2017and2018 Fish Regs

ARIZONA GAME AND FISH DEPARTMENT
2017 & 2018 Fishing Regulations

AdPages2017.indd 2 11/29/2016 12:39:11 PM
AdPages2017.indd 3 11/29/2016 12:39:36 PM
Table of Contents
Getting Started
License Information............................................................3
Douglas A. Ducey Governor
License Fees.........................................................................3
ARIZONA GAME AND FISH COMMISSION Regulation Changes............................................................4
EDWARD PAT MADDEN, Chair Flagstaff How to Use This Booklet....................................................5
JAMES R. AMMONS Yuma
JAMES S. ZIELER St. Johns General Statewide Fishing Regulations
ERIC S. SPARKS Tucson
KURT R. DAVIS Phoenix Bag and Possession Limits.................................................6
Statewide Fishing Regulations...........................................7
5000 W. Carefree Highway Common Violations............................................................8
Phoenix, Arizona 85086 Live Baitfish and Waterdogs............................................ 10
(602) 942-3000
www.azgfd.gov Special Regulations and Seasons: Commission Order 40
LARRY D. VOYLES Director White Mountains............................................................... 12
TY E. GRAY Deputy Director North Central..................................................................... 14
REGIONAL OFFICES Mogollon Rim.................................................................... 16
Region I Colorado River Northwest............................................... 18
2878 E. White Mountain Blvd., Pinetop 85935 Colorado River Southwest...............................................20
(928) 532-3680
Region II Central................................................................................22
3500 S. Lake Mary Road, Flagstaff 86005 Southeast............................................................................24
(928) 774-5045
Region III Special Regulations and Seasons by Species
5325 N. Stockton Hill Road, Kingman 86409
(928) 692-7700 Trout....................................................................................26
Region IV Bass.....................................................................................28
9140 E. 28th St., Yuma 85365
(928) 342-0091 Catfish.................................................................................30
Region V Crappie............................................................................... 31
555 N. Greasewood Road, Tucson 85745 Additional Species.............................................................32
(520) 628-5376
Region VI
7200 E. University Drive, Mesa 85207
Fishing Tips and Resources
(480) 981-9400 Basic Fishing Setups..........................................................34
Sport Fishing Education Program...................................36
MISSION STATEMENT Operation Game Thief......................................................37
To conserve Arizonas diverse wildlife resources and manage Aquatic Invasive Species..................................................38
for safe, compatible outdoor recreation opportunities for Boating Information..........................................................39
current and future generations.
Arizona State Fish Records..............................................40
The Arizona Game and Fish Department prohibits discrimination on the basis of race,
color, sex, national origin, age, religion, or disability in its programs and activities. If
Arizona Fish Entry Form...................................................42
anyone believes that they have been discriminated against in any of the AZGFDs Fish Weighing Scales........................................................43
programs or activities, including its employment practices, the individual may file a
complaint alleging discrimination directly with the Directors Office, 5000 W. Carefree
Fish Consumption Advisories..........................................45
Highway, Phoenix, AZ 85086-5000, 602-942-3000, or with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Angler Access.....................................................................46
Service, Attn: Civil Rights Coordinator for Public Access, 5275 Leesburg Pike, MS:WSFR,
Falls Church, VA 22041-3803. Persons with a disability may request a reasonable
Commission Orders 41, 42, 43........................................48
accommodation or this document in an alternative format by contacting the Directors
Office as listed above. Arizona Revised Statutes and Commission Rules
This publication is partially paid for through the sale of advertising. The Arizona Title 17 (ARS) Game and Fish Laws................................50
Game and Fish Department neither endorses products or services listed nor ac-
cepts any liability from the use of listed products or services. Commission Rules.............................................................53
Cover photo by George Andrejko Index
Special Regulation Waters Index..................................... 61
General Index....................................................................62
2 Arizona Game and Fish Department www.azgfd.gov
Fishing License Fees
Getting Started
Licenses available at all license dealers, Department offices and online
More information about the new licenses can be found under Commission Rules R12-4-207, R12-4-209 and R12-4-210.
All fishing and combo hunt/fish licenses listed are valid for the take of all aquatic wildlife, which includes legal fish species, crayfish, frogs, waterdogs and
softshell turtles.
LICENSES PRIVILEGES RESIDENT NON-RESIDENT
Allows the take of all fish species statewide, including at Community
General Fishing1,2,3 $37 $55
Fishing waters.
Allows take of all fish species statewide (including at Community
Combination Hunt
Fishing waters), small game, fur-bearing animals, predatory animals, $57 $160
and Fish1,2,3
nongame animals, and upland game birds.
Youth Combination Allows take of all fish species statewide (including at Community
Hunt and Fish1,2,3 Fishing waters), small game, fur-bearing animals, predatory animals, $5 $5
(ages 1017) nongame animals, migratory birds and upland game birds.
Allows take of all fish species statewide (including at Community
Short-term Combination
Fishing waters), small game, fur-bearing animals, predatory animals, $15/day $20/day
Hunt and Fish 2,3,4
nongame animals, and upland game birds.
Community Fishing1,2 Allows take of all fish species at Community Fishing waters $24 $24
Notes:
1. Licenses are valid one year from date of purchase. or Nevada. In other words, privileges granted by the old (pre-2014) Colorado River
2. All licenses that allow fishing are valid for the take of trout and for simultaneous Stamps for California and for Nevada are now included.
fishing with two poles or lines. 4. A Short-term Combo license may be purchased for any day. Purchaser selects date(s)
3. These licenses also include privileges that allow fishing from the shore or from a boat of validity at time of purchase. If purchased for multiple days, the days need not be
on any portion of the Colorado River and impounded waters (e.g., Lake Mead, Lake consecutive.
Mohave, Lake Havasu) that form mutual boundaries between Arizona and California,
License Information
License Requirements on open and closed areas, methods of take, and Fish offices. Fee schedules vary by license
A valid fishing or combination license is seasons, and bag and possession limits. See type and age. For more information, visit www.
required for resident and non-resident page 48. azgfd.gov and type lifetime license in the search
anglers 10 years of age or older fishing any Arizona Fishing Licenses box. (Note: Lifetime licenses purchased prior to
public accessible water in Arizona. 2014 will now include the expanded privileges of
Are Not Required When their respective counterpart.)
Youth under the age of 10 and blind residents Fishing any public water on free fishing day,
do not need to purchase a state fishing license which usually takes place on the first Saturday Complimentary Licenses
to fish in Arizona. of National Fishing and Boating week. The Must meet criteria below to qualify for free
Licenses are valid one year from date of pur- next two years dates for free fishing day are: license. These licenses include the same privileges
chase. No license is transferable or refundable. June 3, 2017 and June 2, 2018. as the Combination Hunt and Fish. (A hard-plastic
All required licenses must be in possession Registered and participating in a Department permanent card may be purchased for $4. Cards
while engaging in fishing. sponsored fishing clinic. are mailed within 30 days of purchase.)
A member or spouse of a member of the Fishing private waters, tanks, or ponds with per- PIONEER Person must be 70 years of age
armed forces of the United States who is on mission of the property owner. (see R12-4-311) or older who has been a domiciled Arizona
active duty and stationed in this state for either resident for 25 or more consecutive years
permanent or temporary duty, or is a member
Where to Buy Licenses immediately preceding application for the
or spouse of a member of the armed forces and Stamps license.
of the United States on active duty stationed 250 license dealers statewide, including many DISABLED VETERAN A veteran of the armed
in another state or country but who lists this local sporting goods stores, bait and tackle forces of the United States who has been a
state as their home of record at the time of ap- shops, major retailers, and convenience stores. domiciled Arizona resident for one year or
plying for a license, permit, tag, or stamp, may Arizona Game and Fish Department offices. more immediately preceding application for
purchase a resident license. the license and who is receiving compensa-
Online at www.azgfd.gov, immediate print out
tion from the United States government for
A valid fishing or combination license is required of license.
permanent service connected disabilities rated
for take of frogs, waterdogs, crayfish and softshell
turtles. See Commission Orders 41 (Amphibians), Lifetime Licenses as 100 percent disabling.
42 (Crustaceans and Mollusks) and 43 (Reptiles) Lifetime license options are available only to
Arizona residents and must be purchased at Game
2017 & 2018 Arizona Fishing Regulations 3
Regulation Changes
Note: All regulation changes take effect Jan. 1, 2017. Check General and Special regulation sections for changes
highlighted as NEW or as REVISED.
Reduce the daily bag limits to 2 bass, minimum size 13 inches; and 4 catfish in any combination at Whitehorse Lake. pages 1415
Change the season and daily bag limit from Glen Canyon Dam to the Paria Riffle to 2 rainbow trout; artificial fly and lure only; barbless
hooks only. pages 1819
Reduce the daily trout bag limit to 5 at the Colorado River from Lake Mead to California-Nevada boundary (including Lake Mohave and
Willow Beach). pages 1819
Close the Kino Environmental Restoration Project (KERP) to fishing. Kino Environmental Restoration Project in Tucson (Pima County). page 24
Change the daily trout bag limit to 2, any species combination at Frye Mesa Reservoir. pages 2425
Allow the use of fathead minnows caught on site to be used as bait at Riggs Flat Lake. page 10
Create a year-round bow-and-arrow season for catfish at Apache, Canyon and Saguaro lakes, with a special regulation daily bag limit of 5
catfish in any combination. pages 2223
Catch and release regulations for largemouth bass at Pena Blanca Lake and Dankworth Pond have expired. pages 2425
Fish AZ: Your License Dollars at Work

For more
information
about everything
fishing, visit
www.fishaz.org or
www.azgfd.gov.

Getting Started
How To Use This Booklet
This booklet contains the information you need to legally fish in Ari- of interest. Note: for information about Community Fishing
zona. Please consult regulations carefully before fishing. Regulations Program waters pick up the 2017 booklet (and 2018 next year).
differ on many bodies of water, so be sure to follow the steps below
before you go fishing: 4. Locate your fishing area of interest in the Special Regulations
Fish: Commission Order 40 (pages 1225) or Special Regu-
1. Make sure that you have read and are familiar with the informa- lations by Species (pages 2631). Now look to see if the body of
tion on General Statewide Regulations (pages 68) concerning water you will be fishing is listed, then note any Special Regula-
the requirements for licenses, stamps, daily bag and possession tions that apply to any fish species such as daily bag limits, length
limits, gear and bait restrictions, harvest methods and common limits, seasons, method of take, bait and hook restrictions, closed
violations. areas, or other restrictions. You can also refer to the Special Regu-
lation Waters Index on page 61.
2. Review the General Sport Fish Regulations (page 6) for infor-
mation on daily bag and possession limits for each species that 5. If specific references to a body of water, fish species, daily bag lim-
applies to all fishing waters statewide. its, length limits, seasons, method of take, or other restrictions are
not made in the Special Regulations, then General Statewide
3. Consult the statewide map, below, to find your public fishing area
Regulations and General Sport Fishing Seasons apply.
It is the anglers responsibility to know what regulations apply to the body of water they are fishing. New or
revised regulations for 2017 are summarized on page 4.
Indian
Reservation
p.18
p.14
p.16
p.12
Indian
Reservation
p.22
p.20
Indian
Reservation p.24

General Statewide Fishing Regulations
Open Statewide, Jan. 1, 2017, through Dec. 31, 2018
Before you fish any body of water, be certain to review the General Statewide Regulations and the Special Regulations for the area you
intend to fish. Anglers are responsible for knowing what regulations apply to the body of water they are fishing. See www.azgfd.gov for
up-to-date information including any changes.
DAILY BAG LIMITS

The following are the legal fish and general daily bag limits that apply to all fishing waters statewide. These regulations apply statewide
unless site specific Special Regulations (pages 1225) apply to that body of water. Statewide includes all state and federal refuges,
parks and monuments; open areas do not include any area closed to hunting, fishing, or trapping under A.R.S. sections 17-303 and 17-304
or Commission rules R12-4-321, R12-4-801, R12-4-802, and R12-4-803.
LEGAL FISH DAILY BAG LIMITS
Trout (includes rainbow, cutthroat, brown, brook, tiger and Apache trout; 6 Any combination
grayling)
Bass (including largemouth and smallmouth) 6 Any combination
Striped Bass 10
Walleye 6
Northern Pike Unlimited Immediate kill or release
Catfish (including channel and flathead) 10 Any combination
Crappie (white and black) Unlimited
White Amur (grass carp) minimum size 30 inches 1
Roundtail Chub Catch and release only
Sunfishes (includes bluegill, redear sunfish, green sunfish and hybrid Unlimited
sunfish)
All Other Species (except protected native fish): including, but not Unlimited
limited to, white bass, yellow bass, carp, suckers, buffalofish, bullhead,
yellow perch and tilapia
STATEWIDE POSSESSION LIMITS

Statewide possession limits are twice (2x) the daily bag limit for each species, unless a different possession limit is specified by water. Posses-
sion limit means the maximum limit, in number or amount of fish, which may be possessed at one time by any one person.
PROTECTED NATIVE FISH
The following native fish are protected statewide and may not be loach minnow, Mexican stoneroller, Quitobaquito pupfish, razorback
angled for, taken, possessed, pursued or captured: beautiful shiner, sucker, Sonora chub, spikedace, Virgin spinedace, Virgin roundtail
bluehead sucker, bonytail chub, Colorado pikeminnow, desert chub, woundfin, Yaqui catfish, Yaqui chub, Yaqui topminnow, and
pupfish, flannelmouth sucker, Gila topminnow, Gila trout (except Zuni bluehead sucker.
Frye Mesa Reservoir, Goldwater Lake and West Fork of Oak Creek),
If any of these protected native fish are incidentally caught, they must
humpback chub, Little Colorado sucker, Little Colorado spinedace,
be immediately released unharmed. See page 33.

