Roosevelt Lake, AZ Fishing Report March 1st 2025

Most people love March for the signaling of better weather, some people love it because it’s another excuse to drink on a Monday (St. Patrick’s Day), others love it because it is the month of Jon Bon Jovi’s Birthday… But I love March for the start of bass fishing season.

I know some may think that in the state of Arizona, there is no beginning or end to bass fishing, and while I agree, I also humbly admit that I suck at catching fish in the winter. Either way, bass fishing is warming up the bite is good.

Most people right now in early march are catching their bag limit and starting to swing a couple big boys in the boat. Overall, the fishing is good, most of the fish were in there 12- 18ft mark, primarily 1.5 to 2.5 lb fish being caught. Water levels looks to be down about 30-40ft

The Lowdown

• Water Temp: 57-59 degrees

• Water Clarity: Slightly stained

• Air Temp: High of 78, Low of 48

• Wind: 2-7 mph, gusts up to 15mph clear

• Moon Phase: 4% illumination (Waxing Crescent)

• Most Effective Baits:

  • Wacky Rig (most successful)

  • Drop-Shot

  • Texas Rigged Craws

  • Swim Jigs

  • Football Head Jigs

Opinion:

It’s hard not to have a remarkable experience on this lake. Its vastness and intricate waterways provide endless opportunities to catch fish, even when conditions seem less than favorable. Roosevelt Lake epitomizes the spirit of Arizona—rugged western landscapes, majestic mountains, and a plethora of cacti. Each time I make the journey here, it feels as if I’m stepping onto untouched territory, ripe for exploration.

When it comes to fishing, however, I found that the results left something to be desired. We landed numerous fish, yet we couldn’t quite surpass that elusive 3 pounder threshold. I have a feeling the bigger ones are lurking a bit deeper, biding their time until the water temperature rises above 62 degrees.

As the great Ernest Hemingway once said, “The first draft of anything is s***,” and this outing felt like just that—a first draft hinting at the promise of a bountiful season ahead. Until next time…

-CL