02-13-2008, 10:10 PM
Alamo Lake:
The lake elevation continues to be good. Largemouth bass are present in all sizes and fishing is expected to be good to excellent throughout the spring. It looks like most of the bass are in the protected slot with a fair number over the slot. Exactly what is going on with the crappie is unknown. The bite has not developed as usual but we anticipate fishing to be fair to good throughout the spring.
Channel catfish will be good to excellent this spring and throughout the summer. There are other fish present such as bluegill, redear sunfish and carp that are a lot of fun to catch. All types of bait should work.
As the weather warms, shift from slowly working plastics in deeper water to crankbaits, spinnerbaits, and topwater lures for bass.
For channel catfish any of the prepared catfish baits as well as chicken livers, shrimp, and anything else you can think of should work.
Both of the boat ramps are useable at this time and the store at the lake is still closed so you need to bring everything with you. If you run short of anything you might be able to pick it up at the Wayside Inn or in Wenden. The certified scale that was located at the store is now located at the Alamo State Park Office and the park office also has live bait for the crappie fishermen.
Lake Havasu & Topock Gorge:
Largemouth bass, as well as smallmouth bass are expected to be good to excellent this spring. The size will range from 13 inches and up with an occasional fish greater than 5 pounds. Striped bass will continue to be excellent for small fish (12-18 inches) with occasional fish over 3 pounds. The lake is also full of smaller striper that will make it challenging to catch the larger fish. Channel catfish as well as bluegill and redear sunfish will be good to excellent. Flathead catfish fishing should be fair at the lower end of the lake (Bill Williams River Arm) through the spring. Sizes of flathead catfish can reach as high as 40 pounds. When fishing for them select the interior points in the coves and the areas where artificial structure has been placed.
The warmer weather causes the bite to increase making crankbaits and topwater lures a good choice. Also, spinner baits, jigs, cut fish, live shad, etc. should work depending on the species you are looking for.<br />
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 (Parker Strip Area):
It is expected to be good to excellent for smallmouth bass with fish over two pounds this spring. In addition, redear sunfish should also be good to excellent in the pound plus sizes. Channel and flathead catfish fishing will be fair to good in this section of the Colorado River as the weather warms up.<br />
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. The time for fishing for both species of catfish will be late spring and throughout the summer. Generally speaking, when fishing for catfish the hotter the weather the better the fishing.
This section of the Colorado River all the way down to Yuma is where invasive species known as Giant Salvinia is located as well as quagga mussels. If using a boat make, sure the boat, live wells, engines, and trailer is clean before leaving the area. The last thing that we want to have happen is the movement of invasive species to other waters.
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). The various backwaters will be good for largemouth bass and other sunfish (bluegill and redear). Other species available in the main river are smallmouth bass, channel catfish, and striped bass.
This section of the Colorado River all the way down to Yuma is where invasive species known as Giant Salvinia is located as well as quagga mussels. If using a boat make, sure the boat, live wells, engines, and trailer is clean before leaving the area. The last thing that we want to have happen is the movement of invasive species to other waters.
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. Other sunfish such as bluegill and redear are also present in the various backwaters as well as an occasional striped bass will be caught in the backwaters and main river channel.
This section of the Colorado River all the way down to Yuma is where invasive species known as Giant Salvinia is located as well as quagga mussels. If using a boat make, sure the boat, live wells, engines, and trailer is clean before leaving the area. The last thing that we want to have happen is the movement of invasive species to other waters.
Colorado River (between Laguna and Morelos dams):
This area will be good for largemouth bass and flathead catfish. Bass in excess of 5 pounds is common and flathead catfish over 20 pounds is 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 the larger boat will be able to get on the river in that area.
This section of the Colorado River all the way down to Yuma is where invasive species known as Giant Salvinia is located as well as quagga mussels. If using a boat make, sure the boat, live wells, engines, and trailer is clean before leaving the area. The last thing that we want to have happen is the movement of invasive species to other waters.<br />
With the increase in border issues and illegal activity on the lower end of this area I would away from that area (Pilot Knob to Moreles Dam).
Regional Hot Spots:
Alamo Lake will be the hot spot for largemouth bass and channel catfish. Since there appears to be more fish in the lake at the present time, I recommend keeping as many of the smaller bass as you can legally possess in order to try and reduce the population a little.
Next choice would be Lake Havasu for striped bass, Parker Strip for smallmouth bass and redear sunfish, and the Colorado River below Walter's Camp for flathead catfish.
If you need any additional information or additional don't hesitate to contact the Yuma Regional office at (928) 341-4051 and I will be happy to accommodate you.
North Central Region
Most higher elevation lakes are ice covered.
WILLIAMS LAKES:
KAIBAB LAKE - Campground area is closed. Main parking lot and boat launch open for day use only. No reports on fishing.
CATARACT LAKE - Campground is closed. Lake is open for walk in fishing.
CITY RESERVOIR - No reports.
