Sport Fishing Education Programs
What is the Sport Fishing Education Program? The Arizona Game and Fish Department has a statewide Sport Fishing Education Program which teaches introductory fishing skills to people of all ages. Fishing clinics are led by Department Sport Fishing Education staff and program-certified instructors. All educational materials, rods and reels, bait and terminal tackle are provided at no charge. Topics of instruction include: where and when to fish; selecting tackle and bait; casting and rigging techniques; fishing safety and ethics; care of your catch and much more.
This statewide program is designed to take advantage of the many fishable waters available in both rural and urban areas of the state. Our programs are conducted in a safe, open learning environment and are especially designed for the beginning angler. From urban lakes, to our largest reservoirs, to White Mountain streams, our program strives to provide a quality educational experience.
Open to the Public Fishing Programs
The Arizona Game and Fish Department conducts “Open to the Public” fishing program for the general public. Individuals, families or groups are welcome to attend our “Open to the Public” fishing events conducted throughout the year.
Schedule of Public Fishing Programs
If you are looking for a list of currently scheduled, “Open to the Public” fishing programs, conducted by the Department, please view the Current Schedule of Public Fishing Programs. The Arizona Game and Fish Department updates this list regularly, so if you don’t find a fishing program in your area or one that fits your needs, please check back in a week or so. You can also view the FishAZ Blog for a list of upcoming ‘Open to the Public’ fishing events.
Become a Fishing Volunteer
The Department is looking for qualified individuals who want to volunteer with the Sport Fishing Education Program. You don’t have to be an expert angler to help others learn basic fishing skills. Be an active participant in Arizona’s fishing legacy.
- Volunteer opportunities – Certified angler instructor program
Rod Loaner Program
The Department has fishing equipment available for loan to the public. Loaner sites include the Department’s Phoenix headquarters office and six regional offices. Up to 50 rods and reels with tackle are available to borrow for up to a week and reservations must be made 3 weeks in advance.
Schedule a Fishing Program for Your School
The school group fishing program is offered during the school year, for grades 3-12, and is composed of two parts: classroom instruction and field instruction. Classroom and field instructions are held on separate days. The classroom instruction is a one-hour presentation conducted at the school. The presentation covers topics such as native and sport fish of Arizona, fish biology and habitat requirements, basic fishing techniques, and much more. Educational handouts are available for all participants. The field instruction is a three- to four-hour, hands-on fishing event at an urban lake or nearby body of water of your choice. The Department provides all fishing equipment and all fishing license requirements are waived between the clinic hours.
School Group Application
This application is for all school groups that want to participate in both classroom instruction and field instruction.
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