YouTube video
Fishing a Team Tournament at Lake Pleasant (Bass Fishing Derby)

Summary

Lake Details

Fish Types

Gear & Tackle

Directions

Pleasant Lake Fishing Guide 🎣

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Shore Fishing Lake Pleasant AZ (CRYSTAL CLEAR WATER)

Pleasant Lake Fishing, straddling the Maricopa and Yavapai county border northwest of Phoenix, Arizona, is a fantastic spot for anglers of all levels. The lake is home to 12 species of fish, including white bass, striped bass, largemouth bass, bluegill, and various types of catfish.

Fishing conditions are great year-round, with bass currently found in shallow waters chasing baitfish, and catfish biting on night crawlers and stink baits.

Whether you’re fishing from a boat or the shore, Pleasant Lake offers a peaceful and enjoyable experience. Don’t forget to bring your fishing license and check local regulations before heading out.

Lake Details

Pleasant Lake Fishing Guide 🎣 :

  • Lake Pleasant, located northwest of Phoenix and straddling Maricopa and Yavapai counties, is a favorite spot for fishing enthusiasts. With its clear waters and beautiful desert surroundings, it’s a great place to catch a variety of fish and enjoy a day outdoors.​
  • Lake Details: Lake Pleasant covers over 10,000 acres and has an average depth of about 70 feet, with some areas reaching up to 170 feet deep. It’s one of the largest lakes in Arizona, offering plenty of space for fishing and boating activities.​
  • Fish Species: The lake is home to 12 types of fish, including largemouth bass, striped bass, white bass, bluegill, crappie, catfish, and tilapia. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced angler, there’s something for everyone.
  • Fishing Conditions: Fishing is good year-round, but spring and fall are especially productive. Bass are often found in shallow waters chasing baitfish, while catfish are more active at night. Water temperatures and weather conditions can affect fish behavior, so it’s good to check local reports before heading out.
  • Boating Regulation: Boats must be launched from designated ramps, and shoreline launching is not allowed. Life jackets are required for all passengers, and boats 16 feet or longer must have a throwable flotation device on board.
  • Fishing Techniques: For bass, try using swimbaits, crankbaits, or soft plastics near submerged vegetation. Striped bass respond well to shad or perch jerk baits and spoons. Catfish are often caught using night crawlers or stink baits. Crappie fishing is best with small jigs or live minnows near structures. ​
  • Closing Statement: Lake Pleasant offers a fun and relaxing fishing experience for everyone. With its variety of fish, beautiful scenery, and accessible amenities, it’s a great place to spend the day with family or friends. Don’t forget your fishing license and check local regulations before you go!​
  • 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 Pleasant Lake Fishing Guide 🎣

Lake Information

  • Name/Location:
    Lake Pleasant
  • Surface Acres: 55
  • Max Depth: 40 feet
  • County: Maricopa County, Yavapai County
  • Website:
  • Orvis
  • Visit Arizona
  • 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 Ramps – The park features multiple boat ramps, including a 10-lane and a 4-lane ramp, making it easy to launch your boat and enjoy the lake.
  • Campgrounds – There are 148 campsites available for both RV and tent camping, with options ranging from developed sites with water and electricity to more primitive spots. ​
  • Picnic Areas – Enjoy a meal outdoors at one of the many picnic areas equipped with tables and grills, perfect for family gatherings or a relaxing lunch.​
  • Hiking Trails – Explore scenic trails like the Pipeline Canyon Trail and Yavapai Point Trail, offering beautiful views of the lake and surrounding desert landscape. ​searchscottsdale.com
  • Restroom Facilities – Restrooms are available throughout the park, including in campgrounds and day-use areas, ensuring convenience during your visit. ​
  • Swimming Areas – Designated swimming areas allow visitors to cool off during the warmer months, providing a fun way to enjoy the water safely.​
  • Marinas with Rentals – Marinas like Scorpion Bay offer boat rentals, dining options, and other services to enhance your lake experience.

Nearby Lakes

Fish Types

Largemouth Bass Fishing Guide Baits Lures Techniques.webp

Largemouth Bass

Striped bass fishing guide tips

Striped Bass

White bass fishing guide tips

White Bass

Bluegill Fishing Guide Baits Lures Techniques.webp

Blue Gill

Rainbow Trout Fishing Guide Baits Lures Techniques

Rainbow Trout

Sunfish Fishing Guide Baits Lures Techniques.webp

Sunfish

Smallmouth Bass Fishing Guide Baits Lures Techniques.webp

Smallmouth Bass

Smallmouth Bass Fishing Guide Baits Lures Techniques.webp

Smallmouth Bass

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

Tilapia Fishing Guide Baits Lures Techniques.webp

Tilapia

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

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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 all sorts of fish here! Some of the most popular ones are largemouth bass, striped bass, catfish, crappie, and sunfish. People also fish for white bass and even tilapia sometimes. It’s a great spot for all kinds of anglers!

Yes, you do. Everyone 10 years and older needs to have a valid Arizona fishing license. You can buy one online or at nearby outdoor stores before heading out. Don’t forget it—it’s the rule!

Absolutely! You can bring your own boat, and there are big boat ramps to launch from. Or, if you don’t have one, you can rent a boat or kayak from the marina. Super easy and fun!

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