Lake El Salto Best Fishing: The Most Useful Guide 2024

Lake El Salto Best Fishing

Tucked at the base of the majestic Sierra Madre Occidental and a short drive from Mazatlan, Mexico, Lake El Salto is a fishing paradise waiting to be discovered. Introduced with Florida largemouth bass over 15 years ago, its warm, inviting waters have become a perfect breeding ground for these trophy fish.

Covering 27,000 acres, the lake’s rich environment is a haven for large, feisty bass and their prey, offering anglers the chance to engage in various fishing tactics. Whether it’s enjoying the quiet of topwater fishing at dawn, exploring the bustling rocky points, or meandering through the lake’s extensive creek channels and shorelines, Lake El Salto promises an exhilarating fishing journey.

Its location in the south means bass here spawn twice annually, ensuring great fishing all year round. Prepare your fishing equipment and head out to sea for a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

Beyond fishing, Lake El Salto’s surroundings are rich in natural beauty and are home to a wide variety of species, including numerous Mexican mammals and an abundance of birds. This means it’s a wonderful spot for anyone who enjoys being outdoors and around nature. Here, the adventure extends from the water to the wild, inviting everyone to revel in the serene and biodiverse landscape.

 Lake El Salto Fish Species

Lake El Salto is more than just a top spot for catching bass—it’s a bustling underwater world full of different kinds of fish. Let’s dive into the exciting life under the surface of Lake El Salto!

The Big Star: Largemouth Bass

The Florida largemouth bass is the main attraction here. Brought to the lake more than 15 years ago, these big fish have grown well in the warm water, turning into a prized catch for fishers everywhere. Be ready for a tough fight with these energetic fish, famous for their strong pulls and high jumps.

More Than Just Bass

Lake El Salto has lots of other fish too, like:

• Cichlids: Bright and varied, these fish, including guapote tigre and guapote presentado, make fishing fun and lively.
• Catfish: For a different kind of challenge, try catching catfish like the channel or flathead catfish, which are known for their stubborn strength.
• Mackerel: Fast and fun, sierra mackerel and Spanish mackerel are a blast to catch because of their quick moves and leaps.
• Other Fish: Look out for other cool fish like rainbow trout in the higher parts of the lake and payara, a fierce fish with big jumps.

Fishing All Year Round

What’s great about Lake El Salto is you can find interesting fish to catch any time of the year, no matter if you’re just starting out or have been fishing for years.

Learning the Lake

To do well fishing in Lake El Salto, it helps to know where different fish like to hang out and what they like to eat. This knowledge can make your fishing trip even better.

So next time you’re at Lake El Salto, think about all the amazing fish waiting for you. From the famous bass to colorful cichlids and fast mackerel, there’s always something exciting to catch for everyone who loves fishing.

 Lake El Salto Bass Fishing

Lake El Salto is not just any lake; it’s a fishing paradise famous for its trophy bass. These big bass love the lake’s warm water and have become the stars of El Salto, showing just how awesome the fishing can be here. Let’s dive into what you need to know to catch these impressive fish and feel the rush of landing a big El Salto bass!

Know Your Fish:

To catch these bass, you first need to understand them. The largemouth bass in Lake El Salto are aggressive eaters and are super fast. They like hanging around places with stuff like rocks, fallen trees, and patches of weeds.

Tips for Success:

• Find the Right Spot: Look for places with lots of cover and structure, and keep an eye on where the bass might be during different seasons.
• Get Your Presentation Right: Make your lure act like real prey. Change up how fast you reel it in to see what gets the bass biting.
• Focus on Structures: Be strategic with your lure around places where bass might be waiting to ambush.
• Reel in Smartly: Once you hook one, set the hook well and keep steady pressure. Use your rod to fight the fish, and be patient bringing it in.

Enjoying the Catch:

With these strategies, you’re set for an exciting time fishing for El Salto’s famous bass. Remember, it’s not just about the catch; it’s about the whole experience. Cherish the challenge, respect these awesome fish, and make lasting memories of your fishing trip to Lake El Salto!

