Seasons
Fishing can be done year round in Lake Powell. Water temperatures are moderate, from 45 degrees to 85 degrees F. During spring, the fish are most active, and it is also the time when they spawn. During summer, the fish move to the deeper waters, getting away from the active boaters and water skiers. In fall, the fish move back toward shallower waters, and in winter, when the lake is relatively devoid of human traffic, fishing can be both relaxing and successful.
Baits
Bait for fishing in Lake Powell will depend greatly on what you are fishing for. When going after the active striper schools, anchovies have proved to be successful. For walleye, plastic worms and jigs are recommended, and you should fish early in the morning or later in the evening, and in the spring. For largemouth and smallmouth bass, jigs and grubs are good lures. Catfish come out when it is warmer, and it's best to fish for them in shallower waters. Chicken livers are a popular bait for catfish.
Rules
Catches are limited by species by the Utah Department of Natural Resources. For smallmouth bass, you are limited to 20; for largemouth bass, you are limited to five. There is no limit on striped bass. For channel catfish, the limit is 25, and for walleye, the limit is 10. Several fish exist in Lake Powell are endangered and must be released if caught: Colorado pikeminnow (squawfish), razorback sucker, humpback chub, bonytail chub and flannelmouth sucker.
A license is required to fish the lake in either Utah or Arizona. Prices are more expensive for non-residents than residents (see Resources).
