Bartlett Lake is a moderate sized desert reservoir that is located 55 miles away from Phoenix, Arizona. Overall it’s a very popular lake being nestled in part of the central section of the state. In this post you’re going to be given the blueprint to fish this lake.
So what are the best tips for fishing Bartlett Lake? There are three important factors you must know if you want to know how to fish Bartlett Lake successfully. First, you need to know what kind of fish is in Bartlett Lake. Second, it’s important for you to know which part of the lake each species can be found. Lastly, knowing what are the best baits that work on Bartlett Lake is vital. However, tactics, baits, and locations will be different for each type of fish that you target. So let’s talk about the steps you need to take in order to give you the best chance of catching a fish on Bartlett Lake.
Key Takeaways
This lake gives locals and visitors the opportunity to test their luck in catching one of the many game species this lake has to offer, such as Largemouth Bass, Smallmouth Bass, Yellow Bass, Channel Catfish, Bluegill, and much, much more!
Here’s the most recent and updated Bartlett Lake Fishing Report – it gives you a quick and easy list of some really good fishing spots. If you’re looking for more detail on how to fish each spot scroll down into the article.
- Around Bartlett Lake Marina
- Budge Island Area
- Rattlesnake Cove to Rattlesnake Island
- Sunny Beach To SB Wash
- Verde Head To Sycamore Cove
- Yellow Cliffs
- Rocky Way Banks
- Bass Flats and Crappie Cove
- Rocky Point to Bootleg Cove
- Teepee Hill
- Moon Island
- Panic Rock
Here are some additional fast and helpful tips just for you:
- The easiest way to fish this lake is by boat, but there are areas to fish from the bank, by kayak, or float tube.
- There are multiple public boat ramps to use if the lake is at full pool.
- Camping and RV parking is available.
- You can buy tackle and groceries at the lake or at one of the tackle shops in Phoenix.
- A permit is required to enter, camp, and fish this lake. Prices vary depending on your desired activity.
About Bartlett Lake
Located 55 miles just outside of downtown Phoenix, Bartlett Lake is a deep body of water with the average depth being 100 feet and a maximum depth of 174 feet when the lake is completely full. Being 12 miles long and spans over 2,830 acres. This is a reservoir within the Verde River chain lakes and plays a vital role in power generation agriculture. Anglers can fish a variety of locations from grass mats, river channel drops-offs, rock piles, cuts and points. Known for its great largemouth bass, bluegill and catfishing. You can also see wildlife such as bald eagles and bighorn sheep.
What Kinds of Fish Are In Bartlett Lake?
- Largemouth Bass
- Smallmouth Bass
- Black Crappie
- Carp
- Bigmouth Buffalo Fish
- Channel Catfish
- Flathead Catfish
- Bluegill
- Green Sunfish
- Redear Sunfish
- Tilapia
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Key Details to Know About Bartlett Lake
Special Closures Areas or Dates:
Periodic closures due to wildfires. Check the status of the lake to see if it’s open, click here.
Special /Annual Events:
Weekend fishing tournaments are common.
Bartlett Marina offers food, bar, live music, karaoke, and annual watch parties for all the big sporting events and tournaments (ie; March Madness, Superbowl, World Series), and much, much more.
My personal fishing report update:
Alright, my fishing friends, let’s dive into the current scene on the water.
Lately, the wind’s been tossing us a curveball, making our quest for that trophy a bit more of an adventure.
But, as any savvy angler knows, those breezy conditions can’t keep a good fisherman down. In fact, some folks are absolutely slaying it with largemouth and striped bass during those calm windows between weather fronts.
So, here’s the lowdown: those northern coves are still where the party’s at, although our bass buddies are doing a bit of a dance—moving in and out depending on whether they’re cozying up on their beds.
Some anglers have been hitting the shallows, about 4 feet deep, with a trusty drop shot setup and have been hooking into some beauties. Then, shifting gears and going deeper, they bagged a chunky 6-pounder. Tallying up, they netted themselves 15 to 20 largemouths, most tipping the scales between 1 and 2.5 pounds.
And get this, the bass are in full-on love mode in the shallows at the back of the coves, while the post-spawn crowd is hanging out off the points, islands, and reefs. The numbers might not be blockbuster yet, but patience is key.
Helpful tip: anything white will be like bass candy right now— jerkbaits, crankbaits, you name it.
For the lure lovers here’s a list of what is working right now:
- Topwaters
- Swimbaits
- Umbrella rigs
- Jerkbaits
- Football jigs
- Crankbaits
- Drop shot
- Texas rig worm or creature baits
- Carolina rig
Guys, the northern hideouts where the bass are busy spawning and can be easily caught.
I got talking to a guy loading his kayak who fished from mid-morning to afternoon and landed two largemouths on drop shots.
It’s open season on stripers
Stripers and their cousin, the white bass, have mostly finished their spawning shenanigans.
The post-spawn striper action is heating up, with early risers catching sight of boils.
You’re doing the lake a favor by keeping all you reel in.
Meanwhile, I know a couple guys night fishing loaded up on stripers using submersible lights and anchovies, hitting triple digits but practicing catch-and-release once their livewell hit capacity.
Helpful Tip: day or night, anchovies are bringing some success, though it’s a bit hit or miss. As the mercury climbs, expect these line-siders to chase cooler waters into the main lake. But don’t think they all RSVP to the same departure time.
Heard through the grapevine, one angler nabbed a monster striper with a Money Minnow swimbait—talking a behemoth in the 15-18 pound range! And while we’re all itching for the shad boils, seems we might have to hold tight till May for that frenzy.
