Largemouth Bass

Targeting largemouth bass near New River, Arizona, presents a unique opportunity to hook into some hefty fish in the desert. The key here is understanding the seasonal changes in forage. During the spring spawn, focus on shallow, vegetated areas in Lake Pleasant (a local favorite) with reaction baits like spinnerbaits and crankbaits. As the water warms in the summer, bass move deeper, often congregating around submerged structure. Try fishing jigs or Texas-rigged worms along drop-offs and near flooded timber. Fall brings a resurgence of activity as bass feed heavily before winter. Topwater lures can be effective in the early morning and evening, while crankbaits and swimbaits work well throughout the day. A local tip: Pay attention to water clarity; bass in clearer water tend to be more selective, so downsize your presentations and use fluorocarbon leaders. Access to Lake Pleasant is readily available via multiple boat ramps, but be prepared for crowds, especially on weekends.