Best Place to Fish on Lake Roosevelt AZ

Are you tired of fishing in the same old spots? Are you looking for a new adventure and a chance to catch some big fish? Look no further than Lake Roosevelt, Arizona. This hidden gem is home to some of the best fishing in the state.

Nestled among stunning desert landscapes and crystal-clear waters, Lake Roosevelt offers anglers a chance to catch a variety of fish species, including largemouth bass, striped bass, crappie, and catfish. But with such vast waters to explore, where do you start?

In this article, we will guide you through the best places to fish on Lake Roosevelt AZ. We’ll reveal some secret spots that only locals know about and share tips on what bait and lures work best for each species. So grab your gear and get ready for an unforgettable fishing experience on one of Arizona’s most picturesque lakes.

Best Spots to Fish on Lake Roosevelt in Arizona

Lake Roosevelt is a popular fishing destination that offers anglers an excellent chance of catching a wide variety of fish species. The lake has some of the best fishing spots in Arizona, and identifying these locations requires knowledge of the local topography, water depth, and fish behavior.

Cholla Bay:

This bay is located near the Cholla campground and is one of the most popular fishing spots on Lake Roosevelt. It is known for its abundant population of largemouth bass, crappie, catfish, and bluegill. Anglers can use jigs or plastic baits to catch largemouth bass along the rocky shoreline while crappie fishing requires using live minnows or small jigs with soft plastics.

Tips:

• Use a spinning rod with light tackle.
• Fish early morning or late evening when the fish are feeding actively.
• Casting under overhanging trees or submerged structure can yield good results.

The Salt River Arm:

The Salt River Arm is one of the deepest areas on Lake Roosevelt and provides excellent opportunities for catching walleye, smallmouth bass, channel catfish, and rainbow trout. The area’s steep walls provide perfect habitat for these species as they offer plenty of cover from predators.

Tips:

• Use live bait such as nightcrawlers or minnows for walleye and smallmouth bass.
• Casting crankbaits or spinners along the drop-offs can be productive for channel catfish.
• Fishing during dawn and dusk often leads to successful catches.

The Tonto Creek Arm:

The Tonto Creek Arm is located in the eastern part of the lake and is popular for catching rainbow trout, smallmouth bass, walleye, and catfish. The area is also well-known for its scenic beauty, making it an ideal spot for anglers who want to enjoy nature while fishing.

Tips:

• Use jerkbaits or swimbaits to target smallmouth bass.
• Casting spinners or jigs tipped with a nightcrawler can be effective for catching rainbow trout.
• Fishing near submerged structure like rocks and logs can yield good results.

Types of Fish and Where to Find Them in Lake Roosevelt

Lake Roosevelt offers a wide variety of fish species that are popular among anglers. Some of the most common fish found in the lake include:

Largemouth Bass:

Largemouth bass are one of the most sought-after species on Lake Roosevelt. They are commonly found in shallow water near submerged vegetation or rocky areas. During spring and summer months, they can be seen feeding aggressively, making it easy to catch them using plastic worms, jigs, or spinnerbaits.

Walleye:

Walleye is another popular game fish found in Lake Roosevelt. They prefer deep water with rocky bottoms and drop-offs where they can ambush their prey. Anglers typically use live bait such as nightcrawlers or minnows to catch them.

Rainbow Trout:

Rainbow trout is a cold-water species that thrives in Lake Roosevelt’s deeper waters. They can be caught year-round using baits such as Powerbait or worms. During spring months when they spawn, they move closer to shore and become more active, providing the best opportunities for anglers to catch them.

Channel Catfish:

Channel catfish can be found throughout Lake Roosevelt, but they are most abundant in the river arms. They prefer areas with deep water and cover such as rocks or logs. Anglers often use stink baits or chicken liver to attract them.

When is the Best Time to Fish on Lake Roosevelt?

The best time to fish on Lake Roosevelt largely depends on the species of fish you are targeting and their behavior during different seasons. Generally, early spring and late fall are considered prime fishing seasons when the water temperature is cooler, and fish activity is high. During these months, many species move closer to shorelines, making it easier for anglers to catch them.

Anglers targeting largemouth bass should focus on fishing during early morning or late evening hours when these fish tend to feed more actively. Walleye fishing is generally better at night or during low-light conditions when these fish become more active.

Rainbow trout spawn in spring months, making this season ideal for catching them as they move closer to shorelines in search of spawning areas. Channel catfish are most active during warm summer months when they feed aggressively.

Essential Equipment and Gear for Fishing on Lake Roosevelt

Having the right equipment and gear is essential for a successful fishing trip on Lake Roosevelt. Here are some essentials:

Fishing Rods:

Choose a rod that’s suitable for your target species and preferred technique. A medium-heavy spinning rod works well for catching largemouth bass, while a light-action rod with fast action is ideal for walleye fishing.

Fishing Reels:

Choose a reel that matches your rod’s specifications and has enough line capacity for your needs. Spinning reels work well for most freshwater species found in Lake Roosevelt.

Fishing Line:

Choose a line that’s suitable for your target species and fishing technique. Monofilament lines are most popular but fluorocarbon or braided lines may be more effective for certain techniques.

