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Catching SLAB Crappie at Bartlett Lake!! ft. TheFishinMagician2.0

Summary

Lake Details

Fish Types

Gear & Tackle

Directions

Bartlett Lake Fishing Guide 🎣

YouTube video
Bartlett Lake Fishing Report 

​Bartlett Lake in Arizona is a fantastic place to go fishing, just about an hour from Phoenix. This 2,815-acre lake is known for its variety of fish, including largemouth and smallmouth bass, crappie, sunfish, channel and flathead catfish, and carp. In fact, the Arizona state record flathead catfish, weighing over 76 pounds, was caught here! The lake has plenty of coves and inlets, making it great for both boat and shore fishing. Popular spots like Rattlesnake Cove and SB Cove are perfect for casting your line. There are also boat ramps, picnic areas, and even a restaurant called The Cove for when you need a break. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced angler, Bartlett Lake offers a fun and relaxing fishing experience in a beautiful desert setting.

Lake Details

Bartlett Lake Fishing Guide 🎣 :

  • Bartlett Lake, located about an hour northeast of Phoenix in the Tonto National Forest, is a favorite fishing destination for both beginners and seasoned anglers. Known for its scenic desert surroundings and diverse fish population, the lake offers ample opportunities for a fun and relaxing fishing experience.​
  • Lake Details: Bartlett Lake covers approximately 2,815 acres and stretches about 12 miles in length. The lake has an average depth of 100 feet, with some areas reaching up to 174 feet deep. Its shoreline extends over 33 miles, providing plenty of spots for fishing and recreation. ​
  • Fish Species: Anglers at Bartlett Lake can expect to catch a variety of fish, including largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, crappie, sunfish, channel catfish, flathead catfish, and carp. The lake is particularly known for its large flathead catfish, with the Arizona state record of 76.52 pounds caught here.​
  • Fishing Conditions: Fishing is good year-round at Bartlett Lake. Spring and fall are especially productive for bass and crappie, while summer nights are ideal for catfish. Early mornings and late evenings are typically the best times to fish, offering cooler temperatures and increased fish activity.​
  • Boating Regulations: Boating is allowed on Bartlett Lake, with several launch ramps available, including at Jojoba, Bartlett Flat, and Yellow Cliffs. Boaters must adhere to Arizona state regulations, which include having a valid driver’s license or boater education card to operate a boat. Additionally, a Tonto Pass is required for parking at lake access points.​
  • Fishing Techniques: For bass, try using crankbaits, spinnerbaits, or soft plastic worms near rocky areas and submerged structures. Crappie can be caught using small jigs or live minnows, especially around submerged brush and trees. Catfish are often caught using stink baits or chicken liver during the evening hours. ​
  • Bartlett Lake offers a wonderful fishing experience amidst Arizona’s stunning desert scenery. With its variety of fish species, accessible facilities, and beautiful surroundings, it’s a great destination for anglers of all skill levels. So pack your fishing gear, grab some bait, and head out to Bartlett Lake for a memorable day on the water!​
  • For the most current information on fishing conditions, regulations, and amenities, it’s advisable to consult the Arizona Game and Fish Department‘s official resources or contact local authorities directly.
Guide To Fly Fishing In Arizona Best Arizona Fishing Books Guides

Top Fish at Bartlett Lake Fishing Guide 🎣

Lake Information

  • Name/Location:
    Bartlett Lake
  • Surface Acres: 2,815
  • Avg Depth: 100 feet
  • County: Maricopa County
  • Website:
  • Fs.usda.gov
  • Fishing License: A valid fishing or combination license is required for resident and nonresident anglers 10 years of age or older fishing any public accessible water in Arizona.

Lake Amenities

  • Boat Launch Ramps
    Bartlett Lake offers multiple boat launch sites, including Jojoba, Bartlett Flat, Yellow Cliffs, and the marina, making it easy to get your boat into the water.
  • Boat Rentals
    If you don’t have your own boat, the Bartlett Lake Marina provides rentals of pontoon boats, jet skis, stand-up paddleboards, and kayaks.
  • Picnic Areas
    Enjoy a meal by the lake at designated picnic spots like Rattlesnake Cove and Yellow Cliffs, which offer shaded tables and grills.
  • Restroom Facilities
    Vault toilets are available at various locations around the lake, including Jojoba and Bartlett Flat, ensuring comfort during your visit.
  • Camping Opportunities
    For those looking to extend their fishing trip, dispersed shoreline camping is permitted at areas like Bartlett Flat and Yellow Cliffs.
  • Fishing Supplies
    The marina’s store stocks fishing essentials, including live bait, tackle, and other gear you might need for a successful day on the water.
  • The Cove Restaurant
    After a day of fishing, relax and enjoy a meal at The Cove, a lakeside restaurant offering a variety of dishes with beautiful views.

