This is the Arizona fishing report from azcentral sports and The Arizona Republic.

Information for the Fishing Report is periodically provided by anglers, as well as the experts at the Arizona Game and Fish Department, Arizona Anglers, Liar’s Korner, Phoenix Fishing Supply, Pinetop Sporting Goods, Pro Bass Adventures, White Mountain Apache Tribe, Lake Mary Country Store, Parker Canyon Lake store, Fly Fish Arizona and Beyond and H&M Landing in San Diego.

For previous year’s fishing report, be sure to visit this page.

March 15, 2017

Short casts

Catfish: Anglers should know that catfish plants will begin March 23 at the Community Fishing Program’s core waters. Last week, the final trout plants of the season were carried out throughout the program.

Outdoor Expo: The Arizona Game and Fish Department’s popular Outdoor Expo is scheduled for March 25-26 at the Ben Avery Shooting Facility. Fishing tanks, live wildlife exhibits, shooting events, kayaking and a myriad of other outdoor events are scheduled for the whole family. Expo hours are 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. March 25 and 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. March 26.

Central waters

Roosevelt

The lake has risen over 12 vertical feet in the past month and experts predict it could hit 80% full this spring. Fishing has slowed down due to increased flows, however some anglers are doing well on a reaction bite produced by SR5-sized crankbaits in darker colors. Lots of debris is floating on the lake, according to Jim Goughnor of Rim Country Custom Rods of Payson. Although crappie fishing conditions are not ideal, some anglers are picking up fish by trolling. Spawning conditions are expected to be excellent during the next two months. Information: 928-468-0263.

Bartlett

Bass fishing has been slow but fish can be found in 3- to 10-foot of water. Gary Senft of Bass Pro Shops reports fishing was good for anglers using Brush Hogs and Texas-rigged lizards. Bass are following shad and are all over the place. Fish a variety of lures in 20 to 30 feet of water over points, reefs and humps for best results. Information: 480-221-0503.

Saguaro

The lake level was dropped 12 percent recently to accommodate maintenance at Mormon Flat Dam. The work was to be done by mid-month. The bass spawn has been in full swing since March 6. Information: 480-986-2515.

Canyon

The winter trout plants are over and bass fishing has slowed. However, Canyon has a big bass reputation so throw your heavy stuff while looking for a lunker. Some anglers are said to be doing relatively well by using dropshot Robo worms in morning dawn colors near cattails in 10 to 20 feet of water. Information: 480-986-2515.

Pleasant

Experts say to watch the moon phases and fish for stripers at night during the darkest nights using submersible lights. The new moon phases are perfect for fishing.  Some anglers are doing well on catfish while using dead shad on the lake bottom. Also use hot dogs,  chicken livers or anchovies Also try chumming with corn. Information: 623-412-3474.

Alamo

The lake is now 15 percent full, according to Corps of Engineers reports. The Cholla launch ramp is available and the main launch ramp should be open as well. An 80-foot boat dock was installed at Cholla. The locals say fishing is terrible and anglers should be very wary due to the amount of debris that has come into the lake from the recent runoff. Also, lots of rattlesnakes are being seen. Information: 928-669-2088.

North central

Lower Lake Mary is a new fishery since it has the highest water level since 2010 and measures half full at about 450 acres. Trout were planted in the lake last week. According to Game and Fish, some large rainbow trout will be planted to help things get started. Earthworms are the best bait. Goldwater and Fain lakes near Prescott, plus the Deadhorse State Park lagoons near Cottonwood, were stocked as well. Information: 928-774-5045.

Mogollon Rim

Some of the streams, including Canyon Creek, have been turning out a decent trout or two for anglers who work for them. Willow Springs is the only lake that can be accessed, however anglers have to walk into the lake due to snow-packed roads and a closed gate. Sardine Point is open, but it is accessible only by foot. Information: 928-532-2307.

White Mountains

Anglers fishing Rainbow Lake, where there is no ice and the lake is spilling, should watch for gill nets intended for removal of northern pike. The nets have caught some bass, many 17-inch catfish and a rainbow trout that measured 16 inches, plus northerns. The pike are said to be congregating to spawn in shallow, weedy coves. Show Low and Fool Hollow lakes are fishing fair and have no ice. Information: 928-532-2307.

Southeast

Finally, some information has surfaced about Arivaca Lake. One angler reported he caught 13 bass in six hours and the largest weighed a touch over 4 pounds. He did not reveal what lures he used. Gasoline motors limited to 10-horsepower may be used at Arivaca. Cluff Ranch is nearly full and anglers continue to catch stocked trout. Small gas motors can also be used at Pena Blanca and Parker Canyon lakes. Trout continue to be stocked in this region. Information: 520-388-4451.

Colorado River

Reports indicate striper fishing has slowed at Lake Mohave, however shore anglers continue to do well near the dam with anchovies. At Willow Beach, use cut anchovies and spinnerbaits for stripers. Trout are also available. Trout were recently stocked below Davis Dam at Community Park and Davis Camp. Yellow and orange Power Bait and nightcrawlers work well. Information: 928-692-7700.

San Diego

According to Sunday’s results from H&M Landing, 80 anglers caught 206 rockfish, 38 yellowtail and a number of other species. In addition, 10 anglers caught 92 lobsters, releasing 21 of them. Across the San Diego Dock, 359 rockfish were taken along with 144 sculpin, 78 yellowtail and 30 bonito. Information: 619-222-0784.

