Lake Havasu, a reservoir on the Colorado River bordering Arizona and California, is known for its diverse fish populations. It attracts a range of visitors, from casual observers to dedicated anglers, drawn by the variety of species inhabiting its waters. The lake’s dynamic ecosystem supports a broad spectrum of fish.
Prominent Game Fish Species
Lake Havasu is a premier destination for anglers, offering a robust population of game fish. Largemouth bass, known for their aggressive nature, are a popular target, growing to significant sizes in the lake’s clear waters. Anglers often find them near submerged structures and vegetation. Smallmouth bass also thrive, particularly around rocky shorelines, canyon walls, and submerged rock piles, providing a strong fight.
Striped bass are another highly sought-after species, recognized for their distinctive horizontal stripes and powerful fighting ability. These schooling fish are often found in deeper, cooler sections of the lake during warmer months. Catfish species, including channel catfish and flathead catfish, are abundant, with some individuals exceeding 10 pounds. These bottom-dwelling fish are frequently targeted at night using various baits.
Panfish like bluegill and black crappie also offer excellent fishing opportunities. Bluegill are common, often found in shallow areas with vegetation, and are known for their willingness to bite. Black crappie can be found in open water, often near submerged logs and brush, and are popular for their taste.
Other Aquatic Inhabitants
Beyond game fish, Lake Havasu supports a variety of other species that contribute to its ecosystem. Redear sunfish are particularly noteworthy, as Lake Havasu holds the world record for this species. These sunfish have specialized teeth for crushing mussels, and their population has benefited from the abundance of invasive quagga mussels and native prey. They prefer residing on lake bottoms in areas with ample aquatic vegetation.
Common carp are another prevalent species, known for their large size and strength. While not typically sought by anglers for sport, they play a role in the lake’s ecological balance. Other species include green sunfish and various baitfish, which serve as a food source for larger predatory fish. Protected species like the razorback sucker, flannelmouth sucker, roundtail chub, and bonytail chub are also present, and must be released if caught.
Lake Havasu’s Unique Environment
Lake Havasu’s environment provides diverse habitats, enabling its rich fish population to thrive. The lake is a reservoir formed by the Parker Dam on the Colorado River. It stretches approximately 26 miles long with a surface area of over 19,000 acres. The average depth is around 35 feet, reaching about 90 feet at its deepest point.
Water temperatures in Lake Havasu fluctuate seasonally. During summer, temperatures can rise significantly, impacting fish behavior. The lake features varied underwater structures, including rocky shorelines, sheer canyon walls, and numerous coves, which offer sanctuary and feeding grounds for different species. Submerged vegetation and artificial habitats also provide cover and food sources for fish, enhancing the lake’s productivity.