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No Limit Fishing Guided Trip in Morristown
Lake Pleasant Fishing in Morristown, AZ
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The Flathead Catfish (Pylodictis olivaris) is one of Lake Pleasant's most impressive predatory species, known for its broad, flat head and mottled brown-yellow coloration. These ambush predators can grow to impressive sizes in Arizona lakes, with specimens over 20 inches becoming trophy catches for dedicated anglers. - Flatheads prefer structure-rich environments with cover such as submerged logs, rock piles, and deep holes. - They're primarily nocturnal feeders, making evening fishing trips particularly productive. - Unlike channel catfish, flatheads strongly prefer live bait over cut bait or artificial offerings.
Guided Fishing Trip by Guide Glenn Diaz in December
Meet your Guide Glenn Diaz
- Get your fill of Trophy Bites in Arizona!
Summary
Monday June brought perfect weather for a guided fishing trip on Lake Pleasant with No Limit Fishing. Launching from Scorpion Bay Grill at sunset, we enjoyed clear conditions throughout our evening on the water. We mixed techniques from bait fishing to trolling and casting lures, giving my guests a complete Lake Pleasant fishing experience. While trophy fish proved elusive this time around, the peaceful evening provided quality time on one of Arizona's premier fishing destinations. Lake Pleasant Regional Park offers excellent fishing opportunities year-round, with various species including the impressive flathead catfish that call these waters home. Whether you're looking for a morning or evening trip, our private guided experiences are tailored to maximize your chances for success.
Fishing Charter with Glenn Diaz – Rates & Booking
Guide Glenn Diaz of No Limit Fishing offers Monday June private fishing trips targeting Lake Pleasant's diverse fishery. Our 5-hour trips provide all necessary fishing gear and can accommodate up to 2 guests, making it perfect for solo anglers or small groups looking to experience Arizona's premier striped bass destination. We offer both morning and evening departures from Scorpion Bay, giving you flexibility to fish during prime feeding times. As a licensed guide with extensive local knowledge, I'll take you to the best fishing spots based on current conditions and target species.
Highlights of Private Fishing at Lake Pleasant – Arizona's Premier Striped Bass Destination | 5 Hour Trip (AM/PM)
Lake Pleasant is home to impressive flathead catfish, largemouth bass, striped bass, white bass, and catfish, providing consistent action throughout the year. This trip is perfect for all skill levels, from beginners to experienced anglers looking to improve their technique or target specific species. We'll employ various fishing methods including bait fishing, trolling, and casting lures to maximize your chances of success.
The 5-hour duration gives us plenty of time to explore different areas of the lake and adapt our approach based on what's working. All fishing equipment is provided, so you can just show up ready for an adventure on the water. The comfortable fishing platform and expert guidance ensure you'll have a memorable day fishing Lake Pleasant's productive waters.
Local Species Insights: Flathead Catfish
Lake Pleasant is known for its healthy population of flathead catfish, with specimens regularly reaching impressive sizes. These powerful predators prefer structure-rich environments where they can ambush prey, making areas with submerged trees, rock piles, and drop-offs prime targeting zones. During summer months like June, flathead catfish become more active in the evenings and throughout the night, making our evening trips particularly effective.
When targeting these whiskered predators, we typically use live bait presentations with bluegill or other small baitfish. Patience is key when pursuing flatheads, as they often require a waiting game before committing to the bait. The fight is well worth the wait - when a 20+ inch flathead decides to take your offering, be prepared for a battle that will test both your equipment and angling skills.
Plan Your Fishing Charter Day
For your Lake Pleasant fishing adventure, wear comfortable clothing appropriate for the weather and bring sun protection including a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen. A small cooler for drinks and snacks is recommended, though we provide water on board. Our comfortable fishing boat accommodates up to 2 guests with ample fishing space. Morning trips typically start at sunrise when fish are most active, while evening trips begin 4-5 hours before sunset. All necessary fishing equipment, including rods, reels, tackle, and bait, is provided. Just bring your fishing license (required for anglers 10 and older) and we'll handle the rest.
Fishing in Lake Pleasant: Flathead Catfish
The Flathead Catfish (Pylodictis olivaris), a member of the Ictaluridae family in the order Siluriformes, is one of Lake Pleasant's most prized sportfish. Distinguished by its broad, flat head, small eyes, and mottled yellow-brown coloration, these impressive predators provide exciting challenges for Morristown anglers during summer months. In Morristown waters this June, flatheads become increasingly active as water temperatures rise, making evening trips particularly productive.