Lake levels

Alamo: 15% full. Apache: 97%. Bartlett: 100%. Canyon: 95%. Havasu: 96%. Horseshoe: 97%. Mead: 40%. Mohave:  94%. Pleasant: 94%. Powell: 46%. Roosevelt: 64%. Saguaro: 91%. San Carlos: 10.5%.

Information for the Fishing Report is periodically provided by anglers, as well as the experts at the Arizona Game and Fish Department, Arizona Anglers, Liar’s Korner, Phoenix Fishing Supply, Pinetop Sporting Goods, Pro Bass Adventures, White Mountain Apache Tribe, Lake Mary Country Store, Parker Canyon Lake store, Fly Fish Arizona and Beyond and H&M Landing in San Diego.

March 8, 2017

Short cast

Sue Nowak of Lake Havasu City thought she caught a snag during a fishing outing at Lake Havasu Feb 23. But then the snag moved and when she finished cranking her reel, she had brought in a 6.28-pound small mouth bass, a new record for the Colorado River lakes. Nowak was using a True Image mini shaker lemonade worm and was fishing with Shaun Bailey’s Guide Service in Havasu City. The previous record of 5 pounds, 10.08 ounces was caught at Havasu in 2011. The inland record of 7.96 pounds was caught in 1988 at Roosevelt Lake.

Central waters

Apache

A recent dieoff of threadfin shad, the favored food fish for largemouth bass, is being blamed on an outbreak of golden alga, according to fisheries biologists. The alga, which thrives on elevated salinity associated with drought conditions, is not harmful to humans. For fishing, the experts say to throw reaction baits in the mornings and afternoons and also try jigs and dropshots as well as crankbaits and spinnerbaits. Richard LaPorte of Liar’s Korner in Mesa reports he has been talking with numerous anglers who are doing well on crappies using minnows for bait. Information: (480) 986-2515.

Saguaro

Angling experts report bass are further along in the spawning process than most other lakes. Reports from Arizona Fishing Guides indicate bass are on the move from the depths and heading for shallower water. Follow the baitfish to find the fish that are actively feeding. Ted Wong at Phoenix Fishing says he has had reports from anglers finding excellent bass fishing. Some fishermen are reportedly taking 20 fish a day (not off the nests) and many are in the 5-pound range. Some anglers are finding typical winter fishing conditions and are doing well with silver and blue Kastmaster spoons. Information: (602) 266-2624

Bartlett

Forest Road 19, the road to the lake, as well as Forest Road 20 leading to Needle Rock and Box Bar have been closed to flooding, so anglers need to proceed with cautions and watch for signs. Also call the Tonto National Forest’s Cave Creek Ranger District at (480) 595-3300 for access information. Information: (480) 221-0503.

Roosevelt

The lake has risen 12 vertical feet during the past month, according to Jim Goughnor of Rim Country Custom Rods, and now is 63% full. Both the Salt River and Tonto Creek are flowing heavily resulting in lots of debris in the lake. Boaters are cautioned to be extra careful. Some anglers are doing well using SR5 crankbaits for bass. Crappie anglers are reporting a few catches by trolling quarter-ounce jigs with a grub tipped with a minnow. Information: (928) 468-0263.

Alamo

The lake is 14 percent full and keeps rising. Mark Knapp of Arizona State Parks reports the Cholla boat ramp is open and an 80-foot boat dock has been installed. He reports fishing is terrible and cautions boaters to either stay home or be very cautious as the lake has log jams everywhere. He adds there are lots of rattlesnakes in and around the lake. Information: (928) 669-2088.

San Carlos

A spokesperson for the San Carlos Tribe reports the lake is currently 30 percent full, thanks to the recent rainfall. Reports indicate anglers are catching crappies and catfish. Richard LaPorte of Liar’s Korner in Mesa says he has been in contact with numerous anglers who have been catching “really nice” crappies on minnows.  Information: (928) 475-2343.

North central

Kaibab Lake near Williams is full and spilling and nearby Dogtown is reported to be full. All lakes in Flagstaff are ice free and trout are being stocked this month. Ashurst Lake is full, but the access remains closed due to mud and snowbanks. Upper Lake May is very close to spilling and the Lower Lake is about two-thirds full. Frances Short Pond, the community water in Flagstaff, has fish and also will be planted this month. Fain and Goldwater lakes near Prescott are being planted with trout this month along with Dead Horse Ranch State Park near Cottonwood. Information: (928) 214-1244.

Mogollon Rim

Willow Springs Lake is the only lake accessible in this area, although surface ice is thin and sunsafe. The road is snow packed and the gate is reportedly closed, however Sardine Point remains open. Forest Road 300, the main access to most lakes on the Rim continues to be closed. Information: (928) 532-2307.

Ft. Apache Reservation

White Mountain Apache Tribe officials suggest angler use nightcrawlers, spinners and jigs in lower elevation streams. In Upper and Lower Log areas on the North Fork drift nightcrawlers and Power Bait in pools and riffles for trout. A-1 Lake has 6 to 8 inches of ice and fishing holes cannot exceed 8-inches in diameter. Roads 473 to Hawley Lake and 273 from Sunrise to Big Lake continue to be closed. Information: (928) 338-4385.

