Fishing Report: Roosevelt Lake
The water level in Roosevelt Lake continues to fall and currently the water level stands at 53% full. The flow into the lake from the Salt River is at 17% of the normal rate for this time of year. This equates to a 78 CFPS flow into the lake. The Tonto Creek stopped flowing several weeks ago and is still not flowing. However, bass fishing reports continue to be very good. Last weekend, two local anglers Ron Bowman and John Waley fished 2nd in a Let’s Talk Fishin event on Roosevelt Lake. These anglers reported that the bass are moving into more of a summer pattern, meaning that the better fishing conditions will be in deeper water where cover or structure is located. Fish are more active at dawn especially before sunrise. Once the sunlight hits the water, bass will move to the deeper locations. This doesn’t mean that they will stop feeding, they are just moving to more favorable water conditions. Reaction baits such as spinner-baits, chatter-baits, paddle-tail swimbaits and Flukes were reported successful early. Rio Rico top-water baits were also reported as a successful option. Later in the day, a drop-shot, jig or Texas-rig worm is the preferred option. As we move closer to a full moon phase later this month, night time fishing will become more popular.
Crappie fishing reports continue to be good. Anglers are reporting crappie are orienting to cover such as trees and brush or structure including ledge overhangs and drop off areas. Look for schools of crappie in the 20-foot to 25-foot range. Hot spots reported this week include Windy Hill and Salome Cove.
The Tonto Creek and Canyon Creek AZGFD fish hatcheries are temporarily closed due to extreme fire conditions in Rim Country. The hatcheries will continue to grow and stock trout into approved waters that are open to the public for fishing. The complete list of stocking sites is posted on AZGFD.gov
The monthly AZGFD Commission Meeting will be held in Payson at the Mazatzal Hotel & Casino on June 8 & 9. The meetings will start each day at 8:00AM. Many important topics related to Rim Country hunting, fishing and other outdoor recreational activities will be addressed during this meeting. We are fortunate that Payson is one of the remote commission meeting locations selected by the commissions. It affords residents and Commissioners the opportunity to meet face to face and hear first hand public concerns. These meeting are very informative and provide insight to the complexity of Arizona Game & Fish Department. The meetings are open to the public and everyone is encouraged to attend.
AZGFD will host a webcast forum addressing the new regulations related to positioning of trail cameras within the State. The presentation will be on May 29th, starting at 6:00 PM. It will be an interactive presentation. This is a significant change related to camera proximity to developed water sources. To view the presentation go to www.azgfd.gov/webcast.
Have a great week of fishing and I hope to see you on the water.
Jim Goughnour of Rim Country Custom Rods can be reached at 480-495-1351