Flathead Catfish Overview
Flathead catfish are apex predators in freshwater ecosystems, known for their impressive size, strength, and predatory nature. Unlike other catfish species that scavenge, flatheads are almost exclusively piscivorous (fish-eating), making them true predators that anglers specifically target for their fighting ability and table fare.
Flathead Catfish Habitat and Distribution
These catfish thrive in Lake Pleasant's diverse underwater landscape, preferring areas with structure like submerged trees, rock piles, underwater ledges, and deep holes. They're often found in the main lake basins during summer months, particularly near drop-offs and channel edges where they can ambush prey. In the Morristown area, productive flathead spots include deeper sections near Scorpion Bay and the northern basin of Lake Pleasant.
Flathead Catfish Size and Weight
Flathead catfish in Lake Pleasant typically range from 12 to 61 inches in length, with weights varying from 4 to 60 pounds. The 22-inch specimen mentioned in our trip report represents a quality catch, though much larger individuals lurk in the lake's depths. Trophy flatheads exceeding 40 pounds have been documented in Arizona waters.
Flathead Catfish Diet and Behavior
Unlike channel catfish that readily accept dead bait, flatheads are primarily predators that prefer live prey. They feed almost exclusively on other fish including sunfish, shad, and smaller catfish. Flatheads are primarily nocturnal, becoming most active during dusk, night, and early morning hours. During summer months, they often feed heavily after sunset when water temperatures begin to cool.
Flathead Catfish Spawning Season
In Arizona waters like Lake Pleasant, flatheads typically spawn in late spring to early summer when water temperatures reach the low 70s. Male flatheads create and guard nests in cavities such as hollow logs, undercut banks, or rock crevices. The spawning period generally concludes by mid-June, after which the fish become more actively feeding as they recover from the energy expenditure of reproduction.
Flathead Catfish Fishing Techniques
The most effective approach for Lake Pleasant flatheads involves using live bait such as bluegill, sunfish, or shad rigged on a slip-sinker setup. Position yourself near deep structure, creek channel edges, or submerged timber, especially during evening hours. Medium-heavy to heavy rods with strong line (20-30 lb test) are recommended as these fish can put up tremendous fights. In June around Morristown, evening fishing near underwater humps and channel breaks produces the most consistent action as flatheads move up from deeper water to feed.
Flathead Catfish Is It Good to Eat?
Flathead catfish are widely considered the best-tasting of all catfish species. Their firm, white flesh has a clean, mild flavor with none of the muddy taste sometimes associated with other catfish. They're high in protein and relatively low in fat. For the best eating quality, smaller to medium-sized flatheads (under 10 pounds) are generally preferred, as larger specimens may have slightly stronger flavors and coarser flesh texture.
Flathead Catfish Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the best bait for flathead catfish?
A: Live bait is essential for targeting flatheads, with live bluegill, sunfish, and shad being top producers on Lake Pleasant. Unlike other catfish, flatheads strongly prefer live bait over cut bait or artificial lures.
Q: Where can I find flathead catfish near Morristown?
A: Lake Pleasant offers excellent flathead habitat, particularly around Scorpion Bay and the northern portions of the lake. Look for underwater structure like channel edges, submerged timber, and rock piles, especially in deeper water adjacent to shallower feeding areas.
Q: Is flathead catfish good to eat?
A: Yes, flathead catfish are considered excellent table fare with clean, white meat that has a mild, sweet flavor. Many anglers consider them the best-tasting of all catfish species, especially specimens under 10 pounds.
Q: When is the best time to catch flathead catfish?
A: Evening through early morning hours are most productive, particularly during summer months. Flatheads are primarily nocturnal predators, becoming most active after sunset and throughout the night. During June in Arizona, the post-spawn period triggers increased feeding activity.
Q: How big do flathead catfish get in Lake Pleasant?
A: Lake Pleasant flatheads commonly reach 15-25 pounds, with larger specimens exceeding 40 pounds. The Arizona state record flathead weighed over 76 pounds, demonstrating the trophy potential of these impressive predators.
Q: What fishing gear do I need for flathead catfish?
A: Medium-heavy to heavy action rods paired with sturdy reels spooled with 20-30 pound test line are recommended. Circle hooks in sizes 5/0 to 8/0 work well with live bait, and sufficient weight to hold bottom in your fishing location is essential.
