What Mittry Lake offers and when to fish it

Mittry Lake is a shallow desert reservoir about 15 miles north of Yuma, Arizona, formed by a dam on the Colorado River. The lake covers roughly 1,000 acres at full pool and holds largemouth bass, channel catfish, and some carp. Water levels fluctuate significantly with Colorado River operations, which means the shoreline and fishing conditions change throughout the year. Winter and early spring (November through March) bring the most stable water and the most active fish, while summer heat and low water in late summer make fishing less predictable.

The lake sits in the Imperial National Wildlife Refuge, so access is managed and day-use fees apply. The main boat launch and facilities are at the north end near the dam. Most anglers fish from boats, though bank access exists at designated spots. Because Mittry is shallow and fed by river water, it warms quickly in spring and can become turbid after heavy runoff, which affects visibility and fish behavior.

Key Takeaways

  • Mittry Lake holds largemouth bass and channel catfish year-round, with the best fishing from November through March when water is cooler and more stable.
  • The lake is managed by the Imperial National Wildlife Refuge, requires a day-use pass, and has one main boat launch at the north end near the dam.
  • Water levels drop significantly in late summer and fall, which concentrates fish but can make launching difficult or impossible in some years.
  • Arizona fishing regulations apply; you need a valid fishing license and must follow state bag limits and size restrictions for bass and catfish.

Bass fishing and seasonal patterns

Largemouth bass are the primary target for most anglers at Mittry. The population is healthy but not large; you will catch fish, but trophy-sized bass are uncommon. Winter bass (December through February) are most active in the deeper holes and channels near the dam and along the main river channel. Early morning and late afternoon produce better results than midday, even in winter.

Spring (March and April) brings spawning activity, and bass move into shallow water along the shoreline and around any structure—fallen trees, rocks, or vegetation. This is often the most productive time for numbers and size. By late May, the lake warms into the 80s and 90s, and bass retreat to deeper water or become less active. Summer fishing is possible but requires patience and early starts before the heat peaks.

Fall (September through November) can be good as water cools, but water levels are often at their lowest, which concentrates fish but also makes navigation tricky. Stick to the main channel and the deeper areas near the dam if you are unfamiliar with the lake.

Catfish and other species

Channel catfish are abundant at Mittry and often easier to catch than bass, especially for anglers new to the lake. They bite throughout the year but are most active at night and in early morning. Cut bait, chicken liver, and prepared catfish stink baits all work. Fish the deeper holes and channels, and be patient—catfish often take 20 to 30 minutes to find and consume a bait.

Carp are present and can reach 20 pounds or more, though they are not a primary target for most visitors. Some anglers pursue them deliberately with corn or dough balls in shallow water during spring and early summer.

Access, facilities, and regulations

Mittry Lake is part of the Imperial National Wildlife Refuge. Day-use passes are required and can be purchased at the entrance station or online through the refuge website. The main boat launch is at the north end, near the dam. The launch has a paved ramp, parking, and basic facilities including restrooms. There is no fuel, food, or lodging at the lake itself, so plan accordingly.

Arizona fishing regulations apply. You need a valid Arizona fishing license (available online or at sporting goods retailers). Largemouth bass have a 12-inch minimum size and a 5-fish daily bag limit. Channel catfish have no minimum size and a 25-fish daily bag limit. Check the current Arizona Game and Fish Department regulations before you go, as rules can change.

The refuge is open dawn to dusk. Overnight camping is not permitted at Mittry itself, but the nearby town of Yuma has motels and RV parks. The closest full-service facilities are in Yuma, about 20 minutes south.

Water levels and timing considerations

Mittry Lake's water level is controlled by the Colorado River and can drop 10 to 15 feet from peak to low. Peak water usually occurs in spring (April through June) when snowmelt from the Rockies reaches the river. By late August and September, levels are often at their lowest. A low water year can make the boat launch unusable by late summer, so call ahead or check the refuge website before making the trip in fall.

Water clarity also varies. After heavy runoff or dam releases, the lake can be turbid for days or weeks. Bass fishing is tougher in murky water, but catfish often bite better. If you arrive and the water looks brown, catfish or a return trip in a few days may be your best bet.

Gear and tactics for Mittry

For bass, medium-power spinning or baitcasting rods work well. Bring a mix of lures: soft plastics (4 to 6 inches), crankbaits, and topwater plugs for early morning. In winter, slower presentations and smaller lures often outperform larger offerings. A depth finder is useful if your boat has one, since the lake is shallow and structure is not always obvious from the surface.

For catfish, a simple setup—medium-heavy rod, 20 to 30-pound line, and a basic slip sinker rig—is all you need. Bring multiple rods if regulations allow, so you can cover more water. A headlamp is essential for night fishing.

The lake is small enough that you do not need a large boat. A 16 to 18-foot center console or open boat is typical. Kayaks and canoes are also used, though the shallow water and occasional wind can make them challenging. Always wear a life jacket and check the weather forecast before launching.

Nearby alternatives and when to consider them

If Mittry is too low or too crowded, Imperial Reservoir (about 30 miles south) is another Colorado River impoundment with similar species and often less pressure. Lake Havasu (about 150 miles north) is larger and deeper, with more consistent water levels and a wider range of fish species, but requires a longer drive and is busier.

For a different experience, the Colorado River itself near Yuma holds catfish and some bass and can be fished from shore or by boat. It is free to fish and requires no day-use pass, though access points are limited and conditions are less predictable than at the lake.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best time of year to fish Mittry Lake?

November through March is the most reliable. Water is cooler, levels are more stable, and both bass and catfish are active. Spring (March and April) is also excellent for bass spawning activity. Summer is possible but requires early starts and patience as fish move deep and become less active in the heat.

Do I need a boat to fish Mittry Lake?

Most anglers use boats, but bank access exists at designated spots near the launch and along the refuge roads. Bank fishing is limited compared to boat fishing, but it is an option if you do not have a boat. Call the refuge to confirm current bank access before you go.

What happens if the water level is too low to launch?

In severe low-water years, the boat launch can become unusable by late summer or fall. Check the refuge website or call ahead before making the trip. If the launch is closed, you can still fish from shore at designated areas, or consider Imperial Reservoir or Lake Havasu as alternatives.

Can I fish at night?

The refuge is open dawn to dusk, so night fishing is not permitted. Catfish are most active at night, so plan early morning trips instead. Fish from before sunrise through mid-morning for the best catfish bite.

What size bass can I keep?

Largemouth bass must be at least 12 inches long. You can keep up to 5 per day. Channel catfish have no minimum size and a 25-fish daily bag limit. Always check the current Arizona Game and Fish Department regulations, as rules can change.