White Mountains

Controlled forest burns are scheduled through Friday and the smoke is expected to affect anglers at the Greer lakes where the surface ice is thin and unsafe. Becker Lake and Silver Creek have open water and big fish, but rules restrict anglers to catch and release. Trout fishing is fair at Nelson Reservoir, according to reports. Some fish may have visible sores from the Lernaea parasite, however they are reportedly safe to eat, according to officials. Show Low and Fool Hollow lakes are ice free but fishing is rated fair at both sites. Big Lake continues to be inaccessible. Information: (928) 532-2307.

Southeast

One angler reported catching several decent bass recently at Parker Canyon Lake, including two that weighed around 5 pounds each. He was using an ultra-light rod and reel equipped with a 2-inch grub on a 1/32-ounce jig. Launching conditions are said to be good at Arivaca Lake, however there are no reports of fishing success. Arivaca was once an excellent place to catch big bass. If going that way, also try Pena Blanca and Patagonia lakes. Information: (520) 455-5847 at Parker Canyon. For the region, call (520) 388-4451.

Colorado River

Trout are being stocked below Davis Dam at Community Park and Davis Camp. Yellow and orange Power Bait is said to be the best bait, but also try nightcrawlers and small spinners. Throw swimbaits for striped bass. Anglers should remember there is a wheelchair-accessible fishing per just south of the man launch ramp at Katherine’s Landing on Lake Mohave. The hottest Mohave spots continue to be in deep water by the dam and above the power lines. Try bait and lures designed to look like trout. Information: (928) 692-7700.

San Diego

A scant 42 anglers fished off of H&M Landing charter boats Sunday bringing in 96 rockfish, 22 Pacific bonito and 12 yellowtail and a variety of additional species. Dock-wide, 146 anglers brought in 419 rockfish, 88 sculpin, 78 yellowtail and 11 bonito along with a few other species. Information: (619) 222-1144 or (602) 266-2624 in Phoenix.

Lake levels

Alamo: 14% full. Apache: 98%. Bartlett: 98%. Canyon: 96%. Havasu: 94%. Horseshoe: 95%. Mead: 41%. Mohave:  95%. Pleasant: 93%. Powell: 46%. Roosevelt: 63%. Saguaro: 87%. San Carlos: 30%.

Information for the Fishing Report is periodically provided by anglers, as well as the experts at the Arizona Game and Fish Department, Arizona Anglers, Liar’s Korner, Phoenix Fishing Supply, Pinetop Sporting Goods, Pro Bass Adventures, White Mountain Apache Tribe, Lake Mary Country Store, Parker Canyon Lake store, Fly Fish Arizona and Beyond and H&M Landing in San Diego.

March 1, 2017

Short cast

Last month Arizona Game and Fish Department biologists began their annual effort to control illegally introduced northern pike in Rainbow Lake near Pinetop-Lakeside in the White Mountains. The pike have had a negative impact on fishing at Rainbow, although the toothy fish have their fans. Nets are set to catch and remove the pike just before the trout stocking season in April and May.

Central waters

Pleasant

A pair of anglers caught 30 fish late last week while fishing most of a day and into the night. The duo caught nearly all striped bass, many of which were in the 5- to 8-pound category, plus a couple of catfish. Anchovies, used as chum and impaled on a hook, did all the damage. Big fish are available judging from recent catches weighing 18 and 20 pounds. Information: (623) 412-3474.

North central

Watson Lake near Prescott has been turning out some good trout fishing. One angler reports catching 10 trout in an hour that ranged in length from 14 to 16 inches. The fish were shallow and bit crappie tube lures. At Goldwater Lake one angler did well using orange and yellow Power Bait eggs on 12-inch leaders. Also try small spinners. Also worth a try are such lakes as Mingus, Fain and Dogtown. Information: (928) 692-7700.

In the Flagstaff area, Ashurst Lake is full but there is no vehicle access. Upper Lake Mary reportedly is spilling and the lower lake is about half full.  Information: (928) 774-5045.

Mogollon Rim

The only water available in the area is Willow Springs Lake where fishing is described as fair for rainbow and tiger trout. Lake ice is thin and unsafe and the road is packed with snow, anglers need to be cautious. Stream fanatics might want to try Canyon Creek. One angler reports he has been successful in finding some hefty fish. Information: (928) 532-2307.

White Mountains

Silver Creek northeast of Show Low is the only open water available as it does not freeze. Current regulations call for catch and release fishing, but the rewards are excellent as there are lots of big fish in this water read to put up a big fight. Most lakes are ice covered to some degree. The Greer lakes are a good bet as is the Little Colorado River in the area. Fool Hollow and Show Low lakes are worthy of a try, but they have been covered with thin, unsafe ice. As usual, anglers should use extreme caution. Information: (928) 532-2307.

Southeast

Parker Canyon is a good bet in this region. The lake is near the top of the spillway and trout planting continues. Gas motors 10-horse and under are legal. Contact the store at (520) 455-5847 for immediate conditions. Also check out Patagonia and Pena Blanca lakes for bass action. Don’t overlook Arivaca, Roper and Cluff Ranch waters. Information: (520) 388-4451.

