Ready for some no-limit fishing action on one of Arizona's top lakes? Grab your hat and sunscreen, 'cause we're headed to Lake Pleasant for a 5-hour shared trip that'll have you reeling in stripers, largemouth, and more. Whether you're a seasoned pro or just getting your feet wet, this trip's got everything you need to make some serious catches. Let's dive into what makes this Lake Pleasant adventure a must-do for any angler visiting the Grand Canyon State.
Lake Pleasant isn't just a catchy name - it's a spot-on description of what you're in for. This 10,000-acre reservoir is a fish factory, plain and simple. We're talking striped bass that'll make your drag sing, chunky largemouth that love to smash topwater, and catfish that could put your back out. The best part? You've got a local pro at the helm who knows every nook and cranny of this lake. They'll put you on fish faster than you can say "Fish on!"
This shared trip is perfect if you're flying solo or bringing a buddy. You'll be out for a solid 5 hours, either bright and early for the morning bite or later in the day to catch that evening feed. Everything you need is provided - rods, reels, tackle, and bait. Just remember to grab your Arizona fishing license before you show up. Oh, and pack some snacks and drinks. Trust me, when the bite is on, you won't want to stop for lunch.
Alright, let's talk strategy. On Lake Pleasant, we mix it up depending on what's hot. Some days, we're ripping big swimbaits for those trophy largemouth. Other times, we're dropping deep with live bait for monster stripers. Your guide's got the pulse of the lake, so they'll know exactly what tricks to pull out of the bag.
If the bass are holding deep, we might break out the drop shot rigs or drag some Carolina rigs along the bottom. For stripers, trolling can be deadly effective, especially when we find those bait balls on the fish finder. And if you're after those whisker-faced catfish? We'll set up with some stink bait or cut bait and let 'em come to us. It's all about reading the lake and adjusting on the fly - that's where having a seasoned local guide really pays off.
"Good company. Good fishing, Beautiful lake." - Steve
"Would recommend Glenn to anyone wanting a patient, and knowledgable guide." - Vernell
Largemouth Bass: These green machines are the bread and butter of Lake Pleasant. They can push 10 pounds here, and they love to ambush prey around submerged brush and rocky points. Spring and fall are prime times when they're feeding heavily in the shallows. There's nothing quite like watching a big largemouth explode on a topwater lure at dawn.
Striped Bass: The true titans of Lake Pleasant, stripers here can grow over 20 pounds. They're schooling fish, so when you find 'em, it can be non-stop action. These hard-fighters prefer deeper, cooler water and often chase shad in open water. Catching a big striper is like hooking a freight train - hold on tight!
White Bass: Don't let their size fool you; these little powerhouses punch above their weight. White bass often school up and create feeding frenzies on the surface. When you find a school, you can catch 'em one after another. They're perfect for kids or anyone who wants fast action.
Channel Catfish: These whiskered bottom-dwellers are plentiful in Lake Pleasant and can reach impressive sizes. They're most active at night but can be caught any time. Channel cats are known for their tasty fillets, making them a favorite for anglers looking to bring home dinner.
Flathead Catfish: The true monsters of Lake Pleasant, flatheads can grow over 50 pounds here. They're ambush predators, often hiding near submerged logs or in deep holes. Hooking into a big flathead is like trying to pull a Volkswagen off the bottom - it's a battle you won't soon forget.
Lake Pleasant isn't just another fishing hole - it's a year-round angler's playground. With its diverse fish population and ample shoreline, there's always something biting. The lake's proximity to Phoenix makes it easy to access, but once you're on the water, you'll feel miles away from the city hustle.
What sets this trip apart is the flexibility. Your guide will tailor the experience to your skill level and what's biting. New to fishing? They'll show you the ropes and have you catching in no time. Experienced angler? Get ready to learn some local secrets that'll up your game.
And let's not forget the scenery. Lake Pleasant is surrounded by rugged desert landscape that'll have you reaching for your camera between casts. Keep an eye out for wildlife too - you might spot bald eagles, wild burros, or even bighorn sheep along the shoreline.
