If you're looking for an unforgettable fishing destination, Lake Havasu should be at the top of your list. Known for its crystal-clear waters, diverse fish species, and beautiful desert surroundings, Lake Havasu offers something for anglers of all experience levels. Whether you’re planning a family trip and hope to spend some time fishing or you want to plan a fully fishing-focused vacation, we have some tips to help you decide what time of year is right for your plans.
Spring: The Best Overall Fishing Season
Spoiler alert: Lake Havasu is a fun place to go fishing all year round. However, many anglers agree that spring is the best of the seasons for a fishing trip. The water warms up, and fish become more active, making it easier to catch largemouth and smallmouth bass, striped bass, and catfish. Any time from March to May can be an ideal time to enjoy fishing in warmer water, before the hottest temperatures set in.
Summer: Morning and Night Fishing
If you're planning a summer trip to Lake Havasu, it's a good idea to set aside a few mornings and evenings for fishing. There are plenty of water sports and other fun things to do during the heat of the day, but the fish will be biting during the cooler temperatures.
Night fishing is particularly popular here during the hottest summer months, when daytime temperatures peak over 100 degrees every day. You'll probably catch striped bass while night fishing with cut bait or lures, catfish (especially after dark), and panfish (usually found by the docks in the morning).
Fall: Variety and Consistent Bites
Planning a fall trip to Lake Havasu will usually mean consistent bites and the chance to catch the widest variety of species. Fall brings cooler temperatures and less boat traffic, making it an ideal time to fish, especially as they are feeding aggressively as they bulk up for winter.
You'll see all kinds of bass, as well as crappie and bluegill in the fall. Experts in the area recommend using topwater lures for bass early in the morning and transition to crankbaits and jigs as the day goes on.
Winter: Rewarding for Patient Anglers
While fishing slows down in the winter, dedicated anglers can still have success, especially for striped bass and catfish. The water is cooler, and fish tend to stay deeper, so if you like a challenge and enjoy mild temperatures all day, you might like an "off-season" trip. Lake Havasu is a great place to plan a winter trip because it stays far warmer than most winter climates in the country, but is still cool enough to avoid sweating in the sun.
In the winter, plan to fish for:
- Striped Bass (deep water trolling or bait fishing)
- Catfish (bait fishing at deeper depths)
- Crappie (near submerged structures)
Where to Stay in Lake Havasu for Your Fishing Trip
No trip planning is complete without choosing the perfect place to stay. Consider a luxury vacation rental in Lake Havasu for your fishing trip, like The Place. Our fun and welcoming vacation home features:
- 4 bedrooms and 2 bathrooms
- Garage converted to game room with pool table, air hockey, jukebox and arcade games
- 25 foot pool with water slide and hot tub
- Luxury kitchen and spacious dining area
- Outdoor BBQ and pizza oven
- Cornhole, Bocce ball, and a putting green
- HDTVs with streaming in every room
Ready to book your stay in Lake Havasu? Check the availability of The Place today.