Colorado River

Lake Powell striped bass guru Wayne Gustaveson reports that February was a great month for striper fishing in the southern portion of the giant lake. Anglers had found good numbers of fish while spooning during the early portion of the month and then later scored well while trolling and casting. The fish also bit well up the lake on just about any presentation offered. Information: wayneswords.com

San Diego

Ninety-four anglers on five trips out of H&M Landing Sunday loaded the boats with 223 rockfish, 103 red rockfish, 77 yellowtail, 12 bonito and a variety of additional species. According to reports, the catch overall for the San Diego Dock’s 199 anglers was 238 rockfish, 198 yellowtail, 103 red rockfish and a number of additional species. Information: (602) 266-2624 in Phoenix or (619) 222-1144 in San Diego.

Lake levels

Alamo: 9% full. Apache: 97%. Bartlett: 99%. Canyon: 94%. Havasu: 96%. Horseshoe: 97%. Mead: 41%. Mohave:  94%. Pleasant: 88%. Powell: 46%. Roosevelt: 59%. Saguaro: 93%. San Carlos: 10.5%.

Information for the Fishing Report is periodically provided by anglers, as well as the experts at the Arizona Game and Fish Department, Arizona Anglers, Liar’s Korner, Phoenix Fishing Supply, Pinetop Sporting Goods, Pro Bass Adventures, White Mountain Apache Tribe, Lake Mary Country Store, Parker Canyon Lake store, Fly Fish Arizona and Beyond and H&M Landing in San Diego.

Feb. 23, 2017

Short cast

The annual Just for Kids Fishing Festival will be held Saturday from 8 a.m. to noon at Kiwanis Park in Tempe. Hosted by Anglers United in conjunction with the Arizona Game and Fish Department, the event features free fishing for those who register at the site. Fishing rods, reels and bait will be available at no charge to those who do not bring their own equipment. Kiwanis Park is located at 5500 S. Mill Ave., in Tempe.

Central waters

Pleasant

David Campbell of Peoria caught a 20.92-pound striped bass at Lake Pleasant last week. Fishing in the Castle Hot Springs area, Campbell was trolling a one-ounce Kastmaster spoon when he caught the 35-inch long fish. The lunker was about 9 pounds smaller than the inland state record, but a hefty fish indeed. Information: (623) 412-3474.

North central

Kaibab Lake near Williams has been so low for the past two years it has not been stocked with trout. Things have changed. Thanks to the recent rains the lake is full and spilling and fish will be planted sometime after March 1. Dogtown Lake has a good population of holdover rainbow and brown trout. The lake has gained 11 feet of water since December. Elsewhere, Ashurst Lake is full of water but there is no access. Upper Lake Mary is about a foot from spilling and Lower Mary is about half full. Frances Short Pond, the community lake in Flagstaff, will receive fish in March as well, however fish can be caught currently if one can get through the ice. Information: (928) 774-5045.

Roosevelt

As of late last week, the lake was 56 percent full with stained, muddy water visible in the Tonto Creek end of the lake and from the dam to the Salt River. Anglers are advised to use spinnerbaits, dropshot rigs and Texas-rigged plastic worms around the “new” habitat the rising lake is creating. Crappie fishing is said to be “average” as anglers are trolling along shorelines and underwater points. Look for clear water in mid-lake and troll quarter-ounce plastic grubs tipped with a minnow for the panfish. Information: (602) 977-7170.

Alamo

Mark Knapp, local state park ranger, reports bass fishing as tough, but doable. He suggests anglers flip the new growth around the lake. He describes the rising lake as being murky, but is in the process of clearing. He adds that if the storms subside fishing will pick up and will be very good by mid-March. He adds that the catfish action is OK, but he has had no reports on crappie. He cautions boaters to stay away from the shallow, upper end of the lake. The Cholla boat ramp is the only available ramp. Information: (928) 669-2088.

Mogollon Rim

Willow Springs Lake is available via a slippery, snow covered road. Other lakes are not accessible. Anglers making it into Canyon Creek are finding an occasional hefty trout. Information: (928) 532-2307.

White Mountains

Looking for open water in this region? Try Lyman Lake State Park where there is no ice and fishing for bass, walleye, carp and catfish is said to be fair. Use corn or nightcrawlers for carp and catfish. Other options are Luna and Becker lakes, as well as Silver Creek. If you can get a line through the thin ice, try Fool Hollow or Show Low lakes. Fishing piers at both lakes are out of service for the winter. Information: (928) 532-2307.

Southeast

A 5-pound bass was recently caught at Parker Canyon Lake where trout continue to be planted during the winter. Trout plants have resumed at Pena Blanca thanks to an improvement in water quality, however advisories against eating bass due to high mercury levels are posted. Trout continue to be stocked at Parker Canyon Lake (520-455-5847). Information: (520) 388-4451.

Colorado River

At Lake Mohave try the fishing dock at Katherine’s Landing for striped bass, however the real hot spot is near Davis Dam and above the power lines. Use trout-style lures for best results as well as deeply fished anchovies. Try cut anchovies under submersible lights during the next full moon (beginning Sunday). Willow Beach is a good option for both stripers and trout farther up the river towards Lake Mead. Information: (928) 692-7700.

San Diego

Sunday there were few anglers and few fish caught. Two half-day trips out of H&M Landing for 52 anglers produced a few sea perch, sculpin and sand bass. Overall across the San Diego dock, 92 anglers on three trips picked up a small number of sculpin, sea perch and sand bass. Information: (619) 222-0784 or in Phoenix call Phoenix Fishing at 266-2624.

