Rory's fishing tips:
Two magic words: Big Lake. It's the trout fishing hot spot in the state.
Yes, it not only survived the Wallow Fire, there was only a small area of grassland burned near the lake. The store, campgrounds and other facilities came through unscathed.
Plus fishing is good to excellent for trout, with lots of anglers easily catching limits of rainbow trout. Some larger cutthroat trout are also being hauled in as well.
Because it wasn't fished for such a long time during the forest closure, the trout grew up fat, healthy and without any fishing pressure at Big Lake. Plus, the fishing pressure since the forest reopened has been pretty light as well.
The fishing is best from a boat, but you can catch trout from shore as well, especially off rocky points (like the one near the store). The store is open and boat rentals are available. Plus, the typical summer crowds aren't there right now. You'll want to take advantage of this opportunity while it lasts.
Right now, it’s monsoon time in the high country; afternoon thundershowers can help desert dwellers shed those triple-digit fidgets.
Last week we stocked Apache trout into Sheep's Crossing along the Little Colorado River (on the way to Big Lake from Sunrise). You can't fish below the bridge, but there is plenty of great fishing above it. We also stocked Apache trout into the Little Colorado in Greer, which is another fire survivor.
Another piece of good news is that Rose Canyon Lake in the mountains above Tucson is now open -- it was stocked during the forest closure period, so is now full of trout that have not had any fishing pressure. This is a good time to reel in some memories there.
Parker Canyon Lake in southern Arizona is also open again. The store there has boat rentals available. This is a good time to go after largemouth bass, catfish and bluegill. You might even hook into a hold-over rainbow or two.
One of the fishing hot spots in the state is Lake Pleasant. Anglers are catching lots of striped bass there on frozen anchovies. There is also a decent daytime topwater bite for striped bass and largemouth bass -- fishing the points, islands and reefs in the main lake basin.
There is also some hot topwater action during the day at Alamo Lake -- can you say buzzbait without smiling? It's sure worth braving the heat for some Alamo topwater action. Zara Puppies can work superbly here. This is also Zara Spook land. Although the Cholla Ramp is closed for the summer, the main ramp now has a neat new dock, courtesy our boating access program. They do great work.
Another great spot to try right now is Lake Havasu. There are some decent striper boils, but summer frog flipping into the tulles and cattails where the Bill Williams River enters the lake is truly wild. Give it a try.
Just upstream, the Topock Gorge is definitely worth a try. They have been pulling plate-sized redears out of there for the past year, plus there are some voracious smallmouth bass and even an occasional trout surprise.
The desert bighorn sheep are still in the rut, making Willow Beach below Hoover Dam an enticing possibility for trout (stocked every Friday) and huge striped bass on swim baits.
There is a New Moon July 30, making this a superb time to fish at night using submersible lights. This is also the leading edge of the Perseids meteor showers, but may be the better time to see them in the dark night sky. If you can get binoculars on one of these fiery "shooting stars," it will be an experience you'll long remember.
If the humidity and heat both rise, that means it's time to fish at night for Mr. Whiskers. When it comes to catfish angling, the hotter the better. Channel catfish are especially plentiful at all our lakes and can be readily caught on stink bait, hotdogs, anchovies, or corn.
I just heard from a very proud father, Brian Chambers. Thomas Chambers and Brandon Koon of Phoenix teamed up to win the High School Fishing National Championship this past weekend (see article below). Way to go! You did Arizona proud!!
We might not be able to bring home fishing championships like Tom and Brandon, but on any given day we can all go out and catch a lot of great memories. May fishing fortune smile upon you. Maybe I’ll see you out there.
PS: You can send your fishing reports and fishing pictures directly to me at raikens@azgfd.gov and I will do my best to share them with other anglers.
Fishing News
Arizona boys win High School Fishing World Finals
Tom Chambers and Brandon Koon from the Arizona Bass Busters sealed the deal with a sweet victory at the second annual, 2011 High School Fishing World Finals on Lake Dardanelle in Arkansas last weekend.
Last year, this pair placed second in the first-ever high school national championships but came back this year to claim top honors.
Both walked away with scholarship offers of $4,000/year, renewable for up to four years totaling $16,000 a piece/$32,000 from Bethel University, spots on the Bethel University Varsity Fishing team, $500 Cabela’s gift cards, new Compaq laptops, plus some heavy jewelry and the esteemed Worlds Champion titles.
In addition the two anglers will represent High School Anglers nationwide with an invitation to fish the 2012 ACA BoatsUS Collegiate National Championship out of a custom wrapped Ranger Boat! The team will compete right alongside the top college anglers in the US!
On the final day of fishing, Chambers and Koon’s 19-pound 8-ounce stringer held the top spot.
“We went out looking for a good spot and we just got there and hit them up and within about an hour we had a limit of about 16 pounds and by late afternoon we were culling three pounders,” Koon said. “At the end of the day we weren’t doing anything but hunting for the big fish, all the fish we were catching were 2 to 3 pounds and they couldn’t do anything for us.”
A slow start on day one with only 6 pounds 3ounces left the anglers a bit on edge.
“Well it scared me at first that first day, but second day we came out and it started out slow and then we found that spot and just hit them up hard,” Koon said. “And then we knew; we knew we had a chance at it.” “We weren’t too sure, I know I was nervous about it after the first day, the spots we pre-fished we were getting all kinds of fish and the first day we went to all those spots and we found very few fish at all. It was making me kinda nervous about how we were going to do,” Chambers said.
Chambers and Koon came up short at last year’s contest with a second place finish and pounded them hard this past week to claim those champion titles. “It feels so great to win, even better to just go out there and have such a great day of fishing like that; I mean it’s just crazy that we won,” Koon said. “Yea, it’s awesome I don’t even know how to explain how it feels to have a great day of fishing like that and win what we did.”
CENTRAL WATERS
Note: If you have a fishing report, send it to "Been Fishing?” at bfishing@azgfd.gov
URBAN -- With catfish stockings on hold over the summer months, fishing becomes more challenging requiring anglers to be adaptable, patient and persistent. The dumb stockers are pretty much gone now, but plenty of wily catfish still lurk the depths of the lakes. The many catfish, bass and bluegill remaining in the lakes have been around for awhile and have seen a lot of the same baits, presented in the same way.
Successful summer anglers have learned to change it up and experiment with new baits, new bait combinations and new presentations. Try combining a piece of shrimp with a worm, or dip a hot dog in stink bait. Do a web search for “secret catfish baits” and discover an amazing selection of concoctions sure to increase your fishing success.
This is the time to make some rigging changes and try out some of the fluorocarbon fishing lines in lighter test weights to make your line practically invisible; or try fishing without weights and let your bait flutter to the bottom. For more bites, fish with 4-6 pound test line and keep your weights to a minimum. Keep trying new things, keep at it and have fun learning more about fishing this summer.
TEMPE TOWN LAKE - Bass fishing is slow during the day. Fish can be caught before 8 a.m. and after 6 p.m. at times. Try crankbaits and plastic worms around the ledges and docks. Minnows under a slip bobber will work as well. A good mixed bag of yellows, catfish and sunfish can also be caught this way. Yellow bass and bluegill are plentiful in the 5- to 7-inch range and will bite mealworms or night crawlers. Channel catfish averaging 1 to 2 pounds will bite stink baits, hotdogs and shrimp.
Where: river bottom just east of Tempe Town Lake
When: 07/17/11
Caught: largemouth bass
Technique: spinnerbait & drop shot.
Name: j. chavez
LAKE PLEASANT - Lake elevation 1,671 feet (66 percent full). Fishing is very good for striped bass at night using frozen anchovies as bait, but there is also a sporadic daytime topwater bite for both striped bass and largemouth bass. Most of the action is in the main-lake basin, especially where there are extended lake points. Islands, reefs and submerged humps in the lake can also produce.
A couple of morning anglers kept 32 stripers. Fishing was pretty good around sunrise then quickly faded as the sun climbed higher in the sky. The best lures were gunfish and white Rapalas. The better fishing spots were by the buoys in the Aqua Fria and later in the day by the 1,702 sign outside the Aqua Fria. The mouths the northern coves were productive as well. They also caught one largemouth on a Skinny Dipper.