DOGTOWN LAKE - The picnic area, main parking lot and boat launch are open for day use only.<br />
JD DAM - No reports.
RUSSEL TANK - No reports.
SANTA FE - No reports.
WHITEHORSE LAKE - No report from anglers. Campground is closed.
FLAGSTAFF LAKES:
LOWER LAKE MARY - This lake now has some water again but is ice covered.
UPPER LAKE MARY - Lake is almost full, but iced over. No reports.
ASHURST LAKE - No reports.
FRANCIS SHORT POND - No reports.
KINNIKINICK LAKE - No reports.
MARSHALL LAKE - No reports.
OAK CREEK - Has not been stocked recently. Could be some decent fishing if you find the right spot.
LONG LAKE - No reports.
SOLDIERS & SOLDIERS ANNEX - No reports.
BEAVER CREEK - No recent reports. Had high flows last week - fishing could be slow.
WEST CLEAR CREEK - Expect turbid water from runoff.
STONEMAN LAKE - NO FISH.
MINGUS LAKE -Trout were stocked last on the week of Oct 15. Try bright-colored Power Bait like chartreuse, salmon eggs, or various spinners. The gate is closed until the spring, but you can walk in and fish.
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. Illegal stockings cost YOU money!
DEAD HORSE STATE PARK - Trout were stocked last the week of Jan. 21 and are scheduled were stocked with 3,600 rainbow trout on Feb. 4. Fishing should be very good. Try using small spinners, worms, or Power Bait.
Some anglers have reported catching limits, while others have not done as well.
Catfish were stocked the week of Sept. 24, for Verde River Days festivities. Several largemouth bass, including a 10-plus pounder have been caught this summer in the middle lagoon. In-line spinners, plastic grubs, and small crankbaits have been the ticket. The bluegill fishing has been good using a salmon egg or small worm on a small bait hook below a bobber. The bluegills are plentiful in both the middle and lower lagoons, so between trout and catfish stockings try your luck with the bluegill.
VERDE RIVER (throughout Verde Valley) - Stocked on Feb. 8 with rainbow trout and the water temperature was 48 degrees. The river flows had increased significantly recently but have diminished considerably. Trout were stocked at all five sites. Stocking sites are at Tuzigoot Bridge outside of Clarkdale, the bridge that leads to the Deadhorse State Park, at Deadhorse State Parks access point called the Jacks, at the White Bridge in Camp Verde, and at Bignotti Beach. The department stocks trout in these waters from November through March, when the water temperature can support a trout fishery. Cold winter water temperatures keep the other game fish fairly inactive until about mid-March.
Tuzigoot Bridge (leading to Tuzigoot National Monument) has decent rainbow trout fishing early and late in the day. Most fishermen concentrate near the bridge, but the pools and currents downstream within 300 yards of the bridge hold lots of trout and do not see much fishing pressure. Small spoons such as Z-rays, Mepps and Panther Martin spinners, and Power Bait all work well.
Fly-fishermen seem to prefer fishing the Verde River between Riverfront Park and Dead Horse Ranch State Park in the town of Cottonwood. The trout aren't too fussy about the type of fly/lure or presentation. The best success here has been first thing in the morning until about 10 a.m.<br />
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Bignotti Beach (between Cottonwood and Camp Verde, near Thousand Trails RV Park) has had decent fishing as well. Anglers tossing in-line spinners, small spoons, or fly-fishing with dark, gold-bead nymphs are doing best during mid-day, while fly-fishermen floating a variety of dry flies are having good success early and late in the day.
The White Bridge in Camp Verde (Highway 260 bridge over the Verde River) is an under-utilized trout fishery. A U.S. Forest Service picnic area above the river provides convenient parking and a short walk to the Verde River. Try fishing the riffles and pools upstream of the bridge. Mepps in-line spinners, small KastMaster spoons, and bright-colored Power Bait (fished on a treble hook above a sliding egg-sinker) have been the most productive offerings.
LYNX LAKE - Rainbow trout are scheduled to be stocked the week of Feb. 11. Look for the fishing to be fair to good following the stocking. Rainbows were last stocked the week of Nov. 5.
Game and Fish Biologists installed PVC fish structures on Jan. 3. These structures should protect small fishes from predation.
Brook trout were stocked in September. The brooks were in the 5-inch range, but hopefully they will be catchable size for the fishing in the spring. Game and Fish stocked catfish the week of June 4. There were 200 pounds of bluegill stocked on March 29. Game and Fish biologists surveyed Lynx in May and found that the brook trout stocked in September 2006 were still present.
FAIN LAKE -Recent stocking for Fain have been cancelled due to the lake being frozen over. Rainbows are scheduled to be stocked, the week of Feb. 11. If Fain is still frozen over the stocking will be cancelled.