So there you have it, my angling amigos…
The fish are out there, dancing with the elements, and it’s up to us to join the party. Keep those lines tight and your spirits high, and remember, every day on the water is a good day.
Bartlett Lake Fishing Tips
photo: AZGFD
Bartlett Lake is a fun lake and relatively easy to fish.
Bass, bluegill, crappie, and catfish will spawn in the spring in 1’-15’-feet of water notably on rocky structure, gravel flats, humps, and small creek inlets and cuts.
In the summer bass will seek deeper haunts close to shallow flats, pockets, or coves. Try to find drops offs, channels, points, submerged humps.
Furthermore they’ll typically be found in 15’-30’-feet of water. According to the US Forest Service, there were over 2200 fish-habitat structures placed to make the fishery even better.
A recent census on the lake showed bass there weighed 12+ pounds were common.
Aside from bass Bartlett Lake is an excellent lake for catfishing.
If you’re fishing from the shore you can fish around the docks or near the fishing platforms by the second ramp.
There is another fishing platform and a trail that winds around the point and into the other adjacent cove.
Personally, I like to fish for the big bass in the morning and in the afternoon troll deeper cuts and shelves with spinners to catch some walleye for dinner.
WAIT! Before you go fishing...
Arizona Game & Fish placed artificial habitat around Bartlett Lake. Take a look at the locations listed to give you a better chance of catching fish!
photo: azgfd
photo: azgfd
But Where Are The Best Places To Fish At Bartlett Lake?
And in no particular order here is that list of the best fishing spots at Bartlett Lake.
DISCLAIMER: The material provided is for general information purposes only. It’s important to understand that any information provided in this article can change at any time. Any maps or graphics featured are not to be used as navigational aids. Fishing Blueprint will not be responsible for any personal injury or property damage from any misuse of the maps or graphics provided. It’s completely impossible to give you every single spot where you can potentially catch a fish. But, what this list does do is to give you a helping hand and narrow down to the most productive fishing spots.
Around Bartlett Lake Marina
Fishing the area around Bartlett Lake is great because the shoreline is close to deep water and has a ton of fish structure around it. Making this area accessible to those who are fishing from shore, kayak, standup paddle board, and traditional fishing boat.
If you’re fishing from shore you must take time to scan this area with a portable fish finder.
Fish around the habitat or structure if you see shad or bluegill in the area.
So make sure you pick up a portable fish-finder to find all the best fishing spots.
Crappie will also hold in school at the mouth of the cove.
Effective baits for this area include: topwater lures, buzzbaits in the morning or on cloudy conditions. Crankbaits, spinnerbaits, jerkbaits, chatterbaits, umbrella rigs, underspin jigs, swim jigs, hair jigs, lipless crankbaits, and soft plastic swimbaits perform well here in breezy conditions or during the midday.
In contrast, slower moving baits such as drop shot, football jigs, tubes, wacky rig, Texas rig, Neko rigs, and Carolina rigs can be phenomenal when the conditions are calm or the bass are holding close to the rocks.
Flutter spoons work great in the deepest part of the point or over any secondary structures directly related to the point.
Located: Mid lake (west side)
Structural features: Shoreline fishing, artificial submerged structure, artificial habitat, roadbed.
Best species to target: Bass, crappie, and catfish
Most effective way to fish this spot: Boat, kayak, shoreline
Budge Island Area
Budget Island Area really spans from Prop Point down to Budge Island South and is located straight across the lake from the marina.
This area is has been known to produce for a few reasons.
(1) Its filled with rock piles, and boulders. But the best rocky structures will be the isolated rock piles and large submerged boulders.
(2) You’ll observe nearly all the deep feeder cuts face west. Well most of the time wind blows in from the west. The westerly wind pushes floating debris across the lake and make floating debris mats making it a phenomenal area to flip and punch lures through.
(3) You’ll also notice several a large amount of feeder creeks and channels with submerged brush and timber. The deeper areas areas are great to hold bass and crappie.
Effective baits for this area include: topwater lures, buzzbaits in the morning or on cloudy conditions. Crankbaits, spinnerbaits, jerkbaits, chatterbaits, umbrella rigs, underspin jigs, swim jigs, hair jigs, lipless crankbaits, and soft plastic swimbaits perform well here in breezy conditions or during the midday.
In contrast, slower moving baits such as drop shot, football jigs, tubes, wacky rig, Texas rig, Neko rigs, and Carolina rigs can be phenomenal when the conditions are calm or the bass are holding close to the rocks.
Flutter spoons work great in the deepest part of the point or over any secondary structures directly related to the point.
Located: Mid lake (east side)
Structural features: Rocky structure, feeder creeks, submerged standing timber
Best species to target: Bass, bream, crappie, and catfish
Most effective way to fish this spot: Boat, kayak, paddle board
Rattlesnake Cove to Rattlesnake Island
This area is a relatively shallow cove that primarily features a large sandy wash with isolated rock piles and boulders.
Bordered by the large feeder wash this area offers, it has multiple feeder creeks, channels, and long submerged main lake points.
Better yet, the area is also very easy to walk and fish from the shoreline. It is chalked full with submerged artificial habitat structures. Again, this where you need a portable fish-finder!
It’s great for beginners and for seasoned anglers who don’t want to take the boat out but still want to have a great time.
Effective baits for this area include: topwater lures, buzzbaits in the morning or on cloudy conditions. Crankbaits, spinnerbaits, jerkbaits, chatterbaits, umbrella rigs, underspin jigs, swim jigs, hair jigs, lipless crankbaits, and soft plastic swimbaits perform well here in breezy conditions or during the midday.
