Video Fishing Report: Verde River (Clarkdale)
One idea to beat the heat: Paddle the Verde River! And bring some fishing rods along.
This is a glimpse of a Wednesday 4-mile paddle-and-cast from the TAPCO River Access Point (RAP) to the Tuzigoot Bridge RAP in Clarkdale. There was about 65 cfs flowing through this section of the river, just enough to make for a ripping ride. Smallmouth bass weren’t biting this day, likely because thunderstorms brought run-off and ensuing muddy water, but these conditions can change in a few days.
Right now if you aren’t fishing around 5 a.m. at first light or dusk the fishing can be pretty tough. We also don’t stock rainbow trout here during the summer.
But always a great way to scout spots for the fall through spring, paddle a scenic river that’s great for bird-watching, and cool off from triple-digit heat!
The two of us brought separate vehicles, one with the kayaks and another for shuttle. We parked the shuttle vehicle downstream at our pick-up point, then carpooled upstream to the TAPCO river access point and paddled to the end of this section where we had dropped off the shuttle vehicle. We then carpooled back up to the other vehicle and returned to pick up the kayaks.
For smallmouth bass, anglers can try Panther Martins or mini-jigs with PowerBait grubs and fish the riffles.
See more information on paddling this section.
Want to try out kayak fishing? Start by taking one of our paddle classes. See upcoming events.