Lake levels

Alamo: 9% full. Apache: 97%. Bartlett: 97%. Canyon: 95%. Havasu: 93%. Horseshoe: 89%. Mead: 41%. Mohave:  95%. Pleasant: 86%. Powell: 46%. Roosevelt: 56%. Saguaro: 90%. San Carlos: 10.5%.

Information for the Fishing Report is periodically provided by anglers, as well as the experts at the Arizona Game and Fish Department, Arizona Anglers, Liar’s Korner, Phoenix Fishing Supply, Pinetop Sporting Goods, Pro Bass Adventures, White Mountain Apache Tribe, Lake Mary Country Store, Parker Canyon Lake store, Fly Fish Arizona and Beyond and H&M Landing in San Diego.

Feb. 16, 2017

Short cast

The Community Fishing Program operated by the Arizona Game and Fish Department was responsible for 344,653 fish being stocked in municipal lakes around the state during fiscal year 2015-2016. The total poundage of 317,568 breaks down to 242,365 pounds of catfish, 68,713 pounds of trout and 6,490 pounds of bluegill. The poundage further breaks down to 179,256 catfish, 107,876 trout and 57,521 bluegill. The fish are planted in 646 lakes and ponds covering 515.8 acres of water in 18 cities.

Central waters

Lower Salt River

Here are some fishing tips for the section of the Salt below Saguaro Lake from an angler who fishes the water often. The fly fisherman reports he does well on bass using such flies as simi seal leeches in Canadian black, Halloween, blood red and olive colors. Also working well is a Cheechs low fat minnow bluegill imitation. He reports good action on the surface for bluegills using beetle imitations. He recently fished for trout below the bridge and caught and released 14 trout on a soft hackle hares ear. Also try nightcrawlers and small spinners. For bass work a dropshot rigged with a green Robo worm.  Information: (480) 324-3544.

Pleasant

For the past month fishing has been decent for striped bass in the northern coves for anglers using live shad, anchovies and jigs at the mouths of Humbug bay, Castle Creek and Coles Bay. Fish from 55 to 80 feet deep, keeping in mind that anchovies have been working well at Humbug when soaked at 60 feet. The best bite is said to be from noon to sunset. Information: (623) 412-3474.

Canyon

Water temperatures are warming but bass are still being caught deep. One angler caught a 6-pounder in 35 feet of water with a hinged spinnerbait and Zoom fluke trailer. His fish were found using sonar, critical for hunting deeper fish. The final trout plants of the season happened last week, therefore swimbaits are still worthy of a try. A few anglers are doing well on bass by throwing morning-dawn colored Robo worms near cattails in 10 to 20 feet of water. Information: (480) 986-2515.

Saguaro

Richard LaPorte of Liar’s Korner in Mesa says bass are moving up in preparation for spawning now that the water is warming a bit. He reports he’s selling lots of crankbaits. Trout were scheduled to be stocked this week, but it is the bass that keep anglers coming back. As usual, swimbaits are worthy of a try, but the fish appear to be finicky. One angler scored big recently. He used a brown and yellow crankbait in 3 to 5 feet of water to catch a 5.5-pound bass. If the bass are too picky, try for trout and yellow bass with silver and blue Kastmasters reported to be the best lure for yellows.  Information: (480) 986-2515.

North central

Chuck Benedict of the Flagstaff Arizona Game and Fish Department office reports the area has 3 feet of snow and the lakes are covered with unsafe ice. In the Prescott area trout are being planted on a regular basis and fish are being caught at Goldwater, Lynx, Watson and Mingus lakes. In the Verde Valley check out the lakes at Dead Horse Ranch State Park and the Verde River. Information: (928-774-5045.

Mogollon Rim

Canyon Creek is fishing well, according to at least one report. An angler, fishing with a fly, reportedly caught a well-colored 15-incher last week. Willow Springs Lake, the only lake accessible since Woods Canyon cannot be reached, is rated fair for stocked rainbow and tiger trout. Lake ice is thin and unsafe. Information: (928) 532-2307.

White Mountains

During a winter survey at Big Lake a while back the lake was reached on snowmobiles and biologists found the ice was easy to break through by standing on it. Highways 261 and 273 are closed for the season and forest roads from the south are not passable due to deep snow. Becker Lake near Springerville is often frozen with unsafe ice, however huge catch-and-release trout are available if one can cast to open water. Surface ice at the Greer lakes (River, Tunnel and Bunch) is said to be thin and unsafe but the lakes are full. Information: (928) 532-2307.

Southeast

One angler took his kids to Frye Mesa Reservoir near Safford last week and reported good trout fishing.  That’s good news, but the real good news is the fact that the water quality problems have cleared up at Pena Blanca Lake and trout stocking has resumed. All advisories regarding mercury levels in the lake’s warmwater fish continue. One angler reported catching two 5-pound bass recently at Parker Canyon Lake. The fish were caught on 2-inch grubs impaled on 1/32-ounce jigheads. Information: (520) 388-4451.

