LOWER SALT RIVER – On Wednesday they were releasing 13 cfs out of Stewart Mountain Dam from Saguaro. Trout were stocked two weeks ago and will be stocked again someday between Jan. 26-Feb. 2. Trout are stocked into the lower portion of the Salt (above where the Verde River meets the Salt).

Remember that the walk to the shoreline is steep, and don’t wade into the river because of quick-sand spots. The Lower Salt is scheduled to be stocked again with trout next week. Try nightcrawlers, small spinners, Kastmasters and flies in this unique desert river trout fishery. You might be able to catch some bass or sunfish in the deeper holes. Good time for tubing the Salt -- take along a fishing rod.

SAGUARO LAKE - Lake elevation is 1,525 feet (93-percent full). Trout were stocked the week of Jan. 12. Saguaro will be stocked again the third week of February. It’s typical winter fishing at Saguaro Lake. Anglers are reporting hit-and-miss action on bass, with many daily bags of less than two bass a day. Yellow bass fishing can be good -- try using a silver and blue Kastmaster or similar.

APACHE LAKE - Lake elevation is 1,906 feet (92-percent full). The lake has been stocked with rainbow trout and will be stocked again the first week of February. Like many lakes, bass fishing is hit-and-miss. Crappie fishing reportedly is good.

Fishing could be good for yellow bass down by the dam. Yellow bass should hit jigs and spoons. Fish for them around balls of shad in 20-60 feet of water. Cut bait also works well for them. Anglers have a shot as some walleye at Apache, too (fish deep).   back...