Located 1 hour from Phoenix, Bartlett Lake has been a favorite with anglers since the construction of Bartlett Dam in 1939. With over 2,815 acres of boating area, this is more than both Canyon Lake and Saguaro Lake combined.

Several state-record fish have been caught there. Additionally, the Smallmouth Bass state record in 1977 hit the scales at 7 lbs. The Arizona carp state record still stands at 37 lbs 5 ounces.

Fish species include Largemouth Bass, Smallmouth Bass, Sunfish, Crappie, Channel Catfish, Flathead Catfish and Carp.

Additional amenities at the lake are camping and picnicking on the west side of the reservoir. The lake has Boat rentals, jetski rentals, and party yacht rentals, which can be rented at the Barlett Lake marina as well. Additionally, Stand Up Paddleboards (SUP) and kayaks can also be rented.

Bartlett Lake Fishing Trip Info:

Located only 48 miles from downtown Phoenix and 17 miles northeast of Carefree.

DEPARTURE/RETURN LOCATION Carefree, Arizona
20808 E Bartlett Dam Rd
Tonto National Forest
Carefree, AZ 85377
DEPARTURE TIME To be determined. Varies per trip.
RETURN TIME Approximately 6:30 PM.
WEAR Comfortable athletic clothing, hiking boots, hat, jacket and sunscreen.
INCLUDED
Licensed fishing guide We supply Diawa Steez and Megabass Rods, Shimano Reels, & Baits used on all guide trips
Lake Fees Boat and gas
NOT INCLUDED
Arizona fishing license
Meals

Additional information

LocationRio Verde, AZ
AgeNo children under 11. Children 11-15 must be accompanied by an adult 18 or older.
DatesYear-round
Bartlett Lake Guide
Bartlett Lake Arizona Fishing
Bartlett Lake Guide
Bartlett Lake Arizona Fishing

Tour Reviews

5.00 based on 4 reviews
May 28, 2019

We booked a guided tour on the Bartlett Lake with Jason. What can we say, the Trip was worth every penny. Jason knows the Lake and knows exactly where to find fish. At each spot we catched fish. It was a lot of fun. Jason is a very communicative person who also likes to share his experience and tips. Should we visit Arizona again we will definately book a tour with him again.
Many Thanks for this great experience.

June 3, 2019

We book a two day deal on Bartlett lake with Jason. I myself have never been on a bass lake and wanted to learn from someone who knew what they were doing. I was not disappointed Jason gave me pointers that helped me catch fish, and man a live it was very fun. So much fun that I want to go back as soon as I can. I don’t know how other bass guides are but Jason certainly has got to be one of the best in the country. For my money Jason will be my go to guide in Arizona

November 28, 2020

This Is a great trip for all experience levels. My cousin and I went and even though we are unexperienced bass fisherman Jason helped us catch fish even when the bite was tough. I can’t wait to go again and would recommend Bartlett Lake to anyone.

June 7, 2021

Truly Addicted and can’t wait to get back to Bartlett or any lake with Jason for that matter. Jason is the best, and has made our trips with him AWESOME . He put us on the fish and it was non-stop action. Our second trip with him and there will be many many more

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