SPECIAL LICENSES AND STAMPS

As of 2014, the following stamps are no longer Nevada are now included in all General Fishing combo hunt/fish licensee to fish in the Utah
available: trout stamp, two-pole stamp, Colo- and Combo Hunt/Fish (youth, adult and portions of Lake Powell. The $8 Utah Lake
rado River stamp California, and Colorado short-term) licenses. These privileges allow Powell stamp is available only from Utah
River stamp Nevada. The privileges of all anglers to fish from a boat on any waters that license dealers. Note: Arizona no longer offers
of these stamps are now bundled together form the mutual boundaries between Arizona or requires the $3 AZ Lake Powell stamp for
and included in the General Fishing license, and California, or Nevada; or when fishing Utah licensed anglers fishing the Arizona por-
Youth Combo Hunt/Fish license, Combo Hunt/ from the California, or Nevada, shorelines of tion of Lake Powell.
Fish license, and Short-term (one day) Combo these waters. In addition to large stretches of
Lost Your License? If you lose or damage
Hunt/Fish license. The two-pole stamp privi- the Colorado River, these fishing privileges
your license, you can get a replacement at any
lege is also included in the Community Fishing include impoundments (e.g., Lake Mead, Lake
license dealer, Department office or online.
license. Mohave, Lake Havasu), and associated back-
You will be required to complete an Affidavit
waters (e.g., Martinez Lake, Mittry Lake).
Colorado River Special Use Privileges for Duplicate License form and pay a $4
Privileges of the old Colorado River Stamp Utah Lake Powell Stamp A Utah Lake Powell replacement fee. You will be issued a duplicate
California, and Colorado River Stamp stamp validates an Arizona resident fishing or license of the same type.
STATEWIDE FISHING REGULATIONS

This synopsis of fishing regulations is pre- Other Fishing Methods have attached water resistant identification
pared for convenience only. The regulations legibly bearing the name, address, and fish-
are valid for 2017 and 2018. For specific Bow and arrow, crossbow, snare, gig,
ing license number of the person using the
laws and regulations relating to fishing, see spear or spear gun, or snagging are valid
device.
Arizona Revised Statute, Title 17 Laws, and methods for taking carp, buffalofish, mullet,
All aquatic wildlife taken incidentally while
Arizona Game and Fish Commission Rules, tilapia, goldfish, and shad statewide unless
capturing live bait with nets or traps must
which can be found at www.azgfd.gov. a closure or Special Regulation restricts it.
be returned immediately and unharmed to
Bow and arrow fishing for catfish (5 catfish
the water after being caught.
Hook and Line Methods daily bag limit, any combination) is valid
All live legal baitfish and live crayfishcaught
All new fishing and combo licenses allow at Apache Lake, Canyon Lake and Saguaro
must be for personal use only and arenot
the angler to fish with two poles or lines Lake.
to be sold or used for commercial purposes.
simultaneously. In no case are more than two Spear and spear gun fishing for striped
bass is valid at Lake Powell, Lake Mead,
Live crayfish may only be used as bait on
lines allowed to be used at the same time.
Lake Mohave (between Hoover Dam and
the same body of water where they were
Angling means the taking of fish by one captured.
line and not to exceed two hooks, by one Cottonwood Landing) and Lake Pleasant.
Daily bag limits vary between locations. See
line and one artificial lure, which may have Daily Bag and Possession Limit
attached more than one hook, or by one Special Regulations for more details.
See R12-4-313D for other legal methods The daily bag limit is the maximum number
line and not to exceed two artificial flies or
of taking aquatic wildlife (bow and arrow, of fish that may be legally caught and
lures.
spear or spear gun, snagging, nets, traps, reduced to possession in one day. Once
Fishing lines must be constantly attended
etc.) for specific fish species. you catch a fish and do not release it, it
and in immediate control.
now counts toward your daily bag limit.
The hook, fly or lure must be used in such Capturing Baitfish and This includes any fish you catch and give
a manner that the fish voluntarily attempts Crayfish for Bait away to someone else. Daily bag limits are
to take it in its mouth. for 24-hour periods (midnight to midnight).
Live baitfish may be used only in areas ap-
For artificial fly and lure waters, check the proved for certain species (see page 10-11). Possession limits are twice the daily bag
Special Regulations to determine if hooks limits unless otherwise noted (including
Live bait may be taken by minnow trap,
must also be single barbless hook only. waters listed under the Special Regulations).
dip net, cast net, pole and line, handline,
A single barbless hook is a fish hook with a crayfish net or seine. No person shall have in their possession
single point, manufactured without barbs (in the field, in camp, in transit, or at
Cast nets shall not exceed a 4-foot radius
on or which barbs have been completely permanent residence) more than two daily
(or an 8-foot diameter).
closed or removed. This does not include a bag limits of any fish species. Fish are in
treble hook. Regulations limiting tackle to Seine nets shall not exceed 10 feet in length
an anglers possession whether on hand,
single barbless hooks do not eliminate the and 4 feet in width.
in cold storage, in transport, at home, or
anglers option for simultaneous fishing as Landing nets or dip nets may be used for
elsewhere under their ownership.
defined. Anglers may use a single line with the capture of legal baitfish or crayfish or
An angler may take daily bag limits of
no more than two single hooks, as with a only to land a legally hooked fish.
several types of fish per day. Daily bag
primary hook and a dropper hook or fly. Any unattended traps or devices used to
limits apply to all Arizona waters fished that
catch or hold aquatic wildlife or fish must
STATEWIDE FISHING REGULATIONS (continued)
day. An angler who has taken and kept a Length Limits 5. Where length limits apply, you must release
bag limit of fish may not continue to fish for unharmed all fish not measuring within the
the same species that day. Additionally, an Most fishing waters in Arizona do not have length legal length limit.
angler who has taken and kept a possession limits. Check the Special Regulation waters
limit of fish (twice the daily bag limit) may (including Designated Community Fishing Pro- Transport and Storage of Fish
not continue to fish on subsequent days, un- gram waters) to determine if length limits apply
to species found in the water you wish to fish. Anglers may transport up to a possession
less the angler has first consumed or given
A minimum length means that a fish shorter limit of any fish species.
away all or a portion of the possession limit.
than a designated length must be returned to It is illegal to transport live fish, including in
Where only catch-and-release fishing is
the water unharmed immediately after being live wells or other containers. All fish must
allowed, fish must immediately be returned
caught. be killed or released before transportation
unharmed to the water after being caught.
from the body of water. This does not apply
Unlicensed children under the age of 10 and How to Measure the Length to some live baitfish that are transported
unlicensed blind residents may take their of a Fish from licensed bait dealers. See page 10 for
own separate daily bag limits as established Live Baitfish Legal Species, Legal Areas
for each species. They also are entitled to 1. Total length is the Pinch Pinch
mouth tail to and Regulations.
the use of two poles. standard. closed point
Fish must be transported in a way that they
2. Place the fish flat can be counted and species of fish can be
Closures to Fishing
on its side with the Total Length identified. All fish must have a piece of skin
Sensitive areas may be permanently closed to jaw closed. attached to the carcass or fillets so species can
fishing. Some areas (streams) being actively be determined. If minimum length limits apply
3. Squeeze the tail fin lobes together to produce
restored for native trout recovery efforts may the maximum total length. to the species, the head, tail and skin must
be temporarily closed to fishing. be intact so fish length and species can be
4. Measure in a straight line from the tip of the
determined.
snout to the extreme tip of the tail.
LICENSE REVOCATION AND CIVIL LIABILITY
License Revocation unlawful posting of state or federal lands

license fraud
You can have your fishing, hunting and trapping
license privileges revoked by the Commission for Such revocations may be recognized by other states that
up to five years or more for a conviction of: are members of the Interstate Wildlife Violator Compact.
unlawful taking or possession of wildlife You may also be civilly liable for the loss of wildlife to
(including fish) the state (see below). (A.R.S. 17-340)
careless use of firearms resulting in human Civil Liability
injury or death
Under state law (A.R.S. 17-314) anyone who is found to
destroying or injuring livestock
have unlawfully wounded or killed, or unlawfully pos-
acts of vandalism or littering while hunting sessed any of the following wildlife may be subject to
or fishing civil action by the Arizona Game and Fish Commission.
unlawful entry into a closed area for purposes The civil damages may reach as much as $8,000 per
of taking wildlife incident. (A.R.S. 17-314)
COMMON VIOLATIONS
Fish or Take Aquatic Wildlife your license every time that you go fishing. Fishing with an Unattended Line
Without a License or With the A Community fishing license is not valid at
Anytime you are fishing your line must be
Wrong License state waters. Community Fishing Program
constantly attended and within your immedi-
guidebooks are available at all Game and Fish
In order to fish or take any aquatic wildlife in offices, license dealers or online at ate control. Before you leave the area, even for
Arizona, you must have a valid fishing license, www.azgfd.gov. (A.R.S. 17-331) a short while, your line must be reeled in and
as applicable, in your possession if you are removed from the water. (A.R.S. 17-301C)
10 years of age or older. You should check

COMMON VIOLATIONS (continued)

Exceed Daily Bag and/or obtain resident fishing licenses and permits. If Paz County or under a live wildlife license
Possession Limit the residency of the applicant is in question, authority, it is unlawful for a person to import,
the following factors will be considered: Does transport or possess live crayfish other than on
Fish may only be taken as prescribed by Com- not claim residency for any purpose in any or at the body of water where caught. (A.R.S.
mission Order for daily bag and/or possession other state or jurisdiction; has been issued an 17-309A1, R12-4-316)
limit. Please consult Commission Orders for Arizona drivers license or an Arizona com-
specifics. After you have caught and kept your mercial drivers license; is employed full-time
daily bag limit, it is illegal to continue to:
Other Violations
in Arizona; files federal and/or state income
taxes as an Arizona resident; votes in Arizona; Refuse to produce a license or fish for
Fish for that same species of fish and prac- inspection upon request of an enforcement
is enrolled in, or has minor children enrolled in
tice catch-and-release; officer.
an Arizona public school without payment of
Fish for that same species of fish with the non-resident tuition. Snag or attempt to snag fish except as al-
intent of replacing any fish in your bag lowed by R12-4-313.
with a better fish this is also known as Unlawful Possession, Attempt to take fish by hand, with or without
culling; Transportation or Release a hook.
Fish for that same species of fish with the of Live Fish
intent of helping another angler get his/ Use a landing net to capture fish, except to
Except for designated baitfish, it is illegal for land a legally-hooked fish. Dip or seine nets
her daily bag limit; or
a person to transport live fish away from the are only legal for the capture of baitfish.
Fish for a species of fish if you already have waters where caught. It is also illegal to release
the possession limit (twice the daily bag Waste game fish by intentionally leaving or
live fish into a body of water if they did not
limit) for that species (e.g., in an ice chest at abandoning any fillets or commonly edible
come from that body of water or without a
camp, or at home in your freezer). (A.R.S. portion of any fish.
proper stocking permit. (A.R.S. 17-306 and 17-
17-309A14 and 15) 309A 1, R12-4-315 and R12-4-316) Offer any recreationally caught fish or
aquatic wildlife for sale or barter, except as
Possess Unlawfully Taken authorized by R12-4-305.P.
Aquatic Wildlife Littering While Taking
Aquatic Wildlife Use electrical devices, explosives, firearms,
Any aquatic wildlife that is unlawfully taken drugs, chemicals or poison that may kill or
may not be legally possessed. Whether or All anglers are responsible for cleaning up injure fish and aquatic wildlife.
not you were involved in the illegal taking of after themselves. All camp and shoreline areas
Use or possess live bait in areas or on
wildlife or fish, you cannot legally possess such should be left clean. Bait containers, wrappers,
waters where fishing is restricted to the use
parts thereof. (A.R.S. 17-309A16) hooks, line and associated debris constitute
of artificial flies and lures only, or where the
litter and should be picked up, packed out,
use of live baitfish is restricted. (page 10-11).
Obtain License or Permit by and properly disposed of. Also, all anglers are
Fraud responsible for the proper care and disposal of It is every anglers responsibility to
their fish carcasses. Shorelines and waterways protect our fishing heritage. You can
Only persons who have been a domiciled resi- must be kept as clean as they were found.
dent (A.R.S. 17-101A17) of Arizona for the six
help ensure responsible and ethical
(A.R.S. 17-309A9)
months immediately preceding the date of ap- fishing by reporting violations imme-
plication, or members or spouse of a member diately to our Operation Game Thief
Unlawful Possession or
of the armed forces of the United States who hotline 1-800-352-0700.
Transportation of Live Crayfish
are on active duty and stationed in this state
for either permanent or temporary duty may Except for Yuma County and a portion of La
Illegal Fish Stocking Its Stealing Your Angling Future!

It is illegal to stock fish or aquatic wildlife ductivity and possibly the existence of your ing fish or aquatic wildlife may be subject to
including crayfish, frogs, waterdogs and fisheries in effect stealing your future! revocation of hunting and fishing privileges
turtles. Illegal fish stocking, and everything If you observe or know of someone stocking and civil assessments to remedy the impacts
else moved along with them, plants, mussels, Arizona waters, report it to Operation Game of their illegal acts possibly costing hun-
viruses, harmful algae, etc., threaten the Thief at 1 (800) 352-0700. Information dreds of thousands of dollars.
quality of our fishing waters. leading to an arrest may be rewarded up to
These introductions jeopardize the pro- $1,000. Anyone found guilty of illegally stock-

Live Baitfish Legal Species, Legal Areas and Regulations
Live baitfish that are legal for use in Arizona include only those
It is illegal
species identified on these two pages. No other fish species
may be used as live bait. To release live baitfish or other live fish into any Arizona
waters.
Live baitfish may be obtained and used only in the legal areas
To use or possess any restricted live baitfish while fishing
identified below.
waters prohibiting use of that baitfish.
No live baitfish may be used or possessed while on any waters To sell live baitfish (or waterdogs) without a Live Baitfish
in Coconino, Apache, Navajo, Pima and Cochise counties. All Dealers License.
other counties have specific baitfish regulations by body of
To keep or harm any game fish or aquatic wildlife inci-
water or area.
dentally taken while capturing live baitfish with seines, dip
Please dispose of all unwanted baitfish by burying them on nets, traps or cast nets.
land far from the water.
Legal Areas Allowing the Use of Live Baitfish

Arizona Live Baitfish License Dealers may offer for sale any of the following: These five baitfish species may also be collected and used alive onsite
fathead minnows (most common), threadfin shad, mosquitofish, golden only in the identified legal areas. It is illegal to transport any of these live
shiner and goldfish. Any legal baitfish obtained from a licensed baitfish dealer baitfish from these waters.
may be transported for use only to the following legal areas.
Legal Areas Allowed

Fathead minnows, threadfin shad and mosquitofish are permitted on all waters of the counties of La Paz, Maricopa Pinal and
Yuma. These baitfish may be used in all waters of Mohave county except the Virgin River. No waters of any other counties are open
except: 1) the mainstream portions of the Gila and Salt rivers, and that portion of the Verde River below the Tuzigoot Bridge, includ-
ing impounded reservoirs, 2) Tonto Creek from Gisela downstream, 3) those portions of Apache, Roosevelt, Pleasant and Horseshoe
lakes lying outside of these counties, and 4) that portion of the San Francisco River in Greenlee County. Notes: Live baitfish may
not be transported to the Verde River upstream form Horseshoe Dam and the Salt River above the Roosevelt Diversion Dam in Gila
County. Threadfin shad are permitted for use if caught and used on site at Patagonia Lake in Santa Cruz County. Fathead Minnows
are permitted for use as live bait only when caught and used on site at Riggs Flat Lake in Graham County.
Fathead minnow Threadfin shad Mosquitofish

(most commonly used)
Legal Areas Allowed

Golden shiner and goldfish are permitted on all waters of the counties
of La Paz and Yuma. No waters of any other counties are open except:
1) Lake Mead, and 2) the Colorado River downstream from Hoover
Dam to the Southern International Boundary with Mexico, including
Golden Shiner Goldfish
impounded reservoirs, and 3) Alamo Lake.
Waterdogs
Legal live baitfish can be obtained from licensed bait dealers and from wild
Waterdogs are NOT considered baitfish, however they have specific capture for personal use only. For regulations on legal capture methods,
regulations governing their use in Arizona. For regulations on live possession and transport of live baitfish, see:
waterdog legal areas, capture, possession, and transportation see R12- Capturing baitfish and crayfish for bait (page 7 of this book)
4-313.C.4 and R12-4-316.A & C.
Lawful methods R12-4-313.A thru E
No live waterdogs or salamanders may be taken, used or possessed Possession of live fish R12-4-315.A & B
in that portion of Santa Cruz County lying east and south of State
Highway 82, or that portion of Cochise County lying west of the San Possession and transportation of live baitfish R12-4-316.A & B
Pedro River and south of State Highway 82 (this includes Parker Seasons for lawfully taking fish R12-4-317.A thru C
Canyon Lake).

