Best Bass Fishing in Arizona

By Nic Armitage
|
September 9, 2023

Bass, Arizona, Fishing

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When it comes to the best bass fishing in Arizona, anglers are in for a thrilling adventure. The state’s diverse landscapes offer an array of top-notch fishing spots, making it a haven for bass enthusiasts. From clear desert lakes to scenic rivers, Arizona boasts some of the finest bass fishing destinations in the country. In this guide, we’ll delve into the top locations that consistently deliver exceptional bass fishing experiences, showcasing why Arizona is a paradise for those seeking the thrill of reeling in the big ones.

Our Top Picks

Lake Havasu
Roosevelt Lake
Lake Powell
Saguaro Lake
Bartlett Lake
Alamo Lake
Canyon Lake
Lake Pleasant
Patagonia Lake
Upper Lake Mary

Lake Havasu

In the western part of Arizona, Lake Havasu stands as a vibrant gem within the Sonoran Desert landscape. With its clear blue waters and breathtaking surroundings, this destination beckons anglers and outdoor enthusiasts alike. Transitioning from the arid desert backdrop, Lake Havasu offers a unique oasis for water-based adventures.

Reasons to Bass Fish in Lake Havasu:

Trophy Bass: Lake Havasu yields trophy-sized largemouth and smallmouth bass.
Scenic Beauty: The lake offers stunning desert landscapes and crystal-clear blue waters for a picturesque fishing experience.
Year Round Fishing: Enjoy excellent bass fishing here throughout the year due to the mild climate.
Fishing Competitions: Lake Havasu hosts various bass fishing competitions and tournaments, offering a chance to win significant prizes.
Diverse Fishing Environments: From rocky shores to submerged structures and coves, the lake provides diverse fishing opportunities for added excitement.

Recommended Gear: Terminal Tackle, Comfortable Clothing, Hooks, Lures, Tackle Box, Fishing Net, Sunscreen

Roosevelt Lake

Situated in the heart of Arizona, Roosevelt Lake, framed by the rugged beauty of the Tonto National Forest, stands as a testament to the state’s diverse and awe-inspiring landscapes. This expansive reservoir, fed by the mighty Salt River, serves as a captivating transition from the arid desert to a freshwater haven

Reasons to Bass Fish in Roosevelt Lake:

Abundant Bass Population: Roosevelt Lake is known for its thriving bass population, including both largemouth and smallmouth bass, providing ample opportunities for anglers.
Scenic Desert Setting: Situated in the Tonto National Forest, the lake boasts a picturesque desert backdrop, creating a serene fishing environment.
Variety of Fishing Spots: With its vast expanse, Roosevelt Lake offers a variety of fishing spots, from quiet coves to open water, catering to different angler preferences.
Fishing Tournaments: The lake hosts various fishing tournaments and events, making it a hub for competitive anglers seeking recognition and prizes.
Year Round Fishing: Thanks to Arizona’s mild climate, you can enjoy bass fishing at Roosevelt Lake year-round, ensuring there’s always an opportunity to cast your line.

Lake Powell

This expansive reservoir, formed by the Colorado River’s iconic Glen Canyon Dam, offers a captivating juxtaposition of stark cliffs and serene waters. Boasting a rich history, abundant recreational opportunities, and breathtaking scenery, Lake Powell stands as an alluring destination for those in search of an unforgettable outdoor adventure.

Reasons to Bass Fish in Lake Powell:

Spectacular Scenery: Lake Powell is surrounded by breathtaking red rock canyons and clear blue waters, providing a stunning backdrop for your bass fishing adventure.
Massive Bass Population: The lake is home to a robust population of both largemouth and smallmouth bass, offering excellent opportunities to reel in trophy-sized fish.
Endless Fishing Spots: With over 1,900 miles of shoreline and numerous coves and inlets, Lake Powell offers endless fishing spots to explore, ensuring variety and excitement.
Unique Angling Experience: Fishing in Lake Powell often involves navigating canyons and exploring hidden alcoves, creating a unique and adventurous angling experience.
Year Round Fishing: Thanks to its relatively mild climate, you can enjoy bass fishing at Lake Powell throughout the year, making it a perfect destination for avid anglers.

