Rory's fishing tips:
Rory is still off gallivanting about the countryside, so he has allowed me to give this one more try before he returns!
Due to increased precipitation, as of July 12, 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.
Some new trout stocking information we are getting says that the Black River will be closed to fishing and stockings for probably the rest of the year. Fire issues warrant that closure. Game and Fish plans to stock trout back in Silver Creek, Sheeps Crossing and the west fork of the Little Colorado near Greer. There is potential to have ash flow at west fork at Greer, or for the bridge to be washed out and Greer closed. You’ll want to call ahead if you are heading to these areas to make sure fish are viable. Other stockings are listed in the full Fishing Report.
As has been reported the last few weeks, Show Low Lake, Fool Hollow Lake, and Scotts Reservoir have all received lots of extra trout that we couldn't stock in other waters because of forest closures. Depending on ash flows, there might be more stocked in these waters soon as well. These are still hot spots and would be my recommendation this weekend. Best action is at sunrise and toward sunset.
We’re supposed to see a dip in temperatures this weekend in the Valley, so catfishing at the urban waters should be good, mostly after the sun has gone down. You might be able to coax a bass out of Tempe Town Lake, if you work in the shaded areas under the Mill Avenue bridges. Yes, there are fish in there, you just have to be patient.
Lights are still working at Lake Pleasant for the stripers. Submersibles are always fun to work with. Gage how far down by how much moon light you have. Small moon equals shallow depth, large moon equals deeper depth. You’ll have to play with it a bit to find out at what depth they are biting.
From what I’ve been hearing from you all, fish are biting almost everywhere right now, so if you are out and about, let us know and we’ll share your story in the weeks to come. You don’t have to give away your special hiding spot, but it’s always neat to hear about someone’s success.
Go catch some memories and I hope to see you out there!
-Jim
Special - Trout information from Region 1 – By Mike Lopez
We will not have a bunch of hatchery trucks rolling towards the opening lakes on the Apache National Forest. Here is why:
Big Lake does NOT get stocked with catchable size trout. It is stocked with fingerlings and subcatchables at strategic times to allow those fish to grow to catchable size for the summer fishing season, which is right now. All those trout were stocked earlier in the year and last year for them to be available right now. The lake is full of fish. It has not been fished for over a month, and all those trout that would normally have been harvested in June are still in the lake. That amounts to about 19,000 trout that would have been harvested in June, but this year are still in the lake waiting to be caught. Plus, if we overstock the lake, which is possible, it will impact trout growth in the lake which would affect fishing over the next couple years. Since we stock the lake primarily with fingerlings and subcatchables, we need to maintain good trout growth for those small fish to grow to catchable size, and to produce the large trout that Big Lake is also known for.
Crescent Lake, Lee Valley Lake, Nelson Reservoir, and Luna Lake all normally have high pH levels at this time of year that don't let us stock at this time. These high pH levels in mid-summer are a common occurrence at these lakes and were not caused by the fire. Trout would likely die immediately if we try to stock under these conditions. These lakes still have a lot of fish, we just can't stock more at this time. These lakes were all stocked heavy early in the year as a regular practice to deal with the high pH levels that always come in mid-summer.
The Greer lakes are really the only potential lakes that could be stocked at this time, but they are all extremely low due to heavy irrigation use earlier this summer. The pH levels at Tunnel and Bunch are just low enough to stock (pH=8.9), and River Reservoir is just a little high (pH=9.2). Our cutoff when we stop stocking is 9.0. It is possible that we might stock these Greer lakes, but we need to evaluate what our numbers are like in the hatcheries and if we think anglers will catch trout stocked under these conditions. Our past creel surveys suggest that answer is no.
I would emphasize that the lakes are already full of trout, including all the trout normally harvested in June, one of the better months for catching and harvesting trout in the White Mountains (usually second only to May). Trout in these lakes have not seen a lure, fly or bait for over a month and are likely to be pretty stupid. I know I get that way when I'm not challenged for a while. The important thing is that access is open. Get out there and fish. I'd recommend fishing early in the day when water temperatures and pH levels are at their lowest. Just before dark is another good time when trout are active.
-Mike
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 crank baits and rubber 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.
