Water Activities

Fishing & Water Activities in Mesa

Even though Mesa is in the heart of a desert, visitors can take advantage of the city’s close proximity to a water recreation paradise.

There are a variety of lakes and rivers in and around Mesa that allow for desert boating, fishing, rafting, kayaking, water skiing, wake boarding and jet skiing. Or, partake in the ever-popular activity of “tubing”, a leisurely float along the cool waters of the Salt River via inner-tube! Contact these nearby lakes below directly for information on boat rentals and current fishing schedules.

Let Arizona Natives show you the best paddle spots at Canyon Lake, Arizona on a kayak…
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YAK N SUP Canyon Lake
Riverbound Sports, an official outfitter of Tonto National Forest, offers a wide range of paddling events…
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Riverbound Sports Paddle Co.

Local Tips

After a Rain: I always head to La Barge Cove on Canyon Lake. A creek runs straight into the lake and it’s one of my favorite things to see from the water.

All-Day Hang: If I’m planning to grill and hang for the afternoon, I launch from Boulder Recreation Site on Canyon Lake and make it my home base.

Overnight Camp: Paddle or 4x4 into Party Cove on Saguaro Lake, or claim a first-come site at The Point Campground on Canyon Lake, known locally as Beer Can Point.

Cliff Jumping: For cliff jumping on Saguaro Lake, I like the areas near Butcher Jones Beach. Paddle in from the shoreline or look for the Del Norte parking lot if you’re coming by foot.

- Jeremy Schroder, Owner of Yak N Sup & Redline Rentals

Lakes

Apache Lake: 17 miles long with secluded coves. Hotel lodging, camping, boat rental and storage available. Day use areas on-site. Fees apply. Fish species: Black Crappie, Channel Catfish, Flathead Catfish, Largemouth Bass, Smallmouth Bass, Walleye. Apache Lake Marina, 928-467-2511, apachelake.com.

Canyon Lake: 28 miles of shoreline, 950 surface acres of water and secluded coves. RV and tent camping, boat rental and storage available. Day use areas and ramada rental on-site. Fees apply. Depth: 141 feet. Fish species: Bluegill, Largemouth Bass, Rainbow Trout, Walleye, Yellow Bass. Canyon Lake Marina, 480-288-9233, canyonlakemarina.com.

Roosevelt Lake: 112 miles of shoreline and 22,000 acres of surface water. Hotel lodging and RV park, camping, boat rental and storage available. Fees apply. Depth: 300 feet (when full). Fish species: Largemouth Bass, Smallmouth Bass, Catfish, Bluegill, Crappie. Roosevelt Marina, 602-977-7170, rooseveltlakemarina.com

Saguaro Lake: 10 miles long and 22 miles of shoreline. Ranch-style lodging, day use areas and Butcher Jones Beach. Boat rental and storage available. Fees apply. Depth: 100+ feet. Fish species: Bluegill, Largemouth Bass, Smallmouth Bass, Channel Catfish, Rainbow Trout, Crappie. Saguaro Lake Marina, 480-986-5546, saguarolakemarina.com

**Travel Notice: Canyon Lake will temporarily close beginning September 16, 2026 for approximately 16 weeks due to maintenance and safety inspections. Visitors are encouraged to explore nearby alternatives including Saguaro Lake, Salt River tubing and Mesa’s other water recreation experiences. Learn more about the project here.

Rivers

Salt River: The closest river to Mesa, most leisure recreation takes place in the lower and upper portions where outfitters operate guided water tours via kayak, raft and inner tube. The river winds through the Tonto National Forest and offers a convenient day trip for Mesa visitors. Fishing permit required. Day use areas throughout.

Verde River: Take in the breathtaking views of lush vegetation and tranquil waters while fishing in this scenic river. This major tributary of the Salt River stretches over 160 miles and carries different types of game fish, including catfish, bluegill, and largemouth bass. An Arizona fishing license is needed for anglers who are 10 years of age or older. Visitors can reach this river by traversing across the Fort McDowell Reservation.

What is the most popular activity on the Salt River?
Tubing is one of the most popular things to do on the Lower Salt River near Mesa. Visitors float downstream through scenic desert landscapes while enjoying cool water and possible wild horse sightings.

For tubing rentals and shuttle service, many visitors use Salt River Tubing.
Can you kayak or paddleboard on the Salt River?
Yes. The Lower Salt River is a favorite spot for kayaking and paddleboarding thanks to its calm water, desert scenery and wildlife viewing opportunities. Both beginners and experienced paddlers enjoy the river, especially during spring through fall.
Can you see wild horses on the Salt River?
Yes, the Lower Salt River is known for its famous wild horses and sightings are common along the riverbanks. Visitors may also spot bald eagles, coyotes and other desert wildlife while floating or paddling. Always observe animals from a safe distance and never feed them.
Are there places to swim or picnic along the Salt River?
Yes, several recreation sites along the Lower Salt River offer picnic areas, shoreline access and places to cool off in the water. The area is popular for family outings, relaxing by the river and enjoying scenic desert views.
Do you need a pass to visit the Salt River recreation areas?
Yes, most recreation sites along the Lower Salt River require a Tonto National Forest Pass or America the Beautiful Pass for parking and day-use access. Visitors should check posted signs and current conditions before heading out.

Transportation Advisory for Salt River Recreation Areas

Visitors should not rely on Uber, Lyft, or other rideshare services as their primary transportation plan for Salt River tubing, kayaking, or recreation activities.

Cell phone coverage may be limited or unavailable in portions of the Lower Salt River recreation area, which can make it difficult to request a ride. Rideshare driver availability can also vary by location, time of day, weather conditions, and seasonal demand.

For the most reliable experience, visitors are encouraged to arrange transportation in advance, travel with a designated driver, use an authorized shuttle service, or coordinate vehicles before beginning their river trip.

Urban Fishing

Eastmark Great Park: Fishing with your little ones? Eastmark Great Park features a pond that contains trout, catfish, and sunfish. Expand your fishing itinerary by taking your children to the fun playground area or the shaded splashpad.

Greenfield Park Community Fishing Lake: Cast your line in the ADA-friendly fishing area of Greenfield Park. Fathead minnows, bass, and bluegill are some of the varieties that you'll find at this lake. Make a family-centered outing of it by bringing your snacks to a picnic table, or cooling down under the shaded ramada.

Red Mountain Lake: Fish in the glimmering waters of Red Mountain Park and unwind in a calming atmosphere. With various sports courts and walking trails, there is something for everyone at this local park. Spanning around eight acres, fish varieties in the lake include white amur, trout, catfish, bass, and sunfish.

Riverview Lake: Nestled in Riverview Park, this special lake spans around three acres and offers ample fishing opportunities. Daily bag limits include four catfish, two bass, and 10 sunfish. Bring your little ones and enjoy the playground area of this charming park. For more information, visit the official website of Arizona Game and Fish.

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