Recommended Gear: Fishing Pliers, Fishing Reel, Sunscreen, Swivels, Fishing Net, Tackle Box, Comfortable Clothing

Saguaro Lake

Tucked amidst the captivating Sonoran Desert of Arizona, Saguaro Lake serves as a striking contrast to its arid surroundings. This reservoir, created by the Stewart Mountain Dam, seamlessly transitions from the desert’s rugged beauty to a serene oasis. With its proximity to the bustling city of Phoenix, Saguaro Lake offers a unique blend of outdoor tranquility and convenient accessibility.

Reasons to Bass Fish in Saguaro Lake:

Scenic Desert Oasis: Saguaro Lake is nestled amidst the Sonoran Desert, offering a unique and picturesque setting for bass fishing with its iconic saguaro cacti and rugged terrain.
Lush Vegetation: The lake’s diverse underwater vegetation provides excellent cover for bass, enhancing the chances of catching healthy and sizable fish.
Diverse Wildlife: While bass fishing, you can also spot diverse wildlife such as bald eagles, bighorn sheep, and various desert creatures, adding to the overall outdoor experience.
Recreational Activities: Saguaro Lake allows you to combine bass fishing with other recreational activities like hiking, picnicking, and water sports, making it a versatile destination for the whole family.
Proximity to Phoenix: Located just a short drive from Phoenix, Saguaro Lake offers a convenient escape from the city for a day of bass fishing in a tranquil desert oasis.

Recommended Gear: Sunglasses, Fishing Pliers, Lures, Fishing Line, Tackle Box, Sunscreen, Terminal Tackle

Bartlett Lake

Formed by Bartlett Dam, this lake provides a refreshing contrast to the desert surroundings. With its proximity to Phoenix, Bartlett Lake serves as a convenient outdoor getaway for fishing, boating, and relaxation.Its scenic beauty and recreational opportunities make it a popular destination for both locals and visitors seeking a tranquil lakeside experience.

Reasons to Bass Fish in Bartlett Lake:

Pristine Desert Setting: Bartlett Lake is set amidst the stunning Sonoran Desert, providing a unique and serene backdrop for bass fishing.
Consistent Water Levels: The lake’s consistent water levels ensure reliable fishing conditions year-round.
Diverse Bass Species: Bartlett Lake is home to a variety of bass species, including largemouth, smallmouth, and spotted bass, offering diverse angling opportunities.
Fishing Events: The lake hosts occasional bass fishing tournaments and events, attracting passionate anglers looking for friendly competition.
Family Friendly: With its calm waters and nearby amenities, Bartlett Lake is an excellent choice for family outings, combining fishing with relaxation and recreation.

Recommended Gear: Fishing Pliers, Fishing Reel, Sunscreen, Swivels, Fishing Net, Tackle Box, Comfortable Clothing

Alamo Lake

Located in the heart of the Arizona desert, Alamo Lake is a hidden gem that offers a unique and captivating outdoor experience. This remote and tranquil reservoir, formed by the Alamo Dam, stands in stark contrast to the arid desert landscape that surrounds it. Alamo Lake is renowned for its excellent bass fishing, making it a favorite destination for anglers seeking to reel in trophy-sized catches.

Reasons to Bass Fish in Alamo Lake:

Largemouth Bass Haven: Alamo Lake is a haven for largemouth bass, ideal for trophy hunters.
Low Crowds: Enjoy a peaceful fishing experience with fewer anglers at Alamo Lake.
Scenic Desert Beauty: Surrounding desert landscapes provide a picturesque backdrop.
Year Round Fishing: Mild climate allows year-round bass fishing.
Abundant Wildlife: Spot diverse wildlife, enhancing the outdoor adventure.

Recommended Gear: Sunglasses, Fishing Pliers, Lures, Fishing Line, Tackle Box, Sunscreen, Terminal Tackle

Canyon Lake

Canyon Lake, located in the stunning Tonto National Forest of Arizona, is a breathtaking reservoir that combines the rugged beauty of the desert with the allure of water-based recreation. Formed by the impressive Mormon Flat Dam, this lake serves as a captivating escape from the dry surroundings, offering a unique blend of natural grandeur and aquatic adventure.