LAKE PLEASANT - Lake elevation 1680 ft (76% full)
Nighttime anglers are catching stripers using anchovies with lights. For one group the bite started at 9:30 stopped right before the wind changed directions and became real strong. After the storm passed, they again started catching more stripers till they pulled in their desired amount.
Another nighttime duo had their sights on fishing in mid lake but the wind made it impossible. They ended up catching 12 in a cove using anchovies with lights and left at midnight.
Two anglers fished from 4:30pm to 10:30pm and caught 21 stripers and 4 largemouth bass with topwater lures.
A father son duo employed the dropshot technique and caught quite a few largemouth bass off points in 17 to 25 feet of water. They also noticed lots of small bass feeding heavily on shad in the backs of coves.
One angler states the largemouth bass fishing is on fire right now. Off main points adjacent to deep water and secondary points is the habitat that is working for him. Wacky rigged Senko’s, lucky craft Ghost minnows and dropshot with Roboworms are providing more than adequate bass enticement.
ROOSEVELT LAKE - Lake Elevation is 2136 ft (82% full). Tonto Creek runoff is 0 cfs while inflow from the Salt River is at 123 cfs.
Fishing off points in 10-25 feet of water should effective as well as in areas of stick ups and brush. Live shad or minnows are also good baits either with bobbers or free-lined. Crappie fishing should be good at night under submersible lights.
Catfishing should be good for both flatheads and channels.
Fishing for smallmouth bass can be good; especially on windy days. Try areas where waves are stirring up the rocky shoreline. Use in-line spinners and crayfish imitations especially off rocky points and cliff walls and live night crawlers. Remember the slot is in place for smallmouth as well. Bluegills are spawning: this is a great time to take the kids out. Try the backs of coves, especially around structure.
APACHE - Lake elevation is 1908 ft (94% full).
Fishing at Apache Lake is providing excellent fishing opportunities. Anglers are catching largemouth bass in coves and next to emergent vegetation and rocky shores. Catfish fishermen are having no problems catching them with worms. Carp are still active in various coves for those who want to hook into a big strong fish. Load your hook up with corn or dough bait for carp.
Angler Report: Apache Lake, 9:00am - 2:00 pm (both days)
July 1st - 15 Largemouth
July 8th - 21 Largemouth
Bass averaged 2lb 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 1657 ft, which is 95% full.
For bass, drop shotting (fish slow, letting the worm rest on the bottom for a few seconds at a time) is still the method of choice. Senkos and Westy Worms have also been catching fish. Night fishing for bass is also good at this time. This is also a great lake for yellow bass; jig spoons in and around balls of shad. We have received several reports from anglers catching good numbers of larger bluegill. Try meal worm under a slipbobber.
SAGUARO - Lake elevation 1524 feet at 92% full.
One angler fished from safelight until nearly 10am. Water clarity was about three feet. He caught 6 fish using topwater. Dropshot outfitted with Roboworms resulted in boating three more. Jigs also worked.
Angler Report: This is a picture of 9 year old angler Spencer Schweers of Scottsdale showing off his new personal record, 26" Channel Cat. They were very aggressive at Saguaro at sunrise last Saturday, the big one was caught with a night crawler as well as a smaller one. The others on hot dog and a small crank bait.
Thanks for keeping us informed of what's working!
Aaron Schweers
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 1760 ft, which is 52% full. Reservoir release is 150 cfs.
Angler Report: Last weekend my dad and I fished from Friday evening to Saturday night at Bartlett Lake and this is what we ran into. We totaled 15 catfish over 15lbs totaling well over 300 pounds of fish. The largest was 49 inches and 53 lbs (this was by our personal record), and the 2nd largest was 38 inches and 34 lbs. We were trolling with deep diving white crankbaits let out 140-160 feet behind the boat at the north end of the lake. This was by far the best fishing trip either of us had ever taken.
Thanks for putting out a stellar report every week,
Richard and Bill Dickerson
HORSESHOE - Lake elevation is at 1951 feet 0% full. They are releasing water at 80 cfs.
VERDE RIVER – Verde River flow at Tangle is 169 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. This morning flow was 87 cfs at Tangle Creek station above Horseshoe Lake.
SALT RIVER (above Roosevelt) - Salt River into Roosevelt is 123 cfs, and Salt River Canyon is 110 cfs.
LOWER SALT RIVER (below Saguaro Lake) – They are releasing 1550 cfs out of Stewart Mountain dam from Saguaro.
