YouTube video
Late January Chatter Bait Bite at Roosevelt Lake, AZ

Summary

Lake Details

Fish Types

Gear & Tackle

Directions

Roosevelt Lake Fishing Guide 🎣

YouTube video
Fishing Topwater with Josh Bertrand at Roosevelt Lake ** Early Fall**

Roosevelt Lake fishing in Arizona is awesome for anyone who loves the outdoors. This lake is famous for big bass, crappie, and catfish, making it perfect for beginners and fishing pros. You can fish from the shore or hop in a boat for deeper water action. Bass love spinnerbaits and soft plastic worms, especially near underwater structures. Crappie hang out around docks, and catfish bite best at night using stinky baits like chicken liver. Spring and fall are the best times, but summer mornings and evenings are great too. Roosevelt Lake has campgrounds, picnic spots, and boat ramps, so it’s easy to spend a whole weekend here. Whether you’re relaxing or chasing a big catch, Roosevelt Lake is a fantastic fishing spot in Arizona!

Fishing conditions are great year-round, with bass currently found in shallow waters chasing baitfish, and catfish biting on night crawlers and stink baits.

Whether you’re fishing from a boat or the shore, Pleasant Lake offers a peaceful and enjoyable experience. Don’t forget to bring your fishing license and check local regulations before heading out.

Lake Details

Roosevelt Lake Fishing Guide 🎣 :

  • Roosevelt Lake in Arizona is a fantastic spot for fishing, offering a mix of big catches and beautiful desert scenery. Whether you’re after bass, crappie, or catfish, this lake has something for everyone. With plenty of shoreline and open water, it’s a great place to relax and enjoy the outdoors.​
  • Lake Details: Located about 80 miles northeast of Phoenix, Roosevelt Lake is the largest lake entirely within Arizona. It covers around 21,500 acres and reaches depths up to 349 feet. The lake sits at an elevation of 2,151 feet and offers over 128 miles of shoreline, perfect for fishing and exploring. ​
  • Fish Species: Roosevelt Lake is home to a variety of fish, including largemouth and smallmouth bass, channel and flathead catfish, crappie, bluegill, and carp. Anglers have caught trophy-sized fish here, like largemouth bass over 14 pounds and catfish exceeding 60 pounds.
  • Fishing Conditions: Fishing is good year-round, but spring and fall are especially productive. In the spring, bass move to shallow areas to spawn, making them easier to catch. Crappie are often found around submerged trees and brush, while catfish are more active at night. ​
  • Boating Regulations: Both motorized and non-motorized boats are allowed on Roosevelt Lake. There are no restrictions on boat types, but be mindful of “no wake” zones near developed areas and coves. Always wear a life jacket and follow safety guidelines. ​
  • Fishing Techniques: For bass, try using spinnerbaits, soft plastic worms, or topwater lures like Zara Spooks. Crappie respond well to small jigs or live minnows near brush piles. Catfish are best caught with stink baits or chicken liver, especially at night.
  • Roosevelt Lake offers a fun and rewarding fishing experience for anglers of all levels. With its diverse fish population and scenic surroundings, it’s a great place to spend a day or weekend. Don’t forget your fishing gear and enjoy all that this Arizona gem has to offer!
  • For the most current information on fishing conditions, regulations, and amenities, it’s advisable to consult the Arizona Game and Fish Department‘s official resources or contact local authorities directly.
Guide To Fly Fishing In Arizona Best Arizona Fishing Books Guides

Top Fish at Roosevelt Lake Fishing Guide 🎣

Lake Information

  • Name/Location:
    Lake Roosevelt
  • Surface Acres: 21,500
  • Max Depth: 349 feet
  • County: Maricopa County, Gila County
  • Website:
  • Fs.usda.gov
  • Roosevelt Lake Marina.com
  • Discover Gila County.com
  • Fishing License: A valid fishing or combination license is required for resident and nonresident anglers 10 years of age or older fishing any public accessible water in Arizona.

Lake Amenities

  • Boat Rentals
    Don’t have a boat? No problem! Roosevelt Lake Marina offers rentals, including fishing boats, pontoons, and even double-decker boats with slides.
  • Campgrounds and RV Parks
    Whether you prefer tent camping or RVing, there are multiple campgrounds around the lake, such as Grapevine, Schoolhouse, and Cholla, providing scenic spots to stay overnight.
  • Fishing Supplies and Live Bait
    The Ship’s Store at the marina stocks live bait and a variety of fishing gear, so you can easily grab what you need before heading out.
  • Boat Launch Ramps
    There are several boat ramps around the lake, including at Windy Hill, Schoolhouse, and Grapevine, making it easy to get your boat into the water.
  • Ffinch’s Waterfront Restaurant
    After a day on the lake, enjoy a meal at Ffinch’s, the marina’s waterfront restaurant, where you can relax and share your fishing stories.
  • Concierge Services
    Need assistance with your boat? The marina offers services like boat launching, battery servicing, and even towing, ensuring a hassle-free experience.
  • Fishing Guides
    If you’re new to the area or want expert tips, local fishing guides are available to help you find the best spots and improve your catch.