Another angler also enjoyed the morning bite using topwater, jerkbaits and cranks. Spoons were also working for him as well. Largemouth bass were real active at the surface.
Two nighttime striper fishermen kept about 65 stripers and two channel cats. Another 30 stripers and three cats were on the small side so they were released. The largest striper was 22 inches long. Nighttime fishermen usually use anchovies although the bait choice was not mentioned.
One angler started at 5 a.m. and stayed a couple hours. He threw topwater Ricos in the mouths of the northern coves and out towards the main lake. He caught twelve stripers and most were pretty small around 1 to 1.5 pounds. He caught five largemouth bass with the largest about 3 pounds.
ROOSEVELT LAKE - Lake elevation is 2,133 feet (79 percent full). Tonto Creek runoff is 3 cfs while inflow from the Salt River is at 109 cfs.
Two anglers fished all night from 8 p.m. to 5 a.m. One fisherman caught 5 nice bass over 16 inches with a couple in the 3-pound range. He also caught two 6- to 8-pound channel cats. The other angler caught a 4-pound largemouth bass. They broke quite a few lines in the process.
There can be some topwater action at first light, but then plan to go a little deeper. Try working the points in 10 to 30 feet of water using drop shots, crankbaits, Texas-rigged worms or rattling jigs.
Haven't heard much about the crappie fishing at night, but with a new moon July 30 this is a good time to fish at night under submerged lights.
This is definitely catfish time, both for channels and flatheads. The huge flatheads can be found where the Salt River enters the lake. Channels are prolific throughout the lake and can be readily fished from the shoreline using stink baits, hot dogs, or corn. Carp can also be readily caught on corn or dough baits.
APACHE - Lake elevation is 1,910 feet (97 percent full). This is a great time to fish this scenic lake along the Salt River. The smallmouth bass are still on the comeback trail, but largemouth bass and yellow bass are plentiful.
A couple anglers had real good luck catching smallmouth bass on jerkbaits and jigs. When the sun went down the bite died for these guys. Although they did catch 4 more fish from 9 p.m. to 3 a.m. In total they caught about 35 bass; most were smallmouth. They fished the reefs and points.
Angler Report: Apache Lake, 9 a.m. - 2 p.m. (both days)
July 1st - 15 Largemouth
July 8th - 21 Largemouth
Bass averaged 2 pounds each. Biggest was a three pounder. All caught west of the marina on the north side in 10' water. Any worm (live or plastic) worked regardless of rigging. Texas Rig, Carolina Rig, Split-shot, etc. I just let sit on the bottom and the fish would come pick up the bait. I was using 4-6 lb test with a small Kahle hook. This is at the same location I fished regularly between 1989 - 1998 and would always catch smallmouth. Now, no smallies. :( :(
Tim Rafferty
CANYON - Lake elevation is 1,657 ft, which is 95 percent full. This is a good time to fish at night for lunker largemouth bass, but don't expect high catch rates.
A shore angler and his girls fished a few hours and caught three 1.5 pound bass and a couple catfish using cranks. His kids caught too many bluegill to count and a couple yellow bass using worms under a slip bobber.
SAGUARO - Lake elevation 1,524 feet at 92 percent full. This is a good time to go for a mixed bag of bass, catfish and bluegill. Saguaro also has plentiful yellow bass. The best fishing will be at night -- the lake can be crowded with recreational boaters during the daytime, especially on weekends.
A father/son duo caught about 25 bluegills before the sun went down. Using the bluegill they caught 4 largemouth bass on split shots in 20 to 30 feet of water. They found a cove and started catching large yellow bass on cut bluegill and three channel cats in the 2- to 5-pound range. In all they caught four largemouth, about 35 yellow bass (kept 15 of them), and three channel cats. It seemed as though flatheads got the better of these anglers; they could never keep them on the hook (for long). They got off the water about 3:30 a.m.
Note - If you happen to reel in a lunker, there is a certified scale at the marina to get an official weight and still release your catch. Two witnesses are needed for the weight to be official.
BARTLETT – Lake elevation is 1,759 feet, which is 51 percent full. Reservoir release is 150 cfs. This can be a summer hot spot for bass, catfish and crappie at times. With a New Moon July 30, this is an excellent time to fish at night under submersible lights.
The small bass are plentiful and real hungry at Bartlett. They like to hang over rocky substrate next to steep drop offs. Topwater works well as does dropshot and jigs. Bass are chasing shad in the coves and around the points.
During the daytime, try fishing the rock stringers, reefs, islands and major points in the lake using crankbaits, topwater lures, drop shots, and/or jigs.
This is the time of year when bass can be actively chasing shad at the surface. This daytime topwater bite can be a sporadic in July, but will continue increasing in frequency and intensity throughout August. By September, the topwater action here can be stupendous. The more you fish Bartlett, the better you can dial in this action as the season progresses.
It seems as though an angler is sold on using shaky head jigs. He caught a lot of small bass and had a great time.
Reports:
HORSESHOE - Lake elevation is at 1,951 feet 0 percent full. They are releasing water at 80 cfs.
AZGF,
Just wanted to share my last fishing trip to the Verde River below Horseshoe Dam. We arrived around 8 p.m. on Sunday, July 18th. It was a last minute trip , so all we had for bait was worms and chicken liver. We didn't have time to get water dogs.
Around 11 p.m. I tossed a large piece of chicken liver just below rapids in the "channel." Instantly, my pole nearly bent in half and I hooked a channel cat. This fish was jumping clear out of the water like a trout or bass. Little did I know it one of the largest channel's I had ever caught in this area. When I finally landed it, I instantly weighed it and it came in at a healthy 4 pounds even. (check out the attached picture)
In total, we caught at least 20 fish. All channels except one largemouth bass and two flatheads. This is the third weekend fishing the Verde river below Horseshoe Dam with excellent fishing. I would like to say exactly where we are catching them, but I don't want to spoil it for us.......we catch and release. I will say that the most of the excellent areas to fish are at least one mile below the dam. A canoe or small boat is a must! Good Luck!!
Scott- Phoenix
VERDE RIVER – Verde River flow at Tangle is 123 cubic feet per second. Release from Bartlett Lake is 150 cfs. Fishing has been poor for largemouth, smallmouth and catfish. Remember that no baitfish can be transported into this part of the river (above Horseshoe). For further information concerning regulations, call the Arizona Game and Fish Department at (480) 324-3544.
SALT RIVER (above Roosevelt) - Salt River into Roosevelt is 118 cfs, and Salt River Canyon is 119 cfs. They are releasing 1,450 cfs out of Stewart Mountain Dam from Saguaro.
LOWER SALT RIVER (below Saguaro Lake) – They are releasing 1,450 cfs out of Stewart Mountain dam from Saguaro.
It may still be possible to catch some rainbow trout. Try inline spinners, Power Bait or drifting night crawlers. Fly-fishing can be good with nymphs and Wooly Buggers.
Largemouth bass and other warmwater fish can be caught in the deeper holes.
CREEKS
Haigler Creek – Haigler Creek is stocked weekly with rainbow trout near the campgrounds. These fish can be easily taken using bait, spinners and a variety of flies. The upper hike in section (from Fisherman’s Point) has good numbers of wild rainbows and some large wild browns. Try attractor patterns and small beadhead nymphs like hares ear, copper john and prince nymphs.
Canyon Creek – The upstream portion of Canyon Creek (above OW Bridge) is stocked weekly with rainbow trout and you can keep four trout of any size. Bait, spinners and flies are very effective for the rainbows. The lower section below OW Bridge contains primarily wild brown trout and is catch-and-release only using artificial flies and lures. Please obey these regulations.
This time of year terrestrials can provide some good action. Try using a grasshopper or cicada pattern and dropping a small beadhead nymph off of it. Don’t be afraid to fish for the larger browns after dark. Try using wolly buggers, muddler minnows or even a floating mouse pattern. Fishing can be slow but you might be rewarded with a large brown trout.
Tonto Creek – Upper Tonto Creek (above Hwy 260) is stocked weekly with rainbow trout. Try the usual stuff. There are good numbers of wild rainbow and brown trout downstream of Bear Flat. The hiking is strenuous and you should be prepared to swim if you plan to fish very far below Bear Flat.
