Lake Havasu is known for its large variety of fish species that are sure to delight any fisherman or fisherwoman’s dreams! Fishing Lake Havasu is a premier, year-long destination for anglers, offering excellent opportunities to catch prized game fish such as bass, striped bass, and sunfish. Anglers from all over visit for the opportunity to catch a variety of game fish throughout the year.
During the fall not only do you get to enjoy cooler weather while you wait patiently for your fishing rods to get some action, but you also get to enjoy the peaceful serenity the lake provides. Lake Havasu has earned national recognition, being ranked as one of the top 100 places to fish in the U.S. by Game & Fish in 2021, and highlighted by Bassmaster Magazine as a top bass fishing lake. Let’s not forget the epic Arizona sunsets that frequent Lake Havasu often.
Fish Species on Lake Havasu
We found this great list of fish species so you can get a better idea of what bait and tackle you’ll need. Check out this handy list from All About Fishing to learn more about the types of fish you’ll hopefully spot here while on the lake.
Fishing for largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, channel catfish, flathead catfish, black crappie, rainbow trout, bluegill, redear sunfish and striped bass at Lake Havasu in Arizona.” Lake Havasu is also home to panfish such as bluegill and redear sunfish, which are popular targets for anglers.
Lake Havasu is home to several protected endangered fish species, including the razorback sucker, flannelmouth sucker, roundtail chub, and bonytail chub. It is unlawful to possess any of these species, and anglers are encouraged to release them alive if caught to help conserve native fish populations.
Fishing regulations at Lake Havasu include specific rules and limits for each fish species. For example, starting in 2026, there will be a 13-inch minimum length for largemouth and smallmouth bass with a daily bag limit of six. Be sure to review all current regulations before fishing.
Bait and Tackle
If you enjoy fishing then you probably have a great idea of what bait works best for the type of fish you are looking to catch or what bait works best depending on your location. We’ve been asking on social media for some advice or suggestions for your favorite freshwater bait, feel free to leave your bait tips in the comments below. Don’t forget the general store in the Outer Harbor carries a large variety of bait and tackle needs for your Lake Havasu fishing adventure, along with access to many of the resort’s water activities and rentals!
Fishing Regulations and Licenses
Before you cast your line into the sparkling waters of Lake Havasu, it’s important to make sure you’re following all the necessary fishing regulations to ensure a smooth and memorable fishing adventure. Whether you’re planning a quiet day fishing from the lake shoreline or gearing up for a full fishing trip with friends, every angler aged 10 and older must have a valid Arizona fishing license when fishing on the Arizona side of Lake Havasu. Licenses are easy to obtain online through the Arizona Game and Fish Department or at authorized retailers in Lake Havasu City, making it simple to plan your fishing adventure in advance. Keep in mind, your fishing license is non-refundable and non-transferable, so be sure to have it with you at all times while on the lake.
If you’re fishing from the California side of Lake Havasu, you’ll need a California fishing license instead. Since Lake Havasu straddles the Arizona-California border, it’s essential to know which side you’ll be fishing from and secure the correct license for your trip. Some areas of the lake may have specific restrictions or seasonal closures, so it’s always a good idea to check the latest updates from the Arizona Game and Fish Department before heading out.
To help preserve the incredible variety of fish species in Lake Havasu—including largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, striped bass, channel catfish, flathead catfish, redear sunfish, bluegill, and carp—there are daily bag limits and size restrictions in place. These regulations help ensure that Lake Havasu remains one of the best fishing spots in the southwest for years to come. The Arizona Game and Fish Department provides a downloadable guide with all the details you need, from fishing techniques and gear recommendations to weather conditions and the best times to catch your favorite species.
Whether you’re a seasoned angler or just starting out, understanding and following these fishing regulations is key to a successful and responsible fishing experience on Lake Havasu. With easy access to boat rentals, plenty of shoreline, and world-class fishing opportunities, Havasu Springs Resort on Lake Havasu is truly an ideal spot for fishing enthusiasts from all over. For more information on licenses, regulations, and tips for your next fishing adventure, visit the Arizona Game and Fish Department’s website and get ready to explore one of the world’s most exciting Arizona lakes!
Locations that are a catch!
While it’s tough to pinpoint just one spot on the 19,330 acres that Lake Havasu provides as one of the best fishing spots in Arizona, we did a little digging to find some hot spots and secluded lake coves near Havasu Springs Resort, where there have been reports of some great fishing action!
Top fishing spots on Lake Havasu include Windsor State Park, which offers large shoreline access and is especially good for striped bass and catfish; Black Meadow Landing, recognized for abundant largemouth and smallmouth bass; Bill Williams River NWR, featuring backwater access with excellent crappie and largemouth bass fishing; Havasu Springs Resort, a well-known hot spot; and Copper Canyon, another favorite among anglers. The Lower Basin near Parker Dam is also a prime area, known for its deeper waters, natural habitat, and less recreational boat traffic, making it ideal for all game fish species. For even more to explore, Lake Havasu City and the nearby Parker Strip offer iconic sights and outdoor attractions beyond the fishing.
Anglers can fish from several free public access fishing docks and piers around Lake Havasu, which are open 24 hours and provide easy access for casting lines without a boat, complementing the lake’s many popular water activities like boating, kayaking, and paddleboarding. Fishing from the shore is also popular and accessible, with over 450 miles of shoreline offering ample opportunities for anglers of all levels. The lake features man-made fish habitats—part of one of the largest fish habitat improvement projects in the U.S.—designed to attract all species of fish and support the ecosystem, which makes nearby vacation homes at Havasu Springs Resort especially appealing for anglers who want regular access to these thriving fisheries.
We are proud to say that Havasu Springs Resort made the list on Fishidy.com as a hot spot along with another local favorite Cat Tail Cove! If you have questions about planning your trip, the Havasu Springs Resort location and contact information page makes it easy to reach the team. Be sure to download the Fishidy app to stay connected with like-minded fishers where you can share locations, your latest catch and even baiting tips!
Lake Havasu Fishing Tournaments
Another way to join in on the fishy fun is to participate in one of the many exciting fishing tournaments that happen every year on Lake Havasu. Lake Havasu hosts premier bass tournaments throughout the year, including the major WON BASS Lake Havasu Open scheduled for May 7–9, 2026, and many anglers also enjoy the region’s top winter activities like cycling, kayaking, and bass fishing. Being ranked #20 in best Bass Fishing means you are sure to walk away with not only some great catches but also partake in a little fun, especially if you plan a winter Havasu fishing getaway when the weather is mild and the lake is quieter! Fishing tournaments at Lake Havasu provide an opportunity to compete against skilled anglers and win generous prize money. Anglers interested in participating should register early to secure their spot. The Fishing Tournament schedule, for Lake Havasu, can be found here on the Tourism website. Be sure to grab your fishing license prior to your trip if you haven’t already. You can acquire your license through the Arizona Game and Fish Department. Click here to find a location near you or to apply online.
