Lake Powell is one of the premier fishing destinations in the American Southwest. Striped bass run deep in the main channel, smallmouth bass hold in rocky coves and canyon walls, and catfish prowl the shallower flats near inflowing rivers. Knowing where to look — and having a good map — makes all the difference.
What Fish Are in Lake Powell?
- Striped bass — The trophy fish of Lake Powell. Stripers can exceed 40 lbs and are found in the main channel and open water, often chasing shad schools to the surface.
- Smallmouth bass — Found throughout the lake, especially near rocky points, canyon walls, and submerged structure.
- Largemouth bass — Less common than smallmouth but present in warmer, shallower bays, especially in the south lake.
- Channel catfish — Abundant near river inflows — particularly the Colorado and San Juan arms.
- Walleye — Present throughout the lake, most active at dawn and dusk near rocky structure.
Top Fishing Spots by Location
Wahweap Bay (South Lake)
The broad, accessible waters near Wahweap Marina hold largemouth bass along the shoreline structure and stripers in the deeper main channel. Early morning topwater fishing for stripers is especially productive in summer when they push shad to the surface.
Antelope Island Area
The rocky points and submerged ledges around Antelope Island are prime smallmouth bass territory. Work jigs and drop-shots along the walls for consistent action throughout the season.
Padre Bay
The open water of Padre Bay concentrates striped bass mid-lake. Watch for birds working the surface — where birds dive, stripers are pushing baitfish below.
Face Canyon and Cathedral Canyon
The canyon walls and submerged rock piles in Face Canyon and Cathedral Canyon hold excellent smallmouth bass populations. These narrow canyons are best fished by kayak or small boat, working the walls with finesse presentations.
San Juan Arm
The San Juan River inflow at the eastern end of the lake creates a distinct fishery. Catfish are abundant near the river mouth, and the warmer, murkier water produces largemouth bass in the shallows.
Bullfrog Bay (North Lake)
The Bullfrog area is known for consistent striper fishing in the main channel and solid walleye action along the rocky banks, especially in early morning and evening.
Escalante River Arm
The upper Escalante arm is among the most productive catfish waters on the lake. The nutrient-rich river inflow creates ideal conditions, and the remote nature of this arm means significantly less pressure than south lake locations.
Fishing Tips for Lake Powell
- Follow the shad. Striped bass follow schools of threadfin shad throughout the lake. A fishfinder is invaluable for locating both shad and the stripers below them.
- Fish the wind lines. Wind concentrates baitfish along current seams and cliff walls. Stripers stack up on the downwind side of points.
- Go deep in summer. Water temperatures above 75°F push fish deep. Target 40-80 feet in midsummer.
- A Utah or Arizona license covers you. You need a valid fishing license for whichever state's waters you're fishing — check the boundary markers on your Lake Powell map.
Know the Lake
Lake Powell's best fishing spots are spread across 186 miles of water. The Powell Towel maps 200+ points of interest — including marinas, canyon entrances, and key landmarks — so you can navigate to the spots in this guide without losing your bearings. It's a quick-dry microfiber beach towel with the whole lake printed on it.
Frequently Asked Questions
What fish are in Lake Powell?
Lake Powell contains striped bass, smallmouth bass, largemouth bass, channel catfish, and walleye. Striped bass are the most sought-after trophy fish.
What is the best fishing spot on Lake Powell?
Padre Bay is excellent for striped bass, while the canyon walls throughout the lake hold smallmouth bass. The San Juan Arm is top for catfish, and Bullfrog Bay produces consistent walleye.
Do I need a fishing license for Lake Powell?
Yes. You need a valid fishing license for the state whose waters you're fishing — Utah or Arizona. The state line runs through the middle of the lake, so check your map.
What time of year is best for fishing at Lake Powell?
Spring (April-May) and fall (September-October) offer the best all-around conditions. Summer produces topwater striper action in early morning before temperatures peak.