Is it time to load up on these high-yielding ASX dividend shares?

Tumbling share prices have pushed the yields up to 9%.

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There's no shortage of ASX dividend shares for investors chasing reliable passive income.

The real challenge? Figuring out which ones actually deserve a spot in your portfolio.

With market volatility shaking share prices, some high-quality income stocks are now offering seriously attractive yields. So, is this the time to pounce?

Here are two high-yield ASX dividend shares that could be worth a closer look.

A group of people gathered around a laptop computer with various expressions of interest, concern and surprise on their faces as they review the payouts from ASX dividend stocks. All are wearing glasses.

Image source: Getty Images

Atlas Arteria Ltd (ASX: ALX)

Starting with Atlas Arteria, this infrastructure giant owns, operates, and develops toll roads across France, Germany, and the United States. These are classic defensive assets — essential infrastructure with long-term concessions and highly predictable traffic flows.

That translates into steady, recurring cash flow. Exactly the things income investors want to see.

And it shows in the dividend. The ASX dividend share is set to pay its second-half FY25 dividend next month, delivering 20 cents per security, unfranked. Based on a share price of $4.32, that works out to a trailing yield of around 9.1%, which is hard to ignore.

Of course, there are risks. Traffic volumes can be impacted by economic conditions, and the business carries debt, which can become more expensive in a higher interest rate environment. Currency fluctuations also play a role given its global operations.

But overall, Atlas Arteria's defensive profile and consistent payout history make it a compelling option for income-focused investors.

Charter Hall Long WALE REIT (ASX: CLW)

Then there's Charter Hall Long WALE REIT, a popular ASX dividend share among yield seekers.

This REIT focuses on long-term leases (WALE stands for "weighted average lease expiry"), locking in rental income over extended periods. That provides strong visibility over cash flow — a big tick for dividend reliability.

Here's where things get interesting. The price of this ASX dividend share has fallen around 17% in 2026, which has pushed the yield significantly higher. As a result, investors are now looking at a forward distribution yield of approximately 7.2%.

Management has also guided to a 2% increase in its FY26 payout to 25.5 cents per unit. That's a positive sign in a challenging environment for property stocks.

There are risks to consider, though. Like many REITs, Charter Hall Long WALE is sensitive to interest rate movements, which can impact valuations and borrowing costs. Property market conditions and tenant quality are also key factors to watch.

Still, its long lease profile and consistent distribution track record suggest this ASX dividend share remains a solid income play.

Foolish Takeaway

The bottom line? When share prices fall, yields rise and that can create opportunity. High-quality ASX dividend shares like Atlas Arteria and Charter Hall Long WALE REIT may be worth a closer look right now if you're aiming to boost your passive income stream.

Motley Fool contributor Marc Van Dinther has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool Australia's parent company Motley Fool Holdings Inc. has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool Australia has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy. This article contains general investment advice only (under AFSL 400691). Authorised by Scott Phillips.

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