In contrast, slower moving baits such as drop shot, football jigs, tubes, wacky rig, Texas rig, Neko rigs, and Carolina rigs can be phenomenal when the conditions are calm or the bass are holding close to the rocks.
Flutter spoons work great in the deepest part of the point or over any secondary structures directly related to the point.
Located: River channel
Structural features: Steep rocky banks
Best species to target: Bass, bream, crappie, and catfish
Most effective way to fish this spot: Boat
Sunny Beach To SB Wash
About a mile up river Bartlett Lake Marina is an area of the lake where the valley comes together to create a funnel.
Fishing a natural or manmade funnel can be one of the most productive spots on the lake.
Particularly on the west side, the area starts from Sunny Beach and extends to SB Wash is chalked full of steep rocky banks, boulders, as well as artificial habitat in the deeper pockets in cove of Sunny Beach and SB Wash.
There are so many elements to fish in this area you can spend all day here picking it apart.
Effective baits for this area include: topwater lures, buzzbaits in the morning or on cloudy conditions. Crankbaits, spinnerbaits, jerkbaits, chatterbaits, umbrella rigs, underspin jigs, swim jigs, hair jigs, lipless crankbaits, and soft plastic swimbaits perform well here in breezy conditions or during the midday.
In contrast, slower moving baits such as drop shot, football jigs, tubes, wacky rig, Texas rig, Neko rigs, and Carolina rigs can be phenomenal when the conditions are calm or the bass are holding close to the rocks.
Flutter spoons work great in the deepest part of the point or over any secondary structures directly related to the point.
Located: mid-lake, west side
Structural features: Isolated cover, large creek channels, main river channel, artificial fish habitat
Best species to target: Bass, bream, crappie, and catfish
Most effective way to fish this spot: Boat
Verde Head To Sycamore (Wash & Cove)
This area is directly across from the Sunny Beach-to-SB Wash area, is the other side of the midlake funnel.
In my opinion, it’s not as productive as the previously mentioned spot but offers more submerged bush and vegetation fishing opportunities.
The steep banks of Verde Head should be scanned carefully for bass as they will commonly be located here in the summer and late spring.
Just to the north of Verdy Head, Sycamore is best described as a combination of north-facing pockets and ending in a large cove.
While not very interesting on the surface the Sycamore area offers a few really interesting features.
First, the terrain in this area will create flats that drop into the main channel swing.
Secondly, I’ve seen this area become a floating mat of debris and branches in the deep pockets. It’s very common the day after a big thunderstorm.
This occurs because the wind coming from the north will push debris downstream and will get caught in the north-facing pockets.
Bass will suspend under the debris mats, and you can catch your limit in under an hour!
Lastly, Sycamore wash created a large creek channel that winds its way to the main river channel. This area must be fished if you’re in this area.
Effective baits for this area include: topwater lures, buzzbaits in the morning or on cloudy conditions. Crankbaits, spinnerbaits, jerkbaits, chatterbaits, umbrella rigs, underspin jigs, swim jigs, hair jigs, lipless crankbaits, and soft plastic swimbaits perform well here in breezy conditions or during the midday.
In contrast, slower moving baits such as drop shot, football jigs, tubes, wacky rig, Texas rig, Neko rigs, and Carolina rigs can be phenomenal when the conditions are calm or the bass are holding close to the rocks.
Flutter spoons work great in the deepest part of the point or over any secondary structures directly related to any points.
Located: mid-lake, east side
Structural features: Isolated cover, large creek channels, main river channel, sparse artificial fish habitat
Best species to target: Bass, bream, crappie, and catfish
Most effective way to fish this spot: Boat
Yellow Cliffs
Located in the upper river section of the lake, the Yellow Cliff area offers the angler several different fishing opportunities.
Yes, this is a large area however, there are a few features you need to find to quickly and easily narrow down to fish this section of the lake:
- Find small cuts and washouts that separate the sections of cliff walls will provide the best opportunity to catch fish.
- Identify the subtle points that the cliff walls create.
- Scan for any rock shelves or large submerged boulders.
Since the main river channel flows directly into that section of the bluff walls this area is can be extremely productive.
Crankbaits and soft plastic swimbaits work well if fished parallel to the bluff walls. Otherwise, fishing a Texas rig, drop shot, football jig, tube, or a wacky rig is strongly recommended.
Located: River channel
Structural features: Steep bluff walls, rocky shelves, boulders, cuts, washouts, river channel
Best species to target: Bass, bream, crappie, and catfish
Most effective way to fish this spot: Boat
Rocky Way Banks
Located upriver from the Yellow Cliffs, the Rocky Way Banks give the angler the combination of fishing steep banks with submerged brush and timber.
Be sure to target the areas that are shaded first when targeting bass.
Effective baits for this area include: topwater lures, buzzbaits, crankbaits, spinnerbaits, umbrella rigs, chatterbaits, jerkbaits, underspin jigs, swim jigs, hair jigs, and soft plastic swimbaits perform well here in breezy conditions.
In contrast, slower moving baits such as drop shot, football jigs, tubes, wacky rig, Texas rig, Neko rigs, and Carolina rigs can be phenomenal when the conditions are calm or the bass are holding close to the rocks.
The river channel will often harbor bass, crappie, and catfish that retreat away from the midday heat and can be fished in a similar way.
Located: River channel
Structural features: Steep rocky banks, boulders, artificial fish habitat, ledges, river channel
Best species to target: Bass, bream, crappie, and catfish
Most effective way to fish this spot: Boat
Bass Flats and Crappie Cove
This area is located on the northernmost river section on Bartlett Lake.