Colorado River

Striped bass guru Wayne Gustaveson reports spring striper fishing is under way on the big lake straddling the Arizona/Utah border. He says action in the southern portion of the lake has centered around Warm Creek, Navajo, Last Chance and Rock Creek canyons. He advises fishing at depths of 70 feet in the backs of the canyons and hunting down the fish with a sonar unit. Once located, drop spoons. Sometimes it takes a while for the main school of fish to appear. Trout are being planted below Davis Dam at Davis Camp and Community Park. Yellow and orange Power Bait and nightcrawlers are the top baits. For stripers use swimbaits resembling trout.  Information: wayneswords.com for Powell and (928) 692-7700 for the rest of the river.

San Diego

H&M Landing reports 139 anglers catching 871 rockfish Sunday on outings ranging from half-days. Also caught were sculpin sand bass, perch and a variety of additional species. In addition, 52 lobsters were released. Information: (619) 222-0784 in San Diego or (602) 266-2624 at Phoenix Fishing.

Lake levels

Alamo: 8% full. Apache: 96%. Bartlett: 87%. Canyon: 90%. Havasu: 93%. Horseshoe: 96%. Mead: 40%. Mohave:  94%. Pleasant: 85%. Powell: 46%. Roosevelt: 54%. Saguaro: 95%. San Carlos: 10.5%.

Feb. 9, 2017

Short casts

Gary Grimes and Sean Ballard of the Phoenix area Midweek Bass Anglers club joined host Rafael Osuna Gallardo to win the recent Oviachic Bass Club Tournament on Lake Obregon in Sonora, Mexico. The trio registered a two-day weight of 33.2 pounds, including a 7.78 big fish. Gallardo is a local guide and a member of the host El Anzuelo Bass Club. Fishing was said to be excellent and the fish reportedly bit anything and everything, including jigs, Texas-rigged worms, spinnerbaits, top-water and other lures.

Central waters

Pleasant

Big striped bass aren’t the only thing “big” in this lake. Recently a 22-pound flathead catfish was caught by an angler using a dropshot rig and a worm for bait. The angler also reported catching an 8-pound carp and a 3-pound channel cat. Information: (623) 412-3474

Apache

Smallmouth bass are in the spotlight for anglers using jerkbaits and dropshot-rigged Robo worms in morning dawn color. Also use crawdad imitations and jigs. For largemouth bass look for surfacing fish at first light and work the major points using soft plastic crayfish walked along the bottom. Crankbaits are also worth a try. The lake was recently stocked with rainbow trout. Information: (480) 986-2515.

Bartlett

The lake has risen eight feet during the last week or so. The cold water seems to have slowed down the bass fishing. Fish the main lake to avoid heavy water discoloration. For best results, use dropshot rigs, as well as jigs and Texas rigs in the mornings. The bite is subtle, however. After the water warms , fish over humps and reefs in 20 to 30 feet of water. Information: Phoenix Fishing, (602) 266-2624.

Canyon & Saguaro

Experts say anglers should fish both lakes in the afternoons when the water is warmest. Bass are not very active during the colder, winter months. At Canyon, some anglers have had success with morning dawn Robo worms set up dropshot style and fished near cattails in 10 to 20 feet of water. At Saguaro, anglers are reporting hit and miss action on bass. Try trout style lures for bass. Also throw silver and blue Kastmasters for yellow bass. Trout are also available. Information: Liar’s Korner, (480) 986-2515.

North central

Dead Horse Ranch State Park near Cottonwood is being stocked regularly with trout and fishing has been good. Also available are bass and catfish. Trout action has been good at Lynx Lake. Reports indicate the bite is best in the morning, Work deeper later in the day using yellow Power Bait or Eggs. Nightcrawlers are also worth a try. Lure fans should try gold Super Duper spoons. Other spots worthy of a try are Goldwater, Watson and Mingus lakes. Bass are the prime target at Willow Creek Reservoir, however shore fishing is difficult due to aquatic vegetation. Top-water baits and dropshot rigs are suggested. Information: (928) 774-5045.

Mogollon Rim

Willow Springs Lake is reachable but the road is snow packed. Fishing is reported to be fair for rainbow and tiger trout. Woods Canyon Lake, as well as other lakes, are not accessible. Information: (928) 532-2307.

White Mountains

Practically every lake is apparently covered with thin, unsafe ice in the region. Patterson Ponds, a Community Fishing Program water in St. John’s, is turning out fair fishing for sunfish and catfish and good fishing for recently planted rainbow trout. Anglers should not trust ice on any of the lakes.  Lyman Lake is open with no ice for bass, walleye, carp and catfish. Big trout are available at Becker Lake (thin ice) and Silver Creek, however all fish caught must be released. Information: (928) 532-2307.

Southeast

Water quality issues continue to be a problem at Pena Blanca Lake and trout stocking continues to be on hold. Fish scheduled for Pena Blanca are being planted in Patagonia Lake. Elsewhere, Riggs Flat and Rose Canyon lakes are closed to vehicular access, however Rose Canyon can be accessed by foot. Parker Canyon Lake’s boat launching has improved due to an increase in the lake’s water level.  Information: (520) 388-4451,

Colorado River

Trout have returned to the Yuma area as the local community ponds such as Fortuna, Redondo, West Wetlands and Council Ave., and Somerton have recently been planted. Nearby Martinez Lake is said to be one of the best early-bird bass lakes. Upstream at Lake Havasu, look for striped bass under feeding birds and then cast jigs and top-water baits. Use cut anchovies on the bottom while fishing from the shoreline or a boat. Information: (928) 342-0091.