Rainbow trout were stocked at Blue Point Bridge and Water Users Park. Try inline spinners, Power Bait or drifting night crawlers. Fly-fishing can be good with nymphs and Wooly Buggers.
TONTO CREEK -
(A nice trout from Tonto Creek!)
Angler Report: Went up to Tonto Creek yesterday and had to fish the small stretch of water between the 260 and Khols 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
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 – July 6, 2011
Lake Elevation: 3652
Water Temperature 75-80 F
By: Wayne Gustaveson
Lake Powell has risen over 42 feet since the yearly low point was reached in April. The monthly increase during June was 26 feet in 30 days. The shoreline of the lake has a brand new face. The Independence Day Holiday was very busy with full parking lots and busy boat travel lanes from Bullfrog to Wahweap. Muddy water prevails upstream from Bullfrog. Somewhere amid all this change are displaced fish looking for a place to be.
Bass built nests in the spring that are now over 40 feet deep. Spawning is complete and the nests are abandoned. A new green tree line is under water beckoning largemouth to frequent the shallow brush that they love so well. Smallmouth bass are deeper preferring the rocky structure where crayfish hide or the tree tops where they may ambush shad that swim by in open water.
My point is that there is twice as much water and shoreline with completely different habitat making bass fishing spotty at best. At this great lake the opportunity to find that repeatable pattern that works exists every day. The fishing strategy is to try many locations and techniques at the beginning of the day. Then utilize the most effective bait and location to maximize catch. The standard summer time approach is to use a drop-shot or Carolina rig plastic bait in watermelon or black color. Drift this rig in 20-25 feet of water looking for the deep concentrations of bass. Periodically switch to surface walking baits in morning or evening. When an inviting stand of green trees is found run a buzz bait over the top hoping the noisy sputter will attract a fish from the tree top. Casting a crank bait in the alleys around the trees may also be effective. The best strategy is to keep moving and keep casting until a hot spot is located.
Striped bass have just as many options as black bass. But stripers are focused on shad. The new shad crop is now appearing all over the lakes warm surface layer. Slurps are seen each day. Boat traffic was intense this past week so slurps were very fast. Not many fish were caught. But with each day shad get bigger, slurps happen more often and last longer. Top water catch of stripers will increase and peak during dark moon at the end of July. There will be many fish caught during the full moon period coming next week but expect afternoon/evening fishing to be better than morning.
Larger adults are still running deep and making circuits from one feeding spot to the next. All of the spots that were good in the spring will produce striper catches now. But a spot will be good one day and not the next. If using bait it will be necessary to try 3-5 places before a school is found. Once a school lights up then the normal 30 fish catch can be had.
Night fishing may be the best technique during the bright moon in July. Use a light to attract plankton and shad. Fish bait on the periphery of the lighted area to entice the large adult stripers hanging at the edge of the light field. Night fishing will also work for bass and walleye that may be more active after dark than during the bright sunlit daytime period.
Its summer! Fish in the shade. Cast on the shady side of rock structure. Fish at twilight for best results. The only exception to that is a persistent mid day surface feeding event by slurping stripers.
LEES FERRY -- July 1st, 2011 by Lees Ferry Anglers
Report by: Scott Sargent
Friday, July 1, 2011
Today’s Fish rating
Upriver: 8.0
Walk-In: 8.0
Spin-Fishing: 7
Today’s Weather: Sunny with a high of 102 degrees. No wind!
Crowd Rating
Upriver: 3 No Crowds
Walk In: 3
Key: 1 = Sleep late and fish where you want.
10 = Very crowded, get up early
Fly Fishing Upriver:
The fishing conditions have been very favorable the past few days. Or should I say beyond belief? We’ve been having a lot of fun on the river. Fish are healthy, plump, juicy, and abundant. Weather is a bit hot, so make sure that you bring some cool refreshments to stay hydrated.
As you’ve read in the prior fishing reports, the current flow rate for the river is at a constant 24,000cfs. This is very advantageous to fishing conditions as this transports more food downriver. Fish are already beginning to become fatter and will be more evident later this year.
Drifting from the boat upriver has been the most effective means to fish this water. Wading opportunities are minimum. Fish over areas that you would normally wade. The fish are all over the banks!
