Are you looking to land the big one? If so, Arizona is the perfect place to find where to go bass fishing. With hundreds of lakes throughout the state, there are plenty of great spots for anglers. From scenic reservoirs full of smallmouth and largemouth bass to rivers with deep pools that offer more than just an occasional catch–here are some of the best places in Arizona for a successful fishing trip. Read on and start planning your next outdoor adventure!
Best Bass Fishing Locations in Arizona
1. Lake Havasu
- Location: Located on the border of Arizona and California
- Size: Approximately 19,300 acres
- Depth: Up to 90 feet deep
Lake Havasu is a popular fishing destination in Arizona, especially for smallmouth and largemouth bass. This location is known for its clear water and abundant underwater structures, such as submerged rock piles and aquatic vegetation, which provide excellent habitat for bass. The lake also has a rich history, as it is home to the original London Bridge, which was relocated from England in 1967. Lake Havasu hosts several fishing tournaments yearly, attracting professional and amateur anglers.
Fish commonly found in Lake Havasu:
- Largemouth Bass
- Smallmouth Bass
- Striped Bass
- Catfish
- Crappie
- Sunfish
2. Roosevelt Lake
- Location: Central Arizona, about 80 miles northeast of Phoenix
- Size: Approximately 21,493 acres
- Depth: Up to 349 feet deep
Roosevelt Lake is the largest lake in central Arizona and is well-known for its exceptional bass fishing opportunities. The lake was created by the construction of Theodore Roosevelt Dam in 1911, making it the oldest artificial reservoir in Arizona. Anglers can find both largemouth and smallmouth bass in this lake, along with other fish species. The lake has numerous coves, points, and submerged structures that create an ideal environment for bass. Roosevelt Lake is also a great spot for camping and other outdoor activities.
Fish commonly found in Roosevelt Lake:
- Largemouth Bass
- Smallmouth Bass
- Crappie
- Catfish
- Bluegill
- Carp
3. Saguaro Lake
- Location: Northeast of Phoenix, Arizona
- Size: Approximately 1,264 acres
- Depth: Up to 118 feet deep
Saguaro Lake is a scenic reservoir located within the Tonto National Forest. The lake offers excellent bass fishing opportunities, with largemouth and smallmouth bass being the primary targets for anglers. Saguaro Lake is also popular for recreational activities like boating, kayaking, and hiking. The lake’s shoreline features steep cliffs and rocky outcroppings, providing perfect hiding spots for bass. Fishing pressure can be high during weekends, so visiting on weekdays is best for better chances of success.
Fish commonly found in Saguaro Lake:
- Largemouth Bass
- Smallmouth Bass
- Yellow Bass
- Walleye
- Crappie
- Catfish
4. Bartlett Lake
- Location: Northeast of Phoenix, Arizona
- Size: Approximately 2,815 acres
- Depth: Up to 174 feet deep
Bartlett Lake is another fantastic bass fishing destination in Arizona. The lake is formed by the Bartlett Dam on the Verde River and offers a diverse habitat for various fish species. Anglers can find both largemouth and smallmouth bass, as well as other popular game fish. Bartlett Lake features numerous coves, submerged trees, and rocky points that provide excellent cover for bass. The lake is also known for its beautiful scenery and offers various recreational activities such as camping, hiking, and watersports.
Fish commonly found in Bartlett Lake:
- Largemouth Bass
- Smallmouth Bass
- Crappie
- Catfish
- Bluegill
- Carp
5. Apache Lake
- Location: Central Arizona, about 65 miles northeast of Phoenix
- Size: Approximately 2,568 acres
- Depth: Up to 266 feet deep
Apache Lake is a beautiful reservoir in the Tonto National Forest known for its excellent bass fishing opportunities. The lake is surrounded by dramatic cliffs and steep canyon walls, providing a breathtaking backdrop for anglers. The diverse underwater structure, such as submerged trees and rocky points, creates an ideal environment for largemouth and smallmouth bass.
Fish commonly found in Apache Lake:
- Largemouth Bass
- Smallmouth Bass
- Walleye
- Crappie
- Catfish
- Yellow Bass
6. Canyon Lake
- Location: Central Arizona, about 50 miles east of Phoenix
- Size: Approximately 950 acres
- Depth: Up to 125 feet deep
Canyon Lake is another picturesque reservoir within the Tonto National Forest. The lake is known for its clear water, stunning scenery, and exceptional bass fishing. Anglers can target both largemouth and smallmouth bass in this lake, which thrive in the various underwater structures like rock formations and submerged vegetation.
