As a fishing enthusiast, I’ve always been curious about the opportunities available in Las Vegas. Surprisingly, despite its desert location, there is a surprising number of fishing spots both in and around the city. In this article, I’ll share my experiences and knowledge on Las Vegas fishing, providing valuable insights for fellow anglers.
I discovered that Las Vegas is home to several lakes and reservoirs stocked with varied species of fish, such as trout, crappie, bass, and catfish. Fishing in Las Vegas turns out to be an enjoyable and rewarding way to spend a day outdoors, away from the hustle and bustle of the city. Whether you’re a seasoned angler or a beginner, the fishing spots in Las Vegas offer something for everyone.
Some popular fishing spots I explored include Lake Las Vegas, Lake Jacqueline, and Floyd Lamb Park at Tule Springs. Each location has its unique charm and a wide range of fish species to target. Before venturing out to fish in Las Vegas, remember that you’ll need a Nevada State Fishing License, which can be acquired online or at a Nevada Department of Wildlife (NDOW) office. Now, let’s dive into the details of fishing in this fascinating desert oasis!
Las Vegas Fishing Overview
When it comes to fishing in Las Vegas, there are several fantastic spots where anglers can test their skills and potentially land a big catch. Even though Las Vegas is in the middle of the desert, I’ve found that there’s still plenty of opportunity for anglers to enjoy their favorite pastime.
Just 30 minutes outside of the city, I can head over to Lake Las Vegas, a large private lake that offers boat and kayak rentals for fishing. When I’ve rented a kayak for a 2-hour session, the cost was just under $30. On the other hand, boat rentals run about $150 for 2 hours. Despite its location near the city, this lake offers a peaceful retreat with a diverse array of fish species, including trout, crappie, bass, and catfish.
In addition to Lake Las Vegas, there are numerous local reservoirs and smaller bodies of water that offer excellent fishing. One of my favorite spots is Sunset Park Pond, situated at the heart of Sunset Park, near the airport. With a surface area of 14 acres and a depth of 12 feet, the pond is teeming with largemouth bass, striped bass, and channel catfish. Many other bodies of water are scattered throughout the state and are just a short drive away.
Before I cast my line, I always make sure to check the local fishing regulations, as well as the seasons, limits, and catch-and-release requirements. This is important to ensure that anglers stay within the boundaries set forth by Nevada’s Department of Wildlife:
- Fishing licenses: required for all anglers aged 12 and above
- Seasons and bag limits: vary based on species and location
- Catch-and-release regulations: depending on the area, some species might be catch-and-release only
Finding the right spot and adhering to the local fishing guidelines ensure a safe, fun, and successful fishing experience in the Las Vegas area. With so many opportunities at my disposal, I truly enjoy exploring the various fishing spots that Nevada has to offer.
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Best Fishing Destinations in Las Vegas
Lake Mead
My first recommendation for fishing in Las Vegas is Lake Mead. It is the largest lake in the area, spanning 250 square miles, and can be reached within an hour from the Strip. The lake is home to a variety of fish species, but the most common catch is striped bass, which can weigh up to 40 pounds.
While fishing in Lake Mead, I enjoy the beautiful landscape surrounding the reservoir, which adds to the overall experience.
Lake Mohave
Another excellent destination for anglers is Lake Mohave, located just south of Lake Mead. This reservoir is less crowded than its counterpart and has an abundance of fish species, including largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, and rainbow trout.
Fishing enthusiasts like myself have experienced great success in both shore and boat fishing at Lake Mohave due to its diverse underwater features.
Colorado River
The Colorado River is an exceptional fishing spot near Las Vegas, offering a scenic experience and various fish species, like rainbow trout, channel catfish, and striped bass. I recommend checking out the Willow Beach area, where cold water springs create a perfect habitat for trout.
Floyd Lamb Park
I also appreciate the convenience of urban fishing at Floyd Lamb Park, located in the northwest part of Las Vegas. The park features four ponds stocked with fish, including rainbow trout, channel catfish, and bluegill. It’s a perfect spot for a relaxing day of fishing closer to the city.
Fishing Seasons and Species
Las Vegas offers a wide variety of fishing opportunities for anglers, with diverse species of fish being available throughout different seasons. In this section, I will discuss the best times to catch some popular fish species in and around Las Vegas: bass, trout, catfish, and stripers.
Bass Season
In my experience, the best time to catch largemouth bass in Las Vegas is from May to September. Look for them in the evenings and early mornings, as largemouth bass tend to be more active during these cooler hours. You can find them in locations such as Lake Mead.
Trout Season
I’ve found that rainbow trout can be caught throughout the year in Las Vegas, with the larger lakes surrounding the city, such as Lake Mead, Lake Mohave, and the Colorado River, being fruitful fishing grounds. Cold Creek Spring is another great spot, particularly right after restocking.
Catfish Season
Channel catfish are more commonly caught between April and September in Las Vegas. I’ve had success catching them on the bottom using prepared baits, shrimp, and beef or chicken liver. Some great spots to target catfish include Lake Mead, just about 30 minutes from the city.
Striper Season
Striped bass, also known as stripers, can be caught year-round in Las Vegas. I recommend focusing your efforts on the larger bodies of water, like Lake Mead, where I’ve logged a significant number of catches. Keep in mind that different fishing spots may have specific regulations, so always check beforehand to ensure a successful and responsible fishing trip.
Fishing Licenses and Regulations
Fishing in Las Vegas can be an enjoyable experience, but before casting a line, it’s important for me to understand the fishing licenses and regulations in place.
Where to Buy a License
As an angler in Nevada, I can purchase a fishing license in multiple ways. Licenses can be obtained from an authorized agent, at a Department of Wildlife office, or over the phone by calling (855) 542-6369. For added convenience, I can also buy a license online from the DOW website.