Nearby Lakes

Fish Types

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Largemouth Bass

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Striped Bass

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White Bass

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Blue Gill

Rainbow Trout Fishing Guide Baits Lures Techniques

Rainbow Trout

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Sunfish

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Smallmouth Bass

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Smallmouth Bass

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Black Crappie

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White Crappie

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Channel Catfish

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Tilapia

Rainbow Trout Fishing

Fish Spots & Tips

  • Where to Fish for Rainbow Trout:
    Center of the lake offers deeper, cooler waters in the center of the lake are ideal for catching Rainbow Trout. You can reach these areas by casting from the fishing docks or using a small boat if allowed.
  • Rainbow Trout Fishing Tips:
    Suspend these baits on the right at different depths with a bobber.
  • Baits: PowerBait, worms, and small minnows
  • Lures: Spinners, spoons, and small jigs
  • Tackle: Light to medium spinning gear with 4-6 lb test line

Baits & Lures

Berkley Gulp! Corn

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Berkley PowerBait Power Honey Worm

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Pautzke Balls O’ Fire Salmon Eggs

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Berkley PowerBait Natural Cheese Scent

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Berkley Gulp! Trout Nuggets Dough Bait

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Bass Fishing

Largemouth Bass Fishing

Fish Spots & Tips

  • Where to Fish for Bass:
    Fishing along the shoreline and inlets is great for catching Bass. Look for spots with vegetation, fallen branches, and rocks where these fish like to hide.
  • Bass Fishing Tips:
    Bass thrive in warmer waters and are most active during the spring and summer
  • Baits: Live shad, crayfish, and plastic worms
  • Lures: Crankbaits, spinnerbaits, and topwater lures
  • Tackle: Medium to heavy spinning or baitcasting gear with 8-12 lb test line

Baits & Lures

TRUSCEND Pre-Rigged Soft Fishing Lures

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Gary Yamamoto Senko Soft Plastic Worms

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SteelShad Lipless Crankbait

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TRUSCEND Swimming Jigging Fishing Spinners

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Bass Drop Shot Rigs

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SunFish Fishing

Fish Spots & Tips

  • Where to Fish for Sunfish:
    Sunfish are commonly found in the shallow areas of the lake, especially around docks and vegetation.
  • Sunfish Fishing Tips:
    They are active throughout the day, particularly in the summer.
  • Baits: Worms, crickets, and small pieces of bread
  • Lures: Tiny jigs and small spinners
  • Tackle: Ultra-light spinning gear with 2-4 lb test line

Baits & Lures

Berkley Powerbait Panfish Nibbles Fishing Bait

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Berkley Gulp! Maggot 

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Berkley Gulp! Killer Crawler Fishing Soft Bait

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Berkley Berkley PowerBait Power Honey Worm

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YUM Ribbontail Grub Curly Tail Swim Fishing Lure

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CatFish Fishing

Fish Spots & Tips

  • Where to Fish for Catfish:
    Channel Catfish are bottom dwellers and can be found in the deeper, murkier parts of the lake.
  • Catfish Fishing Tips:
    Catfish are popular among night anglers. They are most active after sunset.
  • Baits: Stink bait, chicken liver, and cut bait
  • Lures: Not commonly used, as they prefer natural baits
  • Tackle: Medium to heavy spinning or baitcasting gear with 12-20 lb test line

Baits & Lures

Wild Cat Pre-Molded Catfish Bait

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Catfish Charlie Dip Bait Cheese

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Wild Cat Blood Dip Bait

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Berkley PowerBait Catfish Bait Chunks Fishing Dough

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Pro-Cure Catfish Magic Chicken Liver Cure

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Gear & Tackle

HOOK-EZE Fishing Hook Knot Tying Tool

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ACX Fish Lip Gripper Pliers

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PLUSINNO Floating Fishing Net

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Fishing Rod Combos with Telescopic Fishing Pole

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KastKing Tactical Fishing Sling Tackle Storage Bag

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KastKing Fishing Lure Wraps

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Piscifun Fishing Line Winder Spooler Machine

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KastKing Mountain Mist Fishing Gloves

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Eagle Claw E.C. Fresh Water Tackle Kit

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TOPFORT 187/343pcs Fishing Accessories Kit

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Columbia Unisex Pfg Fish Flag Mesh Snap Back

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TOREGE Sports Polarized Sunglasses

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Booms Fishing R2 Hook Remover Squeeze

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iBobber portable fish depth finder

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Smith & Wesson Extreme Ops Folding Knife

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HOOK-EZE Fishing Hook Knot Tying Tool

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Shakespeare Catch More Fish Panfish Tackle Box Kit

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Shakespeare Catch More Fish Catfish Tackle Box Kit

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PLUSINNO Bass Fishing Lures Baits Tackle

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PLUSINNO Fishing Lures Baits Tackle

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Crappie Magnet Tackle Pack Kit

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TOPFORT 187/343pcs Fishing Accessories Kit

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Harmony Fishing Bass Razor Weedless Hooks