Although there is a mercury consumption advisory for Tonto Creek, it does not affect the portion of the creek where people trout fish, nor is there any issue with eating trout caught there.
Angler Report: Went up to Tonto Creek yesterday and had to fish the small stretch of water between the Hwy 260 and Kohls Ranch due to the forest closure on the North side of the 260. Not too happy about the closure because I brought my grand-father along and it would have been nice for him to use the new handicap access at the picnic area. So we found a way for him to get down to the creek and fish. Water was a little cloudy from the recent monsoon rains but the flow was good. We were using worms and within a few minutes my grand-father and I each caught a baby rainbow in the 3-4 inch range. We released them back into the creek for next year. We moved to another pool up stream and saw a decent rainbow rise and feed off an insect. We starting fishing for him and my grand-father hooked him 2 times but was never able to land him. We were catching a lot of crawdads. I was finally able to catch that Rainbow. He ended up at 13 inches. Final count for the day was 3 Rainbows (2 were released) and 43 crawfish.
Tom Leeper
Christopher Creek – Stocked weekly with rainbow trout. The section of stream near the See Canyon trail head contains a nice mix of stocked rainbow trout and wild browns. This is a really nice section of stream to fish. Try your typical trout arsenal.
HORSETHIEF BASIN LAKE – No new report
COLORADO RIVER NORTHWEST
Note: If you have a fishing report, send it to "Been Fishing?” at bfishing@azgfd.gov
LAKE POWELL – Lake Powell Fish Report - By: Wayne Gustaveson July 20, 2011. Lake Elevation: 3,660. Water Temperature 78-83 F
Fishing is improving - slowly and steadily. We survived the full moon period where catching was slow to nonexistent. Now we are heading into much better conditions with lake level stabilizing, water temperature leveling off and shad growing larger. The variables combine to make it easy to predict good fishing times ahead. Here is what to expect.
The headline news in summer is surface feeding by striped bass. If not the only game in town it is certainly the biggest draw. In the southern lake the first surface dimples appear at approximately 6 a.m. (MST) as about 5 stripers chase slow swimming shad. The little slurping boil is noticeable but not often repeated. The boat can be positioned near the fading surface rings but no fish pop up to take the lures. But with time, striper group size increases to more than 10, slurps get a bit bigger, and the school resurfaces allowing a good cast over the feeding fish. The key is to cast just as stripers resurface for the second time. Then a lure placed in front of the first fish will be eaten perhaps a third of the time. If this sounds a bit picky - it is. Our best lure in these conditions was a KastMaster spoon with a chartreuse stripe.
The best time to fish boils this week is between 7-8 a.m. Fish are more likely to hit the lure during this magic hour. Later in the day slurps are seen more often but fish are entirely focused on small shad and not as likely to hit a variety of lures. These are "ghost boils" meaning you can see the boil but not often catch fish. While this sounds like very tough fishing it is very encouraging to me, in that, fishing is improving every day. Perhaps as early as next week slurping fish will be very catchable.
Better news is that the first boils have been seen at White Canyon in the Hite area. Water is clearing some allowing shad and stripers to see each other. When the boils at Hite start up the rest of the lake will pale in comparison. That may be the end of July but more likely sometime in August.
Stripers are eating very well even though the surface slurps are small. Their guts are stuffed with small shad .
This week the hot spot remains the channel from the mouth of San Juan to Escalante. There are still lots of boils seen in this remote section of canyon. These are not "ghosts" but aggressive stripers chasing larger shad in reasonably clear water.
Bass fishing is decent with smallmouth hovering around main channel structure including rock piles and terraces. Small fish are in shallow water now but larger bass are still down 15-30 feet. There is a decent bite going for largemouth in the deeper cuts leading to the tree lined end of the cove. Surface lures and white Zoom flukes are productive as bass are in the tree tops waiting for shad or sunfish to swim by.
Fillets are prime again now that stripers and shad are back on the same wavelength.
Catfish are being caught in big numbers now as they are in their most active period following spawning. Sunfish are very active in the brush near shore. They are best caught on live worms and small hooks. The best bait for shallow water right now is a live worm. Many different species of fish can be caught on worms.
Anchovies work at times but most stripers are now looking up to see shad and ignoring bait.
LEES FERRY -- Lees Ferry Fishing Report and forecast 7/14/11 by Terry Gunn
Cicadas, monsoons, and high water; this pretty much describes what is currently happening right now at Lees Ferry.
Our monsoon season has recently arrived bringing some rain, clouds, and welcome cooler weather.
The Cicadas are singing and the fish have just recently begun to key in on them. Unless something changes in the next few days and the cicadas are just late or the hatch grows in intensity, this will not be remembered as a banner cicada year. There are many bugs singing in the trees, however, there does not appear to be near the numbers that occur some years. I’m not sure why this is but every year is different.
Our cicada is an annual variety where most cicadas are a periodic variety that only show up every 7 or 14 years. Another factor that will likely affect future cicada hatches is the loss of the tamarisk trees here and across the Southwest since the tamarisk beetle arrived; all of the tamarisk trees between Lees Ferry and Glen Canyon dam are either dead or dying. The cicada nymphs live in the ground for several years feeding on the roots of vegetation before hatching and I would think that this loss of food will impact the cicada population. I expect the cicada fishing to last at least another two weeks and possibly longer. One interesting side note is that some of the larger fish that my clients have been catching has been on cicadas versus nymphs.
The heavy nymph fishing continues to be productive and consistent. I’m using a very long leader (14-ft from the indicator to the AAA split shot), with a San Juan worm and a size #14 ginger scud. We have been drifting the riffles and runs that we would usually wade. This style of fishing is especially productive and consistent in the higher water.
The trout continue to eat midges in certain areas of the river and your best bet is to fish a double midge rig on a long leader with a split shot. Assorted zebra midges are the ticket and the larger sizes work best. I have been surprised at the intensity of the midge hatches in the higher water, I usually associate prolific midge hatches to lower flow releases but that has not been the case.
The current water flow from Glen Canyon Dam is 25,000-cfs, 24 hours a day. Lake Powell has risen 44 feet so far this season and continues to rise on average of half a foot a day. The high flows bode well for the river and fishing; every “fishing boom” period at Lees Ferry has been preceded by extended high water flows exactly like the one we are seeing right now; it is all about nutrient transfer, food production, oxygenation, and movement of food.
Expect high flows to continue for several months and if there is a good snow pack next year expect to see them again. This is all about filling lake Mead which is still at critically low levels despite the high flows. Current flow projections are calling for a reduction in water releases for September and October to 14,000 cfs, the fishing should really be on fire with these lower flows so plan to be here.
Walk in: The Walk-In area has been doing really great. Fishing conditions here are of equal status to upriver, albeit diverse in many ways.
Techniques differ. For instance, the upper boulder field section of the Walk-In provides (surprisingly) calmer water and lower flows in certain areas. This means that you will be performing shorter drifts. Fish near aquatic structures and in the inside seams of the slower body of water meeting the much faster water current.
The middle section of the Walk-In, near the boulder in the middle of the river requires a much different approach. You will be using longer drifts with a lot of split shot – focusing on the banks. Don’t wade past your knees – any further and you will be on top of the fish.
As for flies, use Laser Midges, Zebra Midges, and Glo Bugs. Feel free to play with Cicadas as well, but not until about 2:30PM in the Walk-In.
Overall; Walk-In is a really great section to fish. There is a plethora of rainbow trout in this section of water all waiting to be caught. Wading is ideal. Just don’t wade past your knees because of the speedy current. Have fun.
Spin Fishing: Spin fishing is good! It’s all about bouncing glo bugs off the bottom.
You can also try fishing with gold KastMasters or black and gold Panther Martins. I have heard many success stories with these two flies.
Also definitely don’t forget about the marabou jig, this one has been working great and has been very reliable. Try the olive and black.
If you have some news you would like to report about fishing lees ferry, the walk-in section or up river please e-mail your report to: anglers@leesferry.com Attn. Lees Ferry Fishing Report. We would be happy to have your input, and pass it along.