Prescott Valley Parks and Recreation held the annual Gold Fever Days at Fain Lake in mid October, were nearly all of the kids that participated in the fishing clinic caught fish. Five-inch brook trout were stocked in Sept. 24 and rainbows were stocked Oct. 12 & 15. Rainbows are scheduled to be stocked again the week of Dec 3. Catfish were stocked on June 4. There were 150 pounds of bluegill stocked on March 29. These fish were hand-sized and should be easily caught. Try using worms or mealworms on a bobber. Small spinners may work as well.
GOLDWATER LAKE - Trout are scheduled to be stocked the week of Feb. 11. Look for the fishing to pick up almost immediately following the stocking. Try using spinners, jigs, worms or rainbow Power Bait. If Goldwater is frozen over the stocking will be cancelled.
Game and Fish Biologists surveyed Goldwater during the middle of May last year and found the trout and sunfish plentiful. While the number of catfish and bass was low, the quality was exceptional. One 16-pound catfish was sampled and released. The bass averaged about 3.5 pounds. On March 29, 2007, there were 400 pounds of bluegill stocked. These fish were hand-sized and should be easily caught. Try using worms or mealworms on a bobber. Small spinners may work as well. If you fish Goldwater and are having luck, please e-mail me at mchmiel@azgfd.gov so I can share your successes with others.
Mogollon Rim
Note: The Mogollon Rim streams are flowing high and are ice-covered. The lakes are ice-covered. All Forest roads are closed and snow packed, but are open to snowmobilers. Contact the U.S. Forest Service Black Mesa office at (928) 535-4481 for information.
CHEVELON CANYON LAKE - All Forest roads to Chevelon Lake are closed, including Forest road169 north. All Forest roads are snow packed and closed beyond locked gates. The lake is ice-covered and the hiking trails to the lake are packed with deep snow. Check ice thickness before venturing out on the ice. Chevelon Canyon Creek downstream from Chevelon Crossing to the Little Colorado River is open to unlimited rainbow and brown trout harvest from Sept. 1 through March 31.
BEAR CANYON LAKE - All Forest roads are closed to the lake due to heavy snow fall. The lake is ice-covered. Check ice thickness before venturing out on the ice.
BLACK CANYON LAKE - All Forest roads are closed to motor vehicles by USFS Order. Access is by snowmobiles only. The gate to the lake is locked. The lake is ice-covered. Check ice thickness before venturing out on the ice.<br />
WILLOW SPRINGS LAKE - Forest road 149 is closed and the gate to the lake is locked. The lake is ice-covered. Check ice thickness before venturing out on the ice.
WOODS CANYON LAKE - Forest road's 300 and 105 are closed. The gate to the lake is locked. The lake is ice-covered. Check ice thickness before venturing out on the ice.
White Mountains
Note: Streams are flowing high. Many lakes are spilling, are very turbid, and are ice-covered to ice-free. Higher elevation lakes are still ice-covered. Lower elevation lake conditions can change from day-to-day and have unsafe ice.<br />
Forest roads are closed. State Highway 261 is closed to Big Lake and Crescent Lake, as well as most interior Forest roads. State Highway 273 on the Apache Sitgreaves National Forest is undergoing reconstruction and realignment and the following closures are in effect. State Highway 273 from the Forest and Fort Apache Indian Reservation boundary to Crescent Lake is closed to all traffic, including snowmobiles, 24 hours a day, seven days a week, and will remain closed until the road construction project is complete. Snowmobilers should use Forest Road 249 from Williams Valley to Big Lake and Crescent Lake.
BECKER LAKE -The lake is ice-covered. Unsafe ice conditions.
BIG LAKE - The lake is ice-covered. Highway 261 is closed from Eager.
ACCESS: State Highway 273 from the Forest Service-Fort Apache Indian Reservation to Crescent Lake is closed for road construction and is also closed to snowmobiles. Snowmobilers should use Forest road 249 from Williams Valley to Big Lake and Crescent Lake.
CARNERO LAKE - The lake is ice-covered. Check ice thickness before venturing out on the ice. Forest Road's 117 and 117A are snow packed and not accessible to vehicles. Access to the lake is by snowmobiles only.<br />
CLEAR CREEK RESERVOIR - The lake is ice-covered. Unsafe ice conditions.
CONCHO LAKE-The lake is ice-covered, low, and weedy. Unsafe ice conditions.
CRESCENT LAKE - The lake is ice-covered. Highway 261 is closed from Eager. Highway 273 from Forest Service-Fort Apache Indian Reservation to Crescent Lake is closed for road construction and is also closed to snowmobiles. Snowmobilers should use Forest road 249 from Williams Valley to Crescent Lake and Big Lake.
FOOL HOLLOW LAKE - The lake is ice-covered, full, and spilling. Unsafe ice conditions.
GREER LAKES - All Greer lakes are ice-covered. Check ice thickness before venturing out on the ice. Ice fisherman at Bunch Reservoir have been catching rainbow trout on jigs with attached salmon eggs out from the boat ramp.