Different from other spots on the lower and main lake, these spots offer a high volume of exposed and submerged brush piles and standing timber, and in my opinion, the water is much dirtier.
If you like flipping dirty water these areas are meant for you.
In contrast to other spots on Bartlett Lake, Bass Flats and Crappie Cove are not very pressured. Most likely due to their remoteness… however, you’ll need some different tackle.
In these areas, you’ll probably want to use heavy flipping lures tied on a 65-pound test braided line or 20-25-pound fluorocarbon fishing line.
Anything less, the wood can slice through a lighter line.
Rest assured, since the water is dirtier, the fish won’t notice the larger diameter line.
What To Expect: Exposed Timber & Brush Piles
Depending on the water level of the lake sometimes the vertical timber or brush can be exposed in low water.
Most of the standing timber will be located near the bank however, there are some areas where you’ll encounter exposed timber in the middle of the river, so use extreme caution as you approach this area with your boat.
Of all my years fishing this lake there are so many different ways to fish this area. Here are some of the ways I fish for bass in this area:
- Fishing a heavy flipping lure at the base of the trunk or the middle of the brush pile. You’ll have the best success using a ½-to-¾-ounce flipping jig, or flipping a Texas rigged creature bait (a Zoom Brush Hog for example) using a ½-to-¾-ounce tungsten weight. A Tokyo rig also works really well here. Let your lure fall to the base and pause, give it a few shakes or small lifts and pause again. If you don’t get bit move on to another structure.
- Thread on a weedless wacky rig Senko or stick bait.
- Swim a soft plastic swimbait, spinnerbaits, frog, buzzbait, and even a squarebill crankbait over the external branches or beside the main trunk. Be sure to make contact with the trunk and it’s branches, pausing briefly after you make contact with it.
- Fish the outer edge branches with a jigging spoon rigged with a weedless hook.
What to Expect: Submerged Timber
If the standing timber is submerged swimming a crankbait, umbrella rig, jerkbait, chatterbait, swim jig, hair jig, or underspin jig over the tops of the trees to pull out bass.
Conversely, when the fish are really picky, consider a drop shot bait or suspending jerkbait just above the treetops for bass.
There are several submerged patches of trees located in the central section of Alamo. At these locations is where you’ll find crappie at this lake.
To catch over the submerged timber, slow trolling live minnows, roadrunner head jigs, and crappie tubes are great choices.
Since Bartlett can be very windy, it’s strongly recommended to use a quality drift sock to help slow your drift so you don’t have to worry about using up all your trolling motor battery.
Located: River section
Structural features: Submerged or exposed timber and brush, river channel, isolated rock piles, and boulders
Best species to target: Bass, bream, crappie, and catfish
Most effective way to fish this spot: Boat
Rocky Point to Bootleg Cove
This section of Bartlett Lake features the reservior’s longest rocky bank. The bank is characteristically very steep and made from large chunk rock to boulder-size substrate.
Naturally, crawfish, bluegill, minnows, and shad seek shelter in this area.
Given this embankment’s large area, it’s best to focus your efforts on cuts, points, and boulder piles.
Effective baits for this area include: crankbaits, soft plastic swimbaits, spinnerbaits, jerkbaits, chatterbaits, swim jigs, hair jigs, and underspin jigs when the bass are aggressive. Flutter spoons work great in the deeper main lake sections as well.
If the bass are timid, then drop shot, tubes, Ned rig, Neko rig, Mojo rig, Carolina rig, and jigs all work really well.
Located: Lower end, west side
Structural features: Steep rocky banks, drop offs, and ledges
Best species to target: Bass, bream, crappie, and catfish
Most effective way to fish this spot: Boat and kayak
Teepee Hill
Teepee Hill is another steep rocky bank on the southernmost section of Bartlett Lake.
The bank is characteristically one of the steeper banks in the lake and made from large chunk rock to boulder-sized substrate.
Side scanning this area for active fish should be a must if you plan to fish the lower end of the lake.
Effective baits for this area include: crankbaits, soft plastic swimbaits, spinnerbaits, jerkbaits, chatterbaits, swim jigs, hair jigs, and underspin jigs when the bass are aggressive. Flutter spoons work great in the deeper main lake sections as well.
If the bass are timid, then drop shot, tubes, Ned rig, Neko rig, Mojo rig, Carolina rig, and jigs all work really well.
Located: Lower end, west side
Structural features: Steep rocky banks, drop offs, and ledges
Best species to target: Bass, bream, crappie, and catfish
Most effective way to fish this spot: Boat
Moon Island
Located adjacent to Teepee Hill, Moon Island is really a long point with a large rocky mound at its tip. When the lake is high it appears to be an “island”.
To the east of Moon Island is a moderate sized creek channel next to a pile of large boulders that will harbor bass and catfish.
Effective baits for this area include: topwater lures, buzzbaits in the morning or on cloudy conditions. Crankbaits, spinnerbaits, jerkbaits, chatterbaits, umbrella rigs, underspin jigs, swim jigs, hair jigs, lipless crankbaits, and soft plastic swimbaits perform well here in breezy conditions or during the midday.
In contrast, slower moving baits such as drop shot, football jigs, tubes, wacky rig, Texas rig, Neko rigs, and Carolina rigs can be phenomenal when the conditions are calm or the bass are holding close to the rocks.
Flutter spoons work great in the deepest part of the point or over any secondary structures directly related to the point.
