Guide To Fishing At Canyon Lake

What to fish for...

Fishing for largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, channel catfish, flathead catfish, black crappie, walleye, rainbow trout, bluegill and yellow bass at Canyon Lake in Arizona.

Located on the Salt River in central Arizona, Canyon Lake is an easy 45 minute drive northwest of Apache Junction AZ on State Highway 88. This lake covers 950 surface acres and is set in deep canyons which offer spectacular views.

Big horn sheep and eagles are a common sight to boaters on this scenic waterway. Jet ski, pontoon boats and pleasure boats are available for rent at the marina. A restaurant and tour boat cruises can enhance your experience when you spend your day at this spectacular body of water.

Primary fish species residing in Canyon Lake

Click images for fishing tips and details about each species.

Big Bass In These Canyons

This deep-canyon waterway is home to big bass, The state record bass, over 16 pounds was caught here. Light line and small offerings seem to fool the majority of the monster bass caught here. 4-inch plastic worms, small grubs and live night crawlers are the top, year-round baits. Topwater is generally good early and late in the day, any time the water temperature rises above 60 degrees.

Other fishing in Canyon Lake

The lake also contains trout stocked by the Arizona Game & Fish Department, plus catfish bluegills, crappie, panfish and a very small population of walleye.

Canyon Lake Amenities

Marina: YES
Boat Rental: YES
Boat Launch Ramp: YES
Campgrounds: YES
RV Hookups: YES
Lodging: NO
Convenience Store: YES
Bait & Tackle: YES
Restaurant: YES

Today's Weather & Forecast

Fishing Boat Rentals

Canyon Lake Marina and Campground
Rentals: Runabouts, Pontoons, Fishing Boats and Canoes
480 288-9233

Marinas

Canyon Lake Marina and Campground
16802 AZ-88
Apache Junction, AZ 85119
480 288-9233

Boat Launch Ramps & Landings

Canyon Lake Marina and Campground
16802 AZ-88
Apache Junction, AZ 85119
Boat Rentals - Runabouts, Pontoons, Fishing Boats and Canoes.
480 288-9233

Laguna Boat Ramp
Paved ramp and parking the the far southeast corner of the lake.

Palo Verde Boat Launch
Paved ramp and parking located near the southeast corner of the main lake.

Click here for a Arizona Fishing License.

Campgrounds & RV Parks Nearby

Canyon Lake Marina & Campground - 480 288-9233

Tortilla Recreation Site Campground - 480 610-3300

Canyon Lake AZ Map - Fishing & Camping Areas

Lake Video

Contact Information

Canyon Lake
Canyon Lake Marina & Campground
16802 N.E. Highway 88
Tortilla Flat, AZ 85219
480 288-9233

Fishing lakes in each state.