HULSEY LAKE - Forest roads are snow packed and access is by snowmobile only. The lake is ice-covered. Check ice thickness before venturing out on the ice.
LEE VALLEY RESERVOIR - The lake is ice-covered. Access to the lake is closed.
Access: State Highway 273 from Sunrise Lake to Crescent Lake is closed for road construction and Highway 261 from Eager is closed. Both roads are closed to snowmobiles.
LUNA LAKE - Fishing is poor. The lake is 95-percent ice-covered with a few open water areas. The lake is full and spilling. Check ice thickness before venturing out on the ice.
LYMAN LAKE - Fishing is poor to fair. The lake is 45-percent ice-covered with scattered open water areas. Unsafe ice conditions. Try worms, Power Bait, catfish stink baits, and lures such as spinners, crankbaits, and Rapalas.
The Lyman Lake recreation area is managed by Lyman Lake State Park and camping is available. There are also some new cabins for rent.
There is a fish consumption advisory here, so check with the State Parks Office at the lake for details. Also contact the Arizona Game and Fish Department's Region 1 Office in Pinetop at 928-367-4281. There are no motor restrictions on Lyman Lake.
NELSON RESERVOIR - The lake is ice-covered, full, and spilling. Check ice thickness before venturing out on the ice. Unsafe ice conditions.
RAINBOW LAKE - The lake is full, spilling, and mostly ice-covered with some open water areas near the boat ramp and boat dock.
SCOTT'S RESERVOIR - The lake is full, spilling, and 100% ice-covered. Unsafe ice conditions.<br />
SHOW LOW LAKE - The lake is down about 7 feet. The lake is ice-covered. Unsafe ice conditions.
SILVER CREEK - Fishing is fair. Silver Creek on the Arizona Game and Fish Department property is open to catch and release fishing, artificial lure and fly only and barbless hooks only from October 1 through March 31. The upper section is open to fishing. Stream banks are snow packed. Try small lures such as Mepps, Panther Martin, and Rooster tail, and flies such as wooly worms, wooly buggers, peacock ladies, prince nymphs, zug bugs, shrimp patterns, and small beadhead nymphs. Try dry flies such as Adams, parachute Adams, midge and caddis fly patterns. Silver Creek is a spring creek that does not get ice covered during the winter months. The creek is not clear, but slightly murky, due to runoff from Brown Creek.
WOODLAND LAKE - The lake is full, spilling and 95-percent ice-covered. Unsafe ice conditions.
WHITE MOUNTAIN STREAMS:
WEST FORK OF BLACK RIVER - The stream is flowing high. Forest roads are snow packed and Highway 261 and 273 are closed.
EAST FORK OF BLACK RIVER - The stream is flowing high. Forest roads are snow packed and Highway 261and 273 are closed.<br />
SHEEPS CROSSING - Not accessible. Highway 273 is closed for the year due to road construction and an area closure is still in effect around Sheeps Crossing, including snowmobiles.
LITTLE COLORADO RIVER - GREER - The stream is flowing high.
Southeastern Arizona
TUCSON URBAN - Stocked with rainbow trout last week. Anglers using scented dough baits (such as Power Bait), worms fished under a bobber, or small trout lures have been successful. Best times to fish for trout generally are early morning, but some anglers have reported excellent fishing late afternoon.
RIGGS FLAT -Lake is closed for the season.
CLUFF RANCH - Stocked on Feb. 5. For lake information call (928) 485-9430.
ROPER LAKE - Stocked with 625 rainbow trout on Feb. 5. For lake information call (928) 428-6760.
DANKWORTH POND - Stocked with 250 rainbow trout on Feb. 5. For lake information call (928) 428-6760.
FRYE MESA RESERVIOR - No recent reports.
KEARNY LAKES - The department is currently evaluating the possibility of stocking trout in this lake. No stockings have occurred yet. The golden alga is currently very active at the lake and this could stall efforts.
ARIVACA - Bass fishing has been slow with the cooler temperatures. However anglers are reporting some bass being caught with crankbaits and Senkos. Jan. 1 marks a change in the motor restrictions at this lake. Motors 10 horsepower or less will now be legal for use at Arivaca. Remember that all bass must be immediately released back to the water.
PENA BLANCA - The mercury advisory for all warm water fish is in effect. Bass less than 13 inches long must be immediately released. The daily bag limit for bass is four. Also, be advised that Pena Blanca is not an urban lake; therefore an urban fishing license is invalid to fish at this lake. Jan. 1 marks a change in the motor restrictions at this lake. Motors 10 horsepower or less will now be legal for use at Pena Blanca.
PATAGONIA - No recent reports. Has been stocked with rainbow trout recently.
PARKER CANYON - The lake is full and it appears that the algae bloom has subsided. Fishing remains slow but there are plenty of trout to be caught. Early mornings and late evenings are producing fish.
PICACHO RESERVOIR - No Report.
ROSE CANYON LAKE - The access road is now closed for the season. Anglers can still access the lake by walking in.
