Moving Fish Illegally? That’s a Reel Bad Idea
Moving fish from one water body to another might seem harmless, but in Arizona it is illegal and can cause serious damage. Unauthorized fish stocking threatens native and sport fish populations, spreads disease and invasive species, and costs millions in removal efforts that take resources away from improving fishing opportunities. Know the law and help protect Arizona’s waters by reporting illegal activity.
It’s Illegal
It is illegal to release live fish or other live baitfish into any Arizona waters, and it is illegal to move fish from one water body to another water body (A.R.S. 17-306; A.R.S. 17-309; R12-4-314; R12-4-402). Anyone caught doing so is subject to the appropriate legal consequences, which may include criminal citations and associated fines, civil assessment, and the loss of hunting and fishing privileges.
It Harms Your Fisheries
The biological consequences of illegal fish introductions can be severe. Illegally introduced fish can harm existing sport fish and native fish populations by preying on them, competing for resources, altering their reproductive activity or introducing disease, parasites or aquatic invasive species into the populations. This can reduce native or sport fish numbers or eliminate their populations entirely.
It May Result in Removal Efforts
Responding to illegal fish introductions is expensive. States within the Colorado River Basin have spent more than $100 million to respond to illegal fish introductions. This averages $2 million annually. This is money that states would much rather spend on stocking sport fish or activities to enhance fishing opportunities.
When fish are illegally stocked, agencies may be forced to implement costly removal or suppression efforts, such as mechanical removal, chemical treatments or intensive monitoring. These actions divert limited resources away from fisheries programs, such as stocking, and can reduce angling opportunities while removals are underway.
How Can You Help?
Take action to protect your waters! Moving fish from one body of water to another can have severe legal, biological and economic consequences to your favorite waters. If you see anyone illegally stocking or moving fish, report it to Operation Game Thief at 800-352-0700.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I move live baitfish purchased from a license dealer?
Yes, live baitfish purchased at a licensed dealer may be moved to water bodies approved for that species of live baitfish. Dispose of all unwanted baitfish by burying them on land far from the water. For specific live baitfish restrictions, see the Arizona Game and Fish Department fishing regulations.
Can I move live baitfish I caught at the lake to a nearby lake to continue fishing with them?
No, any live baitfish captured on-site must be used at the body of capture. It is illegal to move live baitfish captured on-site to another water body.
Can I release a pet aquarium fish, such as a goldfish, into a nearby lake or pond if I no longer want to keep it?
No, pet aquarium fish, including goldfish, should never be released into lakes, ponds or streams. Releasing aquarium fish is illegal and can harm native fish, sport fish and aquatic habitats by spreading disease, competing for food and space, and disrupting ecosystems. If you can no longer keep a pet fish, rehome it or return it to a pet store.
Can I move fish from one lake or water body to another, even if the same species are present at both water bodies?
No, moving fish from one lake or water body to another is illegal. Even if the fish species are present in both water bodies, transferring them can spread disease, parasites and invasive species and can harm existing fish populations. Fish stocking and transfers are carefully regulated and conducted only under approved permits to protect aquatic ecosystems and recreational fisheries.
If a fish appears trapped in water that is drying up, can I move it to a different location with water that isn’t about to dry up?
No, it is illegal to move fish to another waterbody. Moving fish can spread diseases, parasites, and invasive species, and it can also harm the fish or disrupt the ecosystem where they are released. If you see fish stranded in drying water, report it so agency biologists can evaluate the situation.