Bartlett Lake - Carefree, AZ

Lake Information

Surface Area:2015 acres
Maximum Depth:174 ft.
Capacity:178186 acre ft.
Elevation:1755 ft.
Fish Species: Channel Catfish, Largemouth Bass, Black Crappie, Common Carp, Smallmouth Bass, Green Sunfish, White Crappie, Wiper, Flathead Catfish
Bartlett Lake, located in the Tonto National Forest northeast of Phoenix, is a premier warmwater fishery offering year-round angling for bass, crappie, catfish, and panfish. The 2,800-acre reservoir is easily accessed from the metro area and features extensive shoreline and boating access.

Largemouth bass fishing peaks in spring, with topwater, plastics, and spinnerbaits producing strong bites during the spawn. Summer success shifts to deeper water with jigs and drop-shot rigs. Crappie are most active in spring and early summer around brush and creek channels.

Flathead catfish, some exceeding 40 pounds, are caught at night using live bait. Channel catfish offer steady action on cut bait and dip baits. Bluegill and sunfish are abundant in warmer months and easily caught from shore.

Bartlett also supports a growing population of yellow bass, which are best caught on small jigs and spoons. The lake has multiple launch ramps, developed camping, and a marina.

Due to its proximity to Phoenix, Bartlett can be busy on weekends, but its size and structure offer plenty of space for anglers. It remains one of Arizona’s most productive and versatile fisheries.



Latest Fish Reports

Date Report Author
5-8-2025 Bartlett Lake Report
At Bartlett Lake, pro angler Gary Senft reported he and... more »
Arizona Game & Fish Department
4-16-2025 Bartlett Lake Report
At Bartlett Lake (report courtesy of pro angler Gary Senft)... more »
Arizona Game & Fish Department
2-5-2025 Bartlett Lake Report
Bartlett Lake (report courtesy of Sportsman's Warehouse) -... more »
Arizona Game & Fish Department
11-28-2024 The crankbait bite is good, but dropshot and Texas rigs are producing fish
At Bartlett Lake (report courtesy of Sportsman's Warehouse), fishing is... more »
Arizona Game & Fish Department
10-31-2024 Bartlett Lake Fishing Report
At Bartlett Lake, pro angler Gary Senft did a... more »
Arizona Game & Fish Department


Detailed Map