecting approximately 100% of the lake’s fish population.
Authorities said the decomposition of thousands of fish creates potential health risks for visitors. As a result, fishing, swimming, harvesting fish, and related recreational activities have been prohibited until further notice.
Officials stated that the closure is intended to protect public health while environmental conditions are monitored. The agency said updates will be provided as the situation develops and urged visitors to avoid the affected areas.
Images and video shared by local news outlets showed large numbers of dead fish floating across the lake’s surface. San Carlos Lake, located within the San Carlos Apache Reservation in eastern Arizona, is a popular destination for anglers and outdoor enthusiasts. The reservoir has historically been known for producing state-record catches of several fish species, including largemouth bass, black crappie, bluegill, channel catfish, and flathead catfish.
The lake, formed by Coolidge Dam on the Gila River, lies approximately 125 miles east of Phoenix. Local residents and visitors expressed sadness over the loss, noting that the lake had been thriving just a few years ago.
Officials have not announced when the lake might reopen and continue to assess environmental conditions.
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