Baits and Lures:

Research your target species to determine the best baits and lures to use. Popular options include plastic worms, jigs, crankbaits, spinners, and live baits such as nightcrawlers or minnows.

Fishing Accessories:

Don’t forget to bring essentials like pliers, hook removers, a landing net, sunscreen, polarized sunglasses, and a hat to protect you from the sun.

Regulations and Restrictions for Fishing on Lake Roosevelt

Fishing on Lake Roosevelt is subject to Arizona Game and Fish Department regulations. Anglers must have a valid fishing license from the department before fishing on the lake. The following restrictions apply:

• The daily bag limit for largemouth bass is six fish.
• The daily bag limit for walleye is ten fish.
• The daily bag limit for rainbow trout is six fish.
• The daily bag limit for channel catfish is four fish.
• All anglers must follow size limits set by Arizona Game and Fish Department.

It’s important to check the current regulations before heading out on your fishing trip as they may change seasonally or annually.

Hiring a Guide or Charter Service for Fishing on Lake Roosevelt

If you’re new to fishing or want an experienced guide that can help you catch more fish, consider hiring a guide or charter service. These services provide all necessary equipment and gear along with local knowledge of the best fishing spots in Lake Roosevelt. Guides can also teach you new techniques and tricks to improve your fishing skills.

Some popular guide services on Lake Roosevelt include:

• Arizona Fishing Guides
• Fish AZ Guide Service
• Lake Time Fishing Charters

Guides are a great way to maximize your chances of catching fish and make the most out of your fishing trip.

How to Obtain a Fishing License for Lake Roosevelt in Arizona

To fish on Lake Roosevelt, anglers must have a valid fishing license from the Arizona Game and Fish Department. Licenses can be purchased online or in person at many sporting goods stores or tackle shops throughout the state.

There are different types of licenses available, including:

• Resident fishing license (valid for one year)
• Non-resident fishing license (valid for one year)
• Youth fishing license (ages 10-17)
• Short-term licenses (valid for one day or five consecutive days)

Make sure to have your fishing license with you while on Lake Roosevelt as it can be checked by Arizona Game and Fish Department officers.

Nearby Accommodations and Camping Options for Multi-Day Fishing Trips to Lake Roosevelt

Lake Roosevelt offers several camping options that provide easy access to the lake’s best fishing spots. Some popular campgrounds include:

The Cholla Campground:

The Cholla Campground is located near the lake’s northern shore and provides easy access to Cholla Bay, one of the best largemouth bass fishing spots on the lake. The campground offers several amenities, including restrooms, showers, picnic areas, and fire pits.

The Windy Hill Campground:

The Windy Hill Campground is located near the lake’s eastern shore and offers easy access to Tonto Creek Arm, one of the best rainbow trout fishing spots on the lake. The campground offers several amenities, including restrooms, showers, picnic areas, and fire pits.

The Grapevine Campground:

The Grapevine Campground is located near the lake’s southern shore and provides easy access to several popular fishing spots. The campground offers several amenities, including restrooms, showers, picnic areas, and fire pits.

In addition to camping options, there are also several hotels and lodges nearby that offer comfortable accommodations for multi-day fishing trips to Lake Roosevelt.

Lake Roosevelt in Arizona is undoubtedly the best place for fishing enthusiasts who seek adventure and excitement. Its vast waters are home to a variety of fish species, making it a perfect destination to catch some big ones.

Frequently Asked Questions about Best Place to Fish on Lake Roosevelt AZ

Where is the best place to fish in Lake Roosevelt?
The inlets of Salt River and Tonto River offer excellent fishing habitats. Salome Cove on the northern side of the lake is particularly abundant with bass. Cholla Point and Cholla Bay are also ideal spots for shore fishing, with plenty of brushy structures near the bank.

Is Lake Roosevelt good for fishing?
The fishing season is open all year, except for sturgeon, which have specific rules and seasons. Popular fish to catch include White Sturgeon, Rainbow Trout, Kokanee, Walleye, and Smallmouth Bass.

What fish are biting at Roosevelt Lake AZ?
Fishing for largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, channel catfish, flathead catfish, black crappie, bluegill and yellow bass at Roosevelt Lake in Arizona. The largest lake in Central Arizona, Roosevelt Lake, is a bass fisherman’s paradise.

Where can I fish for walleye in Lake Roosevelt?
The prime time for catching walleye is in the spring and early summer months when they migrate from the Spokane River to areas near Colville River and Singers Bay. The Kettle Falls boat launch is a recommended location to begin fishing as long as the water levels allow for it.

What part of lake is best to fish?
When fishing on a natural lake, it’s helpful to seek out areas with clusters of aquatic vegetation like reeds and lily pads along the shore. You should pay attention to any changes in the density or variety of vegetation, as these areas are likely to be productive fishing spots.

What area of a lake is best to fish?
In the summer, fish typically seek out cooler water and shade, so it’s best to look for areas with prominent cover such as docks, vegetation, and anchored boats, as well as deeper areas where the water is colder. During the winter, it’s best to focus on the deepest parts of the pond or lake.