LAKE MEAD – The current water level is 1,106 feet above msl. Lake levels have moved up about a foot in each of the past two weeks. Stripers and catfish are biting. Many anglers were successful last weekend. Cut anchovies are still the bait of choice. Check the moon phases before you go –next new moon is Saturday, July 30th. Dark nights work best when fishing under light.
Fish for strippers in 50 plus feet of water to find the larger fish. If you can locate the shad, the stripers are not far behind. Trolling usually works best in areas were shad are found and best done in the early mornings and evenings. The recent Stripe-R-Rama XX produced a tournament record monster striped bass that tipped the scales at just over 52 lbs. and was caught trolling at 20 feet deep over a grass bed. This of course produced the winning team with a 40 fish bag of 115 lbs. The second place team’s 40 fish bag weighed just under 74 lbs. The second biggest fish weighed 3.95 lbs with the average fish weighed was approximately 1.5 lbs.
Launching conditions at South Cove have improved as the water level has gone up. There are currently four lanes.
Important notice: With the discovery of invasive quagga mussels in Mead, Mohave and Havasu, proper cleaning of all watercraft is critical to help prevent the spread of these invaders. Please drain and dry your livewell and bilge on land. Drain all the water you can from your engine. Also, inspect your vessel and trailer, removing any visible mussels, but also feel for any rough or gritty spots on the hull. These may be young mussels that can be hard to see.
For more information, go to the Arizona Game and Fish Department's web pages at azgfd.gov or visit http://100thmeridian.org/.
LAKE MOHAVE – The lake level is around 642 feet above msl. The black bass are hitting soft baits when worked slowly. Trolling with anchovies in 30-50 feet has been producing some stripers, while catfish are on the bottom. While the number of stripers in Mohave has been decreasing, the quality of the fish caught has increased. A local fisherman that fishes at Katherine’s Landing fishing pier often said the strippers bite is down, but did catch the biggest stripper he had ever caught there. He catches catfish often in the 2-8 lb. range. Best time to fish is at night for cats and he likes fishing for largemouth and smallmouth in the early morning with blue, black and purple and black grubs and worms.
Submersible lights fished during the new moon are an effective way to catch stripers. The new moon is July 30. Cut anchovies usually work the best.
Biologists from both Arizona Game and Fish Department and Nevada Division of Wildlife with the help of volunteers, National Park Service and Bureau of Reclamation personnel have continued to install fish habitat in Carp Cove, Box Cove, Shoshone, and Arrowhead. Fish habitat consists of PVC structures, wood pallet structures, tamarisk bundles, and some Christmas trees. The largemouth, smallmouth, bluegill and catfish are really utilizing the new structures. Additional habitat will be added at several locations over the next two years. These structures are fish magnets.
There is a wheelchair accessible fishing pier just south of the main launch ramp at Katherine's Landing. If you fish Mohave and are having luck, please e-mail me at mchmiel@azgfd.gov so I can share your successes with others.
Important notice: With the discovery of invasive quagga mussels in Mead, Mohave and Havasu, proper cleaning of all watercraft is critical to help prevent the spread of these invaders. Please drain and dry your livewell and bilge on land. Drain all the water you can from your engine. Also, inspect your vessel and trailer, removing any visible mussels, but also feel for any rough or gritty spots on the hull. These may be young mussels that can be hard to see.
For more information, go to the Arizona Game and Fish Department's web pages at www.azgfd.gov or visit http://100thmeridian.org/.
WILLOW BEACH – Willow beach is stocked every Friday with 3,000 13” rainbow trout. Rainbow, orange and yellow Power Baits and Power Worms are being used to catch most for trout. Jakes, Panther Martin and Rooster Tails are also usually effective. Fishing is usually best near the fishing pier after the Friday stocking. Scott from Chino Valley had a great time last week catching lots of rainbows fishing from the shore near the fishing pier using ultra light gear with 2-lb line and a silver spinner with a #2 blade.
Important notice: With the discovery of invasive quagga mussels in Mead, Mohave and Havasu, proper cleaning of all watercraft is critical to help prevent the spread of these invaders. Please drain and dry your livewell and bilge on land. Drain all the water you can from your engine. Also, inspect your vessel and trailer, removing any visible mussels, but also feel for any rough or gritty spots on the hull. These may be young mussels that can be hard to see. If you fish Willow beach and are having luck, please e-mail me at mchmiel@azgfd.gov so I can share your successes with others.
For more information, go to the Arizona Game and Fish Department's web pages at www.azgfd.gov or visit http://100thmeridian.org/.
TOPOCK MARSH – Night crawlers have been tempting catfish at Catfish Paradise. Midday this is the place to be. Bass can be hit and miss.
You can access the marsh by boat at the North Dike, Catfish Paradise, and Five-Mile Landing. All three also provide plenty of area for shoreline fishing too. For more information on the marsh, contact the Havasu National Wildlife Refuge at (760) 326-3853 or go to http://www.fws.gov/southwest/refuges/arizona/havasu/index.html.
Important notice: With the discovery of invasive quagga mussels in Mead, Mohave and Havasu, proper cleaning of all watercraft is critical to help prevent the spread of these invaders. Please drain and dry your livewell and bilge on land. Drain all the water you can from your engine. Also, inspect your vessel and trailer, removing any visible mussels, but also feel for any rough or gritty spots on the hull. These may be young mussels that can be hard to see.
For more information, go to the Arizona Game and Fish Department's web pages at www.azgfd.gov or visit http://100thmeridian.org/.
COLORADO RIVER BELOW DAVIS DAM – Trout were last stocked the week of March 8. This was the last stocking at Davis Camp until October of 2011. Trout continue to bite in the casino area.
Rick B. provided some beautiful pictures (see below) of a trout he caught about one mile upriver from the Avi. He was fishing for strippers with anchovies when he hooked what thought was a small stripper until the fish saw the boat and ripped off 50 yards of line and the fight was on. It took him almost 15 minutes to land the 6½-pound rainbow trout.
In addition to the stockers multiple anglers have been reporting catching trout in the 20- to 22-inch range on night crawlers.
Although the striper bite at Topock Gorge has been absent, the bluegill action has been first-rate. Meal worms, bits and pieces of night crawlers as well as plastics are all producing. Smallmouth bass weighing between 1- and 5-pounds continue to be taken, but no largemouth bass have been reported. There are also plenty of large redears.
Rainbow trout are stocked by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife service monthly during the winter. The fish are normally stocked in two locations; Davis Camp and near The Riverside. Trout fishing at the stocking sites is great immediately following the stockings, then the fish move out and you need to find them.
Rainbow trout are located throughout the river below Davis dam, but anglers typically report catching trout on the Arizona side across from the Riverside, off the shore of Davis Camp and in the big bend area. This year we have received multiple reports of larger holdover trout being caught. Remember to fish for trout, you need a trout stamp on Class A and Lifetime fishing licenses.
Water levels on the river fluctuate, so be careful. You can check the Bureau of Reclamation Web site for flow predictions http://www.usbr.gov/lc/riverops.html before you go. If you fish the river below Davis Dam and are having luck, please e-mail me at mchmiel@azgfd.gov so I can share your successes with others.
SOUTHWESTERN WATERS
Note: If you have a fishing report, send it to "Been Fishing?" at bfishing@azgfd.gov.
LAKE HAVASU -- Lake Havasu Fishing Report, Lake Level 449.08.
Striper bite continues fair with a few morning shad boils from the entrance to the river south to Black Rock; be sure to use smaller lures no longer than 4 or 5 inches as shad are averaging around 4 inches long. LC Pointer minnows or Super Spooks are good choices now. Cut bait fishing anchovies or sardines are producing smaller limits than using artificial lures.
Evening/night fishing for bigger channel and flathead catfish has been excellent.use live sunfish or bluegills from 2.5 to 4 inches long rigged on a Carolina rig with 3/4- to 1-ounce sinkers with 12 to 15 pound test with a 24- to 36-inch leader.
Redear fishing with crappie tubes and night crawlers around submerged grass beds producing some quality redears over 2 pounds.
Smallmouth bass bite excellent using cinnamon colored jigs or hula grubs hopped down rocky ledges and gravel reefs.
