As of October 1, 2024, the Colorado River near Las Vegas is offering some exciting fishing opportunities despite the lingering summer heat. Here’s what you need to know for a successful day on the water.

### Weather and Sunrise/Sunset
Expect a hot day with temperatures rising to around 95°F by midday, starting with a mild 75°F in the morning. There will be light winds of about 5 mph, making the river conditions ideal for boating and casting. No precipitation is forecasted, so you can enjoy a clear, sunny day. Sunrise is at 6:23 AM, and sunset will be at 6:03 PM.

### Water Conditions
The water flow is currently between 2,000 and 20,000 cubic feet per second, which is typical for this time of year. The water clarity is clear, making it ideal for spotting fish. Water temperatures are in the mid-70s to low 80s, which can affect fish activity, especially during the hottest parts of the day.

### Fish Activity
Striped bass are active throughout the day but tend to feed more voraciously during the cooler morning and evening hours. They can be found at various depths but are often near the surface, especially when chasing shad. Black bass are more active in the morning, while catfish tend to bite better at night.

### Catches
Yesterday, anglers reported good catches of striped bass, particularly in the area between Davis Dam and the Nature Center. Striped bass up to 10 pounds were caught using anchovies and cut bait that imitate threadfin shad or trout. Black bass were biting on poppers and rattling jigs, especially during the morning hours. Channel catfish were caught using stink bait and anchovies fished along drop-offs.

### Best Lures and Bait
For striped bass, anchovies and cut bait that imitate threadfin shad or trout are highly effective. Use chumming with anchovies or corn to attract schools of stripers. Kastmasters, swim baits, and top-water lures work well during the late afternoon when stripers are boiling at the surface. For black bass, poppers and rattling jigs are good choices, especially during the morning hours. Channel catfish can be caught using stink bait and anchovies in tubes, fished along drop-offs and bottom areas.

### Hot Spots
Focus on the areas between Davis Dam and the Nature Center, as well as the backwater areas along the Nevada side of the river. Sportsman’s Park in Laughlin, Big Bend State Park, and the Avi Resort and Casino offer good boating access and shoreline fishing spots. Nighttime bank anglers have been successful in catching small stripers, catfish, and panfish in these areas.

### Local Tips
Local anglers suggest staying mobile and looking for bird activity, which can indicate the presence of schooling fish. Keep plenty of water and sun protection handy, as the heat can be intense. Enjoy your day on the Colorado River