Lake Havasu Fishing Guide: Tip to Catching Bass and More in Arizona

If you’re planning a successful fishing trip to Havasu Lake, you’ve come to the right place. In this article, we’ll explore all the information you need to know for a memorable angling experience in Havasu Lake State Park.

Before we dive into the details, let’s take a moment to understand what makes Havasu Lake such a fantastic angling destination. With its pristine waters and stunning natural beauty, Havasu Lake provides an excellent angling experience throughout the year. Whether you’re an experienced angler or a first-time fisherman, this guide will provide you with valuable insights and tips to enhance your angling adventure.

To ensure you have the best angling experience, it’s important to understand the unique characteristics of Havasu Lake. This expansive lake is renowned for its abundance of bass, including largemouth bass and smallmouth bass. The lake’s rocks and underwater features create ideal habitats for these prized game fish. Additionally, Havasu Lake is home to various other species, including catfish, crappie, and striped bass, offering diverse angling opportunities for anglers of all preferences.

As we delve into this guide, we’ll share essential information on the best angling places, recommended angling tackle and techniques, and the optimal times of the year to target specific fish species. Whether you prefer trolling from the shore, angling from a boat, or exploring the various piers and bays, we’ll cover it all.

So, get ready to embark on an angling adventure like no other. Let’s dive into the world of Havasu Lake angling and uncover the secrets to a successful angling experience in this beautiful state park.

About Lake Havasu State Park

Havasu Lake SP Accommodations and Amenities

Havasu Lake State Park in California provides a range of accommodations and amenities for visitors. Whether you’re planning a day trip or an extended stay, the park has facilities to meet your needs.

The park features campgrounds with various camping options, including tent sites, RV sites with hookups, and cabins for rent. The campgrounds provide a picturesque setting, allowing visitors to enjoy the beauty of Havasu Lake and its surrounding landscape.

In addition to camping facilities, Havasu Lake State Park provides amenities such as a picnic zone, BBQ grills, and playgrounds for families to enjoy. These facilities provide opportunities for outdoor recreation and relaxation while taking in the scenic views of the park.

Lake Location, Size and Depth

Havasu Lake, located in California, is a reservoir formed by the Parker Dam on the Colorado River. The lake covers an area of approximately 19,300 acres and has a maximum depth of around 90 feet. Its clear blue waters attract visitors from near and far, making it a favorite destination for angling and water sports.

Directions to Lake

Getting to Havasu Lake, California, is relatively straightforward. If you’re traveling by car, you can reach the lake via Highway 95 or State Route 95, depending on your starting point. The lake is easily accessible from major cities in the region, such as Los Angeles, Las Vegas, and Phoenix.

For those flying in, the closest major airports to Havasu Lake are McCarran International Airport in Las Vegas and Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport. From there, you can rent a car or arrange for transportation to the lake.

Popular Types of Fish Species at Lake Havasu

Rainbow Trout

Rainbow trout are highly sought-after fish species in Havasu Lake. These beautiful fish are renowned for their vibrant colors and are a favorite among anglers. They can be hunted in the cool, deep waters of the lake, especially during the spring and fall seasons. Rainbow trout are renowned for their aggressive feeding habits, making them an exciting catch for both beginners and experienced anglers.

Largemouth Bass

Havasu Lake is renowned for its great largemouth bass angling. These fish are renowned for their large size and strong fighting ability, making them a favorite target for anglers. Largemouth bass can be hunted near underwater objects and along the shoreline, particularly in places with vegetation and rocks. They are most active during the early morning and late afternoon hours.

Smallmouth Bass

Smallmouth bass are another prized fish species hooking in Havasu Lake. They are renowned for their aggressive nature and acrobatic jumps when hooked. Smallmouth bass can be hunted in cliff places, near drop-offs, and around underwater features. Anglers frequently use crankbaits, jigs, and soft plastic lures to target these feisty fish.

Striped Bass

Striped bass, also known as “stripers,” are a favorite game fish in Havasu Lake. These fish are renowned for their strong fighting ability and can grow to impressive sizes. Striped bass can be hunted in deeper places of the lake, particularly near the main channel and along rock walls. Anglers often use live attractants or artificial lures that mimic the fish’s natural prey to attract striped bass.