So, what are you waiting for? This Lake Pleasant fishing trip is your ticket to some of the best angling Arizona has to offer. Whether you're after a trophy bass, a cooler full of eating-size fish, or just a great day on the water, this trip delivers. Remember, the lake's fish report changes daily, so every trip is a new adventure.
Spots fill up fast, especially during peak seasons, so don't wait to book your spot. Grab your fishing buddy (or come solo and make new friends), and get ready for a day of no-limit fishing excitement. Who knows? You might just land the catch of a lifetime. See you on the water!
February 3, 2025
Would recommend Glenn to anyone wanting a patient, and knowledgable guide.
April 28, 2025
Channel cats are the night owls of Lake Pleasant, often most active after dark. These whisker-faced fish average 2-4 pounds but can grow much larger. Look for them in deeper holes, near creek channels, and around structure like submerged trees. They're bottom feeders, so that's where you'll want to present your bait. Summer nights are prime time, as cats cruise the shallows hunting for food. Anglers enjoy catfishing for the relaxed pace and the potential for a big catch. To entice a bite, try stinkbaits, cut bait, or nightcrawlers fished on the bottom. A local trick: use chicken liver soaked in garlic powder for an irresistible scent trail. When a channel cat takes your bait, get ready for a stubborn fight - these fish have serious staying power.
Flatheads are the monsters of Lake Pleasant, with some topping 50 pounds. These big, ugly fish lurk in the deepest parts of the lake, often near underwater structure or in river channels. They're most active at night, especially during warm summer months. Anglers target flatheads for the thrill of hooking into a true giant. Unlike their catfish cousins, flatheads prefer live bait - the bigger, the better. Try using live bluegill or small carp on heavy tackle. Patience is key, as these fish don't feed often but hit hard when they do. A local secret: focus on areas with steep drop-offs near shallow flats. When a flathead takes your bait, be ready for a long, powerful fight. Landing one of these behemoths is an unforgettable experience.
Largemouth bass are the heavy hitters of Lake Pleasant. These fish can grow up to 24 inches long and pack a serious punch when hooked. You'll find them lurking around submerged trees, rocky points, and weed beds. Spring and fall are prime times, as the bass move shallow to feed. Anglers love targeting largemouth for their aggressive strikes and acrobatic fights. To entice a bite, try working a plastic worm slowly along the bottom near cover. When the water's warm, topwater lures at dawn and dusk can produce some explosive action. If you're after a trophy, focus on deeper structure using crankbaits or jigs. Patience and stealth are key - these fish have keen senses and can be easily spooked. Land a big largemouth, and you've got serious bragging rights.
Stripers are the bruisers of Lake Pleasant, often reaching 20-40 pounds. These hard-fighting fish are found in deeper, open water, especially near underwater structures and drop-offs. They're most active in cooler months, with spring and fall being prime times. Anglers target stripers for their powerful runs and excellent table fare. To hook into one, try trolling with deep-diving lures or live bait near schools of shad. Early mornings and evenings are often best, as stripers move shallow to feed. Keep an eye out for surface activity - when stripers chase bait to the top, it's an exciting sight. A local tip: use your electronics to find bait balls, as stripers are usually nearby. When you hook up, hang on tight - these fish will test your gear and your stamina.
White bass are the speedsters of Lake Pleasant. These silver-sided fish typically run 10-12 inches but can reach up to 18 inches. They're schooling fish, so when you find one, you've likely found a bunch. Look for them in open water, often near the surface, chasing shad. Spring is prime time as they make spawning runs up tributaries. Anglers love white bass for their fast action and tasty fillets. These fish hit hard and fight above their weight class. To get in on the action, watch for feeding frenzies on the surface. Cast small spinners or jigs into the fray. If you see birds diving, that's a good sign white bass are pushing bait to the top. A local trick: troll small crankbaits along points and drop-offs to locate schools. Once you find them, it's often fast and furious fishing.
Vehicle Guest Capacity: 6
Manufacturer Name: Yamaha
Maximum Cruising Speed: 17
Number of Engines: 1
Horsepower per Engine: 60
Good company. Good fishing, Beautiful lake.