The lake elevation continues to be good. Largemouth bass are present in all sizes and fishing is expected to be good to excellent throughout the spring. It looks like most of the bass are in the protected slot with a fair number over the slot. Exactly what is going on with the crappie is unknown. The bite has not developed as usual but we anticipate fishing to be fair to good throughout the spring.
Channel catfish will be good to excellent this spring and throughout the summer. There are other fish present such as bluegill, redear sunfish and carp that are a lot of fun to catch. All types of bait should work.
As the weather warms, shift from slowly working plastics in deeper water to crankbaits, spinnerbaits, and topwater lures for bass.
For channel catfish any of the prepared catfish baits as well as chicken livers, shrimp, and anything else you can think of should work.
Both of the boat ramps are useable at this time and the store at the lake is still closed so you need to bring everything with you. If you run short of anything you might be able to pick it up at the Wayside Inn or in Wenden. The certified scale that was located at the store is now located at the Alamo State Park Office and the park office also has live bait for the crappie fishermen.
Lake Havasu & Topock Gorge:
Largemouth bass, as well as smallmouth bass are expected to be good to excellent this spring. The size will range from 13 inches and up with an occasional fish greater than 5 pounds. Striped bass will continue to be excellent for small fish (12-18 inches) with occasional fish over 3 pounds. The lake is also full of smaller striper that will make it challenging to catch the larger fish. Channel catfish as well as bluegill and redear sunfish will be good to excellent. Flathead catfish fishing should be fair at the lower end of the lake (Bill Williams River Arm) through the spring. Sizes of flathead catfish can reach as high as 40 pounds. When fishing for them select the interior points in the coves and the areas where artificial structure has been placed.
The warmer weather causes the bite to increase making crankbaits and topwater lures a good choice. Also, spinner baits, jigs, cut fish, live shad, etc. should work depending on the species you are looking for.<br />
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 (Parker Strip Area):
It is expected to be good to excellent for smallmouth bass with fish over two pounds this spring. In addition, redear sunfish should also be good to excellent in the pound plus sizes. Channel and flathead catfish fishing will be fair to good in this section of the Colorado River as the weather warms up.<br />
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. The time for fishing for both species of catfish will be late spring and throughout the summer. Generally speaking, when fishing for catfish the hotter the weather the better the fishing.
This section of the Colorado River all the way down to Yuma is where invasive species known as Giant Salvinia is located as well as quagga mussels. If using a boat make, sure the boat, live wells, engines, and trailer is clean before leaving the area. The last thing that we want to have happen is the movement of invasive species to other waters.
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). The various backwaters will be good for largemouth bass and other sunfish (bluegill and redear). Other species available in the main river are smallmouth bass, channel catfish, and striped bass.
This section of the Colorado River all the way down to Yuma is where invasive species known as Giant Salvinia is located as well as quagga mussels. If using a boat make, sure the boat, live wells, engines, and trailer is clean before leaving the area. The last thing that we want to have happen is the movement of invasive species to other waters.
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. Other sunfish such as bluegill and redear are also present in the various backwaters as well as an occasional striped bass will be caught in the backwaters and main river channel.
This section of the Colorado River all the way down to Yuma is where invasive species known as Giant Salvinia is located as well as quagga mussels. If using a boat make, sure the boat, live wells, engines, and trailer is clean before leaving the area. The last thing that we want to have happen is the movement of invasive species to other waters.
Colorado River (between Laguna and Morelos dams):
This area will be good for largemouth bass and flathead catfish. Bass in excess of 5 pounds is common and flathead catfish over 20 pounds is 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 the larger boat will be able to get on the river in that area.
This section of the Colorado River all the way down to Yuma is where invasive species known as Giant Salvinia is located as well as quagga mussels. If using a boat make, sure the boat, live wells, engines, and trailer is clean before leaving the area. The last thing that we want to have happen is the movement of invasive species to other waters.<br />
With the increase in border issues and illegal activity on the lower end of this area I would away from that area (Pilot Knob to Moreles Dam).
Regional Hot Spots:
Alamo Lake will be the hot spot for largemouth bass and channel catfish. Since there appears to be more fish in the lake at the present time, I recommend keeping as many of the smaller bass as you can legally possess in order to try and reduce the population a little.
Next choice would be Lake Havasu for striped bass, Parker Strip for smallmouth bass and redear sunfish, and the Colorado River below Walter's Camp for flathead catfish.
If you need any additional information or additional don't hesitate to contact the Yuma Regional office at (928) 341-4051 and I will be happy to accommodate you.
North Central Region
Most higher elevation lakes are ice covered.
WILLIAMS LAKES:
KAIBAB LAKE - Campground area is closed. Main parking lot and boat launch open for day use only. No reports on fishing.
CATARACT LAKE - Campground is closed. Lake is open for walk in fishing.
CITY RESERVOIR - No reports.