Located: Lower end, west side
Structural features: Steep rocky banks, rock piles, main lake humps
Best species to target: Bass, bream, crappie, and catfish
Most effective way to fish this spot: Boat
Panic Rock
Panic Rock is an eastern facing point on the lower end of Bartlett Lake.
What makes this area so special is this location is littered with artificial habitat, large isolated rock piles and boulders, and a large creek channel that flows into the main river channel.
Make sure you graph this entire area to find all the habitats. Oftentimes, bass and crappie will travel between the different habitats throughout the day.
Another cool feature is the creek channel is relatively straight and has several large stair-step drops that bass will locate around.
As a warning, it can get pretty windy so make sure you have a strong trolling motor. And if you’re trolling for fish make sure you slow your drift.
Effective baits for this area include: topwater lures, buzzbaits in the morning or on cloudy conditions. Crankbaits, spinnerbaits, jerkbaits, chatterbaits, umbrella rigs, underspin jigs, swim jigs, hair jigs, lipless crankbaits, and soft plastic swimbaits perform well here in breezy conditions or during the midday.
In contrast, slower moving baits such as drop shot, football jigs, tubes, wacky rig, Texas rig, Neko rigs, and Carolina rigs can be phenomenal when the conditions are calm or the bass are holding close to the rocks.
Flutter spoons work great in the deepest part of the point or over any secondary structures directly related to the point.
Located: River channel
Structural features: Steep rocky banks, rock piles, main lake humps, and artificial habitat
Best species to target: Bass, bream, crappie, and catfish
Most effective way to fish this spot: Boat
-- Featured Article Of The Month --
How To Catch A Fish at Bartlett Lake?
Largemouth Bass Fishing at Bartlett Lake
You may be wondering… How do you fish for bass in Bartlett Lake?The Largemouth bass is a carnivorous member of the sunfish family. Bartlett Lake holds the Northern strain species. The Northern strain is thought to be considered more aggressive and offers a better fight than their large Florida strain cousins found on Saguaro Lake.
Listed below are a handful of facts, top spots, and best lures to use to help you out…
If you’re still not sure how to catch a bass, do worry. A complete section on Bass Fishing 101 was written to help you out. In that section, you’ll learn about the top ways to get you catching bass fast.
Read more: Beginner’s Guide To Bass Fishing Basics – Tips, Secrets & Things To Avoid
General Largemouth Bass Details
Spawn: Spring, March-May
Food: Shad, bluegill, crayfish
Arizona State Record: 16 lb. 7.68 oz. 28.0 in., Canyon Lake Randall E. White, Mesa 4/22/97
Table Quality: Decent. Firm white meat.
Angling techniques:
Smallmouth Bass Fishing at Bartlett Lake
Smallmouth bass are sibling species closely related to largemouth bass. They have a pretty brown/golden color and carry the nickname of “bronzeback”. Some physical features make it different from the largemouth bass. Aside from being bronze in color, they will have grey-brown vertical bands and most definingly is the jaw does not extend past its eye.
Overall, smallmouth bass are most likely going about half the size of largemouth bass. However, pound for pound, a smallmouth can be increadably aggressive and will put up an amazing fight.
General Smallmouth Bass Details
Spawn: March-May
Food: fish, crustaceans.
Arizona State Record: 6 lb. 4.48 oz. 21 in. Lake Havasu Sue Nowak, 2/23/17
Table Quality: Similar to a largemouth bass it’s firm, white, flaky, mild-tasting
Angling techniques:
- Finesse jigs
- Mojo Rig
- Neko Rig
- Small crankbaits
- Football Jigs
- Soft plastic swimbaits
- Jerkbaits
- Chatterbaits
- Swim jigs
- Hair jigs
- Underspin jigs
- Drop shot plastic worms
- Tubes
- Streamer flies.
- Live baits: minnows, hellgrammites, and crayfish
Black Crappie Fishing at Bartlett Lake
Introduced to Arizona in 1905, Bartlett Lake holds black crappie. These fish tend to linger over submerged brush and timber and are found in schools.
The black crappie are much more tolerant in cooler water than their white crappie cousins.
Black crappie can be described as having an irregular black dots and blotched on the back and have more of a “silvery-olive” background.
Average weight of a crappie in Bartlett Lake is going to be 0.5-0.75-pounds, however electro-netted samples show they can get over 3-pounds in size!
General Crappie Details
Spawn: April – mid-June
Food: Larvae, small fish, and crustaceans. Threadfin shad make up their main diet.
Arizona State Record: 4 lb. 10.0 oz. –in., San Carlos Lake John Shadrick, Mammoth 1959
Table Quality: The meat is excellent. It’s firm, flaky and white.
Angling techniques:
- Live minnows under bobbers
- Crappie jigs
- Crappie tubes
- Silver spoons
- Spinners
Catfish Fishing at Bartlett Lake
Channel catfish weight will range from 0.5-to-15-pounds in and of the Roosevelt chain lakes, including Bartlett Lake. However, the average weight will be between 1-4-pounds.
Conversely, “smaller” flathead catfish will weigh in at 15-pounds and can grow around 75-pounds. A flathead survey conducted in 2016 and 2020 caught a flathead that weighed over 48-pounds!
General Catfish Details
Spawn: March-June
Food: Carp, bluegill
Arizona State Record:
Channel catfish – 33 lb., 5.76 oz., 39.5 in., Upper Lake Mary Carson Pete, 3/26/17
Flathead catfish – 76 lb. 8.64 oz., 53.5 in., Bartlett Lake Eddie Wilcoxson, Surprise 04/13/13
Table Quality: Soft white meat. In the summer the meat will taste muddy.