This Report was provided by: John Galbraith of BassTackleMaster.com, Lake Havasu City
PARKER STRIP -- This is a good time to float the current near the dam and work curly-tails jigs or small topwater lures for smallmouth and largemouth bass.
The smallmouth bass fishing is best just below Parker Dam.
Catfishing should be picking up. We've got mostly channels and some flatheads on the strip. They'll be getting more active as the days get hotter with the best action at night. Channel cats should be hitting on night crawlers or frozen anchovies. Good local areas include, Patria Flats day use, La Paz County Park near the lagoon, upper end of Barefoot Alley, and even take off point at the south end of Havasu right by Parker Dam. Flatheads will be hitting on live bait, bluegill work well but many of the locals like goldfish too.
And as an FYI, the Parker stretch is generally drawn down to its lowest on Thursdays, which could affect boating, so be careful out there.
ALAMO LAKE -- Report courtesy Mark Knapp, Alamo Lake State Park.
Well folks, I finally had a minute and wanted to let you know what's going on out here. Bass fishing is pretty good. Anglers are reporting a good topwater bite starting at dawn and ending by 7ish. Plastics frogs seem to be the hot ticket followed by buzzbaits.
I tried to get up one morning on my day off and experience this myself but by the time I was out the door it was 11 a.m. That's still pretty early for me. Living out here you get spoiled and can pick and choose what works for you. I love the evening bite and know more what's going on about that then the morning thing. I also heard that training wheels ( crankbaits) have been working in the morning. Shad color is hard to beat.
I have been holding my own in the evenings. I'm still throwing my 4-inch lizards. You would think after all these years the fish would get tired of them but I'm banging out 5 to 10 bass in the evening. One thing I still have not seen is boils. I don't know why. Last year was a bust for them too.
No reports on crappie fishing. Cat fishing has been excellent. I had some notes which got tossed about some campers that were using float tubes, and limited out on cats every day. They were using night crawlers with no weight in 20 foot of water. All the cats were in the 2 pound range, perfect for eating. Shore fishing is o.k. Anglers are catching bass, cats and blue gills using night crawlers and bobbers.
The lake level is at 1112ish with releases of 50 cfs. Everyone should know by now Cholla Ramp and campground are closed for the summer. The ramp is scheduled to fixed during the month of Sept. If all goes well it should be opened in October. I plan on opening Cholla campground Labor day weekend, but the ramp will be closed.
Another new thing out here is that we will go to reservations starting in mid August. The staff are trying to get the signs up now. You will be able to call in and reserve your favorite site for up to two weeks. Everyone really likes the new dock the Game & Fish Dept installed at the main ramp. When Cholla ramp is completed one will be added there too.
The Wickenburgs friends group is also installing some solar lights at both parking lots. By the time we hit our busy season again you will see some nice improvements to the park. I know there's more that I'm forgetting but I want to get this to Rory so he can get this out to you.
That's it for now.
Mark
COLORADO RIVER (PARKER STRIP AREA) -- Fishing for smallmouth bass over two pounds in size is expected to be good to excellent. In addition, redear sunfish should also be good in the pound-plus sizes.
The Parker Strip is well known for its smallmouth bass fishing, especially in the area from the dam to several miles downstream. The Parker Strip is also home to some really impressive, dinner-plate sized redear sunfish of two pounds or larger.
Channel and flathead catfish fishing is always fair in this section of the Colorado River. Below the dam, striper fishing should also be fair, using live shad or anchovies. Largemouth bass are abundant, especially in the downstream portions of the Parker Strip. Channel and flathead catfish fishing will be fair to good in this section of the Colorado River as the weather warms up.
Take precautions to make sure your boat and equipment is clean before leaving the water to make sure you don’t spread quagga mussels to other water by accident.
COLORADO RIVER (BETWEEN PALO VERDE DIVERSION DAM AND WALTER’S CAMP) -- This area should be fair for both smallmouth bass (in the channel) up river from the I-10 Bridge and largemouth bass (in the backwaters) throughout the entire area.
Channel and flathead catfish are always fair to good in this section of the Colorado River. Most of the flathead catfish will be in the 2- to 5-pound size range with an occasional fish over 40 pounds. Flathead catfish surveys last May yielded a handful of fish between 15 and 50 pounds in this section of the river, although the majority of fish were much smaller.
Generally, when fishing for catfish, the hotter the weather, the better the fishing. Lively bait is the key to successful flathead fishing. Using the largest bait fish you can come by will increase the odds of catching a larger flathead.
This section of the Colorado River, all the way down to Yuma, is where the invasive vegetative species known as Giant Salvinia is located. Quagga mussels are also found here. If using a boat, make sure that boats, live wells, engines, and trailers are clean before leaving the area.
COLORADO RIVER (BETWEEN WALTER’S CAMP AND PICACHO STATE PARK) -- This section of the Colorado River is relatively remote and can only be accessed by boat from either end. Fishing is expected to be good to excellent for flathead catfish with sizes over 40 pounds. The best time will be late spring and on into the summer (the hotter the better). Backwaters are somewhat limited in this stretch of the river, but the few that are there will be good for largemouth bass and other sunfish (bluegill, redear and occasionally black crappie). Channel catfish are also very numerous in this section of the river. Smaller numbers of smallmouth bass and striped bass also occur.
The invasive vegetative species, giant salvinia, as well as quagga mussels, are found in this stretch of the river. If using a boat, make sure that boats, live wells, engines, and trailers are clean before leaving the area.
COLORADO RIVER (BETWEEN PICACHO STATE PARK AND IMPERIAL DAM) -- This area is expected to be good to excellent for largemouth bass, channel catfish, and flathead catfish. Bass and channel catfish in excess of 5 pounds are present along with flathead catfish as large as 40 pounds not uncommon, occasionally much larger. There is definitely a state record or two lurking in these waters. Only very heavy fishing tackle will suffice for the really large fish. Bluegills, redear sunfish and black crappie are also present in the various backwaters. Occasional striped bass will be caught in the channels connecting backwaters and the main river channel. Smallmouth bass seem to be on the increase in the lower river above Imperial Dam. They generally prefer swifter water and rockier substrate than largemouth bass, and certainly aren’t as numerous, but they are very aggressive and very scrappy fighters and well worth seeking out.
The invasive vegetative species, giant salvinia, as well as quagga mussels, are found in this stretch of the river. If using a boat, make sure that boats, live wells, engines, and trailers are clean before leaving the area.
COLORADO RIVER (BETWEEN LAGUNA AND MORELOS DAMS) -- This area will be good for largemouth bass and flathead catfish. Bass in excess of 5 pounds are common and flathead catfish over 20 pounds are a good bet. In this area, accessibility to the river is dependent on the amount of water being released. Usually shallow draft boats are a must. The lower end has had some dredging work done and a larger boat may be able to get on the river in that area. Be aware that some sections of the river are within Quechan tribal boundaries, and a tribal permit is required to fish there. Boundaries are not well marked, so doing some research prior to fishing this section may prevent hassles while you are out there.
The invasive vegetative species, giant salvinia, as well as quagga mussels, are found in this stretch of the river. If using a boat, make sure that boats, live wells, engines, and trailers are clean before leaving the area.
With the increase in border issues and illegal activity on the lower end of this stretch, we recommend exercising extreme caution, avoiding nighttime use, or even staying away from the area altogether (Pilot Knob to Morelos Dam).
MITTRY LAKE -- Mittry Lake is located just above Laguna Dam, and supports a good population of largemouth bass and channel catfish, and even some good-sized flathead catfish. There are shoreline fishing opportunities at this lake in the form of about a dozen rock jetties, but you’ll probably have the best success in a small boat. Mittry Lake can be frustrating, as the bite seems to be real variable, but the fish are there. It is just a question of getting them to respond to your presentation. The water tends to be very murky most of the year, except for the upper end of Teal Alley where the lake inflow comes in, so play to the fish’s sense of hearing and smell, rather than sight. There are also crappie and sunfish to be caught, although they tend to average relatively small in size. Mittry Lake is well-known locally for the quality largemouth bass it produces, and fishing during the spring spawn will increase your chances of success.