DOGTOWN LAKE - The picnic area, main parking lot and boat launch are open for day use only.<br />
JD DAM - No reports.
RUSSEL TANK - No reports.
SANTA FE - No reports.
WHITEHORSE LAKE - No report from anglers. Campground is closed.
FLAGSTAFF LAKES:
LOWER LAKE MARY - This lake now has some water again but is ice covered.
UPPER LAKE MARY - Lake is almost full, but iced over. No reports.
ASHURST LAKE - No reports.
FRANCIS SHORT POND - No reports.
KINNIKINICK LAKE - No reports.
MARSHALL LAKE - No reports.
OAK CREEK - Has not been stocked recently. Could be some decent fishing if you find the right spot.
LONG LAKE - No reports.
SOLDIERS & SOLDIERS ANNEX - No reports.
BEAVER CREEK - No recent reports. Had high flows last week - fishing could be slow.
WEST CLEAR CREEK - Expect turbid water from runoff.
STONEMAN LAKE - NO FISH.
MINGUS LAKE -Trout were stocked last on the week of Oct 15. Try bright-colored Power Bait like chartreuse, salmon eggs, or various spinners. The gate is closed until the spring, but you can walk in and fish.
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. Illegal stockings cost YOU money!
DEAD HORSE STATE PARK - Trout were stocked last the week of Jan. 21 and are scheduled were stocked with 3,600 rainbow trout on Feb. 4. Fishing should be very good. Try using small spinners, worms, or Power Bait.
Some anglers have reported catching limits, while others have not done as well.
Catfish were stocked the week of Sept. 24, for Verde River Days festivities. Several largemouth bass, including a 10-plus pounder have been caught this summer in the middle lagoon. In-line spinners, plastic grubs, and small crankbaits have been the ticket. The bluegill fishing has been good using a salmon egg or small worm on a small bait hook below a bobber. The bluegills are plentiful in both the middle and lower lagoons, so between trout and catfish stockings try your luck with the bluegill.
VERDE RIVER (throughout Verde Valley) - Stocked on Feb. 8 with rainbow trout and the water temperature was 48 degrees. The river flows had increased significantly recently but have diminished considerably. Trout were stocked at all five sites. Stocking sites are at Tuzigoot Bridge outside of Clarkdale, the bridge that leads to the Deadhorse State Park, at Deadhorse State Parks access point called the Jacks, at the White Bridge in Camp Verde, and at Bignotti Beach. The department stocks trout in these waters from November through March, when the water temperature can support a trout fishery. Cold winter water temperatures keep the other game fish fairly inactive until about mid-March.
Tuzigoot Bridge (leading to Tuzigoot National Monument) has decent rainbow trout fishing early and late in the day. Most fishermen concentrate near the bridge, but the pools and currents downstream within 300 yards of the bridge hold lots of trout and do not see much fishing pressure. Small spoons such as Z-rays, Mepps and Panther Martin spinners, and Power Bait all work well.
Fly-fishermen seem to prefer fishing the Verde River between Riverfront Park and Dead Horse Ranch State Park in the town of Cottonwood. The trout aren't too fussy about the type of fly/lure or presentation. The best success here has been first thing in the morning until about 10 a.m.<br />
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Bignotti Beach (between Cottonwood and Camp Verde, near Thousand Trails RV Park) has had decent fishing as well. Anglers tossing in-line spinners, small spoons, or fly-fishing with dark, gold-bead nymphs are doing best during mid-day, while fly-fishermen floating a variety of dry flies are having good success early and late in the day.
The White Bridge in Camp Verde (Highway 260 bridge over the Verde River) is an under-utilized trout fishery. A U.S. Forest Service picnic area above the river provides convenient parking and a short walk to the Verde River. Try fishing the riffles and pools upstream of the bridge. Mepps in-line spinners, small KastMaster spoons, and bright-colored Power Bait (fished on a treble hook above a sliding egg-sinker) have been the most productive offerings.
LYNX LAKE - Rainbow trout are scheduled to be stocked the week of Feb. 11. Look for the fishing to be fair to good following the stocking. Rainbows were last stocked the week of Nov. 5.
Game and Fish Biologists installed PVC fish structures on Jan. 3. These structures should protect small fishes from predation.
Brook trout were stocked in September. The brooks were in the 5-inch range, but hopefully they will be catchable size for the fishing in the spring. Game and Fish stocked catfish the week of June 4. There were 200 pounds of bluegill stocked on March 29. Game and Fish biologists surveyed Lynx in May and found that the brook trout stocked in September 2006 were still present.
FAIN LAKE -Recent stocking for Fain have been cancelled due to the lake being frozen over. Rainbows are scheduled to be stocked, the week of Feb. 11. If Fain is still frozen over the stocking will be cancelled.
