Roosevelt Lake Fishing, Size, Depth, And More

Arizona’s Roosevelt Lake is one of the largest bodies of water in the state, spanning over 21,000 acres. Located in Tonto National Forest, the lake is renowned for its abundance of fish species. It is a prime destination for anglers. Beyond that, Roosevelt Lake offers breathtaking scenery and ample opportunities for outdoor recreation. In this article, we delve into the details of this magnificent body of water, including its size, depth, and the various fish species that can be found in its waters.

Size And Depth

Roosevelt Lake is a large body of water located in Arizona. It has a water surface of over 21,000 acres, a length of 22 miles, and 128 miles of shoreline. Its maximum depth is over 300 feet. At full pool, which is at an elevation of 1,290 feet, the surface area of the lake covers close to 81,000 acres.

History And Purpose

Roosevelt Lake is a man-made reservoir located in Tonto National Forest in Arizona. It was created in 1911 with the construction of the Roosevelt Dam on the Salt River. The primary purpose of the lake and dam was to provide irrigation water and generate hydroelectric power. At the time of its creation, the Roosevelt Dam was the largest masonry dam in the world.

Over the years, the lake has become a popular destination for outdoor recreation, including fishing, boating, and camping. It also remains an important source of water and power for the state of Arizona. Additionally, the history of the lake plays a significant role in the region’s cultural and economic development.

Recreational Activities

Roosevelt Lake offers a range of recreational activities for visitors to enjoy. These include fishing, boating, camping, hiking, birdwatching, and wildlife observation. The lake is also a popular destination for water sports, such as wakeboarding, waterskiing, tubing, and cliff jumping.

Visitors can explore the lake’s 660 miles of shoreline, which offers opportunities to relax, swim, and picnic. Additionally, Roosevelt Lake is surrounded by scenic natural landscapes, making it a prime location for outdoor adventures and exploration.

From the Tonto National Forest to Roosevelt State Park, there are many options for visitors. They can enjoy a variety of recreational activities in and around this stunning Arizona landmark.

Fishing At Roosevelt Lake

The lake is open for fishing year-round, except for sturgeon, which is subject to special rules and seasons. Local fishing guides are available to help visitors find the best spots for fishing. Visitors can rent boats or bring their own to explore the large reservoir and find the most productive fishing locations.

The lake is known for producing trophy-sized fish. Fishing enthusiasts can try their luck in catching some of the lake’s prized catches. Overall, Roosevelt Lake is a popular destination for anglers in Arizona due to its abundant fish populations and scenic surroundings.

Types Of Fish

Roosevelt Lake is renowned as one of the best fishing spots in Arizona, offering a range of fish species. These include:

• Bass
• Catfish
• Crappie
• Rainbow Trout
• Walleye
• Kokanee

Best Fishing Spots

Some of the best fishing spots at Roosevelt Lake in Arizona include:

• Cholla Point and Cholla Bay provide great brushy places to fish from the shore, relatively close to the bank.

• Cougar Point is a good area for catfishing. Anglers can anchor over the point and fish the deep channels. Catfish use this area like a highway!

• The Tonto Creek Inlet is a popular spot for bass fishing.

The Best Launch Spots and Marinas

Marinas

Visitors to Roosevelt Lake can find a variety of marinas to suit their needs, whether they are looking to rent boats, buy fishing gear, or enjoy a meal with a view of the lake.

Two of the most popular options include:

• Roosevelt Lake Marina is one of the most popular and well-known marinas. It offers boat rentals, fishing equipment, a fuel station, and a ship store. The marina is located on the lake’s shoreline and provides access to the vast expanse of the lake’s waters.

• The Apache Lake Marina is another popular spot for boating and fishing enthusiasts.

Launch Spots

Visitors can find a variety of launch spots to suit their needs, depending on their preferred water activity and location. Some of the recommended spots include:

• Cholla Recreation Site: Located on Theodore Roosevelt Lake and offers expansive views of the Four Peaks Wilderness

• Schoolhouse Point Launch: Located at Roosevelt Lake and provides access to a variety of kayaking and boating opportunities

• Roosevelt Lake Marina & Boat Ramp: A popular launch spot for paddleboarding and other water activities

Camping Near Roosevelt Lake

There are multiple camping options, whether camping in the forest or near the shoreline. Some popular options include:

• Tonto National Forest Camping Areas: There are multiple camping areas around Roosevelt Lake that charge separate fees from the Tonto Daily and Discovery passes. Visitors are advised to contact the Tonto Basin Ranger District for more information.