Reasons to Bass Fish in Canyon Lake:

Scenic Splendor: Bass fishing in Canyon Lake offers stunning vistas of rugged desert landscapes and clear blue waters.
Varied Bass Species: The lake hosts a mix of largemouth and smallmouth bass, providing diverse angling opportunities.
Fishing Challenges: Navigate rocky terrain and underwater structures, adding an element of excitement to your fishing experience.
Nearby Recreation: Canyon Lake’s proximity to hiking trails and water sports activities makes it an ideal destination for a multifaceted outdoor adventure.
Mild Weather: Enjoy bass fishing year round, thanks to the lake’s pleasant climate and Arizona’s temperate winters.

Lake Pleasant

This man-made lake, created by the Waddell Dam on the Agua Fria River, serves as an oasis for outdoor enthusiasts seeking a serene getaway. With its clear blue waters, diverse recreational activities, and convenient proximity to Phoenix, Lake Pleasant is a favored destination for those looking to escape the city.

Reasons to Bass Fish in Lake Pleasant:

Abundance of Striped Bass: Lake Pleasant is renowned for its healthy population of striped bass, offering a unique angling experience.
Scenic Desert Oasis: Surrounded by the Sonoran Desert, the lake provides a picturesque backdrop for bass fishing amid stunning natural beauty.
Family Friendly Activities: Besides fishing, the lake offers opportunities for camping, water sports, and hiking, making it an ideal destination for the whole family.
Proximity to Phoenix: Located near Phoenix, Lake Pleasant provides a convenient escape for city dwellers seeking a day of bass fishing in a tranquil setting.
Year Round Fishing: The lake’s mild climate ensures you can enjoy bass fishing here year-round, regardless of the season.

Patagonia Lake

Patagonia Lake invites visitors to a tranquil haven amid the region’s rugged beauty. This picturesque lake, formed by the damming of Sonoita Creek, is renowned for its serene ambiance and abundant recreational opportunities. Surrounded by rolling hills and teeming with wildlife, Patagonia Lake State Park is a natural gem that offers boating, fishing, and hiking experiences.

Reasons to Bass Fish in Patagonia Lake:

Scenic Serenity: Patagonia Lake offers a peaceful and picturesque setting surrounded by lush vegetation and mountain views.
Diverse Bass Species: The lake is home to various bass species, including largemouth and smallmouth bass, providing anglers with diverse opportunities.
Birdwatcher’s Paradise: While bass fishing, you can also indulge in birdwatching, with the lake being a habitat for numerous bird species, including waterfowl and shorebirds.
Camping and Recreation: Patagonia Lake State Park offers camping facilities, hiking trails, and water sports, making it an all-encompassing outdoor destination.
Conservation Efforts: The lake’s focus on conservation and maintaining a healthy ecosystem ensures sustainable bass populations for future generations of anglers.

Recommended Gear: Fishing Net, Fishing Line, Lures, Sun Hat, Tackle Box, Fishing Pliers, Dry Bag

Upper Lake Mary

Upper Lake Mary, nestled in the Coconino National Forest of northern Arizona, is a pristine gem that beckons nature enthusiasts and outdoor adventurers alike. This beautiful reservoir, located among the ponderosa pine forests, offers a tranquil escape from the parched surroundings. With its clear blue waters, seasonal variations, and scenic vistas, Upper Lake Mary provides a serene setting for fishing, boating, and outdoor relaxatio.

Reasons to Bass Fish in Upper Lake Mary:

High Altitude Beauty: Located at higher elevations, Upper Lake Mary offers stunning alpine scenery and cooler temperatures for a refreshing bass fishing experience.
Quality Fishing: The lake is known for its excellent water quality, contributing to healthy bass populations and great angling opportunities.
Tranquil Atmosphere: Enjoy a serene and less crowded fishing experience, perfect for those seeking solitude and relaxation.
Abundance of Wildlife: While fishing, you might spot a variety of wildlife, including eagles, osprey, and elk, adding to the natural charm of the area.
Seasonal Variations: Upper Lake Mary’s water levels can vary seasonally, providing different fishing challenges and opportunities throughout the year.