LAKE HAVASU CITY – Lake Havasu City area waterways and golf courses are offering welcome respite for pandemic-weary visitors. As Covid-19 vaccines roll out nationwide, vacationers are nonetheless still being advised to wear masks, wash hands frequently and maintain social distance, including in their pursuit of outdoor recreation. 

Go Lake Havasu, the tourism bureau for the western Arizona resort town famous as home to the London Bridge, has seen a surge in both fishing and golf participation.

“We consider fishing and golf two of America’s most socially distant and popular outdoor pastimes,” says Terence Concannon, president and CEO.

“You’re outdoors, in the wind and sun, already separated by the length of a fishing rod or golf club.” 

Fishing in the Sunshine

Consistently ranked as one of the top bass fishing destinations in the nation, Lake Havasu offers anglers great opportunities to catch stripers, redear sunfish, largemouth and smallmouth bass and other fish species.

John Galbraith, owner of BassTackleMaster.com and a local bass pro says, “The sheer volume of people fishing here has increased. Since Covid-19 started, fishing sales are five times what they normally are. 

 “Social distancing isn’t a problem when fishing – even if you go out with a buddy, you’re still six feet apart in the sunshine, in the moving air, with plenty of Vitamin D to go around,” said Galbraith, who points out that sporting goods and other outdoor retailers are considered essential businesses.

Golf is Up 15% at Emerald Canyon

When states started reopening in spring 2020, sprawling, socially distanced golf courses were one of the first “safe” spaces that were able to get back to business. Increased interest in the sport soon became evident in Lake Havasu City.

Golfers in the region can play at 13 area golf courses , including  scenic 9- and 18-hole courses  suitable for any skill level.

One of Arizona’s most beautiful and challenging courses is the  Emerald Canyon Golf Course , about a 30-minute drive south of Lake Havasu City. Praised by Golf Digest for its stunning surroundings , it’s here that business has increased over last year by 15 percent, according to Steve Benton, general manager and head golf professional.

“We’re noticing more California area codes when players reserve tee times. The growth in golfers here is a combination of both people not working, or working from home with more flexibility to get outdoors. 

 “You’re outside in the fresh air and sunshine, you’re not on top of another person when you’re playing golf so it’s a perfect sport during these times,” Benton says. 

To increase safety, Emerald Canyon has eliminated many touchpoints, removing bunker rakes and water canteens; greens course officials have also requested golfers refrain from handling the pin flags. The holes are filled with pieces of foam to make them more shallow, and carts are sanitized daily.