• Lake Roosevelt National Recreation Area: The area offers camping opportunities on lands adjacent to or on the reservation shoreline. Contact the tribes to determine where access is allowed and whether additional fees apply.

• Cholla Campground: Located at Theodore Roosevelt Lake, Cholla Recreation Site offers several campgrounds for visitors to choose from. Camping spots must be reserved in advance.

• Roosevelt Lake Marina RV Park: This RV park is located in Roosevelt, Arizona, and offers a variety of amenities, including access to the lake and a marina.

• Windy Hill Campground: Located in Tonto National Forest, this campground is close to Roosevelt Lake and offers ample opportunities for fishing, hiking trails, and motorized or non-motorized boating.

Safety Tips While Enjoying Roosevelt Lake: 

Visitors to Roosevelt Lake should exercise caution whether swimming, boating, or camping, and be aware of potential risks and hazards in the area. By following these safety tips, you can ensure a safe and enjoyable experience while visiting Roosevelt Lake.

Swimming Safety

• Always wear a life jacket when swimming or boating in the lake.
• Be aware of weather conditions and sudden changes in wind, as these can affect water currents and pose a danger to swimmers.
• Avoid swimming near steep drop-offs or underwater hazards, as they can make it difficult to get out of the water in case of an emergency.
• Always swim in areas designated for swimming, as these areas are generally monitored and safe for swimming.
• Be aware of your swimming ability and do not overestimate it, especially if you are not accustomed to swimming in open water.
• Keep an eye on children at all times when they are near the water, and make sure they are wearing proper floatation devices if they are not strong swimmers.

Boating Safety

• Always wear a life jacket and ensure that all passengers also wear life jackets while on the boat.
• Teach your passengers about propeller safety and never allow passengers to enter or exit the rear of the boat.
• Be aware of and follow all posted rules and regulations while on the lake.
• Be prepared for sudden changes in weather and water conditions, which can affect your ability to navigate the boat safely.
• Maintain safe boating speeds and keep a safe distance from other boats and objects in the water.
• Check your boat’s equipment and safety features before heading out onto the lake. This includes making sure you have a working fire extinguisher and proper navigation lights.
• Have a communication plan in place in case of an emergency. This includes ensuring that all passengers know how to use a radio or other communication device.

Camping Safety

• Be aware of the potential for extreme weather conditions, including high winds, thunderstorms, and flash floods. Check the weather forecast before you go and be prepared for any potential hazards.
• Bring plenty of water and stay hydrated, as temperatures can get extremely hot during the day.
• Store food and trash securely to avoid attracting wildlife, such as bears or raccoons.
• Stay on designated trails and campsite areas to avoid getting lost or wandering into unknown or dangerous terrain.
• Bring appropriate gear for the conditions, including sturdy shoes and warm layers for chilly nights.
• Be respectful of other campers and follow established campground rules and etiquette.
• Always practice fire safety, including properly putting out fires and making sure you have any necessary permits or permissions.

How to Preserve Roosevelt Lake’s Ecology When Visiting

Visitors to Roosevelt Lake should practice responsible tourism and be aware of the impact their actions may have on the ecology of the area. By taking steps to preserve Roosevelt Lake’s ecology when visiting, we can help ensure that this natural wonder remains healthy for generations to come.

Here are some tips for ensuring the long-term health and sustainability of the area:

• Follow all posted rules and regulations when visiting the lake.
• Be aware of the potential impact your activities may have on the ecology of the area. Take steps to minimize your impact.
• Avoid disturbing or harming wildlife, and do not remove any plants, animals, or rocks from the area.
• Pack out all trash and dispose of it properly, leaving the area cleaner than you found it.
• Use designated trails and campsites to avoid causing damage to the natural environment.
• Support conservation efforts in the area by getting involved with local organizations or volunteer opportunities.
• Learn about the ecology of the area before visiting to better understand how to minimize your impact on it.

In Conclusion

Roosevelt Lake in Arizona is an exceptional destination for fishing enthusiasts, nature lovers, and outdoor adventurers. The lake offers ample opportunities for boating, camping, and hiking. It is home to a variety of fish species, including largemouth bass, crappie, and catfish, making it a popular destination for fishing!

Visitors to Roosevelt Lake should prioritize safety, follow posted rules and regulations, and take steps to preserve the ecology of the area. All in all, Roosevelt Lake is a remarkable natural wonder that provides a unique and unforgettable outdoor experience for all who visit.

The photo featured at the top of this post is © Traveller70/Shutterstock.com