What the Lake Mohave Fall Classic is and when it happens
The Lake Mohave Fall Classic is an annual fishing tournament held on Lake Mohave, the reservoir formed by Davis Dam on the Colorado River between Arizona and Nevada. The event draws anglers from across the Southwest who fish for largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, and stripers in the cooler autumn months when the lake's fish are most active. The tournament typically takes place in October or November — the exact dates shift year to year, so you'll want to check with the Lake Mohave Marina or the tournament organizers directly for the current year's schedule.
The tournament is known for being accessible to both competitive and recreational anglers. Unlike some high-stakes bass circuits, the Fall Classic welcomes people fishing for the first time alongside seasoned tournament competitors. Boats launch from Katherine Landing or Willow Beach, depending on which side of the lake you're fishing, and anglers typically fish a full day with a weigh-in at day's end.
Key Takeaways
- The Lake Mohave Fall Classic runs in October or November each year; check the Lake Mohave Marina website or call ahead to confirm dates and registration deadlines.
- The tournament welcomes anglers of all experience levels, from people fishing their first tournament to seasoned bass competitors.
- You'll need your own boat or the ability to arrange a ride with another angler, as the tournament does not provide boats.
- Arizona fishing licenses are required, and you must follow all state and federal regulations for the Colorado River and Lake Mohave.
- Entry fees, prize structures, and specific rules vary by year; contact the tournament organizers or Lake Mohave Marina for current details.
How to enter and what you need to bring
Registration for the Fall Classic opens several weeks before the tournament date. You can register through the Lake Mohave Marina, which serves as the central hub for tournament information and often handles entry fees. Registration typically closes a few days before the event, so plan ahead — spots can fill up, especially in years when the tournament draws a large field.
To fish the tournament, you must have a valid Arizona fishing license. If you're coming from Nevada or another state, you'll still need an Arizona license to fish Lake Mohave on the Arizona side; if you're launching from the Nevada side, Nevada regulations apply. Bring your license with you on the water — it's a requirement, not optional.
You'll need your own boat or arrange to fish with someone who has one. The tournament does not provide boats or coordinate ride-sharing, so if you don't own a boat, reach out to local fishing clubs or online angler groups in Arizona — many experienced tournament fishers welcome newcomers to ride along. Bring life jackets for everyone on board, a cooler for your catch, and all the tackle and gear you plan to use during the day.
What fish you can catch and how the tournament works
Lake Mohave holds largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, and striped bass. The tournament structure typically focuses on bass — largemouth and smallmouth — though the specific rules for which species count toward your limit and how they're weighed can vary. Fall is prime season because the water cools and fish move into shallower areas and become more aggressive feeders. You'll find bass around rocky points, submerged structure, and the deeper channels where stripers hold.
Most tournaments run on a catch-and-release format during the day, meaning you fish from sunrise to a set weigh-in time (usually mid-afternoon). You keep your best fish in a livewell and bring them to the scales at the end of the day. The angler or team with the heaviest total weight wins. Some tournaments also award prizes for the largest single fish caught that day. Check the specific rules for the year you're entering — they can change based on fish populations and water conditions.
If you're new to tournament fishing, the format is straightforward: fish where you think the bass are, keep the ones you want to weigh, and bring them to the scales alive and in good condition. The livewell on your boat keeps them healthy during the day. If you're fishing with a partner, you'll typically split the prize money according to whatever agreement you made before the tournament started.
Preparing your boat and tackle for Lake Mohave conditions
Lake Mohave is a desert reservoir with clear water and rocky structure. The lake can be windy, especially in fall, so make sure your boat is in good working order and your fuel tank is full before you launch. The water temperature in October and November ranges from the mid-60s to low 70s Fahrenheit, depending on the exact date — still warm enough that fish are active, but cool enough that they're feeding more predictably than in summer.
Bring a mix of tackle: crankbaits, soft plastics, and topwater lures all work on Lake Mohave bass. Smallmouth bass respond well to drop-shot rigs and finesse presentations, while largemouth often hit larger swimbaits and jerkbaits. Stripers are a bonus if you hook one, but they're not always the focus of the tournament — confirm the rules before you fish. Bring more tackle than you think you'll need; losing a lure to a snag or a fish is part of tournament fishing.
