If you’ve ever fished Lake Powell or dreamed of casting a line there, one thing has probably crossed your mind: what’s the biggest fish ever caught in Lake Powell? Whether you’re a seasoned angler or a weekend participant, it’s natural to get curious—and maybe a little competitive—when it comes to record-breaking catches.
Lake Powell is well-known not just for its incredible red rock scenery and boating opportunities, but for its healthy fish populations and the potential to catch some seriously big fish. In this post, we’re diving into the record fish stories from Lake Powell, the species that grow to jaw-dropping sizes, and tips for how you can increase your chances of catching the next big one.
The Biggest Fish Ever Caught in Lake Powell
Let’s start with the star of the show: the biggest fish ever caught in Lake Powell was a striped bass weighing an incredible 48 pounds, 11 ounces. It was caught in April 1991. This monster striper set the bar high for every angler fishing these waters ever since.
Striped bass, or “stripers,” are among the most popular sport fish in Lake Powell. They can grow big and travel in massive schools, often found boiling on the surface as they chase shad. That world-record catch came from near the dam at Wahweap, which is one of the best-known hotspots for striper fishing.
Other notable catches include catfish weighing over 30 pounds and largemouth bass reaching well over 10 pounds. While not officially record-breaking, many anglers have their own Lake Powell fishing stories about hooking into huge fish in narrow canyons, deep holes, and secluded coves.
What Fish Get the Biggest in Lake Powell?
When we talk about big fish in Lake Powell, three main species usually come up: striped bass, channel catfish, and largemouth bass.
Striped Bass: These are the biggest and most famous of Lake Powell’s sport fish. While most anglers are thrilled to land a 5- to 10-pound striper, fish over 20 pounds are caught every year, especially during spring and fall. They grow large because Lake Powell offers deep, cool water and a massive food supply (especially gizzard shad).
Channel Catfish: Catfish don’t get as much glory, but they sure grow big. Some of the biggest catfish caught in Lake Powell weigh upwards of 30 pounds. They live in deeper, slower-moving waters, and summer nights are the best time to target them.
Largemouth Bass: While not as big as stripers or catfish, largemouth bass can still grow into the double-digit range in Lake Powell. These fish like shallow cover and can be found in the backs of coves, especially during spring spawning season.
Lake Powell Fishing Seasons: When Big Fish Bite
One of the most important parts of catching a big fish in Lake Powell is timing your trip with the right season.
Spring: This is prime time for largemouth and smallmouth bass as they move into the shallows to spawn. It’s also a great time for catching walleye and stripers that are becoming more active as the water warms.
Summer: Early mornings and evenings are best, especially for catfish and topwater bass. Big stripers start to move deeper, but you can still find them if you follow the baitfish.
Fall: Fall is famous for the striper boils—massive feeding frenzies on the surface that can lead to incredible catches. It’s one of the best times of year to hook into a trophy-sized striped bass.
Winter: Fishing slows down in the winter, but dedicated anglers still catch big fish by deep jigging for stripers or slow-rolling baits near structure.
Where to Fish for the Big Ones
There are countless good fishing spots around Lake Powell, but some areas consistently produce bigger fish year after year.
Wahweap Marina & Dam Area: This is where the biggest striper on record was caught. It’s deep, well-oxygenated, and full of baitfish. Anchovy chunking, trolling, and vertical jigging all work well here.
Warm Creek Bay & Padre Bay: These spots are known for holding both large stripers and big bass. During spring and fall, you’ll often see birds working the surface—a sure sign that a striper boil is happening.
Bullfrog Area: If you’re launching from the north end of the lake, the Bullfrog area offers great fishing for catfish, stripers, and bass. Look for deep structure or shallows with vegetation.
Back of Canyons: Narrow side canyons like Navajo Canyon or Last Chance Canyon often hold big largemouth bass and even some surprise catches like walleye or big crappie. These areas are great for flipping, pitching, and working the shoreline.
How to Catch a Trophy Fish in Lake Powell
Catching a record fish takes skill, patience, and a little bit of luck. But there are a few strategies that can give you an edge.
Go Early or Late: Big fish are often most active during low-light hours. Plan to be on the water just before sunrise or stay out until dusk for your best shot.
Use Bigger Baits: If you want to land a giant, you need to tempt them with something worth their effort. Upsize your swimbaits, jerkbaits, or cut bait. Big stripers, for example, won’t waste time on tiny snacks when they could go after a hefty meal.
Follow the Shad: Lake Powell’s food chain depends heavily on shad. Find the bait, and you’ll find the predators. Use electronics to spot schools of baitfish and check areas where birds are diving.
Fish Deep: In the hotter months, big fish go deep. Learn to use your fishfinder, and try vertical jigging in 40-60 feet of water for stripers or walleye.
Use Fresh Bait: For catfish or stripers, fresh cut anchovy or shad is hard to beat. The fresher the bait, the better your odds.
Hire a Local Guide: If you’re serious about catching something big, consider booking a trip with a Lake Powell fishing guide. Local guides know where the big ones hide and can dramatically increase your chances of success.
Lake Powell Fishing Stories
Ask any local or repeat visitor, and you’ll hear all kinds of stories about big fish at Lake Powell. Some are verified, some maybe a little exaggerated, but that’s half the fun. Whether it’s someone who landed a 30-pound catfish on a nightcrawler or a kid who hooked a monster striper on their very first cast, these stories are part of what makes fishing Lake Powell so special.
We’ve heard tales of bass bigger than the scale could read and stripers that snapped lines like thread. One angler told us he fought a fish for nearly an hour, only to have it break off right at the boat. Another swears he saw a striper as long as his kayak cruise under him in Padre Bay.
The best part? You could be the next story. The next record fish Lake Powell gives up might have your name on it.
Local Fishing Regulations and Best Practices
Before you go out hunting for a record fish, make sure you’re up to date with local fishing regulations. Lake Powell stretches across Utah and Arizona, and fishing licenses from either state are valid throughout the lake. Always check for updates on bag limits, bait rules, and seasonal closures.
And of course, respect the lake. Pack out your trash, handle fish carefully, and practice catch and release for any species you don’t plan to keep. Lake Powell is a beautiful and delicate ecosystem that deserves our care.
So, what is the biggest fish in Lake Powell? Right now, it’s that massive 48-pound striper caught back in the ’90s—but that doesn’t mean it can’t be beaten. The lake is full of opportunity, whether you’re chasing stripers, bass, or catfish. With the right knowledge, the right bait, and a little bit of persistence, your next trip could go from average to unforgettable.
If you’re serious about catching a trophy, or just want to explore Lake Powell fishing with expert help, consider booking a guided fishing trip with Lake Powell Guide Services. We fish these waters year-round and know where the big ones like to hide.
Book your Lake Powell fishing adventure today, and maybe your story will be the next legend on the lake.