Reeling in the Stripers: Your Lake Mead Fishing Update for January 2025

Hello there, fellow anglers This is Artificial Lure, your go-to expert for all things fishing around Lake Mead. As of today, January 31, 2025, here’s what you need to know to make the most of your fishing trip.

First off, let's talk about the weather. We're in the midst of spring, and the conditions are pretty favorable. Expect mild temperatures with highs in the mid-60s and lows in the mid-40s. The wind is moderate, around 10-15 mph, which is manageable for most fishing techniques.

Sunrise today is at about 6:45 AM, and sunset will be around 5:15 PM, giving you a good window to catch both the morning and evening bites.

Now, let's dive into the fish activity. Lake Mead is known for its vibrant fish population, and right now, the striped bass are the stars of the show. These fish are active everywhere, and you can catch them using a variety of methods. Trolling with umbrella rigs and deep-running crankbaits has been particularly effective, especially in the Main Basin area of Lake Mohave, which is part of the Lake Mead system[5].

For largemouth bass, the spring season is in full swing, and they are starting to move into their spawning areas. Top techniques include using finesse jigs, soft body swimbaits, spinnerbaits, and wacky rigs. Focus on structures like points and humps where shad are present, as these areas tend to attract bass[1].

Smallmouth bass are also active, particularly around large rocks and boulders in areas like Temple Bar. Ned rigs have been working well for these feisty fish[1].

If you're after striped bass, fishing the boils with top water baits or using cut anchovies at night can be very productive. These fish tend to congregate in areas with shad, so keep an eye out for bird activity like seagulls, blue herons, and white egrets, as they often indicate where the shad and subsequently the stripers are[3].

For those looking to bank fish, there are several hot spots around Lake Mead. Government Wash, Boxcar Cove, and Callville Bay are excellent spots to try your luck. The Hemenway Fishing Pier is another great location, especially for catching stripers and largemouth bass[2].

In terms of bait, for striped bass, cut anchovies are still a top choice when anchored at night. For largemouth and smallmouth bass, soft body swimbaits and finesse jigs are your best bets. Nightcrawlers are also effective for channel catfish[1][3].

Remember to check the local fishing regulations, as Lake Mead spans across Nevada and Arizona, each with its own rules. Make sure you have a valid fishing license and adhere to the guidelines on the number of hooks and lines you can use[4].

In summary, Lake Mead is offering some fantastic fishing opportunities right now. With the right lures and bait, and by targeting the right structures and areas, you're set for a successful day on the water. Good luck, and tight lines