Sunfish

Sunfish, including bluegill and redear sunfish, are abundant in Havasu Lake. These smaller-sized fish are perfect for anglers looking for some relaxing and enjoyable angling. Sunfish can be hunted in shallow zones near the shoreline, particularly in places with vegetation and underwater features. They are renowned for their willingness to bite on a variety of baits, including worms and small jigs.

White Crappie

White crappie are a favorite fish species among anglers at Havasu Lake. These fish are renowned for their delicious white meat and are frequently targeted for their culinary value. White crappie can be hunted near underwater features, such as brush piles. Anglers often use small jigs or live minnows to entice these fish.

Read more: Great Lake Fishing Guide of USA: Tips for Catching More Fish

Black Crappie

Black crappie, similar to white crappie, are highly sought-after fish at Havasu Lake. They are renowned for their distinct black markings and are frequently hunted in the same places as white crappie. Anglers can target black crappie using similar techniques as white crappie, such as using small jigs or live minnows.

Catfish

Havasu Lake is home to various catfish species, including channel catfish and flathead catfish. These bottom-dwelling fish are renowned for their size and delicious taste. Catfish can be hooked in deeper places of the lake, particularly near cliff features and underwater logs. Anglers frequently use stink baits, chicken liver, or live attractants to attract these fish.

Bluegill

Bluegill, a type of sunfish, is abundant in Havasu Lake and provides great angling opportunities. These fish are renowned for their willingness to bite and are often targeted by anglers, especially those angling with light tackle or fly angling. Bluegill can be hooked near the shoreline, particularly in places with vegetation and underwater structures.

Common Carp

Common carp, although considered a “rough fish,” can provide an exciting angling experience at Havasu Lake. These fish are renowned for their strength and can grow to impressive sizes. Common carp can be hunted in various places of the lake, particularly near shallow flats and places with vegetation. Anglers frequently use dough baits, corn, or boilies to attract these fish.

Where to Fish on Lake Havasu

Lake Havasu State Park

Havasu Lake State Park is a favorite destination for angling enthusiasts. With its clear waters and diverse fish species, it provides ample opportunities to catch a variety of fish. The park offers angling piers where you can put your rod and try your luck. Some of the commonly found fish species in this area include bass, catfish, and sunfish.

Topock Gorge

Located at the southern end of Havasu Lake, Topock Gorge is renowned for its scenic beauty and great angling opportunities. This stretch of the lake is home to a variety of fish species, including largemouth bass, striped bass, and catfish. angling from a boat or kayak is highly recommended to explore the hidden bays and channels of Topock Gorge.

Havasu Springs

Havasu Springs is another hotspot for angling on Havasu Lake. It provides a peaceful and serene environment for anglers to enjoy their angling experience. Here, you can target bass, catfish, and panfish. The calm waters of Havasu Springs make it an ideal place for both boat and shoreline angling.

Cattail Cove State Park

Cattail Cove State Park is a hidden gem for angling enthusiasts. This tranquil park provides access to angling places along the shoreline, where you can put your rod and relax. The park is renowned for its abundant catfish population, making it a hotspot for catfish anglers. You may also find bass and sunfish in these waters.

angling Guides

If you are new to angling or want to enhance your experience on Havasu Lake, hiring an angling guide is a great option. angling guides have extensive knowledge of the lake and can help you navigate the waters to find the angling hotspots. They can also provide valuable tips and techniques to improve your chances of success.

Bass Fishing

Tips and Techniques

When it comes to bass angling in Havasu Lake, CA, there are a few strategies to consider to improve your chances of a successful angling trip:

1. Time of Day: Bass are more active during the early morning and late afternoon. Plan your angling trips accordingly to maximize your chances of a catch.
2. Lure Selection: Bass in Havasu Lake are attracted to lures that mimic their natural prey. Consider using soft plastic worms, crankbaits, or jigs to entice the bass into biting.
3. Depth: Pay attention to the water depth where bass are most likely to be present. During warmer periods, they tend to stay in deeper waters, while in cooler periods, they may move to shallower places.
4. Structure and Cover: Bass are frequently located near natural features such as rocks, fallen trees, or underwater vegetation. These provide them with shelter and ambush points for their prey. Targeting these places can increase your chances of success.

