Desert West Lake facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Desert West Lake |
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 Desert West Lake
Location in Arizona
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| Location | 6602 West Encanto Boulevard Phoenix, Arizona 85035 |
| Coordinates | 33°28′30.19″N 112°11′47.71″W / 33.4750528°N 112.1965861°W |
| Basin countries | United States |
| Surface area | 5 acres (2.0 ha) |
| Average depth | 11 ft (3.4 m) |
| Surface elevation | 1,100 ft (340 m) |
| Settlements | Phoenix |
Desert West Lake is a small, fun lake located inside Desert West Park in Phoenix, Arizona, United States. You can find it just east of 67th Avenue and south of Thomas Road. It's a popular spot for people who enjoy fishing and spending time outdoors in the city.
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About Desert West Lake
Desert West Lake is a man-made lake, meaning it was created by people, not nature. It covers about 5 acres (which is like 5 football fields!) and is about 11 feet deep in most places. The lake is part of the larger Desert West Park, which offers many activities for families and friends.
Location and Purpose
The lake is a cool oasis in the desert city of Phoenix. It provides a place for local wildlife and is especially known for fishing. The park and lake are managed by the City of Phoenix Parks and Recreation Department, making sure it's a great place for everyone to visit.
Fishing at the Lake
Desert West Lake is a favorite spot for fishing enthusiasts of all ages. The Arizona Game and Fish Department regularly adds fish to the lake, which is called "stocking." This helps make sure there are always plenty of fish for anglers to catch.
Fish Species You Can Find
You can find several different kinds of fish swimming in Desert West Lake. Each type has its own unique features and habits. Here are some of the fish you might catch:
- Rainbow Trout: These fish are known for their beautiful colors and are often stocked in cooler months. They are a popular catch for many anglers.
- Largemouth Bass: These are exciting fish to catch because they can grow quite large and put up a good fight! They like to hide near plants or structures in the water.
- Sunfish: Sunfish are smaller, colorful fish that are fun for younger anglers to catch. They are very common and often found closer to the shore.
- Catfish (Channel): Channel catfish are known for their long whiskers, called barbels, which they use to find food. They can grow to be a good size and are often caught using bait at the bottom of the lake.
- Carp: Carp are large, strong fish that can be a challenge to reel in. They are bottom feeders and can be found in many different types of water.
Fishing Tips for Kids
If you're planning to fish at Desert West Lake, remember to always follow fishing rules and regulations. You might need a fishing license, depending on your age. It's a great way to spend time outdoors and learn about different fish!
Activities at Desert West Park
While the lake is a main attraction, Desert West Park offers much more than just fishing. It's a large community park with many facilities for sports and recreation.
Park Features
The park includes:
- Sports fields for baseball, soccer, and other games.
- Playgrounds where kids can climb and play.
- Picnic areas perfect for lunch with family and friends.
- Walking paths for a nice stroll around the park.
It's a wonderful place to enjoy the Arizona sunshine and get some exercise.