YUMA AREA PONDS -- The Department has stepped up efforts to encourage the recruitment of new anglers, and retention of existing ones. To this end, the Department has increased stocking efforts in a few ponds in the Yuma area that are easily accessed without a boat, within a short distance of the urban center. Those ponds are the Yuma West Wetlands pond, located in the City Park, and Redondo and Fortuna ponds, located about 10 miles northeast of Yuma. Access to Redondo Pond was recently improved with the addition of an ADA compliant fishing pier, and thick cattail growth was removed at Fortuna Pond this summer, improving shoreline access by many orders of magnitude. All of these waters received multiple stockings of rainbow trout in the winter months; Redondo Pond will be stocked with channel catfish during the spring, and the Yuma West Wetlands pond will receive channel catfish and bluegills. We may be able to stock Fortuna Pond with channel catfish in the future, pending the outcome of the statewide sport-fish stocking consultation with the USFWS that is hopefully nearing completion. Depending on available funding, we hope to continue regular stockings into all three of these shoreline-accessible waters, and perhaps add additional waters to our stocking schedule. These ponds provide an ideal place to take the family. All three waters now are provided with restroom and trash facilities. Special regulations on fish limits are in effect for these waters, so be sure to consult the Regulations before you take fish.
REGIONAL HOT SPOTS -- Alamo Lake will continue to be a hot spot for plentiful largemouth bass and channel catfish, although trophy-sized fish will be uncommon. Lake Havasu is probably currently the premier lake in our Region (and perhaps the State) for largemouth bass, smallmouth bass and redear sunfish. Numbers caught will likely be lower, but the quality of the fish much higher. The Parker Strip should remain excellent for smallmouth bass and redear sunfish, and the Colorado River below Walter’s Camp down to Imperial Dam the best bet for large and plentiful flathead catfish. Our spring surveys indicate that there is a very impressive population of flathead catfish in the lower Imperial Division between Picacho State Park and Imperial Dam. Expect many in the 5-10 pounds size class, but we know of at least one state record lurking in those waters. Backwaters in the Imperial Division above Imperial Dam will continue to yield impressive largemouth bass, up to and exceeding 10 pounds.
If you need any additional information or assistance, don't hesitate to contact the Yuma Regional office at (928) 342-0091, and we will be happy to give you whatever information we have. A very good resource for local fishing information in the Yuma area is the website and forum at www.yumabassman.com.
CENTRAL MOUNTAINS
Note: Due to increased precipitation, as of 12 July the Sitgreaves, Kaibab, Coconino and Prescott National Forests have lifted all fire restrictions. Fire restrictions continue in portions of the Apache, Tonto and Coronado National Forests. All fire restrictions have also been lifted for the Grand Canyon. During this time of increased precipitation, debris flows are a concern in areas of recent fire activity. For more fire information go to: http://www.publiclands.org/firenews/AZ.php.
WILLIAMS LAKES:
KAIBAB LAKE — Campground is closed. Fishing wasn’t as good this weekend as last because of the active monsoon pattern. Some nice crappie and bluegill were being caught on flies. Trout were also being caught on bait. Scheduled to be stocked this week. Stocked last week
CATARACT LAKE — Campground is open.
CITY RESERVOIR — No new report
DOGTOWN LAKE — Campground is open. Scheduled to be stocked this week.
JD DAM — Had an angler report that he did well on wooly buggers.
RUSSELL TANK - The lake is to shallow to stock.
SANTA FE — No Report.
WHITEHORSE LAKE — Campground is open.
FLAGSTAFF LAKES:
LOWER LAKE MARY — No report
UPPER LAKE MARY — Fishing was slow over the weekend except in the area of the Narrows.
Angler Report:
Nice evening, rained most of the day....after dinner, rains subsided, temps in mid-60's, and I headed over to the lake for an hour and a half of casting...
Got two pike in the first 30 min....one hammer handle, one a bit bigger....inline spinner #3 size (I was figgering maybe perch off the dock, not pike, as the bite has been slow!)
Nice to enjoy the evening/sunset and hook a couple.... (see picture on the left).
Garrett Dauphars
Flagstaff
Where: Lake Mary
When: 07/23/11
Caught: Pike, yellow perch, crappie, bluegill, walleye, yellow bass, green sunfish
Technique: small jigs, spinner bait in 2 feet of water rocky areas- very skinny water was the key for all species. Slow to no boat movement, bait just off the bottom.
Comments: Saturday was our best day weather and fishing, 3 of us boated 66 fish, southeast of the narrows, biggest pike 5 pounds, lots of crappie and yellow perch in very shallow water.
Name: Jim Lindquist
Last week, I took my friend Drew Nosbisch out fishing for the first time in his life up at Upper Lake Mary and this was the first fish he ever caught in his life – a 6 lb, 30-inch Northern Pike! He still hasn’t stopped smiling and bragging about it!
James Chance
ASHURST LAKE — Stocked. Fishing slowed with the active monsoon pattern this weekend. Trout were being caught on worms under a bobber or yellow powerbait on the bottom.
FRANCIS SHORT POND – Fishing was good on corn dropped straight down by the dam.
KINNIKINICK LAKE — No report
MARSHALL LAKE — No report
OAK CREEK — Stocked last week. Scheduled to be stocked this week.
Hi,
I went fishing at Oak Creek on 7/26. I was catching some small rainbow stockers and a couple small browns until right before dark I hooked into this big 18" fat brown in the catch and release area. What a strong fish and a good fight.
Ryan
LONG LAKE — No report
SOLDIERS & SOLDIERS ANNEX — No report
STONEMAN LAKE — NO FISH
BLUE RIDGE — No report
KNOLL LAKE — No report. Stocked last week.
VERDE VALLEY:
Note: Fire restrictions have been lifted in the Coconino National Forest.
DEAD HORSE STATE PARK – Catfish were stocked for free fishing day on June 4th. The catfish bite should remain good following the stocking. They bite best in the early morning hours and the evening.
VERDE RIVER (throughout Verde Valley) – The last trout stocking was the week of March 7th. The catfish and bass should be active. Always check your regulations before fishing this area with live bait. Game and Fish Commission Rule requires anglers to only use live bait that has been caught in the river. No transporting of live baitfish or crayfish is allowed.
BEAVER CREEK – No report.
WEST CLEAR CREEK — No report.
OAK CREEK — Scheduled to be stocked this week. Fishing will likely range from fair to good for rainbows, depending on the stretch you fish, and poor to fair for brown trout, with the best brown fishing located in the upper end of the canyon in the signed catch-and-release area. There was a report of a nice 2.5-pound brown caught in the lower canyon.
FOSSIL CREEK -- Is now closed to fishing. This unique catch-and-release, artificial lure with barbless hook only fishing for roundtail chub fishery came to an end April 30. This fishery will open again on the first Saturday of October.
PRESCOTT AREA:
FAIN LAKE — Fain Lake is open. It was last stocked with 500 trout, the week of June 27th. Game and Fish will be stocking bass, catfish, and bluegill as soon as it receives clearances.
GOLDWATER LAKE — Trout are scheduled were stocked the week of July 18th. Many anglers reported doing well. Power Bait is probably your best bet, although spinners and flies can do well also. With the monsoons hitting, fishing patterns may change frequently. One day fishing may be great, and the next it may be slow.
Game and Fish has been trying to boost the some of the warm water species in Goldwater. Bass and catfish have been stocked three times over the last four years. The bass are being stocked to give a boost to a dwindling population in the lake and to reduce the excessive number of crayfish. Please practice catch and release with the bass, while the population gets re-established.
Game and Fish Biologists surveyed Goldwater on Sept. 15, 2009 and found bass and catfish populations to be much improved over last year. The number of green sunfish was greatly reduced. The bass had a successful spawn last year. If you fish Goldwater and are having luck, please e-mail me at mchmiel@azgfd.gov so I can share your successes with others.
GRANITE BASIN LAKE –Both largemouth bass and bluegill should be active. Ryan fished with his fly rod and was catching bluegill “like crazy” with the largest bluegill he caught “in forever”. If you fish Granite Basin and are having luck, please e-mail me at mchmiel@azgfd.gov so I can share your successes with others.
LYNX LAKE –The bass and bluegill should be active. Catfish can be caught in the late evening and early morning. Trout stockings will resume in the fall.