 Best Time to Fish Lake El Salto

The special thing about Lake El Salto is that you can have a great time fishing there any day of the year. But knowing a bit about when fish like to do their thing can really help you catch more. Let’s talk about when’s the best time to go for the fish you’re after and make your fishing trip even better.

Nice Weather All the Time:

Lake El Salto’s weather is pretty steady, with warm water that fish love all year long. But, fish act a bit different depending on the time of year.

Best Times for Bass Fishing:

• Pre-Spawn (December – February): When it starts to warm up, bass get more active, making it a great time for using lures on the surface.
• Spawn (March – April): Bass move to shallow areas to lay eggs. Now’s the time for jigs and soft lures.
• Post-Spawn (May – June): After laying eggs, bass are tired but you can still catch them. Try deeper waters with different lures.

Going After Other Fish:

Bass are the stars, but there’s more fish to catch:

• Spring and Summer (April – August): Lots of fish like the warm water, so it’s busy in the lake. Try topwater lures and live bait.
• Fall and Winter (September – March): Cooler water changes things a bit, but you can still find active fish. This could be your chance to catch a really big bass or even rainbow trout in colder spots.

Extra Tips:

Keep an eye on the weather like wind and water clarity, and maybe chat with local guides. They know all about the lake’s secrets and can give you the inside scoop.

Lake El Salto Fishing Spots

Lake El Salto is full of great places to fish, but finding the best spots can depend on the weather, time of year, and how many people are fishing. This guide will tell you about some of the top spots to help you find big fish and make your trip successful.

Fishing Near the Dam:

The big dam that helps fill Lake El Salto is more than just a cool sight; it’s also one of the best places to fish. The water near the dam is deep, which means big bass like to hang out there. Try using lures that can go deep to catch these large fish. Just remember to stay safe and follow any rules about fishing near the dam.

Rocky Shores:

The edges of Lake El Salto have lots of rocky areas sticking out into the water. These spots are great for fishing because bass like to hide there and wait for food. Use lures that move quickly through the water to attract these fish.

Trees and Brush in the Water:

Places where trees and bushes are underwater are great for catching bass. The fish use these spots for hiding. When fishing here, use soft lures and try to get them right into these hiding spots to catch the bass.

Old River Paths:

The paths of old rivers under the lake are like roads for fish, especially when it’s time for them to spawn. Using rigs that let your lure move naturally in these underwater paths can be a great way to catch bass.

Creeks Feeding the Lake:

When it rains, the creeks flowing into Lake El Salto bring in fresh water that attracts fish. These spots can be really good for fishing, especially with lures that float on top of the water.

Lake El Salto is a fantastic place for fishing, and exploring new spots can be as fun as catching fish. Talk to people who know the lake, try different places, and you might find your own secret fishing spot. Grab your fishing gear and get ready for an adventure at Lake El Salto!

Lake El Salto Fishing Tips

Going fishing at Lake El Salto is an adventure you won’t forget. Even if the place is beautiful, catching fish isn’t always guaranteed. This guide is packed with tips and tricks to help make your fishing trip a success, no matter if you’re new to fishing or have been doing it for years.

What You Need to Bring:

• Fishing Gear: A strong rod that can handle big fish and a reel that won’t jam when a fish pulls hard. Use a fishing line that can hold up to 15-20 pounds.
• Bait and Lures: Bring different kinds of bait and lures. Topwater lures, crankbaits for deep and shallow water, jigs, and soft plastics are all good choices. Live bait like crawfish or minnows can also work well.
• Other Stuff: Don’t forget a hat and sunscreen to protect you from the sun, clothes for the weather, tools like pliers, a camera for photos, and a cooler to keep any fish you catch fresh.

How to Fish Like a Pro:

• Find the Fish: Look for spots where fish might hide, like under rocks or near logs. A fish finder can help, or you can watch where birds are feeding to find fish.
• Make Your Lure Work: Throw your lure so it lands softly and looks natural. Change how fast you reel it in to see what the fish like.
• Fish Around Objects: Cast your bait near structures in the water. If you’re using soft bait, try dropping it right into hiding spots where big fish wait.
• Catch Fish the Smart Way: When you hook a fish, pull back sharply to set the hook, then keep the line tight. Let the fish tire out before you reel it in.

