It’s Always a Great Day to go Fishing

Our state offers an amazing variety of fishing opportunities, from large reservoirs to trout lakes in the mountains, and plenty of low-elevation fishing holes in between. Find all the information you need to cast your reel and catch a memory.

fishing licenses & regulations

Purchase your Arizona fishing license and find the most up-to-date fishing regulations.

Popular waters for fishing in arizona

AZGFD’s program can stock sportfish in 186 individual sites in selected rivers, streams, lakes, reservoirs, ponds and stock tanks in the state.

community lake fishing

We have established more than 50 fishing waters in Arizona communities. Whether you are an experienced, an occasional or new angler, the Arizona Community Fishing Program offers fishing opportunities that you are sure to enjoy.

where to fish in arizona

Explore the lakes in Arizona to find the best fishing spots for beginners and experts alike.

stocking schedules

The statewide stocking schedule includes all waters receiving catchable-sized trout from Arizona Game and Fish hatcheries. Stockings in the Community Fishing Program waters will occur randomly Monday through Saturday during the week indicated.

fisheries & hatcheries

Since 1922 the Arizona Game and Fish Department has operated 15 fish hatcheries, six of which are still maintained. Five of these fish hatcheries are used for cold water production and play a major role in providing trout fishing opportunities in Arizona.

Our hatcheries produce seven species of trout for anglers to enjoy: rainbow, brown, brook, tiger, cutthroat, and Arizona’s native Apache and Gila trout.

arizona sport fish species

Discover the sport fish species you can expect to catch in different locations across the state.

fishing events & activities

Learn to fish. Our fishing events and activities are conducted throughout the state in a safe environment by seasoned and passionate fishermen and women. These events are designed to teach fishing skills, aquatic conservation and the fun of fishing to the public and offer instructional and experiential, hands-on activities for all skill levels and interests.

fishing challenges

Whether you’re new to angling or a seasoned pro, the fishing challenges provide opportunities to pursue and catch your “big fish.” Find your challenge, see how to enter, and explore the official rules.

fish consumption advisories

This information has been compiled from a number of qualified health sources, including the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Food and Drug Administration and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.

aquatic invasive species program

Aquatic Invasive Species (AIS) are threatening the public’s angling and boating recreation and our state’s water and electrical infrastructure. It is critical for anyone who owns or uses watercraft, or has a business reliant on watercraft, to understand the essential nature of this aquatic invasive species.

Want to Go Fishing around the State?

Find ways to experience fishing all over the state, including community waters.

buy your fishing license

If you need a fishing license, a combo hunt & fish license, or a short-term license, read about them here.

buy now

find a community lake to fish

There are 50+ community lakes in Arizona. Make a memory fishing with the family!

lake locations

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