Live Baitfish Legal Species, Legal Areas and Regulations

The following live baitfish may be collected and used onsite only in the identified legal areas. It is illegal
to transport any of these live baitfish to or from these waters.
Legal Areas Allowed

Sunfishes are permitted on all waters of the counties of La Paz and Yuma. No waters of any
other counties are open except: 1) the Colorado River south of the Nevada-California boundary
downstream to the Southern International Boundary with Mexico, including impounded reser-
voirs, 2) the Gila, Salt, and Verde rivers, including impounded reservoirs, 3) community waters
Sunfishes (includes bluegill, in Maricopa County, 4) Lake Pleasant, 5) Alamo Lake, and 6) Patagonia Lake. Notes: Live baitfish
redear sunfish, green sun- may not be transported to the Verde River upstream from Horseshoe Dam and the Salt River above
fish, and hybrid sunfish) the Roosevelt Diversion Dam in Gila County.
Legal Areas Allowed

Tilapia are permitted on all waters of Yuma County. No waters of any other counties are open
except: 1) waters in La Paz County located west of Highway 95 and south of Interstate 10, and
2) the Colorado River from the Palo Verde Diversion Dam downstream to the Southern Interna-
tional Boundary with Mexico, including impounded reservoirs.
Tilapia
Legal Areas Allowed

Carp and Goldfish are permitted on all waters of the counties of La Paz and Yuma. No waters
of any other counties are open except: 1) Lake Mead, 2) the Colorado River downstream from
Carp
Hoover Dam to the Southern International Boundary with Mexico, including impounded
reservoirs, 3) the Gila, Salt, and Verde rivers, including impounded reservoirs, 4) community
waters in Maricopa County, 5) Lake Pleasant, and 6) Alamo Lake. Notes: Live baitfish may not
be transported to the Verde River upstream from Horseshoe Dam and the Salt River above the
Roosevelt Diversion Dam in Gila County.
Goldfish
Legal Areas Allowed

Gizzard shad are permitted for use as live bait only from the following areas: 1) the Colorado
River south of Separation Canyon downstream to the Southern International boundary with
Mexico, including impounded reservoirs (e.g., Lake Mead, Lake Mohave and Lake Havasu) and
directly connected backwaters (e.g., Topock Marsh and Mittry Lake), 2) the Gila and Salt Rivers,
Gizzard shad including impounded reservoirs (e.g., Roosevelt Lake and Apache Lake), 3) community waters in
Maricopa County, and 4) Lake Pleasant.
Legal Areas Allowed

Red shiner are permitted on all waters of the counties of La Paz, Maricopa, Pinal and Yuma. These
baitfish may be used in all waters of Mohave County except the Virgin River. No waters of any
other counties are open except: 1) the mainstream portions of the Gila and Salt rivers, and that por-
tion of the Verde River below the Tuzigoot Bridge, including impounded reservoirs, 2) Tonto Creek
from Gisela downstream, 3) those portions of Apache, Roosevelt, Pleasant and Horseshoe Lakes
Red shiner lying outside of these counties, and 4) that portion of the San Francisco River in Greenlee County.

Special Regulations and Seasons Fish: Commission Order 40
The following bodies of water identified under Special Regulations and Seasons (pages 1225) have special fishing seasons (R12-4-317), daily
bag and possession limits, length limits or closures that differ from General Statewide Regulations (pages 69) or Statewide Daily Bag and
Possession Limits (page 6). Only exceptions to General Statewide Regulations and General Sport Fishing Seasons are shown for each area.
White Mountains
Special Regulations include fishing seasons, daily bag and posses- East Fork of the Little Colorado River above Colter Dam: in Apache
sion limits, length limits, bait and hook restrictions, legal methods, County-Catch and release only for trout; trout must be immediately re-
and waters and areas closed to fishing. leased unharmed; no trout may be kept; artificial fly and lure only; single
Notes: barbless hooks only.
West Fork of the Black River From the confluence of Hayground
1. General Statewide Regulations apply to all waters and fish spe- Creek upstream to the Fort Apache Indian Reservation including tributar-
cies within the White Mountains area except as listed below.
ies. Catch-and-release only for trout. Trout must be immediately released
2. For each water listed, the possession limit is two times the daily unharmed; no trout may be kept; artificial fly and lure only; single barb-
bag limit, unless a different possession limit is specified.
less hooks only.
Ackre Lake Catch-and-release only for trout. Trout must be imme- Woodland Lake The limit is 4 trout.
diately released unharmed; no trout may be kept; artificial fly and Waters and Areas Closed to Fishing
lure only; single barbless hooks only.
Region I headquarters in Pinetop Posted boundary.
Becker Lake Catch-and-release only for trout. Trout must be imme- State or federal hatcheries Posted boundaries.
diately released unharmed; no trout may be kept; artificial fly and
Native Trout Recovery Closures
Bear Wallow Creek In Greenlee County
Burro Creek Catch-and-release only for trout. Trout must be imme-
Conklin Creek In Greenlee County
diately released unharmed; no trout may be kept; artificial fly and
Fish Creek Includes tributaries Double Cienega and Corduroy creeks
in Greenlee County (excludes Ackre Lake).
Carnero Lake The limit is 2 trout; artificial fly and lure only. Hayground Creek In Apache County
Coyote Creek Catch-and-release only for trout. Trout must be Lee Valley Creek Above Lee Valley Lake.
immediately released unharmed; no trout may be kept; artificial fly Mineral Creek In Apache County, upstream of the Apache-Sitgreaves
and lure only; single barbless hooks only. National Forests boundary.
Lee Valley Lake The limit is 2 trout (includes any combination of Raspberry Creek In Greenlee County
trout and grayling); artificial fly and lure only. Soldier Creek In Apache County
Mamie Creek Catch-and-release only for trout. Trout must be South Fork Little Colorado River In Apache County
immediately released unharmed; no trout may be kept; artificial fly Stinky Creek In Apache County
and lure only; single barbless hooks only. West Fork of the Black River From the upper Apache trout barrier
mile below Forest Service Road 116, downstream for .3 miles to a point
Nelson Reservoir Unlimited rainbow and brown trout from Sept.
100 yards below the next Apache trout barrier in Apache County.
1 through March 31. Note: from April 1 through Aug. 31 the limit is
6 trout. NOTE: Other seasonal closures may be in effect within some areas due to
bald eagle breeding closures and/or Wildlife Area closures. See page 46
Nutrioso Creek From its confluence with the Little Colorado River
for information on Crescent Lake, Greer Lakes (Tunnel and River), Luna
upstream to Highway 180 in the city of Nutrioso including Nelson
Lake and Show Low Lake.
Reservoir. Unlimited rainbow and brown trout from Sept. 1 through
March 31. Note: from April 1 through Aug. 31 the limit is 6 trout. Live Baitfish Regulations
Patterson Ponds The Community Fishing Program pond limit is 2 No live baitfish may be used or in possession on any waters in this fishing
trout; 2 catfish; 1 bass, minimum size 13 inches; 5 sunfish. area in Navajo or Apache Counties, no exceptions. See pages 1011.
Silver Creek In Navajo County within the boundaries of the Arizona
Game and Fish Commission-owned property, excluding the upper Watercraft and Motor Restrictions
portion designated as state fish hatchery. Catch-and-release only The use of watercraft and motors are restricted on the following waters in
for trout from Oct. 1 through March 31. Trout must be immediately this fishing area:
released unharmed; no trout may be kept; artificial fly and lure only; Single electric motor only: Ackre Lake, Bunch Reservoir, Carnero Lake, Lee
single barbless hooks only. Note: from April 1 through Sept. 30 bait Valley Lake, Scott Reservoir, Tunnel Reservoir, Woodland Lake, Pratt Lake,
and barbed hooks may also be used, and the limit is 6 trout. Hulsey Lake.
Thompson Creek Catch-and-release only for trout. Trout must be 10 horsepower or less: Becker Lake, Big Lake, Concho Lake, Crescent
immediately released unharmed; no trout may be kept; artificial fly Lake, Fool Hollow Lake, Luna Lake, Nelson Reservoir, Rainbow Lake, River
and lure only; single barbless hooks only. Reservoir, Show Low Lake.
For more information and a complete listing, refer to page 39.
Fishing Waters White Mountains

1 Ackre Lake 19 Silver Creek
2 Becker Lake 20 Thompson Creek
3 Big Lake 21 East Fork of the Little
Colorado River
4 Black River
5 Burro Creek
22 West Fork of the Black River Chambers
23 Woodland Lake
6 Carnero Lake Navajo
24 Patterson Ponds (Community Fishing

7 Coyote Creek
Program water) h
8 Crescent Lake
00 Popular General Regulation Fishing Waters
9 Fool Hollow Lake 00 Special Regulation Fishing Waters
W Indian Reservation
10 Greer Lakes (Tunnel,
W National Park, Monument, or
Bunch and River)
Memorial Closed to Hunting
11 Lee Valley Lake
12 Little Colorado River
13 Luna Lake
Snowflake
14 Mamie Creek Heber Taylor Concho 24
15 Nelson Reservoir Clay
Springs
Overgaard
16 Nutrioso Creek 19
21
Pinedale
17 Rainbow Lake 9 Show Low Vernon
18
19
18 Show Low Lake Pinetop-Lakeside
Springerville
17 2
23 6 16
18
23 Eagar
Hon Dah
16
15
McNary
10
Greer
Hawley
Lake
14
12 2121 Nutrioso
13
11 14
58 7
23 3
20
22
24
Alpine
13
4
Hannagan
Meadow
1 Blue
Morenci

North Central
Special Regulations include fishing seasons, daily bag and posses- Oak Creek, West Fork Catch-and-release only for trout. Trout
sion limits, length limits, bait and hook restrictions, legal methods, must be immediately released unharmed; no trout may be
and waters and areas closed to fishing. kept; artificial fly and lure only; single barbless hooks only.
Perkins Tank Catch-and-release only for trout. Trout must be
Notes: immediately released unharmed; no trout may be kept; artificial
1. General Statewide Regulations apply to all waters and fish spe- fly and lure only; single barbless hooks only.
cies within the North Central area except as listed below. Sante Fe Reservoir The limit is 2 bass, minimum size 13
2. For each water listed, the possession limit is two times the daily inches; the limit is 4 channel catfish.
bag limit, unless a different possession limit is specified. Stone Dam Lake The limit is 2 bass minimum size 13 inches;
the limit is 4 catfish.
Beaver Creek (Wet and Dry) Unlimited smallmouth and large- Verde River and its tributaries Downstream from Granite
mouth bass; unlimited channel and flathead catfish. Creek to Horseshoe Dam Unlimited smallmouth and large-
Cataract Lake The limit is 2 bass, minimum size 13 inches; the limit mouth bass; unlimited channel and flathead catfish.
is 4 channel catfish. West Clear Creek Unlimited smallmouth and largemouth
City Reservoir The limit is 2 bass, minimum size 13 inches; the limit bass; unlimited channel and flathead catfish.
is 4 channel catfish; the limit is 5 sunfish. Whitehorse Lake The limit is 2 bass, minimum size 13 inches;
ED
Dead Horse State Park Lagoons The limit is 4 trout; the limit is 2
bass; the limit is 4 catfish; the limit is 10 sunfish.
REVIS the limit is 4 catfish.
Dogtown Lake The limit is 2 bass, minimum size 13 inches; the limit
is 4 channel catfish.
Waters and Areas Closed to Fishing
East Verde River Unlimited smallmouth and largemouth bass; Fossil Creek In Yavapai County; except for the 4.5 mile
unlimited channel and flathead catfish. middle reach portion during open season and open area as
Elk Tank Catch-and-release only for trout. Trout must be immedi- described under Fossil Creek, Middle Reach Special Regula-
ately released unharmed; no trout may be kept; artificial fly and lure tion/Season language opposite column.
only; single barbless hooks only. Gap Creek between Honeymoon Cabin and its confluence
Fain Lake The limit is 4 catfish in any combination. with the Verde River.
Fossil Creek, Middle Reach Seasonally, from the first Saturday in Grapevine Creek in Yavapai County
October through April 30, fishing is allowed between the waterfall Lake Mary, Upper Posted area immediately above the dam.
located approximately 1 mile above the Flume Trailhead parking State or federal hatcheries Posted boundaries.
lot along FS 708 and the downstream-most power line crossing NOTE: Other seasonal closures may be in effect within some
(immediately below Sally May Wash). Catch-and-release only for areas due to bald eagle breeding closures and/or Wildlife Area
roundtail chub and headwater chub. Roundtail chub and headwater closures. See page 46 for information on Lower Lake Mary,
chub must be immediately released unharmed; no chub may be Lynx Lake and Verde River.
kept; artificial fly and lure only; single barbless hooks only.
Live Baitfish Regulations
Francis Short Pond The limit is 4 trout; the limit is 2 bass, mini-
mum size 13 inches; the limit is 4 catfish; the limit is 5 sunfish. No live baitfish may be used or in possession on any waters in
Goldwater Lake The limit is 1 bass, minimum size 13 inches. Coconino County, no exceptions. For waters in other counties
Granite Basin Lake The limit is 4 catfish in any combination. within this fishing area, See pages 1011.
J.D. Dam Lake Catch-and-release only for trout. Trout must be Watercraft and Motor Restrictions
immediately released unharmed; no trout may be kept; artificial fly
and lure only; single barbless hooks only. The use of watercraft and motors are restricted on the following
Kaibab Lake The limit is 2 bass, minimum size 13 inches; the limit waters in this fishing area:
is 4 channel catfish.. Single electric motor only: Dogtown Reservoir, Goldwater Lake,
Lake Mary, Lower The limit is 4 channel catfish. Granite Basin Lake, J.D. Dam Lake, Santa Fe Lake, Whitehorse
Middle Tank Catch-and-release only for trout. Trout must be im- Lake
mediately released unharmed; no trout may be kept; artificial fly and 10 horsepower or less: Ashurst Lake, Cataract Lake, Kaibab
lure only; single barbless hooks only. Lake, Kinnikinick Lake, Lower Lake Mary, Lynx Lake
Oak Creek For more information and a complete listing, please refer to
Unlimited smallmouth and largemouth bass; unlimited channel page 39.
and flathead catfish.
Between Junipine Crossing and Call-of-the-Canyon Crossing
spanning the confluence of Oak Creek, and West Fork Oak Creeks.
Catch-and-release only for trout. Trout must be immediately re-
leased unharmed; no trout may be kept; artificial fly and lure only;
single barbless hooks only.

