Expert-Guided Arizona Bass Fishing | Lo Water

Arizona Bass Fishing - Sky Harbor Area

Just an hour from Sky Harbor International Airport, some of Arizona's best bass fishing awaits you on hidden desert lakes that most visitors never see. This isn't your typical tourist trap fishing—we're talking about serious bass action in waters that have been producing trophy fish for decades. Todd, one of the pioneers of Arizona's bass-on-the-fly scene, will show you techniques that took him years to master. Whether you're flying in from out of state or you're a local looking to up your game, this personalized fishing experience puts you on fish while teaching you the nuances of desert lake fishing. The Sonoran landscape provides a stunning backdrop, but the real magic happens below the surface where largemouth bass patrol structure and ambush prey.

What to Expect on the Water

This is intimate, hands-on guiding at its finest—with just one guest, you get Todd's undivided attention for the entire day. We launch early to beat the desert heat and target prime feeding windows when bass are most active. The lakes we fish are spring-fed systems that maintain excellent water quality year-round, creating perfect habitat for aggressive bass populations. You'll learn to read desert lake structure differently than you would back east—submerged mesquite trees, rocky points, and seasonal weed beds all hold fish, but knowing when and how to fish them makes all the difference. Todd adapts his approach based on conditions and your skill level, whether you're a fly fishing novice or someone looking to refine advanced techniques. The flexibility in start times means we can work around your travel schedule, and the close proximity to Sky Harbor makes this doable even on tight layovers.

Techniques & Desert Tactics

Arizona bass fishing requires a different mindset than most places, and Todd's spent decades figuring out what works in these desert systems. We'll cover everything from traditional bass flies to innovative patterns that mimic the unique forage base in these lakes. You'll learn about seasonal movements—how bass relate to structure during different times of year and why water temperature swings affect their behavior more dramatically here than in other climates. The fly fishing approach allows for precision presentations that really shine in these clear desert waters. Todd will walk you through line selection, leader setup, and retrieve techniques that trigger strikes from pressured fish. If you're new to fly fishing for bass, don't worry—the fundamentals transfer well, and these fish are aggressive enough to forgive minor mistakes. Experienced anglers often find that desert bass fishing challenges their assumptions about bass behavior and opens up new approaches they can use anywhere.

What Anglers Are Saying

"Wonderful guide (Todd) who fully engaged with my grandson. Made the trip fun and interesting! Derek took great care in making arrangements and follow up. Highly recommend! Cal Gauss" - Cal

Top Catches This Season

Largemouth bass are the star of the show here, and Arizona's desert lakes grow them thick and healthy. These fish average 2-4 pounds with plenty of opportunities for bigger specimens, especially during the cooler months from mid-March through early January. What makes Arizona largemouth special is their aggressive nature—the harsh desert environment creates fish that attack with purpose when feeding opportunities arise. They relate heavily to structure and cover, making them perfect targets for fly fishing presentations. The clear water means they can be spooky, but it also allows you to sight-fish to individual bass, creating some heart-pounding moments when you watch a big fish track your fly.

White bass show up in schools and provide fast-paced action when you find them. These silver bullets typically run 1-2 pounds and fight well above their weight class. They're more nomadic than the largemouth, often chasing baitfish in open water or ganging up around points and humps. When you hit a school of white bass, it's not uncommon to catch a dozen fish in quick succession—they're competitive feeders and one hooked fish often triggers the whole school to go crazy. The bite can be feast or famine, but when it's on, it's some of the most fun you can have with a fly rod.

Striped bass are the wildcards in these systems—bigger, stronger, and more unpredictable than their cousins. These fish can push well over 10 pounds and will test your tackle and your technique. They're less common than the other species, but when you connect with a striper, you'll know it immediately. They tend to suspend in deeper water and cruise the main lake structure, making them trickier to target consistently. The reward is worth the effort though—a big desert striper on a fly rod is a fish you'll remember for years. They're most active during low-light periods and often feed alongside schools of white bass, creating opportunities for mixed bags that keep you guessing.

Time to Book Your Spot

The beauty of this Arizona bass fishing experience lies in its accessibility and the personalized attention you'll receive from one of the region's most respected guides. Todd's expertise in desert lake fishing and fly fishing techniques will elevate your skills while putting you on fish in a stunning Sonoran desert setting. The prime season runs from mid-March through early January, giving you months of excellent fishing opportunities. With flexible start times and close proximity to Sky Harbor, this trip works whether you're planning a dedicated fishing vacation or squeezing in some angling around business travel. The one-on-one guiding format ensures you get maximum value from your time on the water, learning techniques and insights that will serve you well long after your trip ends. These desert bass lakes don't get the attention they deserve, which means less pressure and better fishing for those in the know. Don't let this world-class bass fishing opportunity slip by—contact us to check availability and secure your date with Todd for what could be your best Arizona fishing experience yet.