Central lakes

Roosevelt

Jim Goughnour of Rim Country Custom Rods in Payson reports crappie fishing is slowly improving. Look for the panfish in 20 feet of water around cover. Anglers often must keep moving to come across a hungry school. Reaction baits are working well, according to Goughnour, who suggests fishing in less than 20 feet of water using jerkbaits, buzzbaits and small crankbaits. Also try pearl Zoom Super Fluke and Reaction Innovation 5-inch paddletail swimbait lures, also in pearl color. Check out the bottom with depth finders to determine structure changes such as drop-offs ledges and rocky areas in the middle of sandy areas. Information: (928) 468-0263.

Saguaro

Fish frogs against the tules and also use buzzbaits and deep-diving crankbaits on bass, according to some reports. Also, don’t overlook using dropshot-rigged Roboworms. The bite around shallow, grassy areas has been consistent. Nightcrawlers fished on dropshot rigs have been successful on the yellow bass if the largemouths haven’t been cooperative. Information: Gary Senft at Bass Pro Shops, (602) 606-5600. Pleasant

Fishing guides say some striped bass are being caught on jig-headed swimbaits and some top-water plugs. The continuing cool weather front should keep the striper boils in place. For flathead catfish fish at night with bluegill or carp for bait. Anglers need to keep a sharp eye out for catfish with tags attached by the Arizona Catfish Conservation Association. Visit catfishaz.com with tag information. Information: thearizonafishingguides.com

Canyon

Reports indicate night fishing has been good in the shallow grass and somewhat deeper to 15 feet along grass lines by using dropshots or other moving baits such as crankbaits. Information: thearizonafishingguides.com.

North central

Anglers are still picking up trout at Ashurst Lake near Flagstaff. The lake continues to have a heavy algae bloom, however the locals say to fish across from the boat ramp for best results.

» Visit fishing. azcentral. com for more.

Information for the Fishing Report is periodically provided by anglers, as well as the experts at the Arizona Game and Fish Department, Arizona Anglers, Liar’s Korner, Phoenix Fishing Supply, Pinetop Sporting Goods, Pro Bass Adventures, White Mountain Apache Tribe, Lake Mary Country Store, Parker Canyon Lake store, Fly Fish Arizona and Beyond and H&M Landing in San Diego.