Fishing Waters North Central

1 Ashurst Lake 8 Elk Tank 16 Kinnikinick Lake 24 Oak Creek, West Fork
2 Beaver Creek, Wet and Dry 9 Fain Lake 17 Lake Mary, Lower 25 Perkins Tank
3 Cataract Lake 10 Fossil Creek 18 Lake Mary, Upper 26 Santa Fe Reservoir
4 City Reservoir 11 Francis Short Pond 19 Long Lake 27 Stone Dam Lake
5 Dead Horse State Park 12 Goldwater Lake 20 Lynx Lake 28 Verde River
Lagoons
13 Granite Basin Lake 21 Middle Tank 29 Watson and Willow lakes
6 Dogtown Lake 14 J.D. Dam Lake 22 Mingus Lake 30 West Clear Creek
7 East Verde River 15 Kaibab Lake 23 Oak Creek 31 Whitehorse Lake
Supai

00 Special Regulation Fishing Waters
Grand
Canyon Desert View W Indian Reservation
Cameron
Gray Mtn.
Valle
Peach
Springs
Yampai
Seligman
15
Williams
Parks Bellemont
27 3 4
3
Ash Fork
26
22 65 11 Winona
25
2 31
30 17
1
821 24 18
14
12 1 Winslow
Paulden 23
20 Munds
Park Mormon
Lake
16
14
Sedona
Camp Clarkdale
4Cottonwood
5
Wood Chino
Valley
Jerome
28
27
Page
Springs Happy Jack
19
17
Cornville
22 2 Lake
Bagdad
13
1 29Prescott Valley McGuireville
Montezuma
9
8 Dewey
Skull
Valley
20
18 Humboldt
Camp
30
25
Kirkland
12
10 Verde
Hillside
Kirkland Jct.
Wilhoit Mayer
10 Strawberry Pine
Cordes Jct.
Peeples
Valley
Yarnell
Crown
King
Bumble
7
6
Bee
Black Canyon
City
Rock Springs
River

Mogollon Rim
Special Regulations include fishing seasons, daily bag and From the Pumphouse downstream. The limit is 6 trout. Un-
possession limits, length limits, bait and hook restrictions, legal limited smallmouth and largemouth bass; unlimited channel
methods, and waters and areas closed to fishing. and flathead catfish.
Notes: Green Valley Park Lakes (Town of Payson)
1. General Statewide Regulations apply to all waters and fish Horton Creek in Gila County Catch and release only for
species within the Mogollon Rim area except as listed below. trout, trout must be immediately released unharmed; no
trout may be kept; artificial fly and lure only; single barbless
2. For each water listed, the possession limit is two times the hooks only.
daily bag limit, unless a different possession limit is specified. Knoll Lake Unlimited rainbow and brown trout from Sept.
1 through March 31. Note: from April 1 through Aug. 31 the
All waters within the city park systems of Payson The limit limit is 6 trout. Unlimited smallmouth and largemouth bass;
is 4 trout; the limit is 4 catfish in any combination. unlimited channel and flathead catfish.
Bear Canyon Lake Unlimited smallmouth and largemouth Long Tom Lake Unlimited smallmouth and largemouth bass;
bass; unlimited channel and flathead catfish. unlimited channel and flathead catfish.
Black Canyon Lake Unlimited smallmouth and largemouth Willow Springs Lake Unlimited smallmouth and largemouth
bass; unlimited channel and flathead catfish. bass; unlimited channel and flathead catfish.
CC Cragin Reservoir (Blue Ridge Reservoir)Unlimited Woods Canyon Lake Unlimited smallmouth and largemouth
rainbow and brown trout from Sept. 1 through March 31. Note: bass; unlimited channel and flathead catfish.
from April 1 through Aug. 31 the limit is 6 trout. Unlimited
smallmouth and largemouth bass; unlimited channel and Waters and Areas Closed to Fishing
flathead catfish.
State or federal hatcheries Posted boundaries.
Canyon Creek
Dude Creek In Gila County.
From the creek source to the O.W. Bridge. The limit is 4 trout.
NOTE: Other seasonal closures may be in effect within some
From the O.W. Bridge to the Fort Apache Indian Reservation. areas due to bald eagle breeding closures and/or Wildlife Area
Catch-and-release only for trout; trout must be immediately closures. See page 46 for information on Tonto Creek and
released unharmed; no trout may be kept; artificial fly and Woods Canyon Lake.
Chevelon Creek Live Baitfish Regulations
From the confluence with Willow Springs Creek to Chevelon No live baitfish may be used or in possession on any waters in
Crossing including Chevelon Canyon Lake. The limit is 2 Navajo or Coconino Counties, no exceptions. For waters in other
trout; artificial fly and lure only. counties within this fishing area, see pages 1011.
From Chevelon Crossing to the Little Colorado River. Unlim- Watercraft and Motor Restrictions
ited rainbow and brown trout from Sept. 1 through March 31.
Note: from April 1 through Aug. 31 the limit is 6 trout. The use of watercraft and motors are restricted on the follow-
ing waters in this fishing area:
Chevelon Canyon Lake The limit is 2 trout; artificial fly and
lure only. Unlimited smallmouth and largemouth bass; unlim- Single electric motor only: Bear Canyon Lake, Green Valley
ited channel and flathead catfish. Lake, Knoll Lake, Woods Canyon Lake
East Clear Creek In Coconino and Navajo counties and its 10 horsepower or less: Black Canyon Lake, C.C. Cragin (Blue
tributaries upstream from the confluence of East Clear Creek Ridge) Lake, Chevelon Canyon Lake, Willow Springs Lake
and Willow Creek including Blue Ridge and Knoll reservoirs.
For more information and a complete listing, please refer to
Unlimited rainbow and brown trout from Sept. 1 through March
page 39.
31. Note: from April 1 through Aug. 31 the limit is 6 trout.
East Verde River
From the creek source to the Pumphouse.Catch-and-release
only for trout; trout must be immediately released unharmed;
no trout may be kept; artificial fly and lure only; single barb-
less hooks only. Unlimited smallmouth and largemouth bass;
unlimited channel and flathead catfish.

Fishing Waters Mogollon Rim

1 Bear Canyon Lake 00 Popular General Regulation Fishing Waters
2 Black Canyon Lake W Indian Reservation
3 CC Cragin Reservoir (Blue Ridge Reservoir) W National Park, Monument, or
4 Canyon Creek
5 Chevelon Creek
6 Chevelon Canyon Lake
7 Christopher Creek
8 East Clear Creek
9 East Verde River
10 Green Valley Park Lakes (Community Fishing)
11 Haigler Creek Winslow
Joseph
12 Horton Creek City
13 Knoll Lake
14 Long Tom Lake
15 Tonto Creek
16 Willow Springs Lake
17 Woods Canyon Lake
8
3
6
Heber
13
1 1 5
Strawberry Pine 12 1 12
14
Forest
Kohls
15
12 Lakes Overgaard
9 Ranch 14
17
13
16 2
Star
Valley 7 4
Christopher
10 Payson Creek 11
Rye Young
Sunflower

Colorado River Northwest
Special Regulations include fishing seasons, daily bag and possession Lake Powell The limit is 20 for smallmouth bass and 5 for largemouth
limits, length limits, bait and hook restrictions, legal methods, and waters bass; unlimited for striped bass; unlimited for walleye; the limit is 10
and areas closed to fishing. crappie. Carp may be taken by spearfishing and bow and arrow during
daylight hours. Striped bass may also be taken by spearfishing during
Notes: daylight hours.
1. General Statewide Regulations apply to all waters and fish species Topock Marsh The limit is 6 bass, minimum size 13 inches; the limit is
within the Colorado River Northwest area except as listed below. 25 crappie.
2. For each water listed, the possession limit is two times the daily bag Virgin River Unlimited bass; unlimited catfish.
limit, unless a different possession limit is specified. Waters and Areas Closed to Fishing
Bright Angel Creek Unlimited trout; unlimited striped bass; unlimited Colorado River (those portions listed below)
catfish. Trout taken at Bright Angel Creek shall be killed and retained as Posted areas immediately below Glen Canyon Dam (Lake Powell).
part of the bag limit or immediately released. One-half mile upstream and one-half mile downstream from its con-
Colorado River fluence with the Little Colorado River.
From Glen Canyon Dam to the the Paria riffle (Lees Ferry). The limit Posted areas immediately below Davis Dam (Lake Mohave).
Lake Mead Posted portions and the area immediately above Hoover
V I S E D isonly.
2 rainbow trout per day; artificial fly and lure only; barbless hooks
Dam.
RE Rainbow trout taken from this portion of the Colorado River shall
be killed and retained as part of the bag limit or immediately released; Little Colorado River That portion lying within the Grand Canyon
there is no limit on other sport fish species which includes all species National Park.
of bass (including sunfish and stripers), all species of catfish, all spe- State or federal hatcheries Posted boundaries.
cies of trout other than rainbow trout, and walleye.
From the the Paria riffle to Navajo Bridge, including all tributar- Live Baitfish Regulations
ies. The limit is 6 rainbow trout per day. Rainbow trout taken from No live baitfish may be used or in possession on any waters in Coconino
this portion of the Colorado River shall be killed and retained as part County, no exceptions. For waters in other counties within this fishing
of the bag limit or immediately released; there is no limit on other area, see pages 1011.
sport fish species which includes all species of bass (including sunfish
and stripers), all species of catfish, all species of trout other than Watercraft and Motor Restrictions
rainbow trout, and walleye. The use of watercraft and motors may be restricted on some waters in
From Navajo Bridge to Separation Canyon, including all tributaries this fishing area. For more information, please refer to page 39.
within the Grand Canyon National Park. There is no limit on sport
fish species which includes all species of bass (including sunfish and Colorado River Special Use Privilege
stripers), all species of catfish, all species of trout, and walleye. Starting in 2014, the Colorado River Stamp California, and Colorado
From Separation Canyon to Hoover Dam (including Lake River Stamp Nevada will no longer be available. The privileges of these
Mead). The limit is 5 trout; the limit is 20 striped bass 20 inches in stamps are now bundled together and included in the Arizona General
length or larger; unlimited for striped bass under 20 inches in length; Fishing license and Combo Hunt/Fish licenses (youth, adult and short-
the limit is 15 crappie. term). These licensees may fish from a boat on any waters that form the
From Hoover Dam to Davis Dam (including Lake Mohave and mutual boundaries between Arizona and California, or Nevada; or when
D Willow Beach) the limit is 5 trout in any combination; the limit fishing from the California, or Nevada, shorelines of these waters. (see
E
REVIS is 20 for striped bass 20 inches in length or larger; unlimited for pages 7 and 52)
striped bass under 20 inches in length; striped bass may be taken
by spear or spear gun from that portion of Lake Mohave between Utah Lake Powell Stamp
Hoover Dam and Cottonwood Landing. A Utah Lake Powell stamp validates an Arizona resident fishing or combo
From Davis Dam to the California-Nevada boundary the limit is hunt and fish licensee to fish in the Utah portions of Lake Powell. The
5 trout in any combination; the limit is 6 bass, minimum size 13 $8 Utah Lake Powell stamp is available only from Utah license dealers.
inches. Note: Arizona no longer offers or requires the $3 AZ Lake Powell stamp
for Utah licensed anglers fishing the Arizona portion of Lake Powell.

Fishing Waters Colorado River Northwest

1 Bright Angel Creek 6 Lake Powell 00 Popular General Regulation Fishing Waters
2 Colorado River below Davis Dam 7 Lees Ferry on Colorado River 00 Special Regulation Fishing Waters
3 Lake Havasu (see page 20) 8 Topock Marsh W National Park, Monument, or
4 Lake Mead 9 Virgin River Memorial Closed to Hunting
National Wildlife Refuge
5 Lake Mohave 10 Willow Beach on Colorado River
Colorado City
6
9 Fredonia
Littlefield Kaibab
7 Page
Marble Canyon
Jacob Lake
Supai
Littl
4 Pearce North Rim
e Co
1
Ferry
l or a
do
Temple Grand
Canyon
R
Bar Desert View
iver
Meadview
10
Willow
Beach
Separation
Canyon
Dolan
Springs
Peach
Springs
5 pai
Hackberry
NV Davis Dam
Bullhead City
2
Oatman
CA
Yucca
Golden
8
Shores
Wikieup
Bagdad
Lake
Havasu City
Parker Dam
3
NOTE: For Lake Havasu information, see page 20.

Colorado River Southwest
Special Regulations include fishing seasons, daily bag and Waters and Areas Closed to Fishing
possession limits, length limits, bait and hook restrictions, legal Alamo Lake Posted area immediately above the dam.
methods, and waters and areas closed to fishing.
Cibola Lake From the first Monday in Sept. (Labor Day)
Notes: through March 15.
1. General Statewide Regulations apply to all waters and fish Lake Havasu Posted portions.
species within the Colorado River Southwest area except as
Martinez Lake Posted portions from Oct. 1 through March 1.
listed below.
Mittry Lake Posted portions Nov. 15 through Feb. 15.
2. For each water listed, the possession limit is two times the
daily bag limit, unless a different possession limit is specified. NOTE: Other seasonal closures may be in effect within some areas
due to bald eagle breeding closures and/or Wildlife Area closures.
Colorado River See page 46 for information.
From I-40 bridge to the Southern International Boundary Live Baitfish Regulations
with Mexico including Lake Havasu, Martinez Lake, Mittry
Lake and associated backwaters. The limit is 10 trout; the See pages 1011 for details.
limit is 6 bass, minimum size 13 inches; the limit is 25 sunfish
or crappie in any combination. Watercraft and Motor Restrictions
Growler Pond The limit is 2 bass, minimum size 13 inches. The use of watercraft and motors are restricted on the following
waters in this fishing area:
Quigley Pond The limit is 2 bass, minimum size 13 inches.
Single electric motor only: Fortuna Lake, Quigley Pond,
Canals in Yuma County Catch-and-release only for white
Redondo Lake
amur. White amur must be immediately released unharmed;
no white amur may be kept. Note: White amur are similar to, For more information and a complete listing, please refer to page 39.
and can be mistaken for, common carp. Bow hunters should
use caution and not shoot white amur. Colorado River Special Use Privilege
Designated Community Fishing Program waters Starting in 2014, the Colorado River Stamp California will no
Council Avenue Pond (city of Somerton) longer be available. The privileges of this stamp are now bundled
Fortuna Lake (Yuma area) together and included in the Arizona General Fishing license and
Redondo Lake (Yuma area) Combo Hunt/Fish (youth, adult and short-term) licenses. These
West Wetlands Pond (city of Yuma) licensees may fish from a boat on any waters that form the mutual
boundaries between Arizona and California; or when fishing from
the California shorelines of these waters. In addition to large
stretches of the Colorado River, these fishing privileges include
Lake Havasu and associated backwaters (e.g., Martinez Lake, Mit-
try Lake). (see pages 7)

Fishing Waters Colorado River Southwest

1 Alamo Lake
Golden
2 Colorado River Parker Strip Shores
3 Colorado River Yuma area Topock
4 Council Avenue Pond (Community Fishing)

5 Fortuna Lake (Community Fishing) Lake
Havasu City
6 Growler Pond 7
7 Lake Havasu
8 Martinez Lake
BILL WILLIAMS RIVER
Maria
9 Mittry Lake 1
10 Quigley Pond 2
11 Redondo Lake (Community Fishing)
12 Wellton-Mohawk Irrigation and Drainage Poston
District Canal System Bouse la
13 Yuma County Water Users

Association Canal System
Salome Wenden
14 West Wetlands Pond (Community Fishing) Vicksburg
Quartzsite
Ehrenberg
W Military Range or Proving Ground
National Wildlife Refuge Cibola
8 Martinez
Hyder
Lake
9 Dateland
3 11 Dome Roll
6
5
4 12
14 5 11 Wellton 10Tacna
12
13
Morelos
Dam
4Somerton
Gadsden
San Luis