Fish appear to be very, very happy. They have been sipping the surface quite regularly, mostly throughout the later evening and early morning. There has also been many opportunities to use dry flies.
For those of you who have been anxiously awaiting the CICADA hatch…The Cicadas have definitely been singing. They seem much more abundant than in the last fishing report; but on the other hand there’s probably a little while longer till they are in full bloom. Middle of July is typically the finest occasion to dry fly with cicadas as proved in the previous years. We’ve been using a straight cicada dry fly in various areas – a dropper can be effective too, but try not to get snagged on the bottom.
Double midging with Zebras and Lasers has been tremendously productive. Honestly, this is what I would recommend as far as nymphing is concerned. Scuds and San Juan Worms have been successful as well. Have your first fly as a Laser or Zebra midge, and then play with your dropper. Experiment until you establish some strikes.
Longer drifts have been important because it allows your flies to be presented at a more adequate depth – generally, the deeper the better. Mending your line correctly is also of high importance. But even more importantly, using plenty of split shot is your principal (but not the only) factor determining if you have a good, or bad day. If you’re not catching fish and not touching, or getting close to the bottom near the end of your drift, you’re most likely not using enough split shot. Start with a smaller split shot, and gradually add more shot until you begin receiving results.
Try fishing near aquatic structures, such as flooded bushes near the banks, many fish are feeding in these areas. Also, don’t forget to fish in the seams, where the slower water meets the faster water, as this is where the food that the trout consume is centrally located.
We’ve been noticing that the Tamarisk Beatle has been active on the river. These little fellers are most prominently known for killing trees, but on the river, the fish seem to like them. Not sure how this will effect fishing conditions. We haven’t yet tried to duplicate the Beatle as a fly, but it may be something to consider if they progress to be furthermore active.
Overall; the fishing has been absolutely terrific and there hasn’t been a crowd to compete with. If you have an opportunity to fish here, it would be unwise to decide against it. The fishing has been mind-boggling great. If you don’t have a boat, we have rentals available. You may inquire information about obtaining a rental boat, or a guide by calling 1-800-962-9755.
Walk in:
Before I get started on the Walk-In report…I want to stress….Don’t wade past your waist! I mostly only waded up to my knees, and I’m a pretty short dude. The fish are in the banks – and they’re plentiful.
I fished the walk-in area today and yesterday. I had a blast. I primarily fished the upper boulder field, near where you can see a little bit of a tree branch in the water. Further downriver fished well too, around the barely visible rock in the middle of the river.
There are some nice, nice, nice seams in the upper boulder field. Look for the pocket water. Present your flies in the inside seams, where the slower water meets the faster water, closer to the banks – the better. There are some really spectacular feeding lanes that you can find here, which will produce you consistent strikes.
As for downriver near the rock in the middle of the river… Stay close to the banks and use really long drifts. Ensure you are executing a dead drift. You can shorten your drift a little if you use more splitshot.
Glo bug, glo bug, glo bug!!! Use a glo bug as a dropper and a Laser Midge, or Zebra Midge as your first fly. 50% of my strikes were on my glo bug, the remainder percentage on my midges.
I did experiment with some dries in the later afternoon (around 3, 4PM). Had most of my success on a Hopper. Don’t use a dropper unless you are sure you have clearance, as you can easily snag the bottom. You’ll want to definitely fish the upper boulder field if you intend to try some dries. Watch the river and find where they are sipping the surface.
While fishing the Walk-In, I ensured that I was mending my line properly and using sufficient splitshot. As for splitshot, start with what you believe would be adequate, and then progressively add more. If you’re not hitting the bottom towards the middle of your drift, you’re probably not deep enough. Don’t be embarrassed if you snag the bottom towards the end of a long drift – you’re on the right track. As for mending, when your strike indicator is in front of you, slowly move your rod in a counter-clockwise motion, so that you get your fly-line behind your flies. I normally try not to jerk the motion too quickly, as that would cause my flies to lose depth, so try to execute the motion subtlety, yet effectively.
To my comfort, I didn’t fall when I fished this area, but it could easily be possible if I waded further into the water, so use caution. Don’t wade much further than a little above your knees (maybe, maybe –occasionally- to your waist if your short) – this water is fast and can potentially carry you away. The fish will ultimately reside in the banks, so fish there.
