🐟 Roosevelt Lake Fishing Report Today 🎣

2 weeks ago · Updated 2 weeks ago

Roosevelt Lake in Arizona is experiencing classic late September conditions, with dropping water levels and shifting fish patterns as the lake transitions toward fall. Anglers are reporting active bites and a variety of techniques producing results across the lake.

Content

Weekly Catches
Weather & Marine Conditions
Fishing Conditions & Tips
Regulations & Notices
Fishing Dashboard 🎣
Fishing Spots Map

Weekly Catches

The catches below cover the last 7 days.

Largemouth Bass

Largemouth bass action remains strong, with anglers reporting good to excellent fishing throughout Roosevelt Lake. The recent drop in water levels has concentrated fish and improved shallow water opportunities, especially as the lake sits at about 45% capacity. The bite is shifting toward a classic fall pattern, with more fish moving shallow and increased activity on reaction baits. The topwater bite is emerging as a key pattern, and anglers are encouraged to keep topwater rods ready throughout the day for a chance at larger fish. Water clarity varies, with the cleanest areas offering up to 3.5–4 feet of visibility, but most of the lake features 1–3 feet, which is ideal for bass fishing.

Effective lures include crankbaits early, buzz baits, spinnerbaits, and topwater lures all day, especially in the backs of coves and creeks.
Texas-rigged worms (4–7 inch) and brush hogs are producing, particularly around remaining structure and drop-offs.
Deep water options are still available, but more fish are moving shallow as water temperatures begin to cool.
Persistence with topwater baits can pay off with bigger fish, even during midday hours.

Crappie

Crappie fishing is reported as good, especially around brush in 5–10 feet of water. Anglers are finding success near submerged trees and brush piles, using small jigs and live bait presentations.

Best results come from minnows or 1/16 oz. jigs tipped with 2" plastics in colors like Kalins BBC or John Deer Green.
Target brushy areas and submerged timber for concentrations of fish.

Catfish

Catfish are active and being caught on a variety of baits. The bite is expected to improve further as the lake continues its seasonal transition.

Effective baits include stink bait (dips and nuggets) and chicken livers.
Circle hooks are recommended for better hook-up and release rates.

Weather & Marine Conditions

Late September at Roosevelt Lake brings dropping water levels and mild to warm temperatures. The lake is currently at about 45% capacity, with most areas offering 1–3 feet of visibility and some clearer stretches up to 4 feet. Water color is described as "dingy" in certain areas, which is favorable for bass fishing. Anglers should be aware of exposed structure and changing shorelines due to the lower water level.

Fishing Conditions & Tips

As the lake transitions into fall, expect the shallow bite to improve steadily through late September and into October. Topwater presentations become increasingly effective, and anglers are encouraged to fish shallow throughout the day, not just at first light. Reaction baits like crankbaits, spinnerbaits, and buzz baits are producing, especially around remaining brush and rocky points. For deeper fish, try drop shots and large swimbaits such as the 6th Sense 9" Glide bait. Persistence and willingness to cover water are key to finding active fish.

Regulations & Notices

Current regulations for Roosevelt Lake include a daily limit of 2 bass (minimum size 13 inches), 4 channel catfish, and 4 trout. Only boats with a single 10-horsepower motor (or less) or a single electric motor are allowed. Anglers are reminded to check for any updates to local rules and to practice responsible catch and release, especially with larger fish. Water levels are lower than average, so exercise caution when launching and navigating near shorelines and submerged structure.