Highly Recommended Bait, Tackle & Gear

To increase your chances of success while bass angling in Havasu Lake, CA, it is important to have the right attractant, tackle, and gear. Here are some highly recommended options:

1. Baits: Consider using plastic worms, spinnerbaits, topwater lures, and crankbaits. These attractants have proven to be effective in attracting bass in Havasu Lake.
2. Tackle: Use a medium to medium-heavy angling rod with a sensitive tip to detect the bass’s bite. Pair it with a reel that has a smooth drag system to handle the fight.
3. Gear: Don’t forget to bring an angling tackle box with various hooks, sinkers, and swivels. It’s also essential to have a good quality angling line and a landing net to safely handle the caught bass.

Seasonal Patterns for Bass Angling

Understanding the seasonal patterns of bass in Havasu Lake can help you target them more effectively. Here’s a breakdown of the typical patterns:

1. Spring: During the spring, bass moves to shallower waters for spawning. Focus on places with rocky or gravel bottoms near points or bays.
2. Summer: As temperatures rise, bass tends to move to deeper waters. Look for areas with underwater structures or drop-offs where they can find cooler temperatures.
3. Fall: In the fall, bass become more active as they prepare for winter. They tend to feed heavily, so focus on places with vegetation or near creek channels.
4. Winter: Bass slow down during the colder seasons but can still be caught. Fish slowly and target deeper places where they seek warmer water.

Hotspots in Havasu Lake

Havasu Lake offers several hotspots for bass angling that are worth exploring. Here are a few recommended places:

1. The Sandbar: Located near the London Bridge, The Sandbar is a productive place for bass angling. Look for vegetation and cliff places.
2. Cattail Cove State Park: This park provides access to various bays and channels where bass can be targeted. Explore the places with submerged trees and bushes.
3. South Basin: The South Basin is a favored hotspot for anglers pursuing bass. Look for cliff points and places with underwater ledges.

Rainbow Trout Fishing

Strategies for Catching Rainbow Trout

When it comes to catching rainbow fish in Havasu Lake, there are a few strategies that can greatly increase your chances of success. Here are some tips to help you reel in that prized rainbow fish:

1. Location is Key: Rainbow fish can be found throughout Havasu Lake, but they tend to gather in specific areas. Look for cliff places, inlets and underwater objects where fish are recognized to hide.
2. Time it Right: The best times of the year for rainbow fish angling in Havasu Lake are during the cooler seasons, from late fall to early spring. During these times, the water temperature is more favorable for fish, and they are more active and likely to bite.
3. Use the Right Bait: Rainbow fish are attracted to a variety of attractants. Some recommended options include worms, PowerBait, and small spoons or spinners. Experiment with different baits to see what works best for you.
4. Choose the Right Tackle: When it comes to tackle, go for light to medium-weight angling rods and reels. A 4-8 lb test line is usually sufficient for rainbow fish. Additionally, using a lightweight jig or fly can be effective in enticing fish to bite.

Highly Recommended Bait, Tackle & Gear

To increase your chances of success while angling for rainbow fish in Havasu Lake, it is essential to have the right attractant, tackle, and gear. Here are some highly recommended options:

1. Bait: As mentioned earlier, effective attractant choices for rainbow fish include worms, PowerBait, and small spoons or spinners. These baits have proven to be effective in attracting fish in Havasu Lake.
2. Tackle: Opt for light to medium-weight angling rods and reels, preferably with a 4-8 lb test line. Additionally, using lightweight jigs or flies can be effective in enticing fish to bite. Remember to match the size and color of your tackle with the prevailing conditions.
3. Gear: In addition to your angling tackle, make sure to have an angling license, a landing net, and a cooler to keep your catch fresh. It’s also a good idea to bring sunscreen, a hat, and polarized sunglasses to protect yourself from the sun’s glare.

