Las Vegas, Nevada

What's biting

• Largemouth Bass

  Where: Lake Mead (Boulder Basin, Las Vegas Bay), Lake Mohave, small ponds and canals around the valley

  Early fall bite is strong as water cools slightly from summer peaks. Fish deeper structure (20–30 ft / 6–9 m) mid-day; move to shallows at dawn and dusk. Soft plastics, crankbaits, and topwater near rocky points and submerged timber.

  Caution: Watch for sudden wind gusts up to 42 km/h (26 mph) mid-week—Lake Mead can get rough fast.

• Channel Catfish

  Where: Lake Mead (all basins), Lake Mohave, Colorado River below Hoover Dam, irrigation canals

  Peak feeding in early evening and night as temperatures drop. Use chicken liver, cut mullet, or stink baits in 15–25 ft (5–8 m) of water near dam spillways and channel ledges. September is excellent—fish are active before cooler months.

  Caution: Catfish are abundant but check current size and bag limits with Nevada Department of Wildlife before keeping.

• Striped Bass

  Where: Lake Mead (main lake and Boulder Basin), Lake Mohave

  Fall transition triggers aggressive feeding. Target 30–50 ft (9–15 m) depths with live shad, mackerel, or large swimbaits. Early morning and late afternoon are most productive; fish structure and drop-offs.

  Caution: Stripers are a managed species—verify current regulations and any special restrictions with NDOW.

• Bluegill & Sunfish

  Where: Small ponds, canals, and shallow coves of Lake Mead and Lake Mohave

  Excellent for beginners and families. Use small jigs, crickets, or flies in 2–4 ft (0.6–1.2 m) of water. Dawn and dusk are best; they'll bite throughout the day in September.

  Caution: None—abundant and fun. Always check access rules for private ponds and canal systems.

• Carp

  Where: Lake Mead (all basins), irrigation canals, slow sections of the Colorado River

  Fall carp are strong fighters. Use corn, dough balls, or specialized carp baits in 8–15 ft (2.5–5 m). Fish early morning or late evening; they're less active in midday heat but still catchable.

  Caution: Carp are invasive but legal to keep. Check NDOW for any special regulations.