This lake belongs to the state Sinaloa in Mexico. It originates in the river Fuerte and carries its waters into the same river. If you love fishing and wildlife, then you definitely need to visit here. The common name is – El Mahone lake, but Miguel Hidalgo the official one.
The Lake Hidalgo characteristics
- Length is 6.44 miles
- Width is 1191 feet at the narrowest and 33422.4 feet at the widest place
- Square is 18959.36acres
| Official name | Presa Miguel Hidalgo y Costilla — known locally as El Mahone |
| Where | On the Río Fuerte in northern Sinaloa, about 12 km (15 min) from the town of El Fuerte |
| Built | Opened in 1956 for flood control, irrigation and a 60-MW hydro plant; Sinaloa’s second-largest dam |
| Size | A big reservoir of around 19,000 acres |
| Fishing | Largemouth bass (lobina), plus tilapia and catfish |
| Right next door | El Fuerte — a Pueblo Mágico and a gateway station of the El Chepe Copper Canyon railway |
Bass fishing at El Mahone
El Mahone is one of the quieter members of Sinaloa’s celebrated bass circuit. It does not carry the global fame of El Salto or Comedero, but it holds good numbers of largemouth bass alongside plentiful tilapia and catfish, and its setting on the Río Fuerte just minutes from a beautiful colonial town makes it a relaxed, scenic place to fish. Everything you need is close at hand — boats, tackle, local guides, restaurants and even boutique hotels and a dedicated fishing lodge — and because it sees far fewer visiting anglers than the marquee lakes, you can often have a cove to yourself. As across all of Sinaloa, the cooler, drier winter and spring months are the most comfortable time to cast.
El Fuerte: a Pueblo Mágico and the gateway to Copper Canyon
What really sets this lake apart is its neighbour. A few minutes away stands El Fuerte, one of Sinaloa’s Pueblos Mágicos, founded in 1610 around a Spanish fort and still lined with cobbled streets and grand old mansions, many now turned into charming boutique hotels — the town even claims to be the birthplace of the legend of El Zorro. Best of all, El Fuerte is the southern gateway of the famous El Chepe (Chepe Express) railway, which climbs from the Sinaloan lowlands up into the breathtaking Copper Canyon (Barrancas del Cobre), a canyon system grander than the Grand Canyon. That makes El Mahone a rare two-in-one: spend a morning chasing bass on the reservoir, then step aboard one of the world’s great train journeys. Fly into Los Mochis, about an hour and a half away, and both the lake and the railway are within easy reach.
History of the lake
Lake El Mahone or Presa Miguel Hidalgo is an artificial reservoir. First of all, the main purpose of constructing such a reservoir and dam was to prevent flooding. Also now the lake has a key role in the irrigation system of the territories and is actively used as a source for generating electricity.
Therefore, since 1956, as well as his neighbor Lake Dominguez Lake Hidalgo brings a huge benefit to the state of Sinaloa. By the way, the largest dam on the lake takes 2nd place in all of Mexico.
Wild nature on Lake Hidalgo
Lake Hidalgo has great natural and resource potential. Here you will not find many attractions and architectural buildings. But in your hands uncharted nature, wild beaches, and beautiful sunsets. For fishermen, this place is especially loved. The big bass is found in the waters of the lake and is of particular value for visitors and local fishermen. Of course, you will need a license for fishing. More accurate information can be found on Mexico’s National Aquaculture and Fishing Commission website.
Parks and reserves
The best parks are in El Fuerte. For example, you can have a great time with your family or friends in Montecarlos Park. This is a green, beautiful place with 2 football fields and picnic lawns. Admission is free and the park is open to the public 24 hours every day.
Next to El Fuerte Museum is the amusement park Tirolesa La Galera. In the afternoon you can have a tasty meal in restaurants and walk along the river bridge. Do not forget to take memorable photos. Here is an unforgettable view!
