Licensing

Because Lake Powell straddles two states, Arizona and Utah, Lake Powell fisherman were previously required to carry both state licenses. As of 2014, Arizona no longer offers a stamp to fish across the state line. Only a Utah fishing license is needed to fish in Lake Powell, even if you’re fishing in the Arizona portion. It is recommended that you visit the following link for the latest on fishing and license information: Utah Division of Wildlife Resources.

Types of Fish

Smallmouth bass, striped bass, largemouth bass, walleye, channel catfish, crappie, and bluegill are common catches, but brown trout, rainbow trout and carp are also found in the area.

Best time of the year to catch

Fishing’s great all year round…really!

Late April and into May is best for catching largemouth and smallmouth bass, which are usually found along the rocky shorelines. Big catches are more likely earlier in the year, in March, April and the first two weeks in May. Crappie and bluegill are easily found throughout the warm season. Walleye can be hard to find during the winter, best fishing for walleye is usually in May and June. Striped Bass become more active in April and range freely throughout the lake after spawning. They tend to surface more often in July and August.All species provide good fishing action during the fall months

Tips for a good catch

Put a piece of hot dog on a weighted hook off the back of your moored houseboat and you may catch a catfish.

Carp and bluegill tend to come looking to houseboats hoping for an easy meal. Use standard baits, jigs, or even table scraps.

Crappie are mostly found in brushy areas in backs of canyons.

Smallmouth and largemouth bass are usually caught by anglers trolling in deeper water.

Fishing limits and rules

No limits on striped bass and walleye; anglers are encouraged to catch and harvest as many of these fish as possible.

The smallmouth bass limit is 20, largemouth bass limit is 5, black crappie limit is 10. Please honor all limits.

Endangered fish include: Colorado pikeminnow (squawfish), razorback sucker, humpback chup, bonytail chup and flannelmouth sucker. If caught, release immediately, as possession of these fish is not allowed.

Note: These rules and limits may change as the population of each fish species fluctuates. Check on current rules and regulations before your trip.