Phoenix, Arizona

What's biting

• Largemouth Bass

  Where: Lake Pleasant, Saguaro Lake, Salt River impoundments; deeper structure and shade in daytime heat.

  Early morning and evening bite is strongest; fish 4–8 m (13–26 ft) depths near submerged timber and rocky points. Soft plastics and topwater lures work well as water temps begin to drop from summer peaks.

  Caution: Catch-and-release strongly encouraged; check current slot limits and regulations with AZGFD.

• Smallmouth Bass

  Where: Saguaro Lake and Salt River impoundments, rocky shorelines and canyon sections.

  Prefer cooler, rockier habitat than largemouths; target 3–6 m (10–20 ft) depths around boulders and ledges. Crankbaits and tube jigs effective as water begins cooling.

  Caution: Verify current regulations and size/bag limits before fishing.

• Channel Catfish

  Where: Salt River, lower Colorado River sections, Lake Pleasant; slow-moving deeper holes.

  Still active in warm water; fish cut bait (mackerel, shad) or stink baits at night or early morning near bottom. 38°C (100°F) water is still fishable for catfish.

  Caution: Consult AZGFD for current regulations; some river sections have specific restrictions.

• Carp (Common & Grass)

  Where: Salt River, lower Colorado River, irrigation canals and backwater areas.

  Excellent target in early fall; use corn, dough balls, or specialized carp baits in slow current near vegetation. Early morning is best; fish 1–3 m (3–10 ft) depths.

  Caution: No special cautions; verify local access rules for canal fishing.

• Tilapia (Mozambique & Blue)

  Where: Warm-water canals, ponds, and backwater areas throughout Phoenix metro.

  Abundant and active year-round; small spinners, flies, or bread balls work. Excellent beginner target; typically no size limit, but confirm with AZGFD.

  Caution: Invasive species—keep all caught; do not release.