Try to have a fun time while fishing the Walk-In. Maintain confidence in your fishing. And practice safety. Honestly, after today, the higher flows didn’t seem to impact the fishing in any possible negative way – the fishing was so great today. I had an extremely successful day. I really recommend the Walk-In area to anyone.
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.
LAKE MEAD – The current water level is 1104 feet above msl. Lake levels have moved up about a foot this past week. 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 Saterday, 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 www.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 30-50ft 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. New moon was Wednesday, June 1st. 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 Powerworms were being used most for trout. Jakes, Panther Martin and Rooster Tails are also usually effective. Construction near the river is mostly complete and the new store and parking lots are open.
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 – Bass and catfish are all biting, but the bite 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. In addition to the stockers multiple anglers have been reporting catching trout in the 20- to 22-inch range on night crawlers.
Topock gorge has been great. Summertime in the Topock Gorge is characteristically a busy season for big, noisy boats and Memorial Day weekend was the official kick off. Prudent anglers, hoping for a few hours of quiet bliss, fished at the crack of dawn or stayed off the water altogether. Striped bass bite, although starting to show signs of tapering off, is still strong. Richard Pointer and his son Jeffery from Gilbert, Arizona boated four stripers ranging from 2-pounds to 7-pounds on anchovy. That particular day the duo also caught and released forty to fifty sunfish. Between bluegill and redear, the sunfish are crazy wild this year! You may have to be more cautious about bones–especially on the smaller ones, but these little guys are some of the tastiest fish in the river. Bobby Painter from Abilene, Texas and Derwin Hales from Vancouver, Washington also smoked the redear. Four must be the magic number and anchovy the charmed bait because the Hale, Painter team also boated four stripers ranging between 2.5- and 4-pounds. The catfish bite has been slow. Trout, however, have made their way into the Gorge. Night crawlers are the best bait for the trout. The smallmouth bass a starting to come out of their post spawn funk which means the action has begun to improve. Chartreuse and white spinner baits are preferred by some, but my favorite lure is the 4 inch purple and black curly tail, Texas rigged.
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 -- Unfortunately, there have been some cases recently (and some unverified reports) of people spear fishing at Lake Havasu and along other areas of the river for bass and catfish. That's illegal. You can spear fish for carp and tilapia only.
Lake Havasu Fishing Report from John Galbraith of BassTackleMaster.com, Lake Havasu City.
Striper bite continues to be good north in the main river current from the buoy line north to Mohave rock.
Largemouth bass bite is good using Senkos around tulles and weeds where bass seek out shady ambush spots.
Smallmouth bass hitting are good on Hula grubs rigged on football head jigs fished around chunk rocks and rocky/gravel shorelines in 6 to 12 feet of water.
Redear sunfish have completed their spawn. Night crawlers and crappie tubes are excellent choices to catch these big hard fighting panfish. Please practice catch and release during this spawning time to give our redears a chance to reproduce and make our fishery even better.
PARKER STRIP -- 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.
The smallmouth bass fishing is best just below Parker Dam.
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.
I was deployed to the Wallow Fire a few weeks back so everything is hear say on fishing. Pam and Ward Peterson have been catching some nice sized bass trolling deep diving crank baits in the upper end of the lake. They have been catching a few crappies also. Locals have been telling me there catching 3 pounders (bass) and up on top water. This starts around day break and is over by 7 a.m. There throwing chug bugs and buzz baits.
As you know we closed Cholla campground and boat ramp for the summer. The repairs, with a little luck, should be done by the end of September. In the meantime the Dept installed a courtesy dock at the main ramp. Once Cholla ramp is completed, a dock will be added there also.
That's all I got. Mark
TOPOCK GORGE – Capt. Doyle’s report - Catfish in the Topock Gorge remain disinclined. However, a monster of a cat–it looked to be about eighteen inches across its head¬–was seen chasing a big bass in the back waters of the refuge. Jerry Smith and Keith Dockwell of Golden Valley, Arizona killed the sunfish and the smallmouth bass! The duo caught and released twenty bluegill and eighteen smallmouth bass. Also taken and released was a 7-pound carp that by the way it acted all aboard thought it was a striped bass–it swam to open water rather than the tulles. Although a small number of largemouth bass have been caught, the majority of the bass that end up on the hook are smallmouth. Sizes have been ranging from dinks to 5-pounders and while night crawlers are nearly always successful, my preferred bait has been four inch black and purple curly tails Texas rigged. Striper action has been somewhat lean. Nevertheless there are some decent numbers being caught after dark near the rocky points.
