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Arizona fishing guide

Welcome to your key source for all fishing-related information in Arizona. Discover not only the prime fishing spots but also learn about the diverse species inhabiting these waters. Stay informed about the latest fishing regulations and licensing requirements for fishing in Arizona

1250 spots
38 fish
15 lakes
9 rivers

What kind of fish can you catch in Arizona

Below are 38 types of fish that can be caught in Arizona. The data have been collected based on fishing reports from Arizona and have undergone serious moderation. Explore the map of Arizona to find out where a particular type of fish is biting.

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Lakes and reservoirs for fishing in Arizona

Below are the largest and most popular lakes, reservoirs, and bays for fishing in Arizona. Each Arizona body of water includes information on fish species, analytics, and a map with fishing spots

What rivers flow through Arizona?

Below is a list of rivers that flow through Arizona. Study the fishing map of the rivers to find out where and what kind of fish are in the river and when is the best time to catch them

Licenses for fishing in Arizona

For a comprehensive list of all license types and detailed regulations, you should refer to the Arizona Game and Fish Department and eRegulations websites. These resources provide the most current and complete information about fishing licenses in Arizona.

License Type Resident Fee Non-Resident Details
General Fishing $37 $55 -
Combo Hunt & Fish $57 $160 -
Youth Combo Hunt & Fish $5 $5 For anglers aged 10-17
Short-Term Combo Hunt & Fish $15/day $20/day Daily rate
Community Fishing $24 $24 -
Migratory Bird Stamp $5 $5 -
Pioneer License (70+ years) Free - Requires 25 consecutive years as a bona fide Arizona resident
Disabled Veteran License Free - Requires certification of 100% service-connected disability
Apprentice Hunting License Free Free Valid for any two consecutive days
Boy Scout and Girl Scout High Achievement License $5 - For Scouts reaching the highest level in their organization

Fishing Regulations in Arizona

Prohibited Gear and Fishing Methods
  • Use of explosives, poisons, or electrical devices for fishing is illegal.
  • Fishing with nets, traps, or seines is restricted to specific permits and designated areas.
  • Use of live fish as bait is limited in certain waters to protect native species and ecosystems.
  • Snagging fish is not allowed except in designated areas during specific seasons.
  • Spearing and bowfishing are permitted for certain species in specified waters.
Catch Limits
  • Trout: Daily limit varies by area, typically 4-6 fish with size restrictions in some waters.
  • Bass (Largemouth and Smallmouth): Daily limit of 6, with a minimum length of 13 inches in most waters.
  • Catfish (Channel and Flathead): Daily limit varies, often no more than 4 fish, with size restrictions in some areas.
  • Crappie: Daily limit of 15-25, depending on the water body.
  • Walleye: Daily limit varies, often 6 fish with size restrictions in some areas.
  • Bluegill and Sunfish: No daily limit, no size limit.
  • Carp: No daily limit, no size limit.
  • Pike: Daily limit varies, with size restrictions in some waters.
  • Striped Bass: Daily limit varies, especially in Lake Mead and Lake Powell.
  • Yellow Perch: No daily limit, no size limit.
Restrictions on Access to Water Bodies
  • Access to some waters may be restricted for environmental conservation or public safety reasons.
  • Fishing on private property requires explicit permission from the landowner.
  • Special regulations for fishing in state parks and wildlife areas.
  • No fishing zones enforced around certain infrastructures like dams and fish hatcheries.
  • Seasonal access restrictions in certain areas for fish spawning and habitat management.
Zones of Special Regulation
  • Catch-and-release areas for certain species, especially trout.
  • Areas with gear restrictions, such as artificial lures only or barbless hooks.
  • Slot limits for bass and other species in certain lakes and rivers.
  • Special regulations in urban fishing waters and community fishing lakes.
  • Managed waters with specific bag and possession limits for sustainable fishing.
Protection of Rare Species
  • Fishing for endangered or threatened species is strictly prohibited.
  • Special regulations in habitats of rare or sensitive aquatic species.
  • Research fishing for rare species requires special permits and adherence to guidelines.
  • Conservation efforts for native fish species and habitat restoration projects.
  • Monitoring and enforcement to protect vulnerable ecosystems and species.
Seasonal Restrictions
  • Closed seasons for specific species during spawning or migration periods.
  • Seasonal fishing regulations for certain species to ensure sustainability.
  • Temporary closures of specific waters for conservation or emergency reasons.
  • Regulations adjusted based on annual fish population surveys and environmental conditions.
  • Special rules for ice fishing, including gear and shelter regulations, in colder months.

Most popular cities for fishing in Arizona

The largest and most popular fishing cities in Arizona. Cities in Arizona include information on fishing, as well as a map with fishing spots. Explore the cities to know what fish are caught and in which bodies of water.

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