Central
Special Regulations include fishing seasons, daily bag and posses- East Valley Locations (continued)
sion limits, length limits, bait and hook restrictions, legal methods, Eldorado Park Pond (city of Scottsdale)
and waters and areas closed to fishing. Evelyn Hallman Park Pond (city of Tempe)
Freestone Park Lake (town of Glibert)
Notes: McQueen Park Pond (town of Gilbert)
1. General Statewide Regulations apply to all waters and fish spe- Kiwanis Park Lake (city of Tempe)
cies within the Central area except as listed below. Papago Park Ponds (city of Phoenix)
2. For each water listed, the possession limit is two times the daily Red Mountain Park Lake (city of Mesa)
bag limit, unless a different possession limit is specified. Riverview Park Lake (city of Mesa)
Roadrunner Park Pond (city of Phoenix)
Apache Lake, Canyon Lake, Saguaro Lake The limit is 5 catfish,
ED Tempe Town Lake (city of Tempe)
REVIS
any combination, when taken by bow and arrow (Note: the catfish
Veterans Oasis Park Lake (city of Chandler)
limit is 10, any combination, for all other legal methods).
Water Ranch Park Lake (town of Gilbert)
Bartlett Lake The limit is 15 crappie.
Crystal Gardens Water Treatment Facility (city of Avondale, 17 West Valley Locations
lake complex) Catch-and-release only for all resident fish species. Alvord Lake at Cesar Chavez Park (city of Phoenix)
All fish must be immediately released unharmed; single barbless Bonsall Park Pond (city of Glendale)
hooks only. Note: the city of Avondale requests that anglers use Cortez Park Lake (city of Phoenix)
artificial flies and lures, and not use any prepared baits with the Desert West Park Lake (city of Phoenix)
exception of worms. Encanto Park Lake (city of Phoenix)
Friendship Park (city of Avondale)
Horseshoe Lake Unlimited smallmouth and largemouth bass;
Pioneer Park Lake (city of Peoria)
unlimited channel and flathead catfish.
Rio Vista Park Pond (city of Peoria)
Lake Pleasant Unlimited for striped bass; striped bass may be Steele Indian School Park Pond (city of Phoenix)
taken by spear or spear gun. Surprise Park Lake (city of Surprise)
Maricopa Lake (city of Youngtown) The limit is 4 trout; the limit is
4 bass, minimum size 13 inches; the limit is 4 catfish in any combi- City of Maricopa
nation. Note: Community license not valid. Copper Sky Park Lake
Pacana Park Pond
Roosevelt Lake The limit is 15 crappie.
Salt River (Upper) From Roosevelt Diversion Dam upstream to City of Casa Grande
the boundary junction of the San Carlos and Fort Apache Indian Dave White Regional Park Pond
Reservations. Unlimited smallmouth and largemouth bass; unlim-
ited channel and flathead catfish. Waters and Areas Closed to Fishing
Salt River Project Canal System (135 miles of canals) Agua Fria River Posted areas immediately below Waddell
Catch-and-release only for white amur. White amur must be im- Dam (Lake Pleasant)
mediately released unharmed; no white amur may be kept. Apache Lake Posted areas immediately below Roosevelt
Dam (Roosevelt Lake)
Tempe Town Lake (city of Tempe) The limit is 4 trout; the limit is 2
Canyon Lake Posted areas immediately below Horse Mesa
bass, minimum size 13 inches; the limit is 4 catfish in any combina-
Dam (Apache Lake)
tion; and the limit is 10 sunfish in any combination.
Saguaro Lake Posted areas immediately below Mormon Flat
The Pond at Town Hall (town of Gilbert) Catch-and-release only Dam (Canyon Lake)
for all resident fish species. All fish must be immediately released NOTE: Other seasonal closures may be in effect within some
unharmed; artificial fly and lure only; barbless hooks only. areas due to bald eagle breeding closures and/or Wildlife Area
Water Ranch Lake (town of Gilbert) The limit is 2 trout; the limit is closures (Roosevelt Lake). See page 46 for information on Lake
2 catfish; catch and release only for bass and sunfish; bass and sun- Pleasant, Salt River, Tonto Creek and Verde River.
fish must be immediately released unharmed; no bass or sunfish
may be kept; single barbless hooks only. Live Baitfish Regulations
Managed Community Fishing Program waters See pages 1011 for details.
East Valley Locations Watercraft and Motor Restrictions
Chaparral Park Lake (city of Scottsdale)
The use of watercraft and motors may be restricted on some
Desert Breeze Park Lake (city of Chandler) waters in this fishing area. For more information, please refer
Discovery Park Ponds (town of Gilbert) to page 39.

Fishing Waters Central

1 Apache Lake 7 Roosevelt Lake 14 Water Ranch Lake
2 Bartlett Lake 8 Saguaro Lake 15 West Valley Community Fishing waters
3 Canyon Lake 9 Salt River (lower) 16 East Valley Community Fishing waters
4 Crystal Gardens Water 10 Salt River (upper) 17 City of Maricopa Community Fishing waters
Treatment Facility
11 Salt River Project Canal System 18 City of Casa Grande Community Fishing waters
5 Horseshoe Lake
12 Tempe Town Lake
6 Lake Pleasant
13 Verde River
Skull
Valley
irkla
Hillside
Wilhoit Mayer
Kirkland Jct.
Cordes Jct.
Peeples
Valley Crown
King
Yarnell Bumble
Bee
Congress
Black Canyon Rye Young

City
Rock Springs
Wickenburg
Aguila
5
New
River
Morristown
6 Sunflower
Punkin Center
Cave Creek
n
Carefree
2
Wittman
13
Beardsley
Sun City
Roosevelt 7
Surprise
El Mirage
West
Sun City
Ft. McDowell
Fountain 10
Paradise Hills
3 1
9 8
Youngtown Peoria Valley
Tonopah
Litchfield Park
15
14
Glendale
11
Scottsdale Tortilla
4 Tolleson Flat
Wintersburg Goodyear 12
Tempe Mesa Apache
Claypool
Buckeye Avondale
16
15
Gilbert
Jct Miami
Arlington Chandler
14 Higley
Superior
Sun Lakes Queen Florence

Creek Jct
Chandler
Heights
Kelvin
Mobile 17
16Maricopa Sacaton
Kearney
Hyder Ak-Chin
Hayden
Coolidge Winkelman
Sentinel Stanfield
18
Casa Grande
udleyvill
Gila Bend
Eleven
Mile
Corner
oy
Arizona
City ho

W Military Range or Proving Ground
National Wildlife Refuge

Southeast
Special Regulations include fishing seasons, daily bag and posses- Waters and Areas Closed to Fishing
sion limits, length limits, bait and hook restrictions, legal methods,
and waters and areas closed to fishing. Archer Lake at Christopher Columbus Park in Pima County
Aravaipa Creek in Pinal and Graham Counties
Notes:
Ash Creek and Marijilda Creek and their tributaries in Graham
1. General Statewide Regulations apply to all waters and fish
County (Gila Trout recovery)
species within the Southeast area except as listed below.
Bog Hole Wildlife Area Posted portions
2. For each water listed, the possession limit is two times the
daily bag limit, unless a different possession limit is specified. Bonita Creek in Graham County
Cienega Creek Posted portions in Pima County
Arivaca Lake Catch-and-release only for largemouth bass. Bass
must be immediately released unharmed. Kino Environmental Restoration Project in Pima County
Cluff Ranch Pond 3 The limit is 4 catfish in any combination. Lower Sabino Canyon From the confluence of the East and
West forks of Sabino Creek, downstream to the U.S. Forest Service
D Dankworth Lake The limit is 4 catfish in any combination.
E
REVIS
boundary in Pima County
Frye Creek Catch and release only for trout; trout must be
ODonnell Canyon in Santa Cruz County
immediately released unharmed; no trout may be kept; artificial
fly and lure only; single barbless hooks only from October 1 Sycamore Creek in Santa Cruz County
to March 31. Note: between April 1 and Sept. 30, Frye Creek is
West Turkey Creek in Cochise County
closed to fishing.
ED Frye Mesa Reservoir The limit is 2 trout, any combination. Live Baitfish Regulations
REVIS Grant Creek Catch and release only for trout, trout must be im- No live baitfish may be used or in possession on any waters in Pima or
mediately released unharmed; no trout may be kept; artificial fly Cochise Counties, no exceptions. For waters in other counties within
and lure only; single barbless hooks only. this fishing area, see pages 1011.
Parker Canyon Lake Daily bag limits have been reduced to 4
channel catfish.
Waterdog Prohibitions
No live waterdogs or salamanders may be taken, used or possessed
D Pena Blanca LakeThe limit is 4 bass, minimum size 13 inches, the
REVISE limit is 4 catfish in any combination.
in that portion of Santa Cruz County lying east and south of State
Highway 82, or that portion of Cochise County lying west of the San
Roper Lake The limit is 4 catfish in any combination. Pedro River and south of State Highway 82 (this includes Parker
Canyon Lake). See R12-4-313.C.4 and R12-4-316.A & C.
All waters, not in the Community Fishing Program, but within
the city park systems of Tucson The limit is 4 trout; the limit is
4 catfish in any combination.
Watercraft and Motor Restrictions
The use of watercraft and motors are restricted on the following
Managed Community Fishing Program waters
waters in this fishing area:
Kennedy Park Lake (city of Tucson)
Single electric motor only: Cluff Ranch Ponds, Dankworth Lake, Riggs
Lakeside Lake at Chuck Ford-Lakeside Park (city of Tucson) Flat Lake, Roper Lake
Sahuarita Lake (town of Sahuarita) 10 horsepower or less: Arivaca Lake, Parker Canyon Lake, Pena
Blanca Lake
Silverbell Lake at Christopher Columbus Park (city of Tucson)
No watercraft allowed on: Frye Mesa Reservoir, Rose Canyon Lake
For more information and a complete listing, please refer to page 39.

Fishing Waters Southeast

1 Arivaca Lake 6 Parker Canyon Lake 11 Rose Canyon Lake
2 Cluff Ranch Ponds 1 and 3 7 Patagonia Lake 12 Tucson Community Fishing Lakes
3 Dankworth Lake 8 Pena Blanca Lake Kennedy Park Lake
Lakeside Lake at Chuck Ford-Lakeside Park
4 Frye Creek/ Frye Mesa 9 Roper Lake
Silverbell Lake at Christopher Columbus Park
Reservoir
10 Riggs Flat Lake 13 Sahuarita Lake (Community Fishing Lake)
5 Grant Creek
00 Popular General Regulation Fishing Waters W Military Range or Proving Ground

00 Special Regulation Fishing Waters National Wildlife Refuge
Miami San Carlos
Superior
Peridot
Florence
Jct
Coolidge Dam
B
Olberg
acaton s Geronimo
Kearny Morenci
Hayden Fort Thomas
C Winkelman
Casa Gran Pima

La Palma
Eleven
Mile
Corner Klondyke
2Thatcher
Eloy
9
8
94
Arizona
Picacho Mammoth Duncan
City
10 3
Oracle
Fort Grant 5
Red Rock Oracle Jct. San
Manuel Bonita
Marana Summerhaven Redington
Oro
am Valley 11
ta Rosa
Bowie San Simon
n Tanque
Verde Willcox
12 Dos
Cabezas
South Tucson
Cochise
Cababi Three Points Kansas
Comobabi Settlement
Vail Dragoon
13
12
Sahuarita
Benson
Sunsites Portal
Sells Green Valley St. David

Artesa
Curtis Sunizona
owlic Topawa
Arivaca Jct. Fairbank

ori Madera
Canyon
Tombstone
Sonoita Elfrida
Elgin
Huachuca
S City McNeal
Tubac Fort
Arivaca Huachuca Sierra Vista
Tumacacori Patagonia
Sasabe 1
Rio Rico 7
7
6
8 Lochiel
Douglas
Naco

Special Regulations and Seasons by Species
TROUT
CATCH AND RELEASE 2 TROUT LIMIT 4 TROUT LIMIT: 5 TROUT LIMIT:

artificial flies and lures artificial flies and lures Alvord Colorado River-Separation
only, single barbless only: Canyon Creek-source to the OW Canyon to the California/Nevada
hooks: Lees Ferry Bridge Boundary, including Lake Mead
Ackre Lake Carnero Lake Chaparral and Lake Mohave.
Becker Lake Chevelon Creek, from the Copper Sky
Burro Creek Confluence with Willow Springs Cortez 10 TROUT LIMIT:
Canyon Creek-OW Bridge to Creek to Chevelon Crossing Deadhorse Ranch State Park Colorado River-California/
the Fort Apache Reservation Chevelon Canyon Lake Lagoons Nevada Boundary to the
Boundary Lee Valley Lake Desert West International Boundary.
Coyote Creek Desert Breeze
UNLIMITED TROUT
Elk Tank 2 TROUT LIMIT: Encanto
Francis Short Pond
REGULATIONS:
East Verde River-origin to the Bonsall Pond
Colorado River-Navajo Bridge to
pumphouse Council Avenue Pond Fortuna
Separation Canyon
Frye Creek Dave White Regional Park Green Valley
Grant Creek Pinaleno Discovery Pond Kennedy SEASONAL UNLIMITED
Mountains Eldorado Park Kiwanis TROUT REGULATIONS
Horton Creek Evelyn Hallman Pond Lakeside SEPT 1 MARCH 31
JD Dam Freestone Pond Pioneer ANNUALLY:
Mamie Creek Friendship Pond Redondo Chevelon Creek-Chevelon
Middle Tank Frye Mesa Reservoir Red Mountain Crossing to the confluence with
Oak Creek-West Fork and McQueen Pond Riverview the Little Colorado River
portion of Oak between Junipine Pacana Silverbell East Clear Creek
Crossing and Call of the Canyon Papago Park Ponds Sahuarita Knoll Lake
crossing. Patterson Ponds Surprise Nelson Reservoir
Perkins Tank Rio Vista Tempe Town Lake Nutrioso Creek
Silver Creek Oct. 1 through Roadrunner Park Veterans Oasis CC Cragin Reservoir
March 31 Steele Indian School Woodland Lake
Thompson Creek Water Ranch (barbless
East Fork, Little Colorado River- hooks only)
above Colter Dam West Wetland Pond
West Fork Black River- Where to Fish for Wild and Hatchery Native Trout
Hayground Creek to Fort Apache APACHE TROUT GILA TROUT
Reservation Boundary West Fork of the Little Frye Creek (wild fish)
Colorado River Frye Mesa Reservoir
West Fork of the Black River (hatchery fish)
East Fork of the Little Goldwater Lake
Colorado River above (hatchery fish)
Coulter Dam West Fork of Oak Creek
ADDITIONAL WATERS FOR (hatchery fish)
HATCHERY APACHE TROUT
Ackre Lake
East Fork of the Black River
Lee Valley Lake
LCR near Greer
For information about the Silver Creek
Arizona Trout Challenge, see page 35.

Trout Family (includes all species of trout, brook trout, and grayling)
Rainbow Trout Cutthroat Trout Grayling

Description: Olive to bluish on the back, sil- Description: Body shape similar to rainbow Description: The dorsal fin is large, dark-gray,
very sides, a pink band on the sides from head trout. Back and sides are lightly spotted; Dorsal, blotched with pale spots, with cross-rows
to tail. Many small black spots on back, sides, adipose and tail fins are heavily spotted. Red of deep blue spots and edged with red or
adipose and dorsal fin. Distinct radiating rows or reddish-orange slash on throat. Length: up orange. The dorsal fin has 17 to 25 rays. The
of black spots on tail fin. Generally, no spots to 20 inches. Weight: up to 6 pounds. tail fin is forked. The body has scattered black
on pectoral, pelvic and anal fins. Length: up spots on silver-gray, sometimes pink sides.
Waters with Special Regulations by Species and Species Information

to 28 inches. Weight: up to 15 pounds. Scales larger than for trout. Length: up to 14
inches. Weight: up to 1.5 pound.
Brown Trout Brook Trout Tiger Trout

Description: Olive-brown with yellowish sides. Description: Gray to olive-green on the back. Description: Tiger Trout is a sterile hybrid
Some orange or red spots on the sides, spots Vermiculations or worm-like markings on the that is the result of crossing a female brown
often encircled with light yellow or white back and dorsal fin. Sides lighter in color with trout with a male brook trout. Hybridization
Dark spots on back and sides. Tail fin usually blue halos around pink or red spots. White can occur naturally, however it is very rare.
unspotted or vaguely spotted. Adipose fin edge on lower fins and lower tail. Length: up Stocked tiger trout are produced in a hatch-
usually orange or reddish. Length: up to 30 to 18 inches. Weight: up to 4 pounds. ery. Coloring, markings, and tail shape can
inches. Weight: up to 20 pounds. vary but generally is a dark maze-like pattern
all over a brownish, gray, or silver body. The
belly varies from white to yellowish orange as
does the pectoral, pelvic and anal fins. These
fins also have white leading edges. The tail
fin is square to slightly forked. Length: up to
25 inches. Weight: up to 5 pounds (up to 32
pounds in other states).
Native Trout
Apache Trout Gila Trout
Description: The Apache is one of Arizonas Description: Gila trout have iridescent gold
two native trout species and is the Arizona sides that blend to a darker shade of copper
state fish. Body color is yellowish-gold at on the Opercles. Spots on the body of this
the top of the head and the back is a dark trout are small and profuse, generally occur-
olive. Dorsal, anal and pelvic fins are white ring above the lateral line and extending onto
tipped with dark, bold spots on dorsal and the head, dorsal fin and caudal fin. Dorsal,
tail fin. Spotting on the body is sparse and pelvic and anal fins have a white to yellowish
irregular and may extend below the lateral tip that may extend along the leading edge
line. Two small black spots on either side of of the pelvic fins. Parr marks are commonly
pupil give appearance of black stripe through retained by adults, although they may be faint
eye. Length: up to 20 inches. Weight: up to 5 or absent. Length: up to 20 inches. Weight: up
pounds. to 5 pounds.

