Arizona Fishing Reports ยท Lakes ยท Central Region
Bartlett Lake on the Verde River is a popular bass and crappie lake northeast of Phoenix.
Looking for the latest Bartlett Lake fishing report? This page is updated by the AvidMax fly shop team with current conditions, wind, stocking news and the flies working now at Bartlett Lake.
Water level
Wind forecast
Bartlett Lake fishing report
Updated November 7, 2026.
Water is cooling, and bass are moving to points and shallow flats.
Streamers along rocky banks and points early and late.
Stocking report
See the Arizona Game and Fish stocking schedule for the latest stocking at Bartlett Lake and other Arizona waters.
Load your fly box
Before you head to Bartlett Lake, bring: Clouser Minnow #2-6, Woolly Bugger #4-8, Crayfish #4-6, Popper #2-6, Balanced Leech #10-12, Balanced Bou Leech #10-12, Slump Buster #6-8, Egg #12-14, Scud Bomb #12-16, Pitching Leech #10, Circus Peanut #4.
Flies working right now
The flies above that we have in stock right now.
Bartlett Lake lake details
| Access | Bartlett Lake Marina and ramps. |
|---|---|
| Elevation | About 1,500 ft |
| Nearest town | Rio Verde, Arizona |
| Best season | Fall through spring |
| Fish | Bass, crappie, catfish |
| Regulations | A Tonto Pass is needed. Check the Arizona Game and Fish Department regulations before you go. An Arizona fishing license is required for anglers 10 and older. |
| Leaders and tippet | 9 ft leaders, 1X to 3X |
| Ice fishing | Does not freeze. |
| Camping | Tonto National Forest sites |
| Kids | Yes. |
| Good to know | Busy with boats on weekends. |
Fishing by season
Winter
Stocked trout and slower bass.
Spring
Bass spawn.
Summer
Hot. Fish at dawn.
Fall
Bass on points.
How to get there
From Scottsdale, take Cave Creek Road and Bartlett Dam Road.