Striped Bass

While Chino Valley, Arizona, isn't widely known as a striped bass hotspot, some of the larger reservoirs within a reasonable drive, such as Lake Pleasant, do hold populations of these hard-fighting fish. The key to success lies in understanding their migratory patterns and seasonal movements. Spring and fall are prime times, with the stripers becoming more active as water temperatures moderate. During the warmer summer months, they tend to move deeper to find cooler water. Trolling with crankbaits or casting swimbaits near points and submerged structures are effective tactics. A crucial tip is to monitor the Arizona Game and Fish Department's fishing reports for up-to-date information on stocking and fish activity. Also, be prepared for long days on the water; stripers can be finicky, and covering ground is often necessary. Local striped bass tend to be opportunistic feeders, so experiment with different lure presentations to find what they're keying on.