BASS (LARGEMOUTH AND SMALLMOUTH)
CATCH AND RELEASE 1 BASS LIMIT, MINIMUM 2 BASS LIMIT, MINIMUM 4 BASS LIMIT, MINIMUM
ONLY: SIZE 13 INCHES: SIZE 13 INCHES: SIZE 13 INCHES:
Crystal Gardens Water Treat- Goldwater Lake Alvord Maricopa Lake
ment Facility (City of Avondale) Friendship Pond Cataract Lake Pena Blanca Lake
The Pond at Town Hall (town of Council Avenue Pond City Reservoir
Gilbert) Discovery Pond Dogtown Lake 6 BASS LIMIT, MINIMUM
Water Ranch Lake Freestone Ponds Francis Short Pond SIZE 13 INCHES:
Arivaca Lake McQueen Pond Kaibab Lake Topock Marsh
Bonsall Pond Santa Fe Colorado River-Davis Dam to
UNLIMITED NO BAG Rio Vista Stone Dam the International Boundary
FOR EITHER LARGE- Papago Ponds Tempe Town Lake
MOUTH OR Growler Pond
20 SMALLMOUTH BASS,
Roadrunner Pond 5 LARGEMOUTH BASS
SMALLMOUTH BASS: Steele Indian School Chaparral
Beaver Creek (Wet and Dry) Quigley Pond
LIMIT:
El Dorado Pond Lake Powell
East Verde River Evelyn Hallman Pond Copper Sky
Verde River and tributaries Pacana Park Pond Cortez
West Clear Creek Dave White Regional Park Pond Desert West
Bear Canyon Lake West Wetland Pond Desert Breeze
Black Canyon Lake Patterson Ponds (St. Johns) Encanto
Chevelon Canyon Lake Fortuna
CC Cragin Reservoir (Blue 2 BASS LIMIT: Green Valley
Ridge) Deadhorse State Park Lagoons Kennedy
Knoll Lake Kiwanis
Oak Creek Lakeside
Virgin River Pioneer
Long Tom Lake Redondo
Willow Springs Lake Red Mountain
Woods Canyon Lake Riverview
Colorado River-Glen Canyon Silverbell
Dam to Separation Canyon Sahuarita
Horseshoe Lake Surprise
upper Salt River (Roosevelt Di- Veterans Oasis
version Dam upstream to the Whitehorse Lake
Reservation Boundary)

Bass Family
Largemouth Bass Smallmouth Bass
Description: Large mouth with upper jaw of Description: Smallmouth bass most often are
adults extending beyond rear margin of eye. bronze to brownish green in color, with dark
Dark olive-green on back, green sides shading to vertical bars on sides. In contrast to the large-
white belly. Dark horizontal band on each side. mouth bass, the upper jaw does not extend
Deep notch in dorsal fin. Soft dorsal fin with 12 beyond rear margin of eye. Eye reddish in color.
to 13 rays. Length: up to 25 inches. Weight: up Shallow notch in dorsal fin. Soft dorsal fin has

to 15 pounds. 13 to 15 rays. Length: up to 20 inches. Weight:
up to 6 pounds.
Temperate Bass Family

Striped Bass White Bass Yellow Bass
Description: Body has six to nine black Description: Body silver-white, 4 to 7 dark Description: Body has golden-yellow sides
horizontal stripes on silvery-white sides. horizontal lines; Lines below lateral line with 5 to 7 horizontal lines; Lines appear
Dorsal fins are distinctly separate, unlike often faint and broken. Dorsal fins are broken and offset about midway on the
yellow bass, which are joined at the base. distinctly separate, unlike the yellow bass, lower side. Dorsal fins are connected.
Pelvic fins in large adults, white with anal fin which are joined at the base. 2nd anal spine 2nd anal spine is about as long as the 3rd
edged in white. Lower jaw protrudes beyond distinctly shorter than the 3rd. Lower jaw anal spine. No patches of teeth on tongue.
upper jaw. Generally two patches of teeth protrudes beyond upper jaw; Generally a Length: up to 13 inches. Weight: up to 1.5
on tongue. 2nd anal spine distinctly shorter single patch of teeth at base of tongue. pounds.
than the 3rd. Tail is slightly forked. Length: Length: up to 18 inches. Weight: up to 4
up to 50 inches. Weight: up to 60 pounds. pounds.

CATFISH
FLATHEAD AND UNLIMITED-NO BAG FOR 4 CATFISH LIMIT: 4 CATFISH LIMIT
CHANNEL CATCH AND EITHER FLATHEAD OR Alvord continued:
RELEASE ONLY: CHANNEL continued: Cataract Lake Quigley Pond
Crystal Gardens Water Verde River and tributaries Chaparral Redondo
Treatment Facility (City of Virgin River Cluff Ranch Ponds Red Mountain
Avondale) West Clear Creek Copper Sky Riverview
The Pond at Town Hall (town of Willow Springs Lake Cortez Roper Lake
Gilbert) Woods Canyon Lake City Reservoir Sahuarita
Dankworth Pond Santa Fe
UNLIMITED-NO BAG FOR 2 CATFISH LIMIT: Deadhorse State Park Lagoons Silverbell
EITHER FLATHEAD OR Bonsall Pond Desert Breeze Stone Dam
CHANNEL: Council Avenue Pond Desert West Surprise
Beaver Creek (Wet and Dry) Dave White Regional Park Dogtown Lake Tempe Town Lake
Bear Canyon Lake Discovery Pond Encanto Tucson waters in the city park
Black Canyon Lake El Dorado Park Fortuna system, but not in the CFP
CC Cragin Reservoir (Blue Evelyn Hallman Pond Fain Veterans Oasis
Ridge) Freestone Pond Francis Short Pond Whitehorse Lake
Chevelon Canyon Lake Friendship Pond Granite Basin
Colorado River-Glen Canyon McQueen Pond Green Valley 5 CATFISH LIMIT WHEN
Dam to Separation Canyon Pacana Growler Pond TAKEN BY BOW AND
East Verde River Papago Park Ponds Kaibab Lake ARROW:
Horseshoe Lake Patterson Ponds Kennedy Apache Lake
Knoll Lake Rio Vista Kiwanis Canyon Lake
Long Tom Lake Roadrunner Park Lakeside Saguaro Lake
Oak Creek Steele Indian School Lower Lake Mary
Upper Salt River (Roosevelt Water Ranch Maricopa
Diversion Dam upstream to the West Wetland Pond Parker Canyon Lake
Reservation Boundary) Pena Blanca Lake
Pioneer
Catfish Family
Channel Catfish Flathead Catfish Bullhead (black, yellow, brown)
Description: Scattered black spots on a silver Description: Back and sides mottled, Description: Body is yellow-olive to brown
or gray colored back and sides with a white dark-brown to yellow-brown; belly is on back with yellowish sides, and yellow to
belly. Few spots on large adults. Smooth, yellowish-white. Head is broad and flat white belly. Slight to no mottling. Chin bar-
scaleless skin. 8 barbels or whiskers. Short with small eyes. Large mouth, lower jaw bels are always light in color, either white or
base on small adipose fin. Deeply forked projecting beyond the upper jaw. Adipose pale yellow. Anal fin is moderately long with
tail. Anal fin has 24 to 30 rays and is slightly fin is large; Tail fin is flat or slightly notched. a straight profile; Tail fin is rounded. Length:
rounded. Length: up to 35 inches. Weight: up Length: up to 50 inches. Weight: up to 70 up to 16 inches. Weight: up to 3 pounds.
to 30 pounds. pounds.

The following bodies of water identified under Special Regulations and Seasons (pages 1225) have special fishing seasons (R12-4-317),
daily bag and possession limits, length limits or closures that differ from General Statewide Regulations (pages 69) or Statewide Daily
Bag and Possession Limits (page 6). Only exceptions to General Statewide Regulations and General Sport Fishing Seasons are shown for
each area.
CRAPPIE (INCLUDING BLACK AND WHITE)
10 CRAPPIE: 25 CRAPPIE: Black Crappie

Lake Powell Colorado River-California/

Description: Head and back heavily and ir-
Nevada border to the
15 CRAPPIE: regularly spotted with black blotches on a
International Boundary,
Bartlett Lake silver-olive background; Tail, dorsal and anal
including Topock Marsh
Colorado River-Separation fins are spotted. Seven or eight spines on
and Lake Havasu (in any
Canyon to Davis Dam, dorsal fin. Body is compressed. Length: up to
combination with sunfish)
including Lake Mead and Lake 15 inches. Weight: up to 4 pounds.
Mohave
Roosevelt Lake
Most Popular Lakes to Fish by Species
The following list of waters are only some of the more popular plac- Pleasant, Mittry Lake, Lake Mohave, Tempe Town Lake and Topock
es where these fish can be found. Because water conditions change Marsh.
rapidly please contact Arizona Game and Fish when planning your
Northern Pike: Upper Lake Mary, Long Lake, Fool Hollow Lake,
fishing trip. For the latest fishing reports, visit the Departments
and Rainbow Lake.
website at www.azgfd.gov.
Smallmouth Bass: Apache Lake, Lake Powell, Roosevelt Lake, Fool
Bluegill (sunfish): Canyon Lake, Goldwater Lake, Apache Lake,
Hollow Lake, Verde River, Lake Havasu, Lake Mead, Lake Mohave,
Francis Short Pond, Roper Lake, Saguaro Lake, Lake Pleasant,
Show Low Lake, Topock Gorge, and Colorado River at Parker Strip.
Arivaca Lake, Lake Powell, Bartlett Lake, and designated Community
Fishing Program waters. Striped Bass: Lake Havasu, Lake Mohave, Lake Mead, Lake Pleas-
ant, and Lake Powell.
Carp: Lake Havasu, Lake Mohave, Lake Mead, Lake Powell, Lyman
Lake, Roosevelt Lake, Bartlett Lake, Lake Pleasant, Tempe Town Trout Waters: Ashurst Lake, Bear Canyon, Becker Lake, Big Lake,
Lake, Saguaro Lake, Canyon Lake, and Apache Lake. Black Canyon Lake, Deadhorse State Park Lagoons, West and East
Fork of the Black River, C.C. Cragin (Blue Ridge), Canyon Creek,
Channel Catfish: Canyon Lake, Apache Lake, Roosevelt Lake,
Chevelon Canyon Lake, West Clear Creek, Crescent Lake, Frye Mesa
Colorado River below Parker Dam, Saguaro Lake, Alamo Lake, Fran-
Reservoir, Frye Creek, Goldwater Lake, J.D. Lake, Knoll Lake, Lee
cis Short Pond, Kinnikinnik Lake, Bartlett Lake, Lake Powell, Fool
Valley Lake, Lees Ferry on the Colorado River, Colorado River below
Hollow Lake, Lake Havasu, Show Low Lake, Rainbow Lake, Verde
Davis Dam, Little Colorado River, Luna Lake, Lynx Lake, Nelson Res-
River, Deadhorse State Park Lagoons, Topock Marsh, and designated
ervoir, Oak Creek, Parker Canyon Lake, River Reservoir, Salt River
Community Fishing Program waters.
below Saguaro Lake, Show Low Lake, Tonto Creek, Verde River from
Crappie: Roosevelt Lake, Bartlett Lake, Lake Pleasant, Dogtown Clarkdale to Camp Verde, Woods Canyon Lake, White Horse Lake,
Lake, Kaibab Lake, Alamo Lake, Santa Fe Lake, Whitehorse Lake, Willow Beach, and Willow Springs Lake.
Cataract Lake.
Winter-only trout stockings occur at: Canyon Lake, Cluff Pond,
Flathead Catfish: Saguaro Lake, Canyon Lake, Apache Lake, Lake Parker Canyon Lake, Patagonia Lake, Pena Blanca Lake, Roper Lake,
Pleasant, Colorado River at Yuma, Topock Marsh, Lake Havasu, Roo- Saguaro Lake, and designated Community Fishing Program waters.
sevelt Lake, Bartlett Lake, the Verde River at Camp Verde and below
Walleye: Apache Lake, Show Low Lake, Upper Lake Mary, Fool Hol-
Horseshoe Lake, the Gila River at Safford and Patagonia Lake.
low Lake, Lyman Lake and Lake Powell.
Grayling: Lee Valley Lake, Perkins Tank.
White Bass: Lake Pleasant.
Largemouth Bass: Alamo Lake, Apache Lake, Bartlett Lake, Roos-
Yellow Bass: Saguaro Lake, Canyon Lake, Apache Lake, Roosevelt
evelt Lake, Canyon Lake, Saguaro Lake, Fool Hollow Lake, Dogtown
Lake, Tempe Town Lake, and Upper Lake Mary.
Lake, Rainbow Lake, Lake Havasu, Lake Mead, Lake Powell, Lake

Additional Fish Species
Sunfish Family
Bluegill Redear Sunfish Green Sunfish
Description: The bluegill has blue coloring on Description: The Red-ear sunfish has a black Description: Large mouth with blue-green stri-
the chin, a solid black opercle flap, a small opercle flap which is bordered with a reddish ations on the cheeks. Opercle flap is black with
mouth and a dark spot at the rear of the dorsal or orange color on the rear of the flap. Sides reddish or orange border. Body olive-green
fin. The body is very compressed or flat and has of head have olive-brown speckling. Body is in color, dark vertical bars on sides. Pectoral
from five to nine dark vertical bars on the sides. compressed or flat with an olive-green cast, fin short and rounded. Caudal fin and lower
Length: up to 12 inches. Weight: up to 3 pounds. light speckling on sides. Pectoral fin long and fin margins are white or yellowish with dusky
pointed, usually extends far past eye when spots at rear of dorsal and anal fins. Length: up
bent forward. Length: up to 14 inches. Weight: to 10 inches. Weight: up to 1.5 pounds.
up to 5 pounds.
Pike and Perch Family

Walleye Northern Pike Yellow Perch
Description: Back is yellow-olive with a brassy Description: Back and sides, dusky olive-green Description: Back olive-green; sides brassy-
cast. Sides brassy-yellow with dark mottling. with rows of light oval spots. Dorsal, anal and yellow with 6 to 9 dark vertical bars; Belly is
Belly is white. Dark spot at rear of spiny dorsal tail fin have round to oblong darkened spots. white. Anal fin, pectoral and pelvic fins are
fin. Anal fin and lower lobe of tail fin are white. Dorsal fin located far back on an elongated amber-orange tinted. Small teeth, not canine-
Eyes are opaque-silver in color. Length: up to body. Large canine-like teeth. Cheeks com- like. Soft (rear) dorsal fin has 12 to 13 rays.
28 inches. Weight: up to 14 pounds. pletely scaled, only upper half of the gill cover Length: up to 12 inches. Weight: up to 1 pound.
is scaled. Length: up to 45 inches. Weight: up
to 30 pounds.
Minnow Family
Common Carp Roundtail Chub (native) White Amur or grass carp
Description: Back olive-yellow with yellowish Description: Body is thick and streamlined, Similar to common carp only in general color
gold sides. Scales on back and upper sides are dark olive-gray above with silver sides. Mouth (brassy yellow) and large scales. Notable dif-
dark-edged, with a dark spot at the base. The extends to front of eye. Dorsal fin and anal ferences include no barbels on bony mouth,
dorsal fin has 17 to 22 rays. One saw-toothed fin usually have 8 to10 rays. Large forked tail no spine on a short dorsal fin or anal fin, more
spine at front of long dorsal and anal fin. Two fin. Breeding males develop red or orange elongated body, less yellow in color, tail darker
barbels at each corner of the mouth on the up- coloration on lower half of cheek and bases and more deeply forked. These fish are highly
per jaw. Large adults have reddish-orange anal of paired fins. Length: up to 18 inches. Weight: effective weed eaters and are stocked to control
and tail fin. Length: up to 40 inches. Weight: up to 3 pounds. NEW: Catch-and-release nuisance weeds and algae. Length: up to 42
up to 40 pounds. only, statewide. inches. Weight: up to 40 pounds. NEW: 1 fish,
30 inch minimum statewide.

