(2,098 feet, 45-percent full). Jim Goughnour of Rim Country Custom Rods with a Feb. 6 report:


Good morning Rim Country anglers,

What a difference a week can make. The warmer temperatures this past week have increased the water temperature in Roosevelt Lake by three degrees. Water temperatures of 58 degrees are being reported and that has the bass becoming more active.

Lower elevation lakes like Lake Havasu are reporting some pre-spawn activities so if this warming trend continues, it won't be long before Roosevelt Lake spawning activities begin. This past week several anglers reported catching far more bass than the previous month. The water flows into the lake are still 200 percent above normal flow rates and the lake level has increased over three feet in the past two weeks. This water coming into the lake is stained and now covers most of the lake except for the areas close to the dam.

Successful techniques reported this past week include crankbaits and small swimbaits. A dropshot technique will be very successful around cover such as brush and submerged logs. Another option is to fish structure, such as humps that are in 10 feet of water and drop off quickly to 25-plus feet.

Trout fishing was called excellent this past week by experienced trout anglers. The warmer weather certainly brought more families and anglers out to Green Valley Lake. The Community Fishing Stocking Program ensures healthy trout in our local lake and a wonderful place for family fishing experiences. Panther Martins, power-baits, Roadrunners and Z-Rays on an ultra-light rod can be a lot of fun for any angler. If you need help selecting a fishing rod for trout fishing, give Rim Country Custom Rods a call at 928-468-0263.

The first signs of Spring means the Bill Luke Bass Days family fishing tournament. This year the tournament will be at the Pleasant Harbor Marina at Lake Pleasant on March 13-15. This is the tournament where you can use live bait and weigh in fish every hour. Over $50,000 in cash prizes will be given away. This is a great family event with many activities for all ages. You can check out all of the details at www.billlukebassdays.com

Another upcoming event is the Mogollon Sportsman's Association banquet. The very popular auction and banquet will be held at the Mazatzal Hotel and Casino on May 2nd. I'll be providing updates as this community event gets closer, but if you have any questions, would like to make a donation or would like to purchase tickets, give me a call to reserve your table. 928-468-0263

Have a great week of fishing and I hope see you on the water.