Roosevelt Lake is part of the Salt River Project and is the oldest reservoir in the project. This is the largest lake in the Arizona State. Tonto National Forest Authority predominantly takes care of the recreational activities in the area. The mining town of Globe is the nearest urban settlement close to the lake.
Roosevelt Lake is one of the most popular fishing locations for anglers in and around Arizona. There are Bass and Crappie tournaments that draw anglers from various parts of the United States. There are plenty of game fish species that are popular in this lake. The Northern Pike is the one that often displays an invasive spread in the lake.
Some of the fish species you would be able to find in the Roosevelt Lake are Smallmouth Bass, Largemouth Bass, Yellow Bass, Flathead Catfish, Channel Catfish, Black Crappie, Bluegill, Buffalo fish, Carp, Sunfish, and Striped Bass among the others. For Bass and carp fishing, in particular, this is one of the best lakes in Arizona.
Roosevelt Reservoir and the Lake area are popular tourist destinations that have plenty of tourist spots. When you plan a fishing trip to Roosevelt Lake, make it a point to visit the popular Tonto Monument, which is less than 4 miles away from the lake. Cemetery Trail, Three Bar Route, and several other biking and hiking trails are also nearby. Besides fishing, you can also try other lake sports like kayaking, paddle boat rides, and jet skiing. The Grapevine Airstrip for recreational flights is located close to the shore of this lake.
The whole lake area which is over 21,000 acres is teeming with wildlife. With a maximum depth going up to 349 ft., this is a great lake for beginners as well as pros in fishing. The shallow riverbeds are also good for amateurs.
Anglers above 15 years of age with a valid fishing license can fish at the Roosevelt Lake. You can easily get your license from the Arizona Game and Fish Department. Ensure that you have a license that is valid for freshwater recreational fishing. Some parts of the lake or nearby regions might also call for tribal licenses. There are restrictions for catching some species of fish like Paddlefish, Shovelnose Sturgeon, and Lake Sturgeon. With the Smallmouth Bass, there is a “catch and release only” condition. For the other variants, there are daily limits on the count. For example, with crappie there is a limit of 15 fish. Check the updated lists before you go fishing.
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This is one of the few lakes open for fishing all-round the year. There are seasonal closures, breeding season closures, and bald eagle season closures that might be applicable to the lake. The dates vary each year. Hence, check for updates online before you plan your trip. You will find White Perch, Bullheads, Ruffle, crappie, bluegill, and catfish in all seasons. The months from June through March are ideal for those looking for Smallmouth and Largemouth bass.
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