Arizona Fishing Season and Limits for 2025–2026 by Month – Species, Licenses & Hotspots
You’re going to be pleasantly surprised if you assumed Arizona was just a place of cacti and desert sunsets. From expansive desert lakes brimming with bass and catfish to high-elevation trout streams nestled in ponderosa pine woods, Grand Canyon State provides some of the most varied freshwater fishing experiences in the Southwest. There is something for everyone in Arizona’s fishing scene, regardless of your level of experience.
The finest aspect? Arizona is one of the few northern states that doesn’t close for the winter. Although certain species have peak seasons and special requirements to safeguard spawning populations, most waterways are nonetheless fishable throughout the year. This book will cover all you need to know about fishing seasons, creel restrictions, licensing requirements, and the best places to cast your line in 2025–2026, from the fabled largemouth bass of Lake Pleasant to the rainbow trout of the White Mountains.
The desert lakes are calling your name, and the fish are waiting, so let’s go in.
📅 Quick Reference Table: Arizona Fishing Seasons by Species
| Species | Season | Daily Bag Limit | Special Regulations |
|---|---|---|---|
| Largemouth Bass | Year-round | 6 fish | None statewide |
| Smallmouth Bass | Year-round | 6 fish | None statewide |
| Rainbow Trout | Year-round | 4 fish | Check urban lake limits |
| Apache Trout | Year-round | 2 fish | Artificial lures only in some waters |
| Channel Catfish | Year-round | 10 fish | None statewide |
| Flathead Catfish | Year-round | 10 fish | None statewide |
| Crappie (Black/White) | Year-round | 20 fish | Combined limit |
| Bluegill/Sunfish | Year-round | 20 fish | Combined panfish limit |
| Yellow Perch | Year-round | 20 fish | None statewide |
| Northern Pike | Year-round | 1 fish | 30-inch minimum on some waters |
| Striped Bass | Year-round | 10 fish (varies by lake) | Lake-specific regulations apply |
Note: Always verify current regulations with Arizona Game & Fish Department before your trip, as some waters have unique slot limits or catch-and-release zones.
🐟 Popular Sport Fish in Arizona
Largemouth & Smallmouth Bass
Bass fishing is Arizona’s bread and butter. These aggressive predators thrive in the state’s warm-water reservoirs, and you can target them 365 days a year. Lake Pleasant, Saguaro Lake, and Bartlett Lake are legendary for trophy largemouth bass, especially during spring (March–May) when they’re actively feeding before spawn.
Smallmouth bass prefer cooler, rockier environments. Head to Lake Powell, Roosevelt Lake, or Apache Lake for a shot at bronzebacks. The daily limit is six bass combined (largemouth and smallmouth), with no size restrictions statewide—though catch-and-release is encouraged for big breeding females.
Pro Tip: Early morning and late evening are magic hours. Use topwater lures during summer sunrises for explosive strikes.
Rainbow & Apache Trout
Arizona might surprise you with its trout fishing. High-elevation lakes and streams—particularly in the White Mountains and near Flagstaff—are regularly stocked with rainbow trout from fall through spring. Urban lakes like Encanto Park and Chaparral Park also receive seasonal stockings, perfect for families.
Apache trout, Arizona’s state fish, is a native jewel found in select streams. These beauties are catch-and-release only in some waters, with artificial lures or flies required. Check out the East Fork of the Black River or Bonito Creek for a chance to catch this rare species. Daily limit is two Apache trout where harvest is allowed, four for rainbow trout.
Stocking Schedule: The Arizona Game & Fish Department stocks trout from October through April. Visit their official trout stocking schedule to plan your trip around fresh fish arrivals.
Catfish – Channel & Flathead
Catfish are Arizona’s workhorse species—abundant, easy to catch, and delicious on the dinner table. Channel cats dominate most lakes and rivers, while flathead catfish, the big bruisers, lurk in deeper holes and river channels.
Target catfish year-round, but summer nights are peak time. Use cut bait, chicken liver, or stink bait. The Colorado River, Lake Havasu, and the lower Salt River are catfish factories. Daily limit is 10 fish combined, and there’s no minimum size—making them ideal for beginners and kids.
🦞 Specialty Species Worth the Chase
Striped Bass
Stripers are the heavyweights of Arizona’s reservoir scene. Lake Pleasant, Lake Havasu, and Lake Mead (shared with Nevada) produce massive striped bass, some topping 40 pounds. These fish are migratory, moving with baitfish schools, so electronics and local reports are your best friends.
Daily limits vary by water body—typically 10 fish at Lake Pleasant, but always verify. Spring (April–May) and fall (October–November) offer the best bite as stripers chase shad in shallow coves.
Northern Pike
Pike were illegally introduced decades ago but have become a popular target at a handful of waters, including Stoneman Lake and a few northern reservoirs. These toothy predators require heavy tackle and wire leaders. The limit is one pike per day, with a 30-inch minimum on certain waters to protect the population.
Pike fishing isn’t for everyone, but if you love aggressive strikes and hard-fighting fish, it’s worth the drive.
🐠 Panfish & Everyday Catches
| Species | Season | Daily Limit | Best Waters |
|---|---|---|---|
| Black Crappie | Year-round | 20 (combined) | Roosevelt Lake, Alamo Lake |
| White Crappie | Year-round | 20 (combined) | Lake Pleasant, Bartlett Lake |
| Bluegill | Year-round | 20 (combined panfish) | Urban lakes, Show Low Lake |
| Yellow Perch | Year-round | 20 | Big Lake, Lee Valley Lake |
Panfish are perfect for family outings and teaching kids the ropes. Crappie fishing peaks in spring when they move shallow to spawn. Use small jigs, live minnows, or bobber rigs around brush piles and submerged structures. Bluegill and sunfish are everywhere—cast a worm under a bobber, and you’re in business.
