Fishing Rules & Regulations
A valid fishing or combination license is required for resident and nonresident anglers 10 years of age or older fishing any public accessible water in Arizona. Youth under the age of 10 and blind residents do not need to purchase a state fishing license to fish in Arizona.
Arizona’s fish and wildlife belong to all of us, so when someone takes an over-limit, it’s like taking fish off your stringer and putting it on theirs. Bag and possession limits are designed to give everyone an equal chance and protect the fishery. If you see someone breaking the law, call Operation Game Thief toll free (800) 352-0700 immediately, 24-hours a day.
- 2023-2024 AZ Fishing Regulations
A valid fishing or combination license is required for resident and nonresident anglers 10 years of age or older fishing any public accessible water in Arizona. Youth under the age of 10 and blind residents do not need to purchase a state fishing license to fish in Arizona. - 2021 Community Fishing Program Guidebook
Community Fishing is a cooperative program between the Arizona Game and Fish Department and the cities of Chandler, Gilbert, Mesa, Payson,Peoria, Phoenix, Sahuarita, Scottsdale, Surprise, Tempe and Tucson.
- 2021-25 Amphibian and Reptile Regulations
A valid fishing license is required for taking any aquatic wildlife, including amphibians or soft-shelled turtles, from public waters. See A.R.S. 17-331. A valid hunting license is required for taking reptiles other than soft-shelled turtles. See A.R.S. 17-331.
- Arizona’s Lifetime License Program
Arizona’s lifetime general hunting and fishing license program is a unique opportunity for resident sportsmen and sportswomen to participate in the long-term funding of Arizona’s Wildlife Conservation programs.
- Application for Pioneer License
A pioneer seventy years of age or older who has been a resident of this state for twenty-five or more consecutive years is eligible for this complimentary license valid for a lifetime without renewal.