Water Ranch Lake Fishing Guide

Water Ranch Lake Fishing Guide

Water Ranch Lake Fishing Guide, in Gilbert, AZ, is a fantastic place to enjoy a peaceful day outdoors. The lake is stocked with fish like bass, catfish, and sunfish, making it a fun spot for both beginners and experienced anglers. Located in the Riparian Preserve at Water Ranch, the area is full of natural beauty. The preserve has walking trails, birdwatching areas, and plenty of green space, perfect for a relaxing day in nature. Whether you’re fishing, exploring the trails, or just enjoying the views, there’s something for everyone. The lake offers a calm and scenic setting, great for unwinding and connecting with nature. You can even see a variety of birds and wildlife while you’re there! So pack your fishing gear, bring some snacks, and enjoy a great day at Water Ranch Fishing Lake – it’s a peaceful retreat right in the heart of Gilbert. 🎣 🐟

Fish Species & Limits

Water Ranch Lake Fishing Guide is stocked with several fish species as part of the Community Fishing Program. The daily bag limits for each species are:

  • 2 catfish
  • 2 trout
  • 0 bass (catch and release only)
  • 0 sunfish (catch and release only)
  • 1 white amur (30 inch minimum)
  • Statewide limits apply to all other species
  • Single barbless hooks required
  • Use of live bait is allowed
  • AZ Fishing Regulations & Limits can change anytime. Visit AZGFD for any updates or changes.

Lake Details

Here’s a quick overview of Water Ranch Lake Fishing Guide key details:

  • LOCATION – Riparian Preserve at Water Ranch, 2757 E Guadalupe Rd., Gilbert, AZ
  • PARK HOURS – 6 a.m. to 10:30 p.m.

Water Ranch Lake Fishing Guide Map

Lake Details

  • Type: Man-made lake
  • Water Surface: 5 acres
  • Shoreline: 1 mile
  • Average Depth: 6 feet
  • Max Depth: 15 feet
  • Surface Elev.: 1,230 feet
  • Location: Gilbert, Arizona
  • Coordinates:
    33.3597° N, 111.7516° W

Lake Amenities

  • Playground
  • Riparian Preserve with walking trails
  • Library
  • Excellent Bird Watching

Fish Types

Bass Fishing

Fish Spots & Tips

  • Where to Fish for Bass:
    Fishing along the shoreline and inlets is great for catching Bass. Look for spots with vegetation, fallen branches, and rocks where these fish like to hide.
  • Bass Fishing Tips:
    Bass thrive in warmer waters and are most active during the spring and summer
  • Baits: Live shad, crayfish, and plastic worms
  • Lures: Crankbaits, spinnerbaits, and topwater lures
  • Tackle: Medium to heavy spinning or baitcasting gear with 8-12 lb test line

CatFish Fishing

Fish Spots & Tips

  • Where to Fish for Catfish:
    Channel Catfish are bottom dwellers and can be found in the deeper, murkier parts of the lake.
  • Catfish Fishing Tips:
    Catfish are popular among night anglers. They are most active after sunset.
  • Baits: Stink bait, chicken liver, and cut bait
  • Lures: Not commonly used, as they prefer natural baits
  • Tackle: Medium to heavy spinning or baitcasting gear with 12-20 lb test line

Rainbow Trout Fishing

Fish Spots & Tips

  • Where to Fish for Rainbow Trout:
    Center of the lake offers deeper, cooler waters in the center of the lake are ideal for catching Rainbow Trout. You can reach these areas by casting from the fishing docks or using a small boat if allowed.
  • Rainbow Trout Fishing Tips:
    Suspend these baits on the right at different depths with a bobber.
  • Baits: PowerBait, worms, and small minnows
  • Lures: Spinners, spoons, and small jigs
  • Tackle: Light to medium spinning gear with 4-6 lb test line

SunFish Fishing

Fish Spots & Tips

  • Where to Fish for Sunfish:
    Sunfish are commonly found in the shallow areas of the lake, especially around docks and vegetation.
  • Sunfish Fishing Tips:
    They are active throughout the day, particularly in the summer.
  • Baits: Worms, crickets, and small pieces of bread
  • Lures: Tiny jigs and small spinners
  • Tackle: Ultra-light spinning gear with 2-4 lb test line

White Amur Fishing

Fish Spots & Tips

  • Where to Fish for White Amur:
    White Amur, or Grass Carp, are usually found in the deeper parts of the lake where there is plenty of aquatic vegetation.
  • White Amur Fishing Tips:
    These large fish are known for their herbivorous diet.
  • Baits: Corn, bread, and fresh vegetables, catfish bait
  • Lures: Not commonly used, as they prefer natural baits
  • Tackle: Medium to heavy spinning gear with 10-15 lb test line

Gear & Tackle

AZGFD 2023 & 2024 Fishing Regulations

Directions

Similar Posts