Check the weather forecast the night before. Lake Mohave can get rough if the wind picks up, and fall weather can change quickly. Bring layers — mornings are cool in the desert, but the sun warms things up by midday. A hat, sunscreen, and plenty of water are essential. You'll be on the water for eight to ten hours, and dehydration in the desert happens fast.
Where to launch and what to expect on the water
Katherine Landing, on the Arizona side near Searchlight, Nevada, is the primary launch point for most Fall Classic tournaments. It has a full-service marina, fuel dock, and tackle shop. Willow Beach, also on the Arizona side but farther south, is another option. Both ramps are well-maintained and can handle the volume of boats that show up for the tournament. Arrive early on tournament day — launch times are usually staggered, and you don't want to be rushed getting your boat in the water.
Once you're on the water, you'll be fishing the same lake as other tournament competitors, so you may see other boats. Tournament etiquette means giving other anglers space and not crowding the best-looking spots. Most anglers respect the unwritten rules: if someone is already fishing a point or cove, you move on rather than set up right next to them. The lake is large enough that there's room for everyone to find fish.
Bring a GPS or know the lake well enough to navigate safely. Lake Mohave has submerged rocks and shallow areas that can damage a boat if you're not paying attention. If you're new to the lake, consider running it the day before the tournament to scout some spots and get comfortable with the navigation.
Weigh-in, prizes, and what happens after the tournament
The weigh-in typically happens in the late afternoon at the launch area or at the marina. You'll pull your boat out, bring your fish to the scales, and watch them get weighed and recorded. The tournament organizers announce the winners shortly after all boats have checked in. Prizes are usually awarded for first, second, and third place overall, and sometimes for the largest fish of the day or other categories — the specific prizes depend on entry fees and the number of participants.
If you place in the money, you'll receive your prize at the weigh-in or shortly after. If you don't win this year, the Fall Classic runs every fall, so you'll have another chance next season. Many anglers fish the tournament year after year, building friendships and learning the lake better each time.
After the weigh-in, your fish are typically released back into the lake if the tournament uses catch-and-release rules, or you can keep them to take home and cook. Lake Mohave bass are good eating — firm white meat with a mild flavor. If you keep your catch, clean and ice them right away to preserve quality.
Connecting with other anglers and local fishing community
The Fall Classic is as much about community as it is about competition. You'll meet other people who fish Lake Mohave regularly, learn where they like to fish, and pick up tips about what's working that season. Local fishing clubs often have a presence at the tournament, and some organize practice days or social events around the event.
If you're new to tournament fishing or new to Lake Mohave, don't hesitate to ask questions at the launch ramp or at the marina. Most anglers are generous with information and happy to help someone get your free guide. The fishing community in Arizona is welcoming, and a tournament like this is a natural place to make connections with people who share your interest in being on the water.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to fish with a partner or can I fish alone?
Most tournaments allow you to fish alone or with a partner — check the specific rules for the year you're entering. If you fish alone, you keep all the prize money if you win. If you fish with a partner, you'll split winnings according to whatever agreement you made beforehand. Either way is common at the Fall Classic.
What if I've never fished Lake Mohave before?
Scout the lake the day before if you can. Katherine Landing has a tackle shop where staff can point you toward productive areas. You can also fish with someone who knows the lake — many anglers welcome newcomers to ride along. The lake is clear and rocky, so look for structure: points, drop-offs, and areas where rocks break the surface.
Can I keep the fish I catch in the tournament?
That depends on the tournament rules for the year you're fishing. Some tournaments use catch-and-release, meaning fish are released after weighing. Others allow you to keep your catch. Check the rules when you register. If you do keep fish, clean and ice them immediately to preserve quality for cooking.
What should I do if my boat breaks down during the tournament?
Call the tournament organizers or the marina on your cell phone — they have safety protocols for this situation. You may be able to get a tow back to the launch, or another angler may offer assistance. Always carry a fully charged phone and let someone know your planned fishing area before you launch.
How much does it cost to enter?
Entry fees vary by year and are set by the tournament organizers. Contact the Lake Mohave Marina or check their website for the current year's fee. Fees typically range based on whether you're fishing as an individual or a team, but exact amounts change annually.