For those interested in similar seasonal patterns, check out our Wisconsin fishing season guide to see how northern waters compare.
🦆 Stocked & Managed Waters
Arizona Game & Fish stocks over 50 public waters annually, focusing on trout, catfish, and occasionally bass. Urban fishing programs bring angling opportunities to city parks, making fishing accessible without a long drive.
Top Stocked Waters:
- Lake Mary (Upper & Lower) – Regular rainbow trout stockings near Flagstaff
- Show Low Lake – Trout, catfish, and pike
- Goldwater Lake – Family-friendly trout fishing in Prescott
- Urban Lakes (Phoenix Metro) – Encanto, Chaparral, and Desert West parks receive seasonal stockings
Check the Arizona Game & Fish stocking reports before heading out. Freshly stocked fish bite aggressively for the first few days.
🌍 Public vs Private Waters
Arizona boasts thousands of miles of streams and over 60 major lakes, most of which are public. Reservoirs managed by federal agencies (Bureau of Reclamation) or state parks are open to all licensed anglers. National Forest streams are also fair game.
Private ponds and ranch waters exist but require landowner permission. Trespassing is taken seriously in Arizona—always confirm access before fishing unfamiliar waters. The Arizona Game & Fish website offers an interactive map showing public fishing areas.
Pro Tip: Some tribal lands (Navajo Nation, White Mountain Apache) offer world-class fishing but require separate tribal permits. Research ahead if you’re planning to fish reservation waters.
🎟️ Arizona Fishing License Guide
Resident Licenses
- Annual Fishing License: $37
- Combo Hunt & Fish: $57
- Youth (10–17 years): $17
- Senior (70+): $17 (discounted combo also available)
- 5-Day Short-Term License: $55
Non-Resident Licenses
- Annual Fishing License: $55
- 5-Day Short-Term License: $55
- 1-Day License: $18
Specialty Stamps & Permits
- Urban Fishing License: $22 (valid only at designated urban waters)
- Second Rod Stamp: $15 (allows use of two rods simultaneously)
Where to Buy: Licenses are available online through the Arizona Game & Fish Department portal, at sporting goods stores (Walmart, Bass Pro Shops, Cabela’s), or at authorized vendors statewide.
Important: Children under 10 fish free but must be accompanied by a licensed adult. Anglers 10 and older need their own license.
❓ FAQ: Arizona Fishing Regulations
Q: Do kids need a fishing license in Arizona?
A: Kids under 10 fish free with a licensed adult. Ages 10–17 need a youth license ($17).
Q: Can I use live bait in Arizona?
A: Yes, live bait is legal statewide except in designated “artificial lure only” waters. Check specific water body regulations before using live minnows or worms.
Q: Are there catch-and-release-only waters?
A: Yes, certain Apache trout streams and some urban ponds have catch-and-release rules. Always check the Arizona Fishing Regulations booklet for water-specific rules.
Q: Is night fishing allowed?
A: Yes, night fishing is permitted on most Arizona waters. It’s especially productive for catfish and striped bass during hot summer months.
Q: Can I bowfish in Arizona?
A: Yes, bowfishing is legal for carp, tilapia, and other non-game fish. Game fish (bass, trout, etc.) cannot be taken by bow. A valid fishing license is required.
Q: How do I report a trophy catch?
A: Submit your catch to the Arizona State Record Fish program through the Game & Fish website. Photos, weight, and witness verification may be required.
Q: What’s the best time of year to fish Arizona?
A: Spring (March–May) and fall (September–November) offer the best all-around conditions. Summer fishing is productive early morning and evening; winter is prime for trout in high-elevation lakes.
🔗 Related Fishing Guides
Explore more seasonal fishing opportunities across the country:
- Florida Fishing Season Guide – Discover saltwater and freshwater angling in the Sunshine State
- Pennsylvania Fishing Season Guide – Dive into East Coast trout streams and bass lakes
🗺️ Top Arizona Fishing Hotspots for 2025–2026
- Lake Pleasant – Premier bass and striper fishing just north of Phoenix. Huge reservoir with endless coves and drop-offs.
- Saguaro Lake – Scenic desert lake with excellent bass, catfish, and crappie. Great for kayak anglers.
- Roosevelt Lake – Arizona’s largest lake, famous for trophy bass and abundant crappie. Multiple access points and marinas.
- Lake Powell – World-class striped bass, smallmouth bass, and walleye. Stunning canyon scenery and houseboat-friendly.
- Colorado River (Below Davis Dam) – Year-round trout fishery with stocked rainbows. A desert anomaly and a must-fish destination.
Interactive Maps: Use the Arizona Game & Fish interactive map to explore fishing access points, boat ramps, and species by location.
✅ Final Cast: Get Out There and Fish Arizona
Arizona’s fishing calendar is as diverse as its landscapes. From chasing trophy stripers under a blazing desert sun to fly fishing for native Apache trout in cool mountain streams, the opportunities are endless—and available year-round. Grab your license, check the daily bag limits, and respect the regulations that keep these waters thriving for future generations.
Whether you’re a local looking for a weekend escape or a visitor hoping to wet a line between hikes, Arizona delivers. Pack your tackle box, slather on the sunscreen, and remember: the best fishing story is the one you’re about to make.
Tight lines, and we’ll see you on the water! 🎣