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Lake Mead

Boat Ramps
8
Access Points
11
Species
16

Lake Mead, the largest reservoir in the United States, spans the border between Nevada and Arizona, offering anglers over 290 square miles of water surface to explore. Formed by the construction of the Hoover Dam on the Colorado River in the 1930s, this vast body of water has become a premier fishing destination known for its diverse fish population, stunning desert landscapes, and year-round fishing opportunities. With its serene waters surrounded by rugged mountains and canyon walls, Lake Mead provides not only excellent fishing but also a breathtaking backdrop for outdoor enthusiasts.

Fishing spots, boat ramps & amenities

Learn how to get on Lake Mead. Uncover great fishing access points, boat ramps, and all the facilities you need for an unforgettable day on the water. Some locations shown may border or include private property. Always check property boundaries and applicable regulations before visiting. onWater's Public & Private Land layer can help you plan your access with confidence.

North Entrance Access

North Entrance Access

Access Point
Overton WMA Access

Overton WMA Access

Access Point
Hoover Dam Fishing Access Site

Hoover Dam Fishing Access Site

Access Point

Know where you can legally fish on Lake Mead

See public and private land boundaries along the water, turn on private parcels with owner details to know where permission is required, and find land-trust parcels that offer permitted fishing access.

Recreational permits for Lake Mead

What you need to float or boat Lake Mead, and when to apply.

Lake Mead vessel pass

Boater pass · Motorboats · Required year-round

Motorized vessels on Lake Mead need an annual or 7-day Lake Mead vessel pass, and non-motorized craft are exempt.

Get it on Pay.govNational Park Service on nps.gov

Checked Nov 4, 2026 with Lake Mead National Recreation Area

Arizona licenses and regulations

Arizona Boating Regulations

When using any type of watercraft to access a body of water, it is important to follow all federal, state, and local rules and regulations. These rules and regulations include boat permitting and licensing, invasive species inspections and stamps, life jacket and PFD rules, motor size and horsepower restrictions, noise limitations, restrictions on personal watercraft, and many more. Visit the web link below for the most current rules and regulations for this body of water.

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Arizona Fishing License

A valid Arizona fishing license is required for Arizona resident and non-resident anglers 10 years of age or older fishing any public accessible water in Arizona. Youth under the age of 10 and blind residents do not need to purchase a state fishing license to fish in Arizona. Check the Arizona Fishing Regulations for additional information.

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Arizona Fishing Regulations

This river has a variety of species and regulations, including potential floating and/or watercraft restrictions. Because this river is specially managed for species, seasons, angling methods, and watercraft, it is strongly encouraged you check all federal, state, and local regulations before fishing. Visit the links below, inquire locally, or contact a local fly shop to learn current regulations and restrictions.

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Arizona Steam Access Laws

Determined by the Arizona Navigable Stream Adjudication Commission. ANSAC says for a waterway to be navigable, it must have been capable of commercial trade and travel at the time of statehood (1912). The waterway must also be wet, with water from more than just precipitation. As of 2016, ANSAC only defines the Colorado River as navigable, though decisions are pending for other streams. The federal government and private owners control all other streambeds The extent to which the public has rights in non-navigable watercourses depends upon the ownership of the streambed. For example, if the federal government has retained ownership, the public likely enjoys rights to boat, fish, wade, recreate, and portage. If, on the other hand, the streambed is privately owned, then the public may not boat, fish, or otherwise access the watercourse without the owner's permission.

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Take Lake Mead with you

The onWater Fish app keeps this water's access points, species and conditions in your pocket, with the tools you use once you're there.

  • Use the map without signal

    Download the map around Lake Mead to use it offline when coverage drops.

  • Log your catches here

    Keep a private fishing journal for Lake Mead to find where and when fish are biting for you.

  • HD depth charts from Garmin

    Find drop offs, ledges, channels, points and shallow flats with Garmin depth charts in the app.

Get the onWater Fish app

Free on iOS and Android

Water and weather conditions (10 day forecast)

See the best times to fish Lake Mead and check the forecast before you go.

VIRGIN RV BLW CONF OF MUDDY RV NR OVERTON, NV

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