San Diego

Reports indicate 173 anglers on eight trips off the San Diego Dock Sunday caught a variety of fish, including 374 yellowtail, 41 rockfish, 33 sand bass and a variety of additional species. Action out of the H&M Landing Dock resulted in 64 anglers on three trips catching 58 yellowtail and 41 rockfish. Information: (619) 222-1144 or (602) 266-2624 at Phoenix Fishing.

Lake levels

Alamo: 8% full. Apache: 95%. Bartlett: 76%. Canyon: 93%. Havasu: 93%. Horseshoe: 92%. Mead: 40%. Mohave:  95%. Pleasant: 85%. Powell: 47%. Roosevelt: 52%. Saguaro: 95%. San Carlos: 10.5%.

Jan. 31, 2017

Short casts

An interactive fishing map detailing special regulations is now available from the Arizona Game and Fish Department. The site is said to be helpful to anglers trying to find out about special regulations for bag and size limits and harvest restrictions for a specific water. Anglers should also refer to the official state regulations for a complete set of rules. Find the map by calling up azgfd.gov and then click on fishing regulations and interactive map.

Central waters

San Carlos

Catfish and crappies are being caught according to reports. Largemouth bass up to 4 pounds are reportedly being caught. The lake is said to be 10.5 percent full. Heavy runoff is reportedly coming in from the Gila and San Carlos rivers. Information: (928) 475-2343.

Salt River lakes

Last week Saguaro and Tempe Town lakes received trout as did the lower Salt River. Roosevelt has risen 14 feet in the last month. Fishing is rated fair for crappie as anglers wait for the high water to recede. Apache Lake was stocked with rainbows recently and smallmouth bass are chasing jerkbaits and dropshot-rigged Robo worms. Fishing has been good at Saguaro and slow at Canyon. Ted Wong at Phoenix Fishing reports anglers are using spoons and dropshots at Saguaro. One angler caught a 9-pounder Sunday on a dropshot rig. Rapala Ice Jigs are working as well. Information: (602) 266-2624.

Bartlett

High inflows of cold water have apparently turned off bass fishing, but the warming days could change that. The lake is largely discolored due to runoff, however the experts say to fish the main lake with dropshots. Also try the Yellow Cliffs area for crappies. Information: (602) 266-2624.

Pleasant

In general, anglers are finding stripers in the northern coves at depths of 55 to 80 feet by using live shad. Humbug bay has been particularly good for stripers. Anglers have been using anchovies in 60 feet of water. Also try Alabama rigs and spoons. Catfish are on the menu for anglers using dead shad on the bottom with hot dogs, chicken livers and anchovies. Information: (623) 412-3474.

North central

Lynx and Watson lakes near Prescott were to receive trout this week. The Verde River from Clarkdale to Camp Verde was planted with trout last week. The morning bite at Lynx is said to be the best and then the fish move into deeper water (14 to 35 feet). Use yellow Power Bait or Power Eggs as well as nightcrawlers. Gold Super Duper lures are also said to be worth using. Dead Horse Ranch State Park will receive trout sometime next week. Information: (928) 774-9028.

Mogollon Rim

Black Canyon Lake has low water and fishing is said to be poor.  Willow Springs Lake anglers will find fair fishing for stocked rainbow and tiger trout. Woods Canyon and Bear Canyon lakes are inaccessible due to seasonal closure of Forest Road 300. Chevelon Canyon Lake is not reachable via the 300 road but can be reached via road 504 out of Heber, according to reports, however anglers are urged to get the latest from the Forest Service regarding open and closed roads. Information: (928) 532-2307.

White Mountains

Try the Greer lakes. A 4-pound brown trout was caught at Tunnel Lake a couple of weeks ago. Also worthy of mention is Becker Lake near Springerville where big catch and release trout are available. Another good catch and release water is Silver Creek north of Show Low. Fishing guide Cinda Howard reports bait fishermen should use nightcrawlers and fly fishermen bunny and simi seal leeches as well as woolly buggers in the Greer lakes. Also try Fool Hollow and Show Low lakes. Information: (480) 217-5089.

Southeast

Next week Cluff and Dankworth ponds and Patagonia Lake will receive trout. Pena Blanca Lake is not being planted due to water quality issues. Parker Canyon Lake is being stocked with trout on a regular basis. Information: (520) 388-4451.

Colorado River

Wayne Gustaveson, the striper guru of Lake Powell, says the fish are wherever they want to be this time of year at Powell. Unlike the summer when large and small fish separate, fish of all sizes are scattered. Downstream, four-wheel drive vehicles are still needed to launch at South Cove ramp at Lake Mead. At night use anchovies for stripers at Mead, during the day fish the boils on the surface or sink cut anchovies at 40 feet of deeper. Information: Wayneswords.com for Powell and (928) 692-7700 for Mead.

San Diego

Three charters on two boats out of H&M Landing Sunday resulted in 47 anglers bagging 160 rockfish, 40 sculpin, 22 sand bass and calico bass. Reports for the entire dock registered 222 rockfish for 85 anglers, along with sculpin, sand bass and other species. Information: (619) 222-1144 in San Diego or Phoenix Fishing Supply at (602) 266-2624.