Nearby Lakes

Fish Types

Largemouth Bass Fishing Guide Baits Lures Techniques.webp

Largemouth Bass

Smallmouth Bass Fishing Guide Baits Lures Techniques.webp

Smallmouth Bass

Sunfish Fishing Guide Baits Lures Techniques.webp

Sunfish

Black Crappie Fishing Guide Baits Lures Techniques.webp

Black Crappie

White Crappie Fishing Guide Baits Lures Techniques.webp

White Crappie

Channel Catfish Fishing Guide Baits Lures Techniques.webp

Channel Catfish

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

Baits & Lures

Berkley Gulp! Corn

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Berkley PowerBait Power Honey Worm

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Pautzke Balls O’ Fire Salmon Eggs

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Berkley PowerBait Natural Cheese Scent

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Berkley Gulp! Trout Nuggets Dough Bait

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Bass Fishing

Largemouth 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

Baits & Lures

TRUSCEND Pre-Rigged Soft Fishing Lures

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Gary Yamamoto Senko Soft Plastic Worms

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SteelShad Lipless Crankbait

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TRUSCEND Swimming Jigging Fishing Spinners

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Bass Drop Shot Rigs

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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

Baits & Lures

Berkley Powerbait Panfish Nibbles Fishing Bait

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Berkley Gulp! Maggot 

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Berkley Gulp! Killer Crawler Fishing Soft Bait

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Berkley Berkley PowerBait Power Honey Worm

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YUM Ribbontail Grub Curly Tail Swim Fishing Lure

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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

Baits & Lures

Wild Cat Pre-Molded Catfish Bait

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Catfish Charlie Dip Bait Cheese

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Wild Cat Blood Dip Bait

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Berkley PowerBait Catfish Bait Chunks Fishing Dough

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Pro-Cure Catfish Magic Chicken Liver Cure

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Gear & Tackle

HOOK-EZE Fishing Hook Knot Tying Tool

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ACX Fish Lip Gripper Pliers

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PLUSINNO Floating Fishing Net

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Fishing Rod Combos with Telescopic Fishing Pole

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KastKing Tactical Fishing Sling Tackle Storage Bag

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KastKing Fishing Lure Wraps

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Piscifun Fishing Line Winder Spooler Machine

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KastKing Mountain Mist Fishing Gloves

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Eagle Claw E.C. Fresh Water Tackle Kit

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TOPFORT 187/343pcs Fishing Accessories Kit

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Columbia Unisex Pfg Fish Flag Mesh Snap Back

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TOREGE Sports Polarized Sunglasses

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Booms Fishing R2 Hook Remover Squeeze

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iBobber portable fish depth finder

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Smith & Wesson Extreme Ops Folding Knife

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HOOK-EZE Fishing Hook Knot Tying Tool

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Shakespeare Catch More Fish Panfish Tackle Box Kit

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Shakespeare Catch More Fish Catfish Tackle Box Kit

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PLUSINNO Bass Fishing Lures Baits Tackle

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PLUSINNO Fishing Lures Baits Tackle

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Crappie Magnet Tackle Pack Kit

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TOPFORT 187/343pcs Fishing Accessories Kit

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Harmony Fishing Bass Razor Weedless Hooks

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Panfish Magnet Kit

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Fishing Hooks Bobbers Freshwater Tackle Kit

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PLUSINNO 264/397pcs Fishing Accessories Kit

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Eagle Claw E.C. Fresh Water Tackle Kit

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Eagle Claw Trout Fishing Kit

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Shakespeare Kids Hide-A-Hook Bobber

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Smaky Fishing Tackle Kit

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HOOK-EZE Fishing Hook Knot Tying Tool