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. The time for fishing for both species of catfish will be late spring and throughout the summer. 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: 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.
(Here are two successful fishermen at Oak Creek)
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 and was stocked last week 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 were stocked last week, the week of then 4th. 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. 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. 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 or online at www.azgfd.gov/ogt_form.shtml. 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. Not much information coming in about Watson.
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 now open along Hwy 273 and should be great fishing. Nelson Reservoir and Luna Lake are also open. These lakes have not been fished for over a month and all the trout that normally would have been harvested in June from these lakes are still there waiting to be caught.
The Greer lakes are also open, but are low due to irrigation releases.
The Rim Lakes are now all accessible. The closure on the Sitgreaves National Forest (Black Mesa and Lakeside Ranger Districts) has been lifted entirely. 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.
MOGOLLON RIM LAKES
Note: The Forest closure on the Sitgreaves National Forest has been lifted entirely. All Rim Lakes on this forest are now accessible. Stage I fire restrictions are in effect on the Sitgreaves National Forest (Black Mesa Ranger District and Lakeside Ranger District) due to continued fire danger. These restrictions prohibit building, maintaining, attending or using a fire, campfire, charcoal, coal or wood stove, except in fire grills and grates provided by the Forest Service in developed recreation sites. Use of petroleum-fueled stoves, lanterns or heating devices is allowed. Smoking is not allowed except within an enclosed vehicle or building, a developed recreation site, or while stopped in an area at least three feet in diameter that is barren or cleared of all flammable material.
BEAR CANYON LAKE – Access to the lake is open along all routes, including Forest Roads 300 and 89. Fishing is good.
BLACK CANYON LAKE – Access to the lake is open along all routes, including Forest Roads 300 and 86. Fishing for stocked trout is fair to good. The lake level is very low, approximately 8 feet down, and launching a boat may be very difficult.
BLUE RIDGE (CC CRAGIN) -- No recent angler reports.
CHEVELON LAKE – Access to the lake is open. Fishing is good.
KNOLL LAKE -- Recent reports indicate the fishing has been very good at first light, and then a little slow until the evening bite starts. Fish can be caught near the shallows at first light during the early hatch, but then mostly go deep. There are lots of crayfish here. If you are bait fishing on the bottom, you'll want your bait to float up off the bottom. Or go ahead and catch a bucketful of crayfish to help the aquatic environment.
WILLOW SPRINGS LAKE – Fishing is fair to good. The lake was recently stocked with over 3,000 rainbow trout. Trolling with lures or flies with cowbells have been successful.
WOODS CANYON LAKE - Fishing is fair to good. The lake was stocked recently with over 3,600 rainbow trout. Trolling with lures or flies with cowbells have been successful. The store is open and boat rentals are available.
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 have recently opened 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 also now open. Day use only is allowed on Crescent, Lee Valley, Luna, Nelson, and the Greer lakes. The remainder of the Apache National Forest is closed to public entry. Stage II fire restrictions are in effect on the open portions of the Apache National Forest, which means no campfires will be allowed, even within developed campgrounds. Stage I fire restrictions are in effect on the Sitgreaves National Forest. Highways 273, 260, 373, 60, 180 and 191 are open.
Lakes that are NOT accessible due to the Forest closure include:
Carnero Lake
Hulsey Lake
Streams that are NOT accessible due to the Forest closure include:
East Fork Black River
West Fork Black River
LCR upstream of Greer
Sheep’s Crossing
Black River
All the numerous non-stocked streams on the Apache side of the Forest
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”. Becker is catch-and-release only, with artificial lure and fly only with single hook.
BIG LAKE – Access to the lake was recently opened along Hwy 273 only. The following portions of the Forest around the lake are now open: Big Lake boat ramps and parking areas, Big Lake Visitor’s Center, Big Lake Administrative Site; Big Lake 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. Fishing is good. 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.
CLEAR CREEK RESERVOIR – Fishing is fair.
CONCHO LAKE – Fishing is poor. Water levels are very low and the weeds are thick.
