Arizona · Fishing
Fishing in Cibola, Arizona
Cibola sits along the lower Colorado River in western Arizona, and the fishing here is almost entirely about oxbow lakes and backwater sloughs cut off from the main channel over decades of river management.
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Cibola sits along the lower Colorado River in western Arizona, and the fishing here is almost entirely about oxbow lakes and backwater sloughs cut off from the main channel over decades of river management. The bulk of the fishable water in and around town falls into that category: Cibola Lake, Nortons Lake, Island Lake, Adobe Lake, Cowbell Lake, Stewarts Lake, and Three Finger Lake are all oxbow-style impoundments connected to the Colorado River system. The Oxbow Recreation and Wildlife Area adds river-edge access for anglers who want moving water. These lakes are warm-water fisheries, not trout streams, so expect largemouth bass, channel catfish, bluegill, and carp as your primary targets. Access is generally straightforward, with most lakes reachable by gravel roads through the Cibola National Wildlife Refuge, though road conditions can change seasonally. If you are driving from Phoenix or Las Vegas, Cibola is a long haul on two-lane roads, so building in a full day or two makes the trip worthwhile. The area sees little fishing pressure compared to Lake Havasu or the Parker Strip, which is a genuine advantage if you want water to yourself on a weekend.
Frequently asked questions
What species can I realistically expect to catch in Cibola's lakes?
The oxbow lakes here are warm-water fisheries, so largemouth bass, channel catfish, bluegill, and carp are the most common catches. These are not trout waters, and there is no gold-medal or wild-trout designation for any of the listed lakes or the Oxbow Recreation and Wildlife Area.
Do I need an Arizona fishing license to fish Cibola Lake, Island Lake, or the other oxbow lakes?
Yes, a valid Arizona fishing license is required for all the waters listed here, including those within the Cibola National Wildlife Refuge boundary. Check the Arizona Game and Fish Department website for current license fees and any refuge-specific permit requirements before you go, as refuge rules can layer on top of state regulations.
When is the best time of year to fish around Cibola?
Spring and fall are the most productive seasons for bass and catfish in these shallow oxbow lakes, when water temperatures are in the 60s and 70s Fahrenheit. Summer fishing is possible but the heat along the lower Colorado is serious, so early morning starts before 8 a.m. are almost mandatory from June through September.
Is a boat required, or can I fish from shore?
Shore fishing is viable at most of the listed lakes, including Cibola Lake and the Oxbow Recreation and Wildlife Area, where bank access exists along the edges. A small kayak or jon boat opens up more water on larger lakes like Island Lake and Stewarts Lake, but you do not need a trailered powerboat to have a productive day.
How do I get to the lakes inside the Cibola National Wildlife Refuge?
Most of the oxbow lakes are accessed via unpaved refuge roads off Cibola Road, which runs through the area from Highway 95. A standard passenger car can usually manage the main refuge roads in dry conditions, but a high-clearance vehicle is helpful after rain or in soft sand. Stop at the refuge headquarters or check their current access map online before heading out, since some roads and areas close seasonally for wildlife management.