Cut anchovies, night crawlers or hot dog are your best bet for catfish. Lynx can be difficult to fish, if you are not catching anything try moving to a new spot. There are some good spots on the north end of the lake that don’t get fished as heavily as the south end does.
MINGUS LAKE –Trout were stocked last the week of June 20th. Few trout are being taken but the yellow bullhead catfish are active. For trout the best bait is usually orange, pink, or white Power Bait, fished on the bottom with a treble hook and an egg sinker. Fishing can be really good at times, because angler use is lower than other lakes in the area. This lake is more remote than the other Prescott area lakes and not very big.
Someone illegally stocked yellow bullhead into Mingus several years ago. These fish compete directly with the trout and keep growth rates very low. If you witness anyone, anywhere, moving fish like bass, bluegill, catfish and stocking them, please report it to our Operation Game Thief Hotline at 1-800-352-0700. Illegal stockings cost YOU money!
WATSON – Watson Lake was stocked with 8250 Rainbow on March 30th. Over 13000 rainbow trout have been stocked since January into Watson Lake. Prior to the January stocking Game and Fish had not stocked trout here since 1962. Anglers are still having success catching trout. One angler reported catching four trout in four hours. Fish ranged in size from 12” to 14”. Power bait seems to be the bait of choice.
Other anglers have reported having good luck fishing for catfish in the evening by the boat launch. Catfish can usually be caught on anchovy, night crawler, hot dog, chicken liver, beef liver, or various stink baits.
Game and Fish Biologists surveyed Watson last fall and found the bass, sunfish, and bullhead to be plentiful. Crappies were also doing well. Look for the crappie fishing to pick up in a year or two. If you fish Watson and are having luck, please e-mail me at mchmiel@azgfd.gov so I can share your successes with others.
WILLOW CREEK RESERVOIR – Willow has a great population of bass. The vegetation makes fishing this lake a challenge in the summer.
If you fish Willow and are having luck, please e-mail me at mchmiel@azgfd.gov so I can share your successes with others.
WHITE MOUNTAINS AND RIM LAKES:
Recommended waters to fish:
Big Lake and Crescent Lake are open, currently only accessible via Hwy 273, and should be great fishing. Highway 261 is still closed to repair guardrails damaged by the Wallow Fire.
Nelson Reservoir is also open and fishing is excellent.
Trout were stocked at Sheep’s Crossing and the LCR in Greer for the first time since early June.
The Rim Lakes are accessible. Willow Springs Lake and Woods Canyon Lake continue to be the best producing lakes on the Rim; however, Bear Canyon Lake will also be good.
Scheduled Fish Stockings
Week of 7-18-2011
Fool Hollow Lake – 3,000 rainbow trout
Little Colorado River in Greer – 1,000 Apache trout
Show Low Lake – 3,000 rainbow trout
Silver Creek – 1,500 Apache trout
Woods Canyon Lake – 3,645 rainbow trout
Week of 7-25-2011
* Little Colorado River at Greer – 1,000 Apache trout
* Little Colorado River at Sheeps Crossing – 600 Apache trout
* Silver Creek – 1,600 Apache trout
* Willow Springs Lake – 3,038 rainbow trout
* Woods Canyon Lake – 3,645 rainbow trout
MOGOLLON RIM LAKES
Note: The Forest closure on the Sitgreaves National Forest was lifted entirely. All Rim Lakes in this forest are accessible.
BEAR CANYON LAKE – Fishing is good. Access to the lake is open along all routes, including Forest Roads 300 and 89. The lake was stocked 2 weeks ago with rainbow trout.
Angler report:
Took my son fishing Sunday morning 7/24/11 we started right at five and I caught two very small trout, which I sent back in for another day. We stayed for five hours until 10 and got only a few more bites. We tried Power Bait (10 different kinds) worms, salmon eggs, and whatever else was still in the box but nothing. Good conversation but would loved to have nabbed a few fish to take home for dinner.
George Burke
BLACK CANYON LAKE – Fishing for stocked trout is fair to good. Some bass are also being caught. Access to the lake is open along all routes, including Forest Roads 300 and 86. The lake level is very low, approximately 8 feet down, and launching a boat may be very difficult.
BLUE RIDGE RESERVOIR (CC CRAGIN) -- There have been no recent reports from anglers. This steep sided lake is best fished from a float tube, canoe or kayak.
CHEVELON LAKE –Fishing is good. This lake is a hike-in fishery. The steep sides of this lake make it difficult for shore anglers go gain access. This lake is best fished from a float tube, canoe or kayak, but you have to carry them in, and more importantly, pack them back out the steep trail, all of which makes this a superb place to escape the crowds.
The lake is open to lures and flies only and trout 10-14 inches may not be possessed. The daily and possession limit is 6 trout.
WILLOW SPRINGS LAKE – Fishing is fair to good. The lake will be stocked this week with 3,038 rainbow trout. Trolling with lures, flies, or bait with cowbells have been successful. There are also largemouth bass, smallmouth bass and crappie in this lake. A good tip is to fish for trout at first light and then fish for warmwater fish such as bass in the sunny afternoon, or right before thunderstorms build up along the Mogollon Rim escarpment.
WOODS CANYON LAKE - Fishing is fair to good. The lake will be stocked this week with 3,645 rainbow trout. Trolling with lures, flies, or bait with cowbells have been successful. The store is open and boat rentals are available.
This is a great place to take young anglers -- it is liberally stocked weekly with rainbow trout. Catch rates are typically good here using Power Bait, night crawlers, corn and marshmallows.
Note: A bald eagle closure area is now in effect on a portion of the lake and shoreline on the west side of the lake. Shoreline anglers will need to hike up and around the closure to get to the very upper west portions of the lake, while boaters will just need to avoid the shoreline at the closure. Buoys and signs are in place to mark the closure area.
WHITE MOUNTAIN LAKES and STREAMS
Note: Portions of the Apache National Forest are open to public access.
Highway 273 is open to Big Lake, Crescent Lake, and Lee Valley Lake. Hwy 261 is still closed. The Greer lakes, Nelson Reservoir, and Luna Lake are open.
Day use only is allowed on Crescent, Lee Valley, Luna, Nelson, and the Greer lakes.
Carnero Lake and Sheep’s Crossing, (upstream of bridge), are open. Sheep's Crossing has been stocked with rainbow trout. The forest north of Highway 260 is open.
Pratt Lake is now open for day use only.
The remainder of the Apache National Forest is closed to public entry. Highways 273, 260, 373, 60, 180 and 191 are open.
Hulsey Lake is the only lake not open to public access.
Streams that are NOT accessible due to the Forest closure include:
East Fork Black River
West Fork Black River
Little Colorado River upstream of Greer
Little Colorado River downstream of Sheep’s Crossing Bridge
Black River
BECKER LAKE – Becker Lake is open. Water temperatures are high, so fish very early in the morning for best success. Anglers are reporting rainbow trout to 22 inches. Becker is catch-and-release only, with artificial lures and flies only with single hook.
BIG LAKE – Fishing is good to excellent. The following portions of the Forest around the lake are now open (accessible by Hwy 273 only): Big Lake boat ramps and parking areas, visitor’s center, store and marina, South Cove boat ramp and parking area, Railroad Cove boat ramp and parking area, and Big Lake campgrounds.
The store is open and boat rentals are available.
Anglers are catching trout in 10-15 feet of water. Boat anglers are catching trout on spinners, Z-Rays, KastMasters, and Crickhoppers. Trolling lures, flies, or bait behind cowbells is also productive. Shore anglers need to fish off deep rocky points.
Most of the area around Big Lake was unburned and that portion that was burned is mostly grassland, which does not produce much ash. This and the extremely small watershed around the lake mean that Big Lake will not be affected by ash runoff from the fire.
CARNERO LAKE – Fishing is fair to good. The lake is open, but the water level is low. The lake is open to artificial lures and flies only, barbless hooks, and a 2 trout bag and possession limit. The boat launching area is very low and very weedy. Float tubers and kayakers are putting in about 50-100 yards to the north of the boat ramp area.
CLEAR CREEK RESERVOIR – Fishing is fair.
CONCHO LAKE – Fishing is poor. Water levels are extremely low and the lake is covered with weeds.
