If you're planning to cast a line on the Colorado River near Las Vegas today, January 12th, here's what you need to know. First off, the weather is looking crisp and pleasant, with clear skies, a high of around 58°F, and a low of 43°F. This makes for a great day to be out on the water.
Since the Colorado River is a freshwater system, you don't have to worry about tides; instead, focus on the water levels and flow. Currently, water levels in Lake Mead and Lake Mohave are a concern due to ongoing drought conditions, but they still offer excellent fishing opportunities.
Sunrise today is at 6:51 AM, and sunset will be at 4:34 PM, giving you plenty of daylight to fish.
Fish activity is generally slower in the winter months, but you can still catch a variety of species. Yesterday, anglers reported catching largemouth and smallmouth bass, striped bass, and black crappie. Lake Mead is particularly known for its striped bass, with some specimens weighing over 50 pounds.
For lures, consider using crankbaits, spinnerbaits, and plastic worms for bass. For crappie, small jigs and minnows are effective. If you're after striped bass, try using large shad-imitating lures or live bait like shad or anchovies. Live shad, minnows, and nightcrawlers are also good bait options.
Crappies, being night feeders, are attracted to light, so fishing after dinner off a dock can be fruitful.
Some hot spots to check out include the upper reaches of Lake Mohave in Black Canyon, where rainbow trout are abundant, and the shoreline brush areas around Lake Mead. These areas are especially good during the spring when crappies spawn, but they can still yield good catches in the winter.
Before you head out, make sure to check with a marina store for the necessary licenses, fish limits, and other regulations. Enjoy your fishing trip on the Colorado River