Fishing Report: Roosevelt Lake and Mogollon Rim streams

The water level in Roosevelt Lake continues to fall and currently stands at 51% full. The lake level fell just under four vertical feet during the month of May after falling over five feet during April. The water flow into the lake from the Salt River is at 25% of its normal rate due to the lack of snowpack at higher elevations. Normally, at this time of year, there is a large run-off into the lake and the water level is increasing. The water clarity is stained due to the presence of algae and the water temperature is in the low 80’s in the morning, increasing to the mid 80’s during the warmest time of the day.

Bass have transitioned into a summer pattern meaning that larger bass will have longer periods of rest at deeper depths with short but very aggressive feeding periods. When large bass chase a school of shad, the action can be fast, requiring a higher skill level on the part of the angler. This aggressive feeding pattern was observed recently by Guy and Stevie Waggoner, two local youth anglers, on a recent bass fishing trip to Roosevelt Lake. They fished the upper Salt River end of the lake where they each caught a large-mouth bass in excess of five pounds. Their bait of choice was a newly purchased top water bait which will likely be in their tackle boxes for many years to come. Congratulations to these two fine young anglers, Guy and Stevie Waggoner.

During the summer months, experienced bass anglers prefer fishing during the evening hours, but some reported a caution due to recent winds after dark. A drop-shot and Texas rigged Roboworm were reported very successful for evening and night fishing. Early morning reaction baits such as spinner-baits, chatter-baits, paddle-tail swimbaits and Flukes are reported successful choices for many anglers. As the sun rises higher in the sky, a drop-shot and jig technique in 25-foot depth has been reported successful.

Mogollon Rim trout fishing

Trout fishing on the Rim has been reported as good to excellent. Streams throughout Rim Country are again being stocked and the crowds are lower than a few weeks ago. There are still closures in some areas so be sure to confirm that your favorite fishing area is accessible. Several nymph fly patterns, PowerBait and salmon eggs have all been reported successful.

Crappie fishing reports

Crappie fishing reports continue to be fair to good. Anglers are reporting that crappie are orienting to cover or structure in the 20-foot to 25-foot range. Anglers are fishing for post spawn crappie using a vertical fishing technique and a very sensitive fishing rod. Some crappie are still recovering from the spawn, but the size of crappie schools are getting larger each week. Good crappie fishing conditions should continue for the next few months.

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