How to spend time on Lake Hidalgo
By and large, this lake has a comfortable and relaxing holiday. Hiking or cycling among beautiful landscapes will surely delight you.
Of course, Lake Hidalgo is ideal for successful fishing. For example, in the first week of March, annual bass fishing competitions are held here. This tournament is called Magione. Therefore, if you want to set new fish catch records, then come in the spring and test your strength.
You can stop at the best fishing base Hidalgo lodge. For 500 dollars per a day the owners will organize successful fishing for you. Also you will be placed in a good room and will have delicious meal.
Beautiful cities around
The nearest interesting city is El Fuerte. This ancient colonial city has a rich history and architecture. First of all, it is a fort. Here you should visit the museum of Miguel Angel Morales Ibarra. This museum contains collections of masks and traditional elements of life.
Also you should visit the observation deck in the center of the city from which you will enjoy a wonderful panoramic view. All sights are located in the central city square.
The city is located 6 miles from the lake. Public transport off the coast of the lake does not go, so take a taxi and in half an hour you will reach El Fuerte.
Good conditions for life
If you decide to come to Lake Hidalgo for a few days or a couple of weeks, then in El Fuerte you will find excellent hotels. Here you can stay overnight for $ 45 per person.
What if you really like it? No problems. Cozy homes here are available for purchase at affordable prices. For example, a family house with 4 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, and a fenced area can be bought for 205 000 US dollars.
4 bedroom house 
Real Estate in El Fuerte for 205 000 US dollars
The best way to get to Lake Hidalgo
For locals
Lake Hidalgo is 60 miles from Los Mochis. You should take it away at the first stop of El Fuerte. From the city to the lake by taxi, you will reach 30 minutes. The average price for a taxi is 0.5 dollars for 0.6 miles.
For foreign tourists
First of all, you need to fly to Federal Airport of Valle del Fuente. From the airport, take a shuttle bus to El Fuerte’s city center. And from there by taxi, you will reach the lake in about 30-40 minutes.
Helpful links and contacts
- El Fuerte Museum – https://www.elfuerte.gob.mx/turismo/museo.php
- Mexico’s National Aquaculture and Fishing Commission – http://www.sportfishinginmexico.com/licences/
- Hidalgo lodge – https://hidalgolodge.com.mx/
Frequently asked questions about Presa Miguel Hidalgo (El Mahone)
Where is Presa Miguel Hidalgo (El Mahone)?
On the Río Fuerte in northern Sinaloa, about 12 km (a 15-minute drive) from the town of El Fuerte.
Why is it called El Mahone?
El Mahone is the popular local name; the dam’s official name is Presa Miguel Hidalgo y Costilla.
Is Miguel Hidalgo good for fishing?
Yes — it holds good largemouth bass along with tilapia and catfish, and is part of the Sinaloa bass circuit, with boats, guides and lodging available.
When was the Miguel Hidalgo dam built?
The reservoir opened in 1956 for flood control and irrigation, and a 60-megawatt hydroelectric plant followed in 1960. It is Sinaloa’s second-largest dam.
How big is the reservoir?
It is a large reservoir of roughly 19,000 acres on the Río Fuerte.
What is El Fuerte?
El Fuerte is a Pueblo Mágico beside the lake, founded in 1610 around a Spanish fort, known for its colonial architecture, boutique hotels and the legend of El Zorro.
Is El Fuerte on the Copper Canyon train?
Yes. El Fuerte is a gateway station on the El Chepe (Chepe Express) railway, which runs up through the spectacular Copper Canyon (Barrancas del Cobre).
How do you get to the lake?
Fly into Los Mochis, about 90 minutes away, then continue to El Fuerte; the reservoir is roughly 12 km from town.
I am interested in bringing my boat down to Lake Hidalgo to fish. Last week we drove down to the lake but we could find no access point or launch ramp. Can you give me directions from El Fuerte to a boat launch location? Thanks.