Skip to main content

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

Nevada licenses and regulations

Nevada 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.

Learn more, opens in new tab

Nevada Fishing License

All persons fishing are subject to the license requirements listed be­low. Except for some “interstate waters” (Lake Tahoe, Topaz Lake, Lake Mead, Lake Mohave, Colorado River), anglers 12 years of age and older are required to obtain and possess a license or permit to fish. Nonresident anglers under 12 years of age are not required to have a license, but the number of fish taken by such nonresident anglers must not exceed 50 percent of the limit as provided by law. (For instance, if the limit is five, these young anglers may take only two fish.) Fishing license and permit requirements also apply to persons taking fish by means of spear or bow and arrow. (Refer to NRS 502.010)

Learn more, opens in new tab

Nevada 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 any of the links below, inquire locally, or contact a local fly shop to learn current regulations and restrictions.

Learn more, opens in new tab

Nevada Stream Access Laws

In Nevada, navigable streams are those capable of being used or that have been used for commerce, such as floating logs to market. These streams can be floated, and probably fished, recreationally. The right to portage obstructions is undecided in Nevada. It is unlawful for any person to hunt, fish in non-navigable waters or trap upon land which is private property where the person has been warned by the owner or occupant of the property not to trespass.

Learn more, opens in new tab

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

Loading flow chart…
Latest
10 yr average

All Flow Stations

Explore Nevada waters

Top fishing waters

Popular Cities

Loading popular cities...

Explore near Lake Mead

Fish species
Fishing spots
Nearby waters
More in Nevada

Smarter Fishing Starts in the App.

onWater Fish gives you everything you need to plan smarter, fish better, and own every trip from first cast to last.