Angling techniques:
Flathead catfish:
- live bait such as smaller carp, full sized bluegill, or tilapia
Channel catfish:
- chicken liver
- hotdogs
- stink bait
- small bluegill
- small carp
Bluegill Fishing at Bartlett Lake
Introduced to Arizona in 1932, the bluegill has teal-blue coloring on the bottom portion of the chin and gill plate. It also has a solid black opercula flap just behind the gill plate.
Bluegill are found on the shoreline and prefer nearby structures. Bluegill are incredibly aggressive and will quickly attack anything that looks like it could be eaten. Due to their aggressive behavior, they are one of the easiest fish to catch and are a great way to introduce someone to fishing.
Spawn: April and May
Food: Small fish and insects
Arizona State Record: 3 lb. 15.68 oz. 15.75 in., Goldwater Lake. Christopher Ray Mapes, Prescott Valley 5/2/04
Table Quality: Firm, white meat
Angling techniques:
- Worms
- Dough balls
- Slim jim sausages pieces on a small hook (not lying… it really works)
- Small spinners
- Trout flys
Carp Fishing at Bartlett Lake
Carp are an oily freshwater species of fish and are native to Europe and Asia. Carp are considered invasive to the United States.
The big, hard fighting fish are really fun to catch. Many anglers will fish for carp at night and bowfishing from the shore or from a boat!
Carp can be consumed however, their muddy taste and boney meat make it one of the least desirable fish to eat.
Spawn: March-June
Food: algae, plant matter, fish eggs, insects, aquatic worms, small crustaceans (snails), and small crayfish
Arizona State Record: 37 lb. 0.0 oz. 40.0 in., Bartlett Lake Jonathan Gardner, Phoenix 8/8/87
Table Quality: Poor. Soft white flesh that is muddy and riddled with bones
Angling techniques:
- Dough balls
- Corn
- Worms
- Cherry tomatoes (not kidding)
- Commercial carp baits
Best Species-Specific Fishing Spots at Bartlett Lake
Top Largemouth Bass Fishing Spots at Bartlett Lake
- Rattlesnake Cove To Rattlesnake Point
- Sunny Beach To SB Wash
- Bass Flats and Crappie Cove
- Yellow Cliffs
- Moon Island
Top Crappie Fishing Spots at Bartlett Lake
- Bass Flats and Crappie Cove
- Sunny Beach To SB Wash
- Panic Rock
- Yellow Cliffs
- Around Bartlett Marina
Top Catfish Fishing Spots at Bartlett Lake
- Moon Island
- Teepee Hill
- Rattlesnake Cove To Rattlesnake Point
- Bass Flats and Crappie Cove
- Yellow Cliffs
Top Bream/Bluegill Fishing Spots at Bartlett Lake
- Sunny Beach To SB Wash
- Verde Head To Sycamore (Wash & Cove)
- Bass Flats and Crappie Cove
- Rocky Point to Bootleg Cove
- Panic Rock
- Around Bartlett Marina
Marinas/ Boat Ramps at Bartlett Lake
Bartlett Lake Marina / Jojoba Boat Ramp
Address: 20808 E Bartlett Dam Rd, Rio Verde, AZ 85263
Phone number: (480) 221-0503
Groceries/ Snacks: Yes
Bathrooms: Yes
Boat Rentals: Yes
Electric: Yes
Gas: Yes
Camping nearby: Yes
Other Boat Ramps Can Be Founds at...
- Yellow Cliffs Boat Launch
Places to camp, lodging and RV parks
Traditional camping areas
- Yellow Cliffs recreation area
- SB Cove
- Riverside Campground (below Bartlett Dam)
- Bartlett Lake Flats
Lodging
- None
Boat camping areas (primitive)
- None
RV Hook-Ups (electric & water)
- Jojoba (<40 feet) and Yellow Cliffs recreation area
Tackle Shops & Tackle Retailers Near Bartlett Lake
Phoenix Fishing Supply
Located in central Phoenix, Phoenix Fishing Supply has been around since the 1980’s! Even before the big-box stores came into town Phoenix Fishing Supply has been catering to all types of anglers and offers a huge selection of products.
- Address - 4810 North 16th Street, Phoenix, Arizona 85016
- Phone number - (602) 266-2624
- Website - Phoenix Fishing Supply
- Payment methods accepted - Cash, credit, debit
Liar's Korner
Liar’s Korner Fishing Bait & Tackle is nestled in the far east side of metro Phoenix. This tackle shop is proudly run as a small family business that is serious about giving you the right gear to help you catch fish. It doesn’t matter if you’re fishing bass, crappie, walleye, or trout. They have what you need. They carry all the name brands of tackle and gear, and frequently offer better prices than the big-box companies.
- Address - 9529 E Main St, Mesa, AZ 85207
- Phone number - (480) 986-2515
- Website - Liar's Korner facebook page
- Payment methods accepted - Cash, credit, debit
Bass Pro Shops
Located on the east side Phoenix, Bass Pro Shops caters to very type of angler who wants to get their line wet. Founded in 1972 by angler Johnny Morris in Springfield, Missouri Bass Pro Shops combines a massive tackle shop with their hunting, boating, conservation, and guide trips into a comprehensive outdoor and fishing retailer.
- Address - 1133 N Dobson Rd, Mesa, AZ 85201
- Phone number - (602) 606-5600
- Website - Bass Pro Shops
- Payment methods accepted - Cash, credit, debit
Sportsman's Warehouse
Sportsman’s Warehouse feels like a combination of a small outdoor outfitter shop with the capacity to hold a large amount of tackle, gear, and other outdoor accessories. The staff is friendly, patient, and knowledgeable. Sportsman’s Warehouse carries a wide variety of gear for every bass, catfish, trout, crappie, walleye, and pike to get you started.