CRESCENT LAKE – Access to the lake was recently opened along Hwy 273 only. Fishing is good. 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.
FOOL HOLLOW LAKE – Fishing is fair to good. The lake was stocked recently with extra rainbow trout, including some larger sized trout (11-12 inches), to increase angling opportunities. Camping is available at this State Recreation Area.
GREER LAKES – Access to these lakes (River, Tunnel, Bunch) were recently opened through Hwy 373 and Forest Road 87B. All three lakes are low due to heavy irrigation use in early summer. Launching boats will be difficult, especially at River and Bunch. Fishing is good at River, fair to good at Bunch, and fair at Tunnel. Hoyer and Benny Creek Campgrounds near these lakes are open. River Reservoir has caught some ash runoff from the burn area during recent monsoon rains, but it has not affected the fish at this point. Bunch and Tunnel are located off the Little Colorado River and will not get significant ash runoff. These lakes are filled from a diversion off the river, which is operated only after Sept 15, when most of the ash coming down the river should be washed past by then.
LEE VALLEY LAKE – Access to the lake was recently opened along Hwy 273 only. Fishing is fair for Apache trout and Arctic grayling. The lake is fairly low and launching a boat may be difficult. Lee Valley Lake is open to artificial lure and fly 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.
LUNA LAKE – Access to the lake was recently opened. Fishing is fair to good. The Luna Lake Campground is NOT open at this time. Luna Lake may receive ash runoff from the burn area during monsoon rains. However, it has not impacted the lake at this point.
LYMAN LAKE – Lyman Lake State Park is open. Fishing is good for bass and catfish. Camping is available.
NELSON RESERVOIR – Access to the lake was recently opened. Access is open to the north end boat ramp, north end parking area, fishing piers, National Forest land underlying Nelson Reservoir, and the lake itself. Fishing is fair to good. 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 fair. The weeds are fairly thick, however, the weed harvesting machine will continue work on the lake for another work period.
SCOTT RESERVOIR – Fishing is fair to good. Scott Reservoir was stocked recently with extra rainbow trout, including larger sized trout (11-12 inches), to increase angling opportunities.
SHOW LOW LAKE – Fishing is fair to good. Show Low Lake was stocked recently with extra rainbow trout, including larger sized trout (11-12 inches), to increase angling opportunities, and was stocked this week with over 2,000 rainbow trout. The store and campground are open, and boat rentals are available.
SILVER CREEK – Fishing is good to excellent.
(Here is a younster named Conner fishing at Silver Creek.)
The stream will be stocked heavily with Apache trout over the next several weeks. Opportunities for kids to catch their first fish and to fill your bag limit will be very good at Silver Creek while this heavy weekly stocking occurs. Silver Creek is located off Bourdon Ranch Road, 10 miles northeast of Show Low. Anglers can use bait, lures, and flies, and the bag and possession limit is 6 trout. The upper section is closed to fishing.
WOODLAND LAKE – Fishing is 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.
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. You can view the schedule here: 2011 Summer Stocking Schedule
URBAN WATERS -- Fishing is good to excellent 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.
Most catfish are from 14-18 inches, but some lunkers over three pounds are being hauled out of the lakes. Bluegill fishing is 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.
RIGGS FLAT — Now 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.
Angler Report:
When: 07/09/11
Caught: 4 Largemouth Bass
Technique: Texas rigging power worm baits. 4 and 7 inch.
Comments: Boated 4 total, largest was 3 lbs around 5pm. Also, there was a tourney going from 5 to midnight, "for fun" but 25 extra boats on the lake once a month, every month. Wrong night to go. Warden said water 3 feet low.
Name: Dan Williams
Angler Report:
Where: Patagonia Lake
When: June 26 & 30
Caught: Bluegill
Comments: Bluegill were biting heavy all day. You could see dozens of them in shallow water. Someone next to us caught a catfish.
Name: Jesse
PARKER CANYON — Is once again open to the public.
ROSE CANYON LAKE — 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.
Note to all Anglers: The Sport Fish Restoration Program was created through the Dingell-Johnson Act of 1950 (Federal Aid in Sport Fish Restoration Act) and the Wallop-Breaux amendments of 1984.
Through a federal excise tax paid by manufacturers on fishing gear and motorboat fuels, it provides grant funds for fishery conservation, boating access, and aquatic education.
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