Boating On Martinez Lake In Arizona

Boating, camping and fishing.

Free Public Boating & Water Sport Activities

Martinez Lake is a popular recreational destination situated in southwestern Arizona, near the California border. Nestled along the picturesque Colorado River, this reservoir offers a wealth of opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts.

Boating is one of the top attractions at Martinez Lake. Its winding, river waters provide ample space for watercraft of all sizes, from speedboats to pontoon boats and jet skis. Boaters can leisurely cruise along the river, taking in the stunning desert scenery and enjoying the refreshing waters.

The lake's wide-open expanse and calm waters make it an ideal spot for popular water sports, such as water skiing, wakeboarding, and tubing. Thrill-seekers and families alike flock to Martinez Lake to indulge in the excitement of these adrenaline-pumping activities.

Near Martinez Lake visitors can explore the city of Yuma, located approximately 25 miles south of the lake. Yuma is a historic city with a rich cultural heritage, offering attractions such as the Yuma Territorial Prison State Historic Park, which provides a glimpse into the area's Wild West past. The city's historic downtown boasts charming shops, restaurants, and art galleries. Nature enthusiasts can visit the nearby Imperial National Wildlife Refuge, a sanctuary for migratory birds and other wildlife.

The best time to visit Martinez Lake for boating and water sports is during the spring, fall, and winter months. The temperatures are more moderate, and the water conditions are typically calmer, creating a pleasant environment for outdoor activities.

Martinez Lake provides a convenient boat launch ramp to enable quick and hassle-free launching of watercraft. This allows visitors to spend more time enjoying the lake's recreational offerings.

For those seeking a longer stay, Martinez Lake offers campgrounds nearby. These facilities provide amenities like boat slips, RV hookups, and picnic areas, making it convenient for visitors to make the most of their time on the lake.

Bass fishing is a beloved pastime at Martinez Lake, attracting anglers in search of various fish species, including bass, catfish, and panfish. The lake's waters teem with abundant aquatic life, creating a haven for fishing enthusiasts.

Martinez Lake in Arizona provides a captivating escape for boating, water sports, camping, and fishing. Located along the scenic Colorado River, the lake's tranquil waters and beautiful surroundings invite visitors to embrace the great outdoors and create lasting memories. Whether it's cruising on a boat, trying out thrilling water sports, camping by the water's edge, or casting a line in hopes of catching a trophy fish, Martinez Lake promises an unforgettable experience for all who venture to this desert oasis.

A small backwater off the Colorado River on the Arizona-California border, north of Yuma AZ, Martinez Lake is easily accessed via the Imperial Dam Road west off US Highway 95. The lake provides boating access to this section of the Colorado River. The lake is a 600-acre impoundment off the Colorado River, which meanders its way south to drain into the ocean. If you like to fish current or venture into backwaters to find bass, Martinez Lake is your kind of place. The lake is a flooded area on the Arizona side of the Colorado River. Some bass are caught in the lake, but the vast majority of bass anglers venture up river from the lake itself to find bass in vegetation along the river banks. Use heavy line and prepare for a battle if you hook one of the bigger fish that live in this fast-moving current.

Area Amenities

Marina: YES
Boat Rental: YES
Boat Launch Ramp: YES
Campgrounds: YES
RV Hookups: YES
Lodging: YES
Convenience Store: YES
Bait & Tackle: YES
Restaurant: YES

Camping

MCCS Lake Martinez Recreation Area & RV Park - 928 269-2262

Fisher's Landing Resort Campground - 928 782-7049

Martinez Lake Map

Fishing

Fish species found in Martinez Lake include largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, channel catfish, flathead catfish, black crappie, walleye, bluegill, green sunfish, redear sunfish, tilapia and striped bass.

Largemouth bass Smallmouth bass Channel catfish Flathead catfish Black crappie Walleye Bluegill Sunfish Redear Sunfish Tilapia Striped bass