Striped Bass

While Payson isn't the first place that comes to mind for striped bass, anglers in the know head to nearby lakes like Lake Pleasant or Roosevelt Lake for some surprisingly productive striper fishing. These reservoirs, formed by damming the Salt and Verde Rivers, offer the deep, cool waters that stripers thrive in, a stark contrast to the surrounding desert landscape. Spring and fall are prime times, as the stripers move shallower to feed during the spawn (spring) and to bulk up before winter (fall). Look for birds diving or boils on the surface, indicating feeding frenzies. A local tip: trolling with large swimbaits or crankbaits along submerged points and humps can be deadly. Also, be sure to check the Arizona Game and Fish Department's website for any specific regulations regarding striped bass limits or gear restrictions on these lakes. The striper fishery here is sustained through stocking, so the size can vary, but trophy-sized fish are definitely possible.