Lake Powell Fishing Report May 18, 2025: Stripers, Bass, and More Biting Strong

Good morning from Lake Powell, this is Artificial Lure with your fishing report for Sunday, May 18, 2025.

We are sitting prime time for spring fishing on Lake Powell, with water temps holding steady between 68 and 74 degrees. The weather is shaping up perfect for anglers today—expect clear skies, highs around the mid 70s, and a gentle breeze, making for an ideal day on the water. Sunrise was at 5:58 AM and sunset will be at 8:21 PM, giving you a long window to hit the bite. With Lake Powell being a freshwater reservoir, tide is not a factor here, so focus on time of day and water temperature for fish activity instead.

Fishing action remains excellent for stripers in the southern stretch, especially around Glen Canyon Dam. Stripers are hungry and stacking up in good numbers. The best bait right now is anchovy, cut into chunks about 1.5 inches, rigged on a 1/8 to 3/8 ounce jig head. Drop your bait near the dam, particularly the right side when facing it, and work it gently up and down. Once you find the depth the stripers are hitting, keep your bait there to land multiples. Some boats are reporting dozens caught per outing, with stripers running strong and healthy[1][3][5].

Bass fishing is solid too, both largemouth and smallmouth. The backs of canyons where water transitions from clear to murky—especially where it's 30 feet deep or less—are holding fish. Trolling a shad-shaped crankbait in colored water will get you hooked up quick. After you catch one, circle back through the same spot for more action. Bass are active throughout the day, but early mornings and late evenings around structure are producing best[1][5].

Other species like crappie, catfish, bluegill, and walleye are being caught as well, with action rated as good to excellent. Crappie and bluegill are tight to brush and submerged cover, and catfish are biting cut bait or nightcrawlers off the bottom. For walleye, try jigging near rocky points or trolling deep-diving crankbaits[5].

Hot spots today: Glen Canyon Dam for non-stop striper action and the backs of Wahweap and Warm Creek Bays for bass and multi-species catches. For shore anglers, try the marinas early or late for a mixed bag.

Best lures right now are shad-imitating crankbaits, white or chartreuse soft plastics, and of course, nothing beats fresh cut anchovy for stripers. Bait shops around the lake are well-stocked.

That wraps up today’s Lake Powell fishing report. Bundle your rods, keep your bait fresh, and get out there while the bite is hot. Good luck and tight lines!