Prescott Valley Parks and Recreation held the annual Gold Fever Days at Fain Lake in mid October, were nearly all of the kids that participated in the fishing clinic caught fish. Five-inch brook trout were stocked in Sept. 24 and rainbows were stocked Oct. 12 & 15. Rainbows are scheduled to be stocked again the week of Dec 3. Catfish were stocked on June 4. There were 150 pounds of bluegill stocked on March 29. These fish were hand-sized and should be easily caught. Try using worms or mealworms on a bobber. Small spinners may work as well.
GOLDWATER LAKE - Trout are scheduled to be stocked the week of Feb. 11. Look for the fishing to pick up almost immediately following the stocking. Try using spinners, jigs, worms or rainbow Power Bait. If Goldwater is frozen over the stocking will be cancelled.
Game and Fish Biologists surveyed Goldwater during the middle of May last year and found the trout and sunfish plentiful. While the number of catfish and bass was low, the quality was exceptional. One 16-pound catfish was sampled and released. The bass averaged about 3.5 pounds. On March 29, 2007, there were 400 pounds of bluegill stocked. These fish were hand-sized and should be easily caught. Try using worms or mealworms on a bobber. Small spinners may work as well. If you fish Goldwater and are having luck, please e-mail me at mchmiel@azgfd.gov so I can share your successes with others.
Mogollon Rim
Note: The Mogollon Rim streams are flowing high and are ice-covered. The lakes are ice-covered. All Forest roads are closed and snow packed, but are open to snowmobilers. Contact the U.S. Forest Service Black Mesa office at (928) 535-4481 for information.
CHEVELON CANYON LAKE - All Forest roads to Chevelon Lake are closed, including Forest road169 north. All Forest roads are snow packed and closed beyond locked gates. The lake is ice-covered and the hiking trails to the lake are packed with deep snow. Check ice thickness before venturing out on the ice. Chevelon Canyon Creek downstream from Chevelon Crossing to the Little Colorado River is open to unlimited rainbow and brown trout harvest from Sept. 1 through March 31.
BEAR CANYON LAKE - All Forest roads are closed to the lake due to heavy snow fall. The lake is ice-covered. Check ice thickness before venturing out on the ice.
BLACK CANYON LAKE - All Forest roads are closed to motor vehicles by USFS Order. Access is by snowmobiles only. The gate to the lake is locked. The lake is ice-covered. Check ice thickness before venturing out on the ice.<br />
WILLOW SPRINGS LAKE - Forest road 149 is closed and the gate to the lake is locked. The lake is ice-covered. Check ice thickness before venturing out on the ice.
WOODS CANYON LAKE - Forest road's 300 and 105 are closed. The gate to the lake is locked. The lake is ice-covered. Check ice thickness before venturing out on the ice.
White Mountains
Note: Streams are flowing high. Many lakes are spilling, are very turbid, and are ice-covered to ice-free. Higher elevation lakes are still ice-covered. Lower elevation lake conditions can change from day-to-day and have unsafe ice.<br />
Forest roads are closed. State Highway 261 is closed to Big Lake and Crescent Lake, as well as most interior Forest roads. State Highway 273 on the Apache Sitgreaves National Forest is undergoing reconstruction and realignment and the following closures are in effect. State Highway 273 from the Forest and Fort Apache Indian Reservation boundary to Crescent Lake is closed to all traffic, including snowmobiles, 24 hours a day, seven days a week, and will remain closed until the road construction project is complete. Snowmobilers should use Forest Road 249 from Williams Valley to Big Lake and Crescent Lake.
BECKER LAKE -The lake is ice-covered. Unsafe ice conditions.
BIG LAKE - The lake is ice-covered. Highway 261 is closed from Eager.
ACCESS: State Highway 273 from the Forest Service-Fort Apache Indian Reservation to Crescent Lake is closed for road construction and is also closed to snowmobiles. Snowmobilers should use Forest road 249 from Williams Valley to Big Lake and Crescent Lake.
CARNERO LAKE - The lake is ice-covered. Check ice thickness before venturing out on the ice. Forest Road's 117 and 117A are snow packed and not accessible to vehicles. Access to the lake is by snowmobiles only.<br />
CLEAR CREEK RESERVOIR - The lake is ice-covered. Unsafe ice conditions.
CONCHO LAKE-The lake is ice-covered, low, and weedy. Unsafe ice conditions.
CRESCENT LAKE - The lake is ice-covered. Highway 261 is closed from Eager. Highway 273 from Forest Service-Fort Apache Indian Reservation to Crescent Lake is closed for road construction and is also closed to snowmobiles. Snowmobilers should use Forest road 249 from Williams Valley to Crescent Lake and Big Lake.
FOOL HOLLOW LAKE - The lake is ice-covered, full, and spilling. Unsafe ice conditions.
GREER LAKES - All Greer lakes are ice-covered. Check ice thickness before venturing out on the ice. Ice fisherman at Bunch Reservoir have been catching rainbow trout on jigs with attached salmon eggs out from the boat ramp.