Hotspots

Havasu Lake presents several remarkable spots for rainbow angling. Here are some notable places to consider:

1. State Park: This park provides various angling piers and access points along the shoreline, offering great opportunities for angling rainbow fish. Look for regions with rocks and underwater objects where rainbow fish tend to gather.
2. Cattail Cove State Park: Situated on the east side of Havasu Lake, this place is renowned for its scenic bays and cliff shoreline. These regions are favored among anglers targeting rainbow fish.
3. Windsor Beach: Located near the Windsor 4 boat launch, this region is well-known for its cliff shoreline and provides great angling opportunities for rainbow fish. The deeper waters near the docks are particularly productive.

Best Times of the Year for Angling

The best times of the year for rainbow angling in Havasu Lake are during the cooler period, from late fall to early spring. During this time, the water temperature is more favorable for rainbow fish, and they are more active and likely to bite. However, rainbow fish can still be caught throughout the year, especially in shaded places or during early morning and late afternoon when the water temperature is cooler.

Catfish Fishing

Havasu Lake is home to various types of freshwater fish, including different species of catfish such as the channel catfish, blue catfish, and flathead catfish. Each species possesses its own distinct characteristics and behaviors, providing anglers with a diverse and exciting angling experience.

Proven Methods for Catching

When it comes to capturing this species, there are several reliable techniques that anglers can utilize. One favorite approach is bottom angling using a Carolina rig. This method involves baiting your hook with preferred freshwater fish attractants, such as chicken liver or strong-smelling bait, and casting it onto the lake’s bottom. Patience is key with this method, as certain fish species are renowned for inhabiting the lake’s depths.

Another effective technique is drift angling. This method involves casting your baited hook into the water and allowing it to drift along with the current. This technique is particularly useful when targeting fish in deeper areas of the lake or places with strong currents.

Highly Recommended Bait, Tackle & Gear

When it comes to bait, this species is attracted to strongly scented and oily baits. Some favorite choices include chicken liver, cut bait, and prepared fish bait. It’s important to experiment with different baits to see what works best for the specific species of freshwater fish in Havasu Lake.

Regarding tackle and gear, it is recommended to use a medium to heavy angling rod and reel setup for freshwater angling. A sturdy angling line with a test strength of at least 15-20 pounds is also essential, as certain fish species are renowned for putting up a strong fight. Additionally, using a strong and reliable hook, such as a circle hook or treble hook, is crucial for successfully landing fish.

Prime Places for Catching

Havasu Lake provides numerous prime angling places for enthusiasts. One such region is the Lake Havasu State Park, which grants access to various angling piers and shorelines. These regions are recognized to attract fish due to the presence of underwater formations and abundant food sources.

Another favored place for angling is near cliff areas and underwater formations. Fish frequently seek refuge and sustenance in these places, making them ideal places to target. It’s important to note that fish are recognized to be more active during certain seasons of the year, so angling during specific months can yield better outcomes.

Night angling tips

Night angling can be highly productive, as certain fish species are more active during darker hours. To increase your chances of success, consider using glow-in-the-dark angling gear, such as glow sticks or LED angling lights, to attract fish to your bait.

Additionally, angling near places with artificial lights, such as docks or shoreline structures, can be fruitful as these lights attract smaller fish, which in turn attract hungry fish. Using aromatic baits with strong scents can also help attract fish in low-light conditions.

Arizona State Angling Regulations

Understanding Angling Regulations in Arizona

In the picturesque setting of Havasu Lake, Arizona, anglers can enjoy a thrilling angling experience while adhering to the state’s angling regulations. These regulations are put in place to ensure the sustainability of fish populations and promote responsible angling practices.

Angling License Requirements in Havasu Lake

Before casting your line into the sparkling waters of Havasu Lake, it is important to obtain the necessary angling license. To engage legally in angling in Arizona, anglers aged 10 years and older must possess a valid angling license. Licenses can be obtained online or from authorized vendors, such as angling supply stores or Arizona State Parks offices.

Catch and Size Limits for Fish Species

To maintain the balance of the aquatic ecosystem in Havasu Lake, specific catch and size limits have been established for various fish species. It is crucial for anglers to familiarize themselves with these limits to ensure compliance with the regulations.

For example, let’s take a look at some of the catch and size limits for favorite fish species in Havasu Lake:

• Largemouth Bass: The catch limit is 6 per day, with a minimum size limit of 13 inches.
• Smallmouth Bass: Anglers are allowed to catch up to 10 per day, with a minimum size limit of 10 inches.
• Striped Bass: The catch limit is 20 per day, and there is no size limit.

