Roosevelt Lake Bass Busters Open runs twice a year with entry fees and cash payouts
The Roosevelt Lake Bass Busters Open is a competitive fishing tournament held on Roosevelt Lake, about 90 minutes northeast of Phoenix. The event draws bass anglers from across Arizona and neighboring states. Two tournaments run each year — typically one in spring and one in fall — with entry fees that vary by year and registration date.
The tournament format is a one-day event where anglers fish from dawn to a set weigh-in time, usually in the afternoon. Participants fish individually or in pairs, depending on the year's rules. The heaviest bass caught during the tournament period win cash prizes, with payouts distributed across multiple places. The organization also awards side pots and big-fish bonuses in some years.
Roosevelt Lake itself sits in the Tonto National Forest and holds a strong population of largemouth and smallmouth bass. The lake's rocky structure, creek arms, and depth variation make it a solid tournament venue. Water conditions and seasonal patterns shift the bite significantly between spring and fall events.
Key Takeaways
- Roosevelt Lake Bass Busters Open tournaments happen twice yearly, with entry fees and cash prizes for the heaviest catches.
- The event is a one-day tournament format with weigh-in in the afternoon, open to individual anglers and pairs depending on the year.
- Roosevelt Lake holds both largemouth and smallmouth bass in rocky, structured habitat suitable for tournament fishing.
- Registration details, exact dates, and entry fees change year to year, so checking with the tournament organizers directly is necessary before planning to fish.
- Anglers should be familiar with current Arizona fishing regulations and Roosevelt Lake's specific rules before the event.
Tournament dates and registration
The Bass Busters Open schedule shifts from year to year. Spring tournaments typically fall between March and May, while fall events run September through November. The exact dates are announced by the tournament organizers, usually several months in advance.
Registration opens a set number of weeks before each event and closes a few days before the tournament date. Early registration often costs less than day-of entry. You can register through the Bass Busters organization directly or through their website, which also lists the current entry fee, any side-pot options, and the payout structure for that year's event.
What to bring and how to fish
Anglers need a valid Arizona fishing license before launching. You must fish from a boat — wading is not permitted in tournament format. Bring your own vessel or arrange to fish with another angler who has one. Most participants use bass boats or center-console boats suitable for navigating Roosevelt Lake's rocky points and creek channels.
Standard bass fishing tackle works well here: medium to medium-heavy rods with spinning or baitcasting reels, soft plastics, crankbaits, and topwater lures. The lake's structure rewards anglers who can cast accurately to rocks, fallen timber, and drop-offs. Live bait is permitted under Arizona regulations, though most tournament anglers rely on artificial lures.
Fishing hours run from first light until the announced weigh-in time, usually mid-afternoon. You must keep all bass caught during the tournament period in a livewell or cooler with water. Dead fish may be penalized or disqualified depending on the rules that year.
Weigh-in procedures and prize structure
Weigh-in takes place at a designated location on Roosevelt Lake, typically at one of the main boat launches. Arrive with your catch in good condition — fish that are dead or severely damaged may not count. Tournament officials weigh each angler's bass and record the total weight.
Prize money goes to the angler or team with the heaviest total weight. Secondary prizes reward second, third, and sometimes fourth place. Many tournaments also offer a big-fish bonus — a separate payout for the single largest bass caught that day. Side pots for optional entry fees create additional prize pools.
Results are posted the same day or within a few days, and winners are notified directly. Prize payouts typically arrive within two to four weeks of the event.
Roosevelt Lake conditions and seasonal patterns
Spring tournaments fish a warming lake with bass moving shallow to spawn. Water temperatures in March through May range from the low 60s to low 70s Fahrenheit. Shallow rocky areas, creek mouths, and flats near the dam hold active fish. Topwater and shallow-running crankbaits produce well during this period.
Fall tournaments occur as water cools from summer heat. September and October still see warm water and active feeding, while November brings cooler temperatures and deeper fish. Fall bass often suspend around deeper structure and creek channels. Soft plastics worked slowly along drop-offs and deeper points are effective.
Roosevelt Lake's water level fluctuates based on irrigation demands and rainfall. Check current conditions before the tournament — low water can expose new structure but also concentrates fish in deeper holes. The lake's clarity varies from murky to moderately clear depending on recent runoff.
Arizona fishing regulations you need to know
All anglers must carry a valid Arizona fishing license. Daily bag limits for bass are five fish per day, with a 12-inch minimum length for largemouth bass and 10 inches for smallmouth bass. Tournament rules may be more restrictive, so check the specific event rules before fishing.
Catch-and-release is permitted, and many tournament anglers practice it outside of tournament hours. Certain areas of Roosevelt Lake may have additional restrictions — check the Arizona Game and Fish Department website or call ahead to confirm current rules for the specific launch area you plan to use.
Boating safety is mandatory. Life jackets are required for all occupants, and boating under the influence is illegal and enforced. Respect posted closures and private property around the lake.
Getting to Roosevelt Lake and facilities
Roosevelt Lake lies in Gila County, roughly 90 minutes from Phoenix via US Route 60 heading east. The main boat launches are at Needle Creek, Paved Ramp, and Windy Hill. Most launches have parking for trailers, restrooms, and water access. Arrive early on tournament day — parking fills quickly.
The nearest towns are Roosevelt and Globe, both about 20 to 30 minutes from the lake. Fuel, food, and lodging are available in these towns. Some anglers camp overnight at nearby Forest Service campgrounds or private RV parks to be on the water at first light.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need my own boat to fish the Bass Busters Open?
Yes, you must fish from a boat. If you don't own one, you can arrange to fish with another angler who does, or contact the tournament organizers to see if they maintain a list of anglers looking for fishing partners.
What is the entry fee for the Roosevelt Lake Bass Busters Open?
Entry fees vary by year and registration timing. Early registration is typically cheaper than day-of entry. Check the Bass Busters website or contact the organizers directly for the current year's fee structure.
Can I fish the tournament if I don't have an Arizona fishing license?
No. You must have a valid Arizona fishing license before launching. Licenses are available online through the Arizona Game and Fish Department website or at sporting goods retailers throughout the state.
What happens if my fish die before weigh-in?
Dead or severely damaged fish may be penalized or disqualified depending on that year's rules. Keep your catch in a livewell with fresh water or in a cooler with ice water to maintain fish condition throughout the day.
When do I find out the tournament dates for next year?
The Bass Busters organization announces dates several months in advance, usually on their website or through social media. Sign up for their mailing list or follow their pages to get notified when registration opens.