Protected Native Fish:
See page 6 for a complete list of Commission designated protected fish. The four fish illustrated here are protected in Arizona. Should any of
these be caught (most likely to occur in Colorado, Salt, Verde and Gila river systems), they must be immediately released unharmed.
Colorado River Pikeminnow Razorback Sucker Humpback Chub

Description: Body is long and slender, gray- Description: Back, olive to brown-black, sides Description: Federally listed as Endangered.
green back with silver sides. Scales, very small. brown or pinkish; belly, white to yellow. Adults Body streamlined, dark olive-gray above, sil-
Long, conical shaped head, flattened between have sharp-edged keel or humpback. Mouth ver sides. Small head with snout overhanging

the eyes; large, horizontal mouth. Dorsal fin facing downward; lower lip widely separated mouth. High pronounced hump immediately
originates behind origin of pelvic fins. Dorsal into two lobes by a deep groove. 13-16 dorsal behind head. This high-hump acts as a barrier
and anal fins almost always with nine rays. Tail rays; 7 anal rays. Length: up to 30 inches. to passing water forcing the body against the
fin, large and deeply forked. Length: up to 36 Weight: up to 8 pounds. bottom where currents are slightly less, thus
inches. Weight: up to 20 pounds. enabling these fish to move through rapids
separating one eddying habitat from another.
Deeply embedded scales. Slender caudal pe-
duncle. Dorsal fin rays usually 9, anal fin rays
10 or more. Length: up to 18 inches. Weight:
up to 2 pounds.
Bonytail Chub
Description: Extremely rare. Federally listed as
Endangered. Body highly streamlined, bluish,
dusky color above, pale below. Head short,
concave on top, arching smoothly into a subtle
hump in adults. Dorsal fin rays almost always
10 or more; anal fin rays 9-11; very slender
caudal peduncle. Length: up to 24 inches.
Weight: up to 3 pounds.

Basic Fishing Setups
Proper rigging of your hooks, weights and baits is a fundamental part of your fishing success. The following methods have proven to work well for
trout, catfish and bluegill in lakes and ponds. Use lighter line and smaller hooks and weights for trout and bluegill. Some baits such as worms are
effective for all fish, however most other baits are species specific.
Swivel
Egg Sinker 8-18 inches

oz. Figure 1: Egg
Sinker Setup
Catfish
Line: 8 to 12 lb. test
Hook Size: 2 to 6 baitholder
Bait: Worms, stink baits, hotdogs, liver, shrimp
Catfish are best caught using a hook and sinker
setup (fig. 1 and fig. 2). Catfish bite best in
darker environments. Fish the deepest spots dur- Split Shot Sinker
ing the daytime and shallower areas after dark.
Figure 2: Split
8-18 inches Shot Sinker setup
Trout
Line: 2 to 6 lb. test Pencil Bobber
Hook Size: 8 to 12 baitholder
Bait: Worms, salmon eggs, Power Bait
When using prepared floating baits, the bottom fishing set up with an egg sinker
is most effective (fig. 1). When fishing for trout, use the egg sinker set-up with 2-
or 4-pound line tied below the swivel to the hook. Fishing with a bobber (fig. 3)
can work well for trout when using non-floating baits such as worms or salmon
eggs. In addition to the baits suggested for trout, small in-line spinners such as 2-4 feet
Panther Martins or Mepps, or spoons such as KastMasters or Super Dupers, can
be effective.
Split Shot Sinker
Sunfish/Bluegill
Line: 2 to 6 lb. test
Hook Size: 8 to 12 baitholder 8-18 inches
Bait: Worms, mealworms, corn
Sunfish or bluegill can be caught using the bobber setup (fig. 3). Use a small
pencil or round bobber and fish along the lake edges in 4-8 feet of water. Use
enough weight below the bobber so that it can be pulled underwater easily.
Try to cover up the hook with the bait.
Figure 3: Bobber Setup

Simple Tips for Family Fun
Remembering these five simple kid-style tips 3. Make it fun.
will help make your next family fishing trip an
Take kids to a place where they can catch a lot Standard Fishing Knot
enjoyable and memorable experience
of fish such as bluegill. Help them identify their Trilene Knot (a strong all-purpose knot)
1. Keep it simple and safe. catch (see pages 2633) and teach them how to
properly handle the fish they catch. If fishing is
Forget technique and tactics, kids just want to slow, take a short break and walk the shoreline
throw a line in the water and catch something. or play at the nearby playground. Relax and
Choose simple equipment. A push button have patience. Seize opportunities to explore and
spincast reel and a 5-6 foot rod are best. Pack 1. Run the ends of the line through the
discover, to make up games and to tell stories.
only the amount of tackle you need to keep eye of the hook two times.
everybody fishing (hooks, bobbers and weights). 4. Involve the kids.
Fish with easy-to-use bait secured under a small
Whenever you can, let kids do things them-
bobber or on the bottom. Provide your young-
selves bait the hook, cast their own rods, reel
ster with his or her own small tackle kit. Spend
in the fish and remove the fish from the hook.
your time teaching and coaching the kids, dont
Give kids a role for the day choosing where
plan to do much fishing yourself. 2. Loop the line around 4 or 5 times,
to fish, what to bring for snacks, how long to
fish each spot, netting the fish or counting the then thread the loose end back
2. Be prepared. between the two loops near the
birds.
Have all the things you need to fish beforehand, hook as shown.
so when you go fishing there are no delays. 5. Go where the fish are.
Get lots of worms. They are great universal bait
Nearby Community Fishing Program waters
and kids will love the dirt, slime and squirm of
are excellent locations to catch all kinds of fish
worms. Bring drinks and snacks in a small tote
including bluegill, trout and catfish.
being in the outdoors makes kids hungry.
3. Pull tight. Trim the loose end.
Bring a camera to capture the memories.
Trout Challenge
TROUT CHALLENGE

If youre looking for new places to catch 1. FOR THE WILD TROUT CHALLENGE,
trout this summer or youd like to catch catch all five species of wild trout in
a new trout species we have a challenge Arizona: Gila, Apache, brown, brook
for you. Rise to the Wild Trout Challenge and rainbow trout.
and pursue naturally reproducing popula- 2. FOR THE ARIZONA TROUT CHAL-
tions of native and nonnative trout, or LENGE, catch six of the eight species
chase the Arizona Trout Challenge, which in the state: the five named above,
includes hatchery-raised trout. plus cutthroat, tiger trout and gray-
Arizona manages more than 100 waters ling.
statewide for trout. Both challenges offer
3. PHOTOGRAPH the fish you catch.
the opportunity to fish for native Gila and
Apache trout, found only in the Southwest. 4. SUBMIT YOUR PHOTOS and an appli-
Listed as threatened under the Endangered cation identifying where and when
Species Act, they can be fished in certain those fish were caught to the Arizona
waters, thanks to conservation efforts here Game and Fish Department.
and in New Mexico. Are you up for the challenge? For the
Explore special fishing spots, learn fine print and an application, visit
about trout and enjoy Arizonas high www.azgfd.gov/troutchallenge.
country in 2016. Heres how to take the
challenge:

Sport Fishing Education Program
WHAT IS IT? The Arizona Game and Fish Department has a state-
wide Sport Fishing Education Program which teaches introductory
fishing skills to people of all ages. Fishing clinics are led by Depart-
ment 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; fish-
ing safety and ethics; care of your catch; and much more.
SCHEDULE A FISHING PROGRAM FOR YOUR SCHOOL The
school group fishing program is offered during the school year and
is composed of two parts: classroom instruction and field instruc-
tion. 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.
OPEN TO THE PUBLIC FISHING PROGRAMS Individuals, families or reservations must be made 3 weeks in advance.
groups are welcome to attend our Open to the Public fishing events BECOME A FISHING VOLUNTEER The Department is looking for
conducted throughout the year. For a schedule of programs, visit our qualified individuals who want to volunteer with the Sport Fishing
website at www.azgfd.gov and look under Education Programs, Sport Education Program. You dont have to be an expert angler to help
Fishing Education, then to Schedule of Public Fishing Programs. others learn basic fishing skills. Be an active participant in Arizonas
ROD LOANER PROGRAM The Department has fishing equipment fishing legacy.
available for loan to the public. Loaner sites include the Departments For information on Sport Fishing Education programs, rod loaner
Phoenix headquarters office and six regional offices. Up to 50 rods programs or volunteer opportunities, call 623-236-7240 or visit our
and reels with tackle are available to borrow for up to a week and website at www.azgfd.gov.
Proper Catch-and-Release Methods

Fish are a valuable resource, and fishing for them is a fun and exciting recreational experience. By limiting your harvest, and practicing good
catch-and-release techniques, you can help preserve a fishery and ensure that angling opportunity remains for another day. Currently, native
trout fishing opportunities can only exist from anglers using these techniques.
DOS Keep the fish in the water as much as possible: It is best to unhook
Appropriate hooks and quick hook sets: Avoid letting fish swallow the fish while it is still in the water and avoid holding the fish out of
hooks by paying attention to your line and using an appropriate hook the water for pictures for more than a few seconds.
size and type. Single hooks are more easily removed than multi-point DONTS
hooks. Avoid forcefully removing swallowed hooks: If the hook is embed-
Hook type: Barbless hooks are easier to remove and result in less ded down the throat, clip the line as close to the eye of the hook as
injury to fish and shorter handling times during hook removal. possible and avoid attempting to remove the hook which may result
Appropriate tackle: The use of artificial flies and lures generally hook in bleeding and injury. Hooks will dissolve over time. A fish hooked
fish more superficially than those using live bait. deeply has a better chance of survival if the line is cut than if its
organs are torn in the unhooking process.
Quick retrieve: Exhaustion stress can be fatal, the longer you play a
fish, the more stress it endures. Avoid touching the gills or eyes: Holding a fish by the gills can be
lethal; these are extremely sensitive and easily damaged organs.
Soft mesh nets: The use of soft mesh nets, if nets are necessary, will
help keep their protective slime on and will avoid entanglement. Avoid a firm grip: Fish are slippery and wiggly. Make sure to support
the fish properly while holding it. Instinct will lead an angler to tighten
Wet hands and a gentle touch: Handling fish with wet hands will their grip on the fish, and potentially crush its internal organs with
help keep their protective slime from coming off. force.

Violators Steal Your Fish Help Us Catch Game Thieves
Poaching is not fishing! Poachers are not fishermen!

Do the right thing. Report a violator. Your tip can make the difference in apprehending a fish thief.
A 24/7 hotline to report fish and wildlife violations an angler keeping more than the daily bag and possession
limit, fishing with more than two poles at the same time, or
Report a violation. Rewards of $50-$1,000 are offered for
not complying with other fishing rules, contact the Game
information leading to an arrest for fishing violations.
Thief Hotline to report the violation.
Callers can remain confidential. Call 1-800-352-0700.
Reported violations are prioritized based on the quality
Bag and possession limits provide everyone with a
of the information provided. Because the Department
chance at a quality fishing experience and protect the
has a limited number of Wildlife Officers statewide, it
fishery. Any angler that keeps or gives away more than
is not possible to have an immediate response to every
their limit is breaking the lawthey are thieves stealing
call. That is why it is important that you be a good wit-
fish from you and other responsible anglers.
ness so that follow-up by an officer can be conducted.
Your help is needed to catch these violators. If you witness
Be a good witness: Write down a description of the person(s) (physical and clothing).
Recognize what specific activities are violations. If possible, get the vehicle description and license plate number.
Do not put yourself in danger or confront the violator. Try to take pictures or video of the violation and violator.
Write down the date, time and specific park and lake location. Call or go online to report the violation as soon as possible.
Help Protect Our Fisheries

Help reduce crayfish populations in our If you intend to keep and eat crayfish, crayfish may be caught by the following
waters by removing crayfish at every pack them in ice for transport. This will kill methods:
opportunity. Crayfish are not native to them while keeping them fresh until you By hand or hand-held device, such as a
Arizona, yet they have become established arrive at your destination. fishing pole.
in many waters throughout the state. They By law, you may only use live crayfish as

endanger aquatic native species as well as Landing nets, dip nets or umbrella nets
bait in the same body of water where they
sport fish by: were caught. Crayfish nets or traps not exceeding 3 feet
Preying on all life stages of fish, amphib- on a side or diameter
ians and invertebrates Cast nets not exceeding a 4-foot radius
Aggressively competing for habitat and Minnow traps not exceeding 1 foot in
food height and width, and 2 feet in length
Destroying productive habitat in our Seine nets not exceeding 10 feet in length
streams, ponds and lakes and 4 feet in width
Be careful with the use and disposal of Crayfish may be caught during the day or
crayfish. night.
It is unlawful to transport live crayfish Do not throw unused bait crayfish, or bait See www.azgfd.gov for more information
(except for that part of southwestern of any kind, back into the water alive. on crayfish capture methods and cooking
Arizona south of I-10 and west of High- With a valid fishing license (or for youth recipes.
way 95). under age 10), an unlimited number of

Whirling Disease and Aquatic Invasive Species
Check out www.azgfd.gov/ais for more details on aquatic invasive
Preventing the Spread of species Directors Orders and boat decontamination protocols.
Whirling Disease
Whirling disease is a parasitic infection that at- Arizona Game and Fish Department Aquatic
tacks juvenile trout, eventually killing them. The Invasive Species (AIS) Decontamination Protocols
disease is transmitted primarily by infected fish (A.R.S. 17-255 Directors Order 3)
or fish parts, or fishing equipment and wading
gear. Whirling disease is not a human health DAY USERS: Any watercraft, boats, vehicles, conveyances, or other equipment that
concern. The Arizona Game and Fish Depart- have been in or on aquatic invasive species (AIS) listed waters for 5 days or less
ment continues to monitor and test for any (lakes Mead, Mohave, Havasu, Pleasant, Powell, Bartlett, Roosevelt, Canyon,
presence of the disease. Apache, Saguaro; and Lower Colorado River, Lees Ferry and the Lower Salt/
Verde rivers).
You can help prevent the spread of whirling
disease in the following ways: Day-use Decontamination Protocols:
Do not transport live fish or fish parts from Step 1 After removing from water and before transport from an AIS listed water,
one body of water to another. clean/remove any clinging material.
Rinse all mud and debris from equipment Step 2 Remove the plug (keep it out) and drain the water.
and wading gear, and drain water from boats Step 3 Dry completely.
before leaving the infected water.
Allow gear to dry thoroughly before next use. LONG TERM USERS AND MOORED BOATS: Any watercraft, boats, vehicles,
equipment, or conveyances that have been in or on aquatic invasive species (AIS)
For more information, visit the Initiatives web- listed waters for more than 5 days.
site at www.whirlingdisease.montanta.edu.
Mandatory decontamination protocols must include minimum dry times.
Long-term Moored Boat Decontamination Protocols:
Step 1 Clean/remove any clinging material.
Step 2 Remove the plug (keep it out) and drain the water.
Step 3 Physically remove all visible attached mussels.
Step 4 Flush engine and cooling system with pressurized hot water.
Step 5 Keep the boat out of the water and dry (desiccation) for a minimum of
18 consecutive days during the months of November through April or 7
consecutive days from May through October.
Step 6 Prior to transport, completely fill out and file the required Aquatic
Invasive Species Boating Inspection Report (AISBIR). This form can be
downloaded at www.azgfd.gov/ais.