Fish commonly found in Canyon Lake:
- Largemouth Bass
- Smallmouth Bass
- Catfish
- Crappie
- Bluegill
- Carp
7. Alamo Lake
- Location: Western Arizona, about 120 miles northwest of Phoenix
- Size: Approximately 3,500 acres
- Depth: Up to 80 feet deep
Alamo Lake is a remote reservoir located in the desert landscape of western Arizona. The lake is well-known for its incredible bass fishing opportunities, particularly during spring when the water temperature is ideal for bass spawning. The lake’s numerous coves, submerged trees, and rocky points provide excellent cover and habitat for largemouth bass.
Fish commonly found in Alamo Lake:
- Largemouth Bass
- Catfish
- Crappie
- Bluegill
- Sunfish
8. Patagonia Lake
- Location: Southern Arizona, about 70 miles south of Tucson
- Size: Approximately 265 acres
- Depth: Up to 120 feet deep
Patagonia Lake is a small reservoir located in southern Arizona’s Patagonia Lake State Park. Despite its size, the lake offers fantastic bass fishing opportunities, particularly for largemouth bass. The lake features numerous underwater structures, such as submerged trees and rock piles, creating ideal bass hiding spots. Patagonia Lake is also a popular destination for birdwatching and camping.
Fish commonly found in Patagonia Lake:
- Largemouth Bass
- Catfish
- Crappie
- Bluegill
- Sunfish
9. Lake Pleasant
- Location: Central Arizona, about 35 miles northwest of Phoenix
- Size: Approximately 7,500 acres
- Depth: Up to 260 feet deep
Lake Pleasant is a large reservoir near Phoenix, making it a popular destination for anglers and outdoor enthusiasts. The lake offers excellent bass fishing opportunities, with abundant largemouth and white bass. Anglers can target bass around submerged trees, rocky points, and other underwater structures that provide cover. The lake is also home to various recreational activities, such as boating, hiking, and wildlife viewing.
Fish commonly found in Lake Pleasant:
- Largemouth Bass
- White Bass
- Striped Bass
- Catfish
- Crappie
- Sunfish
Whether you are an experienced bass fisher or just starting out, Arizona provides some of the best bass fishing you can find. Lakes of all sizes scattered around the state make for a great variety of spots to choose from. Rainbows and largemouth bass fishing is popular in Arizona’s waters.
With the changeable weather, you can plan for some serious sport fishing even if it means taking shelter under a lake-side gazebo during a passing summer thunderstorm! Besides stocking up on bait and tackle, be sure to pack enough snacks as well as a camera to capture your winning catches. If you are ready to conquer The Grand Canyon State’s premier bass hot spots, then get on that boat and cast away. Be sure to check out the rest of our website for more articles about sports fishing other awesome activities throughout Arizona!
FAQ about Striped Bass
1. What is a striped bass?
Striped bass, also known as striper or rockfish, is a popular game fish native to the Atlantic coast of North America. They are characterized by their dark, horizontal stripes along their silver-colored body and a streamlined shape.
2. Where can I find striped bass?
Striped bass can be found along the Atlantic coast from Canada to the Gulf of Mexico. They are also stocked in several freshwater lakes and reservoirs across the United States. Lake Havasu and Lake Pleasant are two popular locations for striped bass fishing in Arizona.
3. What do striped bass eat?
Striped bass are predatory fish that primarily feed on smaller fish such as shad, herring, and anchovies. They also consume crustaceans, squid, and other invertebrates.
4. What is the best time to fish for striped bass?
The best time to fish for striped bass varies depending on the location and water temperature. Generally, spring and fall seasons offer the best fishing opportunities when the water temperature is between 55°F and 68°F (13°C to 20°C). During these seasons, striped bass are more likely to be actively feeding in shallow waters.
5. What type of tackle should I use for striped bass fishing?
When fishing for striped bass, using the appropriate tackle is essential based on the fishing location and conditions. For casting and trolling in both freshwater and saltwater environments, medium-heavy to heavy action rods with baitcasting or spinning reels are recommended. Line choices include monofilament, braided, or fluorocarbon lines with a test strength of 15 to 30 pounds.
6. What are the best lures and baits for striped bass?
A variety of lures and baits can be effective for striped bass fishing. Some popular options include swimbaits, crankbaits, topwater plugs, jigs, and soft plastic lures. Live or cut bait such as shad, herring, or eels can also be effective in attracting striped bass.
7. What is the size and weight of an average striped bass?
Striped bass sizes can vary greatly, with adults typically ranging from 16 to 30 inches (40 to 76 cm) in length and weighing between 3 to 20 pounds (1.4 to 9 kg). However, larger specimens can reach lengths of over 48 inches (122 cm) and weigh more than 50 pounds (22.7 kg).
8. What are the regulations for striped bass fishing?
Regulations for striped bass fishing vary depending on the location and jurisdiction. In general, anglers must possess a valid fishing license and adhere to specific size limits, bag limits, and seasonal restrictions. It’s essential to consult local fishing regulations before heading out to ensure compliance with all rules and guidelines.