License Costs
License fees vary depending on the type of license and eligibility for discounts such as resident or military rates. I should consult the Nevada Department of Wildlife website or a license agent for specific pricing information.
Catch Limits and Size Restrictions
To protect fish populations and preserve the fishing experience for future generations, Nevada has established catch limits and size restrictions for various fish species. The Nevada Fishing Regulations Book contains this information and can be found on the Nevada Department of Wildlife website or as a physical booklet from authorized dealers.
Adhering to these regulations is essential for a sustainable and enjoyable fishing experience in Las Vegas. By understanding and following the appropriate licensing and regulatory requirements, I can contribute to the conservation of Nevada’s aquatic habitats and fishing resources.
Fishing Equipment and Tips
Fishing in Las Vegas offers many opportunities to catch a variety of fish species. To have a successful and enjoyable experience, it’s important to have the right fishing equipment and apply the right techniques. In this section, I’ll discuss some key aspects of fishing equipment and share some tips on using them effectively.
Rods and Reels
For fishing in Las Vegas, it’s important to choose the right type and size of rod and reel. I prefer using a versatile spinning rod and reel for most local species, such as bass, trout, and catfish. A medium-action rod around 7-feet long with a reel that has a good drag system will help in casting long distances and handling various fish sizes.
When it comes to line, I recommend using a braided line with a fluorocarbon leader, as this combination offers strength, sensitivity, and low visibility in the water. A 10 to 20-pound test line should work well for local conditions, depending on the target species.
Baits and Lures
Using the right baits and lures is crucial for catching fish in Las Vegas. As live bait is prohibited in some locations like Tule Spring Pond, I suggest using a variety of artificial lures that can be effective in attracting fish. Here are some popular choices:
- Soft plastic worms and swimbaits for bass
- Spinnerbaits for attracting both bass and trout
- Jigs tipped with soft plastics for working around structure and cover
- Poppers and topwater lures for surface action during early morning and late evening
When fishing in Lake Mead, live bait like shad, carp, gizzard, or mosquitofish is allowed and can be an effective option for catching bigger fish such as striped bass.
Techniques and Strategies
Having the right equipment and bait is only part of the equation. Employing the right techniques and strategies can greatly increase your chances of success. Here are some tips that I’ve found useful in Las Vegas fishing:
- Cast near cover and structure, as fish tend to congregate around these areas for protection and hunting opportunities.
- Be patient and work your lure at different depths until you find where the fish are active.
- Pay attention to water temperature and season, as fish behavior may change accordingly.
- Switch up your baits, lures, and techniques if you’re not getting bites, as different fish may prefer different presentations.
Las Vegas Fishing Charters and Guides
During my trip to Las Vegas, I discovered that this city isn’t just about casinos and nightlife. It also offers various fishing opportunities for anglers of all levels. In this section, I would like to share my experience with Las Vegas fishing charters and guides, which made my angling adventure memorable and enjoyable.
There are several fishing charters available in Las Vegas that cater to different types of anglers. One of the top fishing charters I came across was Fish Anglers Edge, which had received great reviews for its services. They provided a knowledgeable and experienced guide who assisted me throughout the trip.
I also found out about Lake Mead Fishing Tours, which offered a fantastic angling trip with a licensed and insured fishing guide. They made sure that the whole experience was fun and exciting as they took us to some incredible fishing spots within the Lake Mead Recreation Area.
While exploring other options, I stumbled upon some of the best fishing guides in Las Vegas through Yelp. Among the top recommendations was Lake Mead Fishing Guide – FishFinders Guide Service. They provided boat charters and tours around the Henderson area, which made for a fantastic fishing experience at Lake Mead.
Here’s a brief list of fishing charter options I encountered during my stay:
- Fish Anglers Edge
- Lake Mead Fishing Tours
- Lake Mead Fishing Guide – FishFinders Guide Service
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Each of these fishing charters and guides offered something unique and catered to different preferences. I found them all to be professional, helpful, and knowledgeable about the local fishing spots, making my Las Vegas angling experience an unforgettable one.
Fishing Tournaments and Events
When it comes to fishing tournaments and events in Las Vegas, there is always something exciting happening for anglers of all skill levels. One such event that comes to mind is a 3-day bass fishing tournament held in April each year. The tournament sees participants compete for the highest weight of 15 total fish, allowing both professionals and amateurs to join in on the fun. Amateurs get to team up with sponsored “Pro” anglers for a day, making it an excellent opportunity for learning and networking.
Another organization worth mentioning is the Nevada Bass Anglers Club. They focus on making fishing enjoyable and fostering camaraderie among its members by organizing regular events and get-togethers in the great Southwest.
For more prestigious events, the US Open bass tournament held at Lake Mead is one not to be missed. Now in its 39th year, it’s considered by many as one of the largest and most important bass tournaments in the country.
The Ultimate Bass Team Tour is another fishing competition that attracts fishing enthusiasts from around the region. The tournament has a basic entry fee of $195.00 per team, with optional add-ons available for higher payouts. Some of the options include a Top 5 Option, Big Fish Option, and a Big Smallie Option. The breakdown of fees and payouts is outlined here:
- Basic entry fee: $195.00 per team
- Top 5 Option ($40): pays 40%, 30%, 15%, 10%, 5% to top 5 teams
- Big Fish Option ($25): pays back 70% and 30% to 1st and 2nd big bass
- Big Smallie Option ($10.00): limited to cash only.
If you’re looking for great fishing spots within a 3-hour drive from Las Vegas, Topock Gorge on the Colorado River is an ideal location. Situated within the Havasu National Wildlife Refuge in Arizona, this spot offers a stunning landscape and a rich fishing experience for anglers.