Lake levels

Alamo: 7% full. Apache: 94%. Bartlett: 75%. Canyon: 98%. Havasu: 94%. Horseshoe: 82%. Mead: 40%. Mohave:  96%. Pleasant: 85%. Powell: 47%. Roosevelt: 45%. Saguaro: 97%. San Carlos: 10.5%.

Jan. 24, 2017

Short cast

A spokesperson at Alamo Lake reported the water level increased by 12 feet after last weekend, thanks to the rain and runoff, however fishing is terrible because the water is extremely dirty. A recent survey determined the lake contained good numbers of young largemouth bass. In recent years the water level has been on occasion the lowest since the lake was built in 1968. The Cholla launch ramp continues to be out of service due to low water. Information: (928) 669-2088.

San Carlos

A San Carlos Apache Tribe spokesman reported the lake is currently at 10.5 percent full after coming back from being classified as empty. There was no report on fishing success, however an individual in lake’s game and fish department said fishing has been terrible. Normally, crappie fishing picks up this time of year. Information: (928) 475-2343.

Roosevelt

Crappie anglers are anxiously awaiting a sunny, calm day in hopes of getting a crappie bite going again. Bass fishing has been slow as the lake rises from the recent storms. The water is stained and cold. Some anglers suggest using mid- to deep-running shad-patterned crankbaits, brown and black jigs and Aaron’s Magic Robo worm on a dropshot rig. Information: (928) 468-0263.

Pleasant

The use of shad for bait has been a key for both stripers and catfish. The baitfish are being netted in the back of Castle Creek and Coles Bay in 7 to 15 feet of water. For catfish, also chum and fish with hot dogs, chicken livers and anchovies. Generally, northern coves have been good for stripers in 55 to 80 feet of water. Information: (623) 412-3474.

Bartlett

The bass bite is a subtle one, according to reports, and anglers are advised to fish slowly. The fish, lethargic and following shad, are constantly moving. Check for crappies in deeper water off the yellow cliffs walls. The boat launch at the Yellow Cliffs is available and the marina is open. Information: (480) 221-0503.

Saguaro-Canyon

Reports indicate bass action is hit and miss, however yellow bass are said to be eating silver and blue Kastmaster spoons at Saguaro. Trout scheduled for stocking last week at both lakes are to be planted this week. Bass fishing is difficult as well at Canyon. Information: (480) 986-2515.

 Community lakes

Some hefty fish are coming from Community Fishing Program waters. Game and Fish reports a 16-inch rainbow was caught at Red Mountain Ranch Park in Mesa and an 18 ½-inch rainbow as taken at Surprise Lake. The surprise fish was estimated to weigh nearly 4 ½ pounds. One angler reported catching a 3.4-pound rainbow at Kiwanis Park recently. He says the fish there like Power Bait salmon eggs. Information: azgfd.gov.

North central

Power Bait nuggets in chartreuse glitter and rainbow colors have been working well at Lynx Lake near Prescott. One lucky angler reported fishing the center of the lake and caught 10 trout in six hours. The fish measured between 12 and 16 inches long. Kastmaster spoons are said to be working well at Dogtown Lake along with Power Bait. At Kinnikinick Lake spinners are said to working well. Information: (928) 774-5045.

Mogollon Rim

Forest Road 300 is closed for the winter as is access to Woods Canyon, Bear Canyon and lakes beyond. Willow Springs Lake is an accessible option. Black Canyon Lake is low and fishing is rated poor. Local roads are often icy and snow packed. Remember the road to Blue Ridge is closed at Rock Crossing campground. There is no access to the lake. Information: (928) 532-2307.

White Mountains

Roads to Big, Lee Valley and Hawley lakes are closed. Try Show Low and Fool Hollow lakes. Both are easy to access. Becker Lake and Silver Creek are worth the effort for hefty fish, however anglers are limited to the use of artificial flies and lures with single, barbless hooks. Information: (928) 367-5050.

Southeast

Patagonia Lake has been receiving twice the amount of trout this winter due to water quality issues at Pena Blanca Lake. During a recent bass tournament at Patagonia, the winning ream weighed a five-fish limit for 9.13 pounds, including a 5.05 tournament big fish. Riggs Flat and Rose Canyon lakes are closed for the winter. Patagonia and Parker Canyon lakes are worth a look. Information: (520) 388-4451.

Colorado River

Trout are being stocked in the river below Davis Dam. Also available are striped and largemouth bass throughout Lake Mo. have. At Lees Ferry, trout fishing is rated good on midges, San Juan Worms, cicadas and streamers. For best results, boat up river towards Glen Canyon Dam or use the walk-in area. Information: (800) 962-9755 for Lees Ferry, (928) 692-7700 for the river from Lake Mead south.

San Diego

Anglers are few and far between, but the ones that are fishing out of H&M Landing or from the San Diego Dock, are picking up a few fish. Recently 25 anglers caught 94 rockfish along with a couple of sculpin and lingcod. Whale watching trips are available every day. Information: (619) 222-1144 or Phoenix Fishing at (602) 266-2624.

Lake levels

Alamo: 4% full. Apache: 93%. Bartlett: 69%. Canyon: 95%. Havasu: 94%. Horseshoe: 73%. Mead: 39%. Mohave:  95%. Pleasant: 85%. Powell: 48%. Roosevelt: 45%. Saguaro: 953%. San Carlos: 10.5%.