Fishing at Hemenway Harbor – Lake Mead National Recreation Area in Las Vegas

Fishing at Hemenway Harbor, located within the breathtaking Lake Mead National Recreation Area, is a must-experience for avid anglers visiting Las Vegas. Just 30 miles southeast of the city, this destination offers great opportunities to fish in a setting defined by stunning desert landscapes combined with expansive, glistening waters. Lake Mead, the largest reservoir in the United States by volume, provides exceptional fishing conditions year-round and is a favorite spot for both beginners and seasoned fishermen.

Adventure Guide to Fishing at Hemenway Harbor – Lake Mead National Recreation Area

Prime Spot for Game Fishing: Hemenway Harbor is popular for its abundance of striped bass, channel catfish, and largemouth bass. Early mornings and evenings are prime times, as fish are more active in cooler water temperatures. Bring light to medium tackle for bass and use anchovies for bait—this method has proven incredibly successful among locals for striped bass.
Shoreline Access & Boating Features: The harbor offers convenient access for both shoreline fishing and launching boats. Anglers without a boat can fish directly from the banks, while those with equipment can take advantage of the fully operational marina, which includes boat rentals and refueling stations.
Family-Friendly Amenities: This area also includes shaded picnic areas, restrooms, and proximity to the Lake Mead Visitor Center, making it ideal for family outings. Even if certain members of your group aren’t fishing enthusiasts, they can enjoy the serene views or explore other marina amenities.

Local Insights

The striped bass in Lake Mead can weigh over 20 pounds, and the lake holds the record for the largest striped bass caught in Nevada.
Fishing regulations require a Nevada fishing license (available online or at local shops) and adherence to catch limits: three striped bass over 20 inches in length are allowed per person daily.

Visitor Tips

Best times to visit: Spring and fall offer comfortable temperatures and active fish.
What to bring: Sunscreen, hats, plenty of water, and appropriate gear for desert and lake environments.
Getting there: From Las Vegas, take US-93 South towards Boulder City, then follow the signs to Lake Mead. The trip takes approximately 40 minutes by car.

Adventure Map

Reviews

Nv Angler Education5 years ago

Definitely a hot spot first thing in the morning. Always a good turnout and lots of regular anglers. Summer mornings have been slow.

Miguel Veleza year ago

Well its not too bad. it actually looks like a cool place for fishing. But it gets crowded with lots of people that go swimming right there next to the pier!!!! Thats why there is a designated area for swimming!!! But anyways there are better fishing spots!!!!

John Lewis3 years ago

I've been fishing there for years. I meet a lot of nice people. Fishing is good one day and bad the next, but fun

Thomas Bentza year ago

Low water and a bit crowded from kayak and paddle boarders. But the fishing is still available. Access to suitable beach areas is easy enough with vehicles that can handle soft sand roads. The bugs are not heavy. Shade is none exstistant. So it is advisable to be your own. Rough pinicing is plentiful. Swimming is safe as any open water swimming can be. No lifeguards are ever present. Near by is a small public fishing pier, less busy than might be expected due to low water levels. All and all an enjoyable place for small groups and families to spend a pleasant day out of the city.

Zachin the last week

It's got fish. It's got bathrooms. What else could you ask for?