- Address - 19205 N 27th Ave, Phoenix, AZ 85027
- Phone number - (623) 516-1400
- Website - Sportsman’s Warehouse
- Payment methods accepted - Cash, credit, debit, apple pay
———HUGE FISHING BLUEPRINT NATIONAL PROMOTION!———
Limited Time Promotion – Act Now!
Other Things To Do Near Bartlett Lake
For those who want to chill at the lake…
- Biking
- Bird watching
- Boating
- Skiing
- Kayaking
- Canoeing
- Paddleboarding
- Sailing
- Swimming
- Camping
- Horseshoes
- Picnicking
- Hiking
- Gentle walking trails
- Nature photography trails
- Wildlife viewing
- Mountain biking
- Stargazing
- and most importantly… relaxing.
Do you need a Tonto Pass for Bartlett Lake?
Yes, a Tonto Pass is required if you are going to fish this lake. Luckily there are several types of passes that you can purchase. There are also several different places you can easily purchase a Tonto Pass.
Tonto Pass Options
Tonto Daily Pass – $8
Sold at Tonto National Forest offices, retail outlets and online.
Tonto Daily Passes are hangtags, designed to be self-validating.
Tonto Discovery Pass – $80
Sold at Tonto National Forest Offices only.
The Tonto Discovery Pass is an annual pass valid for one year (expires at the end of the month and year punched on the card) from the time of purchase. The pass must be displayed in the provided hangtag from the rearview mirror. The Tonto Discovery Pass is valid for the pass holder (person(s) who signed the back of the pass) and the occupants of a single, private non-commercial vehicle.
Tonto Senior and Access Pass – $60
Sold at Tonto National Forest Offices only.
Persons ages 62 or older are eligible for the Tonto Discovery Senior pass. The Tonto Senior Discovery and Access Pass are two separate annual passes valid for one year (expiring at the end of the month and year punched on the card) from the time purchased. The pass must be displayed in the provided hangtag from the rearview mirror. The Tonto Discovery Pass is valid for a single pass holder (or person who signed the back of the pass) and the occupants of a single, private non-commercial vehicle. Please call any of our offices listed on the side to see if you qualify for the Senior pass or our Access Pass.
Tonto Discovery Vehicle Sticker: Free
(With purchase of Tonto Discovery Pass)
This pass is meant for OPEN TOP vehicles only where the regular Discovery Pass hangtag cannot be used or can be easily stolen. It is meant to be placed on your front windshield and used as a Tonto Discovery Pass. It is valid for a year from the day you purchase it. Only one sticker will come at request with the purchase of a Tonto Discovery Pass.
Proof of current registration/ownership of your open top vehicle/motorcycle is required at time of issuance to validate and receive the vehicle sticker. Customer must carry their Tonto Pass Hangtag with them when driving a vehicle with a vehicle sticker.
Watercraft Use Sticker – $4
One sticker must be permanently affixed to a Tonto Daily Pass for each motorized watercraft that the vehicle tows or otherwise carries to the lake. “Motorized watercraft’ means any watercraft that is propelled by machinery whether or not the machinery is the principal source of propulsion.
Where Are the Tonto Passes Sold?
There are several ways you can purchases Tonto Passes:
- At the Tonto National Forest supervisor’s and district ranger offices
- At a variety of retail outlets around Arizona and along routes that forest visitors use to reach recreation sites on the Tonto National Forest
- Purchase annual and daily passes online
- By phone or mail Purchase by Phone or Mail
One of the unique features of the Tonto Pass program is the participation of retail outlets, small and large local businesses that sell the pass at many locations throughout the Phoenix metropolitan area, other Arizona cities and towns, and within the Tonto National Forest.
Other Arizona Related Fishing Articles
- Top 20 Best Places To Fish In Arizona 2023
- Interactive AZ Fishing Map 2023 – Where To Go Fishing In Arizona
- How much does a Arizona fishing license cost?
- Best Tackle Shops In Phoenix Arizona 2023
- Best Bass Fishing Lakes in Arizona 2023 (Voted by Local Anglers!)
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- Bartlett Lake Fishing Report 2024
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-- Featured Article Of The Month --
Accessories You’ll Need
Fishing Rod
Rod –The popularity of fishing is growing and people are becoming much more conscious of different rods that can help them.
Fishermen want the best technique-specific rod for the money.
Luckily, the report I wrote provides you with detailed information in order for you to make buy the rod for the money, and more importantly which rods to avoid at all costs.
>> What Rods To Use For Bass Fishing? 10 Awesome General Purpose Rods Reviewed
Fishing Reel
Reel – Having the correct reel to match with your rod is just as important. A good reel should be light and have a buttery smooth drag. There are several great reels on the market, but I recommend the a quality Shimano baitcasting reel. It’s a great reel packed with great features. So much so that it could easily be priced in the mid $200 range.
>>How To Choose A Great Bass Fishing Reel For The Money [and which to avoid at all costs]
Fishing Line
Fishing Line – Having a good line is just as important as having a good rod. I recommend fishing with a good fluorocarbon line. Furthermore, it’s super sensitive because it has little to no stretch, and underwater it’s invisible to the bass! If pride or money is on the line I would use Sunline Sniper FC.