CRESCENT LAKE –Fishing is good. The lake is open to day use only and accessible by Hwy 273 only. Anglers should fish off deep rocky shoreline areas.
Most of the area around Crescent Lake was unburned and that portion that was burned is mostly grassland, which does not produce much ash. This and the extremely small watershed around the lake mean that Crescent Lake will not be affected by ash runoff from the fire. The store is closed.
HI Rory
My son Colten landed this 20 inch Rainbow (picture on the right) while fishing Cresent lake on 7-23-2011
Steve Smithson
FOOL HOLLOW LAKE – Fishing is fair to good. The lake has been stocked with rainbow trout. Camping is available at this State Recreation Area. Anglers have been catching trout, smallmouth bass, walleyes, crappies, and sunfish. Fish habitat has been placed around the fishing piers and in the southern part of the lake.
GREER LAKES –The Greer Lakes are open to Day use only. All three lakes are very low due to heavy irrigation use in early summer. Launching boats is difficult.
The boat ramps at River and Bunch reservoir are not usable. Tunnel reservoir is very low and only small boats or float tubes can be used.
Fishing is poor at River Reservoir due to ash and debris runoff from the Little Colorado River, poor to fair at Bunch, and poor to fair at Tunnel.
All reservoirs are muddy colored. Hoyer and Benny Creek Campgrounds near these lakes are open.
However, if you are visiting Greer, the Little Colorado River was stocked last week with Apache trout.
LEE VALLEY LAKE –The lake is open to day use only, accessible by Hwy 273 only. Fishing is fair for Apache trout and Arctic grayling. The lake is very low and launching a boat will be difficult. Use only small boats or float tubes. Lee Valley Lake is open to artificial lures and flies only, with a 2 trout limit. Winn Campground near the lake is also open.
Lee Valley Lake is outside of the fire perimeter and will not be affected by ash runoff.
LITTLE COLORADO RIVER IN GREER – Fishing is good. The stream was stocked last week at the two bridge crossing areas in the Town of Greer. The Government Spring area at the end of the Greer road is still closed due to a Forest Closure.
LUNA LAKE – Access to the lake was recently opened for day use only. Fishing is poor due to an algae bloom. The lake has experienced a small fish kill due to low oxygen levels. The lake level is low. The Luna Lake Campground recently opened.
LYMAN LAKE – Lyman Lake State Park is open. Fishing is good for bass and catfish. Camping is available. Remember, there are no boat motor restrictions at this lake, so it makes a pretty good high country getaway, especially for bass anglers.
This is also a good place to see petroglyphs. Visit http://azstateparks.com/Parks/LYLA/index.html for more information.
NELSON RESERVOIR –The lake is open to day use only. Fishing is good to excellent. Large carryover trout are still present from last year, along with many catchable size rainbows stocked before the closure. Nelson Reservoir may receive ash runoff from the burn area during monsoon rains; however, it has not impacted the lake at this point.
RAINBOW LAKE – Fishing is poor to fair. Bullheads are being caught on worms off the fishing pier. The weeds are fairly thick.
SCOTT RESERVOIR – Fishing is fair. Scott Reservoir has been stocked with rainbow trout.
SHEEP’S CROSSING - Fishing is good. The stream was stocked above the bridge last week with 600 Apache trout and will be stocked again this week. The stream is open upstream from the bridge to the headwaters of Mount Baldy. The Forest and the West Fork of the Little Colorado River downstream from the Sheep’s Crossing Bridge is closed.
SHOW LOW LAKE – Fishing is fair to good. Show Low Lake was stocked recently with rainbow trout. The store and campground are open, and boat rentals are available. This is a great place to fish for walleye -- it holds the state record. Walleye are light sensitive, so the best fishing is at first and last light, or at night.
WOODLAND LAKE – Fishing is poor to fair. The pH level has increased dramatically and the fishing has slowed because of the water conditions. Fish in early morning or in the evening to avoid the warmest conditions in the middle of the day. Largemouth bass are being caught on lures early in the morning and late in the evening.
SOUTHERN ARIZONA
Note: As of July 13th, some areas of the CORONADO NATIONAL FOREST have reopened. All areas remain under Stage Two fire restrictions. For more fire information go to: http://www.publiclands.org/firenews/pressreleases/AZ.php?id=EFEpVZFAVALcWRVUyi.
Please send me your fishing reports from Southern Arizona! Fishing reports can be sent to Don Mitchell, Regional Fish Program Manager by email at dmitchell@azgfd.gov. These reports will then be complied and reported in our weekly fishing reports.
Summers coming and that means the bass and bluegill fishing is warming up also! Anglers should begin to focus their attention along the shoreline in shady areas for great sunfish opportunities. Live worms and meal worms are the classic baits for these little fighters. Bass anglers will find the best action along the shoreline as well wherever you find breaks in the shoreline vegetation. Trout stocking for the summer months is underway.
URBAN WATERS -- Fishing is fair for anglers using worms, stink baits, or shrimp fished on the bottom. If you want to use bobbers, rig up a slip bobber and fish 8-12 feet deep. Catfish are biting irregularly throughout the day, but are more active when the sun goes down.
Bluegill fishing is fair to good for anglers using worms and mealworms fished under a small bobber in 3-6 foot depths.
Action for largemouth bass is fair with the best baits finesse plastics fished in the early morning hours.
Please send me your fishing reports from Southern Arizona! Fishing reports can be sent to Don Mitchell, Regional Fish Program Manager by email at dmitchell@azgfd.gov. These reports will then be complied and reported in our weekly fishing reports.
Summers coming and that means the bass and bluegill fishing is warming up also! Anglers should begin to focus their attention along the shoreline in shady areas for great sunfish opportunities. Live worms and meal worms are the classic baits for these little fighters. Bass anglers will find the best action along the shoreline as well wherever you find breaks in the shoreline vegetation. Trout stocking for the summer months is underway. You can view the schedule here: 2011 Summer Stocking Schedule
RIGGS FLAT — Open!
CLUFF RANCH — Anglers are reporting smaller bass are hitting on night crawlers and that sunfish can be caught all day if you use smaller hooks. An angler also reported a 28 pound channel catfish was caught and released as well. The pond is full and there are no issues with boat launching. For lake information call (928) 485-9430.
ROPER LAKE — For lake information and status of the park call (928) 428-6760.
DANKWORTH POND — Closed to fishing during renovation.
FRYE MESA RESERVIOR –Now Open.
KEARNY LAKES — This small lake remains fishless due to impacts of golden algae.
ARIVACA — Closed due to fire danger
PENA BLANCA – Closed due to fire danger
PATAGONIA — The level remains low and boaters should use caution due to increased number of hazards. Some anglers are reporting that bass are beginning to chase shad and are reporting success fishing the boils in the late evening. No other recent reports of success.
PARKER CANYON — Parker Canyon Lake is now open again. This is a good time to try for warmwater species, such as bass, catfish and bluegill. Expect the best fishing at first light and last light. You might hook into a surprise rainbow, but don't count on it.
Angler report:
Right after arriving around 7 a.m. pulled in a couple of fat bluegills on night crawlers right near the boat dock. Also lost a few worms to some decent hits there. After 9 a.m. decided to hike around to the other side of the lake – sun broke through and temp quickly rose to nearly 90 by noon but came across a group who claimed they had some decent success catching largemouth bass until about 9 a.m. when the bite died.
Saw many more folks pulling in bluegill all morning from various locations. Next time I am going with a boat though as there’s a lot of underwater plants near the shore around the majority of the lake. Hiked the entire lake dropping my line here and there until thunder and lightning chased me off about 2 p.m. Rained pretty heavily for almost an hour and I eventually took off as it looked to be more of the same rest of the afternoon.
Saw some real lunkers in a few of the deeper channels, but not biting on anything I had. Also saw what looked like an eagle pull one of those big ones right out of the water – amazing sight! Going back for more as soon as possible!
Ken - Tucson
ROSE CANYON LAKE — Rose Canyon lake is now open. Although the lake is open we have received no reports of success. The lake was stocked during the closure so there should be plenty of fish available for anglers wishing to get out to the Tucson heat. The next scheduled stocking is the first week of August and will be dependent on water temperatures.
source from : azgfd.net