Remember, these limits may vary depending on the specific species and angling season. It is essential to stay updated with the latest angling regulations to ensure compliance.

Read more: Clear Lake Fishing in Oregon: Tips for Catching Crappie in California

Important Angling Regulations to Know in Havasu Lake

In addition to catch and size limits, there are other important angling regulations that anglers should be aware of when angling in Havasu Lake. These regulations aim to protect the environment, preserve fish stocks, and ensure a fair and enjoyable angling experience for all.

Some of the key regulations include:

• Fishing Seasons: Certain fish species may have specific angling seasons or restricted periods when angling is prohibited. Make sure to check the guidelines provided by the Arizona Game and Fish Department to renowned the angling seasons for different species in Havasu Lake.
• Angling Methods: Anglers must adhere to the permitted angling methods outlined by the Arizona Game and Fish Department. These methods may include angling with a rod and reel, handline angling, or using artificial lures.
• Special Restrictions: Some areas or zones within Havasu Lake may have special restrictions or designated angling zones. It is crucial to respect these restrictions to preserve the delicate balance of the ecosystem.

By following these angling regulations, anglers can enjoy a rewarding angling experience in Havasu Lake while contributing to the conservation of its natural resources.

Remember, always prioritize the well-being of the fish and the environment during your angling adventures. Happy angling!

Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is based on reliable sources and research. It is always recommended to refer to official angling regulations and local authorities for the most up-to-date information.

FAQs

Q: What makes Lake Havasu a great fishing destination?

A: Havasu Lake, located in Havasu Lake State Park, is absolutely loaded with fish, offering great angling opportunities for anglers. The lake is renowned for its record largemouth and smallmouth bass, making it a prime angling destination.

Q: What are some key features of Lake Havasu for angling?

A: Havasu Lake is an impoundment on the Colorado River, spanning over 30 miles. It features boat piers, the favorite fishing spot Site Six, and is renowned for its long canyon stretches, providing ample opportunities for angling.

Q: What types of fish can be caught in Lake Havasu?

A: Anglers can expect to catch largemouth and smallmouth bass, as well as other species such as shad, in Havasu Lake. The lake is renowned for its great bass angling and diverse fish population.

Q: Is Havasu Lake known for setting fishing records?

A: Yes, Havasu Lake has a reputation for producing record-setting catches, particularly in bass angling. Anglers have the opportunity to potentially catch record-breaking fish in this prolific angling place.

Q: What are the popular fishing areas within Lake Havasu State Park?

A: Some of the favorite angling locales within Havasu Lake State Park include the boat piers, Site Six, and various ramps that provide access to the lake. These angling locales are renowned for their productive angling opportunities.

Q: Is fishing activity at Lake Havasu restricted by any regulations or limits?

A: Yes, limits on angling are common at Havasu Lake, ensuring sustainable angling practices. Anglers should be aware of any angling regulations and limits in place to contribute to the conservation of this natural resource.

Q: What makes Lake Havasu unique for fishing compared to other locations?

A: Havasu Lake’s combination of a diverse fish population, ample angling opportunities, and its status as an impoundment on the Colorado River make it a unique and sought-after angling destination for anglers from across the country.

Q: What are some recommended fishing techniques for Havasu Lake?

A: Anglers often use techniques such as angling with grubs or other artificial lures to target bass and other fish species in Havasu Lake. These techniques can be effective in capturing the varied fish populations present in the lake.

Q: Can visitors without boats still enjoy fishing at Havasu Lake?

A: Absolutely! Even without a boat, visitors can still enjoy angling at Lake Havasu State Park from various shore locations or designated angling spots. Angling from the shore can provide rewarding angling experiences for all visitors.

Q: What makes the angling experience at Havasu Lake State Park special?

A: The angling experience at Havasu Lake State Park is enhanced by the abundant fish population, scenic surroundings, and the opportunity to potentially catch record-setting fish. Whether using a boat or angling from the shore, anglers can expect an exciting and rewarding angling experience at Havasu Lake.