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Panfish Magnet Kit

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Fishing Hooks Bobbers Freshwater Tackle Kit

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PLUSINNO 264/397pcs Fishing Accessories Kit

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Eagle Claw E.C. Fresh Water Tackle Kit

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Eagle Claw Trout Fishing Kit

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Shakespeare Kids Hide-A-Hook Bobber

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Smaky Fishing Tackle Kit

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HOOK-EZE Fishing Hook Knot Tying Tool

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ACX Fish Lip Gripper Pliers

Purchase on Amazon →

PLUSINNO Floating Fishing Net

Purchase on Amazon →

Fishing Rod Combos with Telescopic Fishing Pole

Purchase on Amazon →

KastKing Tactical Fishing Sling Tackle Storage Bag

Purchase on Amazon →

KastKing Fishing Lure Wraps

Purchase on Amazon →

Piscifun Fishing Line Winder Spooler Machine

Purchase on Amazon →

KastKing Mountain Mist Fishing Gloves

Purchase on Amazon →

Eagle Claw E.C. Fresh Water Tackle Kit

Purchase on Amazon →

TOPFORT 187/343pcs Fishing Accessories Kit

Purchase on Amazon →

Columbia Unisex Pfg Fish Flag Mesh Snap Back

Purchase on Amazon →

TOREGE Sports Polarized Sunglasses

Purchase on Amazon →

iBobber portable fish depth finder

Purchase on Amazon →

Smith & Wesson Extreme Ops Folding Knife

Purchase on Amazon →

Smith & Wesson Extreme Ops Folding Knife

Purchase on Amazon →

HOOK-EZE Fishing Hook Knot Tying Tool

Purchase on Amazon →

ACX Fish Lip Gripper Pliers

Purchase on Amazon →

PLUSINNO Floating Fishing Net

Purchase on Amazon →

Fishing Rod Combos with Telescopic Fishing Pole

Purchase on Amazon →

KastKing Tactical Fishing Sling Tackle Storage Bag

Purchase on Amazon →

KastKing Fishing Lure Wraps

Purchase on Amazon →

Piscifun Fishing Line Winder Spooler Machine

Purchase on Amazon →

KastKing Mountain Mist Fishing Gloves

Purchase on Amazon →

Eagle Claw E.C. Fresh Water Tackle Kit

Purchase on Amazon →

TOPFORT 187/343pcs Fishing Accessories Kit

Purchase on Amazon →

Columbia Unisex Pfg Fish Flag Mesh Snap Back

Purchase on Amazon →

TOREGE Sports Polarized Sunglasses

Purchase on Amazon →

TOREGE Sports Polarized Sunglasses

Purchase on Amazon →

TOREGE Sports Polarized Sunglasses

Purchase on Amazon →

TOREGE Sports Polarized Sunglasses

Purchase on Amazon →

HOOK-EZE Fishing Hook Knot Tying Tool

Purchase on Amazon →

ACX Fish Lip Gripper Pliers

Purchase on Amazon →

PLUSINNO Floating Fishing Net

Purchase on Amazon →

Fishing Rod Combos with Telescopic Fishing Pole

Purchase on Amazon →

KastKing Tactical Fishing Sling Tackle Storage Bag

Purchase on Amazon →

KastKing Fishing Lure Wraps

Purchase on Amazon →

Piscifun Fishing Line Winder Spooler Machine

Purchase on Amazon →

KastKing Mountain Mist Fishing Gloves

Purchase on Amazon →

Eagle Claw E.C. Fresh Water Tackle Kit

Purchase on Amazon →

TOPFORT 187/343pcs Fishing Accessories Kit

Purchase on Amazon →

Columbia Unisex Pfg Fish Flag Mesh Snap Back

Purchase on Amazon →

TOREGE Sports Polarized Sunglasses

Purchase on Amazon →

TOREGE Sports Polarized Sunglasses

Purchase on Amazon →

iBobber portable fish depth finder

Purchase on Amazon →

Smith & Wesson Extreme Ops Folding Knife

Purchase on Amazon →

Directions

FAQs

Roosevelt Lake is famous for largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, crappie, and catfish. You can also catch bluegill and carp. Whether you’re looking for a trophy bass or a tasty catfish dinner, Roosevelt Lake has it all!

Yes, you’ll need an Arizona fishing license. You can easily buy one online or at local bait shops and sporting goods stores. Kids under 10 can fish for free, so bring the family!

Fishing is good all year round, but spring and fall are the best. In spring, fish move closer to shore, making them easier to catch. Fall also offers comfortable weather and hungry fish, giving you great chances to reel in a big one!

Yes, boats are welcome! You can bring your own boat or rent one at the marina. The lake has boat ramps for easy launching. Just remember to follow the “no wake” zones and wear life jackets to stay safe while having fun.

Absolutely! Roosevelt Lake offers several campgrounds and RV parks nearby, like Grapevine and Cholla. These spots have picnic tables, restrooms, and stunning views of the lake, perfect for a relaxing fishing getaway with family or friends.

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