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ACX Fish Lip Gripper Pliers

Purchase on Amazon →

PLUSINNO Floating Fishing Net

Purchase on Amazon →

Fishing Rod Combos with Telescopic Fishing Pole

Purchase on Amazon →

KastKing Tactical Fishing Sling Tackle Storage Bag

Purchase on Amazon →

KastKing Fishing Lure Wraps

Purchase on Amazon →

Piscifun Fishing Line Winder Spooler Machine

Purchase on Amazon →

KastKing Mountain Mist Fishing Gloves

Purchase on Amazon →

Eagle Claw E.C. Fresh Water Tackle Kit

Purchase on Amazon →

TOPFORT 187/343pcs Fishing Accessories Kit

Purchase on Amazon →

Columbia Unisex Pfg Fish Flag Mesh Snap Back

Purchase on Amazon →

TOREGE Sports Polarized Sunglasses

Purchase on Amazon →

iBobber portable fish depth finder

Purchase on Amazon →

Smith & Wesson Extreme Ops Folding Knife

Purchase on Amazon →

Smith & Wesson Extreme Ops Folding Knife

Purchase on Amazon →

HOOK-EZE Fishing Hook Knot Tying Tool

Purchase on Amazon →

ACX Fish Lip Gripper Pliers

Purchase on Amazon →

PLUSINNO Floating Fishing Net

Purchase on Amazon →

Fishing Rod Combos with Telescopic Fishing Pole

Purchase on Amazon →

KastKing Tactical Fishing Sling Tackle Storage Bag

Purchase on Amazon →

KastKing Fishing Lure Wraps

Purchase on Amazon →

Piscifun Fishing Line Winder Spooler Machine

Purchase on Amazon →

KastKing Mountain Mist Fishing Gloves

Purchase on Amazon →

Eagle Claw E.C. Fresh Water Tackle Kit

Purchase on Amazon →

TOPFORT 187/343pcs Fishing Accessories Kit

Purchase on Amazon →

Columbia Unisex Pfg Fish Flag Mesh Snap Back

Purchase on Amazon →

TOREGE Sports Polarized Sunglasses

Purchase on Amazon →

TOREGE Sports Polarized Sunglasses

Purchase on Amazon →

TOREGE Sports Polarized Sunglasses

Purchase on Amazon →

TOREGE Sports Polarized Sunglasses

Purchase on Amazon →

HOOK-EZE Fishing Hook Knot Tying Tool

Purchase on Amazon →

ACX Fish Lip Gripper Pliers

Purchase on Amazon →

PLUSINNO Floating Fishing Net

Purchase on Amazon →

Fishing Rod Combos with Telescopic Fishing Pole

Purchase on Amazon →

KastKing Tactical Fishing Sling Tackle Storage Bag

Purchase on Amazon →

KastKing Fishing Lure Wraps

Purchase on Amazon →

Piscifun Fishing Line Winder Spooler Machine

Purchase on Amazon →

KastKing Mountain Mist Fishing Gloves

Purchase on Amazon →

Eagle Claw E.C. Fresh Water Tackle Kit

Purchase on Amazon →

TOPFORT 187/343pcs Fishing Accessories Kit

Purchase on Amazon →

Columbia Unisex Pfg Fish Flag Mesh Snap Back

Purchase on Amazon →

TOREGE Sports Polarized Sunglasses

Purchase on Amazon →

TOREGE Sports Polarized Sunglasses

Purchase on Amazon →

iBobber portable fish depth finder

Purchase on Amazon →

Smith & Wesson Extreme Ops Folding Knife

Purchase on Amazon →

Directions

FAQs

You can catch largemouth bass, crappie, catfish (both channel and flathead), sunfish, carp, and even smallmouth bass. It’s a great lake for variety!

Yes! If you’re 10 years or older, you’ll need a valid Arizona fishing license. You can grab one online or at a local outdoor store.

You can totally fish from the shore! There are lots of good spots like Rattlesnake Cove and Bartlett Flat. Boats help you reach deeper spots, but not required.

Spring and fall are great for bass and crappie. Summer nights are awesome for catching big catfish. Early mornings and evenings are always best for bites!

Yes! The Bartlett Lake Marina has a small store with bait, tackle, snacks, and even a restaurant called The Cove where you can grab a bite to eat.

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