HULSEY LAKE - Forest roads are snow packed and access is by snowmobile only. The lake is ice-covered. Check ice thickness before venturing out on the ice.
LEE VALLEY RESERVOIR - The lake is ice-covered. Access to the lake is closed.
Access: State Highway 273 from Sunrise Lake to Crescent Lake is closed for road construction and Highway 261 from Eager is closed. Both roads are closed to snowmobiles.
LUNA LAKE - Fishing is poor. The lake is 95-percent ice-covered with a few open water areas. The lake is full and spilling. Check ice thickness before venturing out on the ice.
LYMAN LAKE - Fishing is poor to fair. The lake is 45-percent ice-covered with scattered open water areas. Unsafe ice conditions. Try worms, Power Bait, catfish stink baits, and lures such as spinners, crankbaits, and Rapalas.
The Lyman Lake recreation area is managed by Lyman Lake State Park and camping is available. There are also some new cabins for rent.
There is a fish consumption advisory here, so check with the State Parks Office at the lake for details. Also contact the Arizona Game and Fish Department's Region 1 Office in Pinetop at 928-367-4281. There are no motor restrictions on Lyman Lake.
NELSON RESERVOIR - The lake is ice-covered, full, and spilling. Check ice thickness before venturing out on the ice. Unsafe ice conditions.
RAINBOW LAKE - The lake is full, spilling, and mostly ice-covered with some open water areas near the boat ramp and boat dock.
SCOTT'S RESERVOIR - The lake is full, spilling, and 100% ice-covered. Unsafe ice conditions.<br />
SHOW LOW LAKE - The lake is down about 7 feet. The lake is ice-covered. Unsafe ice conditions.
SILVER CREEK - Fishing is fair. Silver Creek on the Arizona Game and Fish Department property is open to catch and release fishing, artificial lure and fly only and barbless hooks only from October 1 through March 31. The upper section is open to fishing. Stream banks are snow packed. Try small lures such as Mepps, Panther Martin, and Rooster tail, and flies such as wooly worms, wooly buggers, peacock ladies, prince nymphs, zug bugs, shrimp patterns, and small beadhead nymphs. Try dry flies such as Adams, parachute Adams, midge and caddis fly patterns. Silver Creek is a spring creek that does not get ice covered during the winter months. The creek is not clear, but slightly murky, due to runoff from Brown Creek.
WOODLAND LAKE - The lake is full, spilling and 95-percent ice-covered. Unsafe ice conditions.
WHITE MOUNTAIN STREAMS:
WEST FORK OF BLACK RIVER - The stream is flowing high. Forest roads are snow packed and Highway 261 and 273 are closed.
EAST FORK OF BLACK RIVER - The stream is flowing high. Forest roads are snow packed and Highway 261and 273 are closed.<br />
SHEEPS CROSSING - Not accessible. Highway 273 is closed for the year due to road construction and an area closure is still in effect around Sheeps Crossing, including snowmobiles.
LITTLE COLORADO RIVER - GREER - The stream is flowing high.
Southeastern Arizona
TUCSON URBAN - Stocked with rainbow trout last week. Anglers using scented dough baits (such as Power Bait), worms fished under a bobber, or small trout lures have been successful. Best times to fish for trout generally are early morning, but some anglers have reported excellent fishing late afternoon.
RIGGS FLAT -Lake is closed for the season.
CLUFF RANCH - Stocked on Feb. 5. For lake information call (928) 485-9430.
ROPER LAKE - Stocked with 625 rainbow trout on Feb. 5. For lake information call (928) 428-6760.
DANKWORTH POND - Stocked with 250 rainbow trout on Feb. 5. For lake information call (928) 428-6760.
FRYE MESA RESERVIOR - No recent reports.
KEARNY LAKES - The department is currently evaluating the possibility of stocking trout in this lake. No stockings have occurred yet. The golden alga is currently very active at the lake and this could stall efforts.
ARIVACA - Bass fishing has been slow with the cooler temperatures. However anglers are reporting some bass being caught with crankbaits and Senkos. Jan. 1 marks a change in the motor restrictions at this lake. Motors 10 horsepower or less will now be legal for use at Arivaca. Remember that all bass must be immediately released back to the water.
PENA BLANCA - The mercury advisory for all warm water fish is in effect. Bass less than 13 inches long must be immediately released. The daily bag limit for bass is four. Also, be advised that Pena Blanca is not an urban lake; therefore an urban fishing license is invalid to fish at this lake. Jan. 1 marks a change in the motor restrictions at this lake. Motors 10 horsepower or less will now be legal for use at Pena Blanca.
PATAGONIA - No recent reports. Has been stocked with rainbow trout recently.
PARKER CANYON - The lake is full and it appears that the algae bloom has subsided. Fishing remains slow but there are plenty of trout to be caught. Early mornings and late evenings are producing fish.
PICACHO RESERVOIR - No Report.
ROSE CANYON LAKE - The access road is now closed for the season. Anglers can still access the lake by walking in.