>>21 Tips To Choose The Best Fishing Line
Fishing Lures & Baits
Fishing Lures – It’s pretty hard and darn near impossible trying to catch a fish without using some sort of lure or bait. More importantly these baits you should never forget at home or it could lead to a horrible day on the water
>>5 Bass Fishing Lures You Never Want to Leave At Home
Fish Finder
Finding lunker bass has never been easier when using a fish finding sonar unit. Packed with additional features to make your day on the water even easier. Maps that can plan your day or help you find your way back even in the darkest of nights. Bright bold numbers and letters to make reading the maps easy even in the brightest of days, and colors that pop and make it quick and easy to identify fish.
If you have a boat, kayak, canoe, or float tube, you need a fish finder.
Here’s our choice for the best fish finder between $299-$800:
Humminbird HELIX 7 CHIRP MEGA SI
It has all the features for any serious fisherman whether you’re an avid weekend warrior, or a tournament angler. This has all the bells and whistles you’re looking for.
>> Click HERE to Read The Reviews About Humminbird HELIX 7 CHIRP MEGA SI now
Here’s our choice for the best economic fish finder:
Garmin Stryker
While others look for bites, your fishfinder and GPS plotter help you reach your daily limit. You can mark preferred docks, ramps, and hotspots to easily return to them later and even share waypoints.
Click HERE to Read The Reviews About Garmin Stryker now!
Life Vest
According to Statista, “In the United States, 658 people died as a result of boating accidents and 2,641 people were injured in 2021.”
And it gets even worse… The National Safe Boating Council reported, “Where cause of death was known, 81% of fatal boating accident victims drowned.”
And if that’s not enough the incidence of deaths has climbed dramatically in recent years.
So if you’re on the water you NEED to wear your life vest. Protect you, your friends, and your families lives by wearing a life vest every time you’re on the water.
I recommend the ONYX PFD. It’s comfortable for all day use and there is lots of room for the air to move around so you won’t get sweaty.
>>Click HERE to read all the reviews actual customers!
Sunglasses
Sunglasses – Do you find yourself fishing in variable light and water conditions? Fishing in open water? Fishing in the bright hot sun? Then, only to leave the lake with eye strain and a splitting headache?
If so, I strongly recommend investing in a pair of Costa Sun Glasses. Thousands of anglers, charter guides, and tournament professionals put their trust into Costa, and so should you. Here’s why…
Costa’s co-injected bio-based nylon frame material is robust and durable, as well as extremely comfortable to wear for all-day use. TR-90 nylon is an excellent material for sports and performance frames since it is heat and cold-resistant.
Costa builds their glasses with class-leading technology. Their 580G glass lens sets them apart from the competition. These lenses are ideal for long days on the lake or sea since you won’t have to worry about scratches on the lens when you wipe the saltwater off. Needless to say they’re Costa’s most durable lenses.
Anyone who spends time outside, especially on the lake, needs polarized lenses. However, not all polarized sunglasses are the same. Costa is 99.9% polarized, giving it the most effective possible in blocking reflecting glare, and minimizing eye strain and headaches.
>>Click HERE to Read The Reviews On These Costa Sunglasses Right Now!
Drift Sock
Simply speaking, a drift sock (also known as a drift anchor) is like a parachute for the water. It gives you the ability to silently troll without spooking the fish!
Anyone who fishes out of a boat, canoe, kayak, stand up paddle board, or any other type of floating vessel should have a drift sock ready to use.
In addition to helping you catch more fish, recreational boaters also like to have 1-2 drift socks handy, just in case their motor goes out on them the drift sock will help slow their drift. This could be instrumental to allow rescuers to find that boat quickly and easily.
I strongly recommend the Drift Master Drift Sock by Mythik Outdoors.
The construction is solid. Holding this in your hands gives you the peace of mind this feels durable and dependable.
I love that it’s made from the gorilla-strong “RipStop” high density material, and I like that it’s even paired with the high-density nylon strapping.
It’s 30% stronger than other competitors who use a cheaper version of the RipStop material, so you never have to worry about his ripping.
Looking closely I can see they even triple stitched the high-tension points which is a good feature.
But best part… the Drift Master comes in a complete kit!
So get yours today and don’t leave yourself adrift.
The last thing to note is the Mythik Outdoors Drift Master drift sock kits sell out fast, so make sure you get yours before they’re gone!
>>Click HERE to Read The Reviews On This Drift Sock Today!
Landing Net
Landing Net – As you are reeling in that monster fish, you don’t want to injure yourself or knock the fish off the hook by trying to grab it.
The PLUSINNO floating landing net is designed with foam padding on the hoop and provides buoyancy for fishermen. Now, If the net is dropped or blown overboard, the floating design makes it simple to retrieve – so you won’t have to be concerned about losing it! The rubberized net cannot be snagged. It keeps the fish safe for catch-and-release, and the non-absorbent covering avoids waterlogging and odor absorption in the net. It’s collapsing design allows for easy storage.
That’s why I recommend a dependable telescopic landing net.
>>Click HERE to Read The Reviews On This Floating Landing Net Today!
Fishing Weight Scale & Culler
Fishing Weight Scale – Whether you’re going to keep your catch or just take a photo of it and brag to your friends it’s important to have an accurate scale. The Rapala Tournament Model Touch Screen Scale makes weighing and logging your catch easier and more convenient. The large digital scale has a lot of functions and is easy to use. simply keep track of your current catch and its place in your overall weight. To see the weight, just suspend the catch from the heavy-duty composite clamp or the accompanying stainless steel hook. Adding the important details to your catch couldn’t be easier – simply input your catch’s weight and tap on one of the eight storage places. The culling process makes it simple to identify fish that should be released for the greatest overall weight.
I recommend a Rapala Tournament Scale that has a large LED display like this one fishing scale here.