Extra Expert Advice:

• Get Help from a Local Guide: A guide can take you to the best spots and show you how to catch fish in that lake.
• Know the Seasons: Fish act differently at different times of the year. Knowing this can help you choose the right bait and find the best spots.
• Take Care of the Lake: Release the fish you catch back into the water if you can. Keep the lake clean by taking your trash with you.

Follow these tips to improve your fishing skills at Lake El Salto. Being patient and respectful of nature can make your fishing trip both successful and enjoyable.

“Ultimate Guide to Bass Fishing at Lake El Salto”

Getting There:

• Research flight options to Mazatlan (MZT) which is the closest major airport (about 1.5 hours from the lake).

Best Fishing Season:

• Lake El Salto offers year-round fishing, but the prime season for trophy bass is generally considered to be December to June.

Local Regulations and Permits:

You’ll need a fishing license for Lake El Salto. It’s important to consult the official Mexican government website for fisheries regulations and licensing information. Look for resources in English or use a translation tool on the official Mexican government website (https://www.fao.org/fishery/en/facp/mex?lang=en – Spanish language).

Recommended Gear and Bait:

• Rods: Medium-heavy power baitcasting or spinning rod with a fast action tip.
• Reels: Reel with a smooth drag and enough line capacity (15-20 lb fluorocarbon line).
• Lures: Topwater lures (buzzbaits, frog lures), crankbaits (deep diving and shallow diving), jigs (flippin’ jigs, swim jigs), soft plastics (worms, creature baits).
• Live bait: Crawfish or minnows.
• Gear rental: While bringing your own gear is ideal, some local outfitters offer rental options.

What to Pack for Your Trip:

• Sun protection (hat, sunglasses, sunscreen)
• Comfortable clothing for the weather
• Pliers, fish grippers
• Camera
• Cooler

Boat Charter Options:

• Many lodges and outfitters offer boat charter options. Costs typically range from $200 to $500 per day, depending on the boat size and guide experience.

Accommodation Recommendations:

• A variety of lodges and resorts cater to anglers visiting the lake. Prices can vary depending on amenities and location, but expect to pay between $100 and $300 per night.

Weather and Sea Conditions:

• The weather at Lake El Salto is generally warm and sunny year-round. However, there can be occasional rain showers, especially during the summer months. The lake is typically calm, making for comfortable fishing conditions.

Local Fishing Techniques:

• Learn to identify underwater structures (rocks, logs, weed beds) where bass like to hide.
• Cast your lures accurately and vary your retrieve speed to mimic fleeing prey.
• When fishing with soft plastics in heavy cover, use flipping and pitching techniques for precise lure placement.
• Consider hiring an experienced guide who can show you the best spots and techniques.

Approximate Expenses (excluding flights):

• Fishing License: ~$20
• Accommodation: $100-$300 per night
• Boat Charter: $200-$500 per day
• Food: Varies depending on your needs and preferences
• Gear rental (optional): Varies

Remember, these are approximate costs and can vary depending on the specific options you choose

Where is the biggest bass caught in the world?

In 1932, George Perry captured the largest largemouth bass ever measured in Montgomery Lake in Georgia. With its weight of 22 pounds and 4 ounces, this enormous fish set a global record that hasn’t been surpassed. Bass fishermen have grown to know this catch well, which inspires them to set high goals for their fishing expeditions. Due to this record-breaking bass, Montgomery Lake has become a well-known location for big bass hunters.

FAQ on “Lake El Salto Best Fishing” 

Conclusion

Lake El Salto is known as one of the best places for bass fishing, attracting fishers from all over the world. People love coming here for the full lakes, lots of different fish to catch, and the stunning views. Whether you’re aiming to catch a big bass or just enjoy fishing for fun, Lake El Salto makes your trip special. With expert guides, great places to stay, and friendly locals, your visit will surely be one to remember. If you’re dreaming of a big catch, Lake El Salto is the perfect spot, offering the best in bass fishing.

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