Boating Information
Motor Restrictions:
Powerboats restricted to a single
electric motor on:
Ackre Lake Lee Valley Lake
Bear Canyon Lake McKellips Park Pond
Bunch Reservoir Pratt Lake
Carnero Lake Quigley Pond
Chaparral Park Lake Redondo Lake
Hook
Up
Cluff Ponds Riggs Flat Lake
Coconino Reservoir Roper Lake
Coors Lake Santa Fe Lake
Dankworth Pond Scotts Reservoir
Dogtown Reservoir Sierra Blanca Lake
Fortuna Lake Soldier Lake With
Goldwater Lake
Granite Basin Lake
Stoneman Lake
Tunnel Reservoir
the
Right
Horsethief Basin Lake
Hulsey Lake
Whitehorse Lake
Willow Valley Lake Gear
J.D. Dam Lake Woodland Lake
Knoll Lake Woods Canyon Lake
Boat registration
Powerboats restricted to a single elec-
tric motor or a single gasoline engine Life jackets for all
not exceeding 10 horsepower on:
Arivaca Lake Lower Lake Mary Throwable flotation aid
Ashurst Lake
Becker Lake
Luna Lake
Lynx Lake Fire extinguisher (B-1)
Horn, whistle or bell
Big Lake Marshall Lake

Black Canyon Lake Mexican Hay Lake
Navigation lights
C.C. Cragin (Blue Ridge) Nelson Reservoir
Cataract Lake Parker Canyon Lake
Chevelon Canyon Lake Pena Blanca Lake
Concho Lake Rainbow Lake
Crescent Lake River Reservoir
Visit www.azgfd.gov/boating for additional boating tips
Fool Hollow Lake Show Low Lake and details on free boating safety courses in your area.
Kaibab Lake Whipple Lake
Kinnikinick Lake White Mountain Lake
Little Mormon Lake Willow Springs Lake
No watercraft allowed on:

Frye Mesa Reservoir
Rose Canyon Lake
(AGFD R12-4-517 (A)(B)(C))

This list was effective May 24, 2011

Arizona State Fish Records
As reported to and verified by the Arizona Game and Fish Department. Updated Dec. 11, 2016. For more current record listings, go to www.azgfd.gov.
INLAND WATERS HOOK AND LINE
Species Name Size Location Angler Date
Bass, Hybrid Striped 2 lb. 13.76 oz. 18.5 in. Lake Pleasant Ray Gillmore, Peoria 10/29/13
Bass, Largemouth 16 lb. 7.68 oz 28.0 in. Canyon Lake Randall E. White, Mesa 4/22/97
Bass, Rock 0 lb. 12.96 oz. 10.25 in. Upper Verde River Eric Woolsey, Cottonwood 4/6/06
Bass, Smallmouth 7 lb. 0.96 oz. 22.75 in. Roosevelt Lake Dennis K. Barnhill, Mesa 3/18/88
Bass, Striped 29 lb. 13.76 oz. 45.25 in. Lake Pleasant Bob Liddington, Phoenix 7/13/10
Bass, White 4 lb. 11.7 oz. 19.5 in. Lake Pleasant David Amburgey, Peoria 4/72
Bass, Yellow 1 lb. 15.8 oz. 11.25 in. Upper Lake Mary Glenn D. Davis III, Flagstaff 5/19/95
Bluegill 3 lb. 15.68 oz. 15.75 in. Goldwater Lake Christopher Ray Mapes, Prescott Valley 5/2/04
Buffalo, Bigmouth 40 lb. 11.2 oz. 39.25 in. Roosevelt Lake Adam Jacquez, Payson 4/5/14
Buffalo, Black 35 lb. 6.72 oz. 40.5 in. Canyon Lake David Hoenshell, Mesa 5/24/95
Bullhead, Black 2 lb. 6.1 oz. 16.5 in. Parker Canyon Lake Mikki St. George, Sierra Vista 9/9/02
Bullhead, Yellow 4 lb. 8.1 oz. 17.75 in. Mormon Lake Patricia Simmon, Phoenix 7/15/89
Carp 37 lb. 0.0 oz. 40.0 in. Bartlett Lake Jonathan Gardner, Phoenix 8/8/87
Catfish, Channel 32 lb. 4.0 oz. 38.75 in. Parker Canyon Lake Chuck Berndt, Sierra Vista 4/24/87
Catfish, Flathead 76 lb. 8.64 oz., 53.5 in. Bartlett Lake Eddie Wilcoxson, Surprise 04/13/13
Crappie, Black 4 lb. 10.0 oz. --in. San Carlos Lake John Shadrick, Mammoth 1959
Crappie, White 3 lb. 5.28 oz. 16.75 in. Lake Pleasant Robert Schnell, Glendale 2/22/82
Grayling, Arctic 1 lb. 9.76 oz. 14.65 in. Lee Valley Lake Glenn D. Davis III, Flagstaff 7/10/95
Northern Pike 32 lb. 5.6 oz. 49 in. Ashurst Lake Ronald Needs, Flagstaff 11/5/04
Roundtail Chub 2 3 lb. 14.9 oz. 18.5 in. Lower Salt River Richard L. Walton, Chandler 3/3/84
Striped Mullet 5 lb. 2.24 oz. 23.75 in. Fortuna Pond Robert Bayles, Yuma 4/24/04
Sucker, Desert 3 2 lb. 10.75 oz. 18.0 in. Verde River Edith Toney, Mesa 9/20/92
Sucker, Sonora 5 lb. 6.4 oz. 20.25. in. Evelyn Hallman Park Lake Jay Nochta, Phoenix 12/1/96
Sunfish, Green 1 lb. 9 oz. 11.0 in. Parker Canyon Lake Paul Bennett, Sierra Vista 7/27/96
Sunfish, Hybrid 2 2 lb. 2.22 oz. 12.5 in. Patagonia Lake Mikey Alan Porter, Tucson 6/5/98
Sunfish, Redear 3 lb. 9.0 oz. 14.5 in. Goldwater Lake Jay Adkins, Prescott 8/12/93
Tilapia 7 lb. 8.8 oz. 20.0 in. Saguaro Lake Tim Alan Schoenecker, Gilbert 3/31/02
Trout, Apache 3 5 lb. 15.5 oz. 24.0 in. Hurricane Lake 4 Lyle Hemphill, Lakeside 6/10/93
Trout, Brook 4 lb. 15.2 oz. 20.5 in. Sunrise Lake 4 Marshall Gregg, Whiteriver 10/20/95
Trout, Brown 22 lb. 14.5 oz. 36.0 in. Reservation Lake 4 Bryce Sisson, Prescott 8/6/99
Trout, Cutthroat 6 lb. 5.0 oz. 22.3 in. Luna Lake Eric James Walter, Tucson 10/76
Trout, Gila 3 lb. 5.6 oz. 19.25 in. Frye Mesa Reservoir Robert Woods, Flagstaff 2/28/11
Trout, Rainbow 15 lb. 9.12 oz. 32.5 in. Willow Springs Lake Harold Wright, Sun City 9/29/06
Trout, Tiger 0 lb. 9.28 oz 12 in. Willow Springs Lake Larry Johnson 12/4/16
Walleye 16 lb. 1.76 oz. 31 in. Show Low Lake Gregg Munck, Show Low 11/18/02
White Amur (triploid) 47 lb. 1.6 oz. 46.5 in. Encanto Park Lake Kevin A. Baylor Jr., Phoenix 7/12/02
Yellow Perch 1 lb. 10.0 oz. 13.5 in. Stoneman Lake Art Ellico, Kingman 3/21/84
INLAND WATERS CATCH-AND-RELEASE 1
Bass, Largemouth 28 in. Lake Pleasant Bill Wilson, Glendale 3/12/05
Bass, Smallmouth 23 in. Roosevelt Lake Ginger Wright, Tonto Basin 6/18/06
Bass, Striped 29 in. Lake Pleasant Bill Larson, Phoenix 11/9/06
Bass, White 18 in. Lake Pleasant Bradley Garraway, Phoenix 3/24/05
Bass, Yellow 13 in. Roosevelt Lake Tom Simpson, Pahrump, NV 12/10/08
Bluegill 13 in. Mohawk Wellton Canal Bob Dippery Sr., Apache Junction 4/15/11
Buffalo, Black 41 in. Apache Lake Bill Groseclose, Apache Junction 4/23/03
Carp 37 in. McKellips Lake Mack Hollen Jr., Phoenix 5/6/06
Catfish, Channel 34 in. Upper Lake Mary Jared Sandall, Rimrock 3/28/15
Catfish, Flathead 53 in. Roosevelt Lake Andrew Srejic, Avondale 9/23/06
Crappie, Black 16 in. Apache Lake Ron Robinson, Alta Vista, IA 4/6/98
Crappie, White 15 in. Lake Pleasant Jack K. Moody, Phoenix 4/19/14
Northern Pike 44 in. Upper Lake Mary Scott A. Webster, Phoenix 4/26/13
Roundtail Chub 17 in. Verde River Rudolph Hoffman, Gilbert 7/12/15
Sucker, Desert 15 in. Lower Salt River Rudolph Hoffman, Gilbert 8/18/13
Sucker, Sonora 24 in. Lower Salt River Kelley C. Badger, Tempe 3/23/14
Sunfish, Green 9 in. Canyon Lake Kristen Kile, Glendale 5/25/13
Sunfish, Hybrid 10 in. Papago Ponds #2 Mack Hollen Jr., Phoenix 6/19/04
Sunfish, Redear 11 in. Papago Ponds #2 Warren Hollen, Phoenix 7/3/04
Tilapia 18 in. Tempe Town Lake Brandon Williams, Scottsdale 4/29/09
Trout, Apache 27 in. Silver Creek Tim McGough, Scottsdale 10/2/09
Trout, Brook 15 in. Perkins Tank Rob Gerlak 4/9/15
Trout, Brown 23 in. Black River Benjamin A. Payne, Tucson 6/23/07
Trout, Cutthroat 17 in. Big Lake Brian Weisheim, Scottsdale 4/28/09

Trout, Gila 15 in. Frye Mesa Reservoir David Griffith, Thatcher 3/14/11
Trout, Rainbow 32 in. Silver Creek Ben Sandall, Flagstaff 1/30/10
Trout, Tiger 10 in. Becker Lake Dave Mattausch 7/17/16
Walleye 33 in. Fool Hollow Lake Gregg Munck, Show Low 6/27/04
White Amur (triploid) 47 in. Encanto Park Lake Denny Noel, Phoenix 10/18/06
INLAND WATERS NON-HOOK AND LINE
Buffalo, Bigmouth (archery) 39 lb. 8.0 oz. 41.5 in. Saguaro Lake Michael T. Young, Mesa 3/28/90
Buffalo, Black (archery) 47 lb. 2.56 oz. 45 in. Apache Lake Bryan Darnell, Dewey 3/19/05
Buffalo, Smallmouth (archery) 38 lb. 8.0 oz. 36.0 in. Canyon Lake David Heater, Chandler 6/10/97
Carp (archery) 38 lb. 3.84 oz. 39 in., Saguaro Lake Ronald Nuss Jr., Gilbert 4/24/08
Flathead Catfish (archery) 60 lb. 0 oz. 47 in. Roosevelt Lake Dean W. Linne 5/31/15
Striped Mullet (archery) 9 lb. 1.6 oz. 27.25 in., Yuma Salinity Canal Daniel S. Day, Yuma 5/2/04
Sonora Sucker (archery) 4 lb. 15.52 oz. 23.5 in. Lower Salt River Ronald Nuss, Jr., Mesa 4/28/97
Tilapia (archery) 10 lb. 0 oz. SRP canal Trevor Gamble 3/21/15
COLORADO RIVER WATERS HOOK AND LINE
Bass, Largemouth 16 lb. 14.0 oz. 28.25 in. Colorado River, Yuma Dale Uden, Yuma 3/8/96
Bass, Smallmouth 5 lb. 10.08 oz. 21.25 in. Lake Havasu Justin Kerr, Lake Havasu City 11/8/11
Bass, Striped 3 67 lb. 1.0 oz. 47.5 in. Colorado River, Willow Beach Jeff Smith, Henderson, NV 8/15/97
Bass, White 5 lb. 5.0 oz. 19.6 in. Imperial Reservoir Norman Mize, Chula Vista, CA 3/72
Bluegill 3 lb. 10.4 oz. 15.25 in. Colorado River, Laughlin Lake Michael Tahash, Laughlin, NV 9/14/10
Bullhead, Yellow 2 lb. 8.8 oz. 15.5 in. Colorado River near Bullhead City Douglas R. Pinotti, Mesa 3/24/86
Carp 42 lb. 0.0 oz. 43.0 in. Lake Havasu Gary Ramsfield, Lake Havasu City 3/79
Catfish, Channel 35 lb. 4.0 oz. 38.0 in. Topock Marsh Wando L. Tull, Barstow, CA 1952
Catfish, Flathead 74 lb. 0.0 oz. 51.5 in. Colorado River - Laguna Dam Walter Wilson, Bard, CA 5/11/98
Crappie, Black 2 lb. 12.0 oz 16.0 in. Havasu Springs, Lake Havasu Julie Grammer, Makanda, IL 3/11/96
Pacific Tenpounder 12.6 oz. 15.75 in. Near Pilot Knob Charles Reel, Jr., Yuma 6/13/81
Striped Mullet 9 lb. 8.0 oz. 25.5 in. Colorado River/Gila R. confluence Buddy E. Fike, Glendale 3/76
Sucker, Razorback 2, 5 9 lb. 13.0 oz. 29.0 in. Colorado River, Lake Havasu Freeman Summers, Lake Havasu City 1/23/78
Sunfish, Green 1 lb. 5.28 oz. 11.5 in. Lake Havasu Jose Orozco, Poston 7/16/97
Sunfish, Hybrid 2 3 lb. 1.28 oz. 16.0 in. Colorado River, Parker Rob Woodford, Bullhead City 10/12/00
Sunfish, Redear 3 5 lb. 12.8 oz. 17 in. Lake Havasu Hector Brito, Lake Havasu City 2/16/14
Tilapia 6 lb. 2.72 oz. 19 in. Colorado River, Parker A. Clark Wellard, Pocatello, ID 1/27/06
Trout, Brook 5 lb. 4.0 oz. 19.0 in. Lees Ferry Moe Beck, Glendale 3/6/82
Trout, Brown 17 lb. 0.0 oz. 32.0 in. Last Chance Bay, Lake Powell Chuck Holland, Phoenix 5/1/71
Trout, Cutthroat 9 lb. 8.0 oz. 30.5 in. South of Davis Dam Jeff Vincent, Mohave Mesa 8/79
Trout, Rainbow 21 lb. 5.5 oz. --in. Willow Beach John Reid, Las Vegas, NV 9/66
Walleye 8 lb. 1.0 oz. 29.0 in. Lake Powell Bud Clifford, Phoenix 5/77
Warmouth 12.0 oz. 10.0 in. Senator Lake Patrick R. Ferguson, Yuma 3/74
COLORADO RIVER WATERS CATCH-AND-RELEASE 1

Bass, Largemouth 28 in. Lower Colorado River David Percell, Bullhead City 2/17/04
Bass, Smallmouth 22 in. Lake Havasu Jeffrey Dean, Lake Havasu City 2/12/05
Bass, Striped 45 in. Colorado River, Bullhead City Kenan Guleryuz, Bullhead City 10/4/10
Carp 48 in. Lake Mohave Gary Sweet, Bullhead City 10/20/07
Catfish, Channel 26 in. Colorado River, Bettys Kitchen Ben Davis, Sierra Vista 11/8/14
Sunfish, Redear 6 in. Mittry Lake Ben Davis, Sierra Vista 11/8/14
Tilapia 17 in. Colorado River Barbara Harp, Mackay, ID 2/10/12
Trout, Rainbow 22 in. Colorado River, Bullhead City Kenan Guleryuz, Bullhead City 11/5/10
Warmouth 10 in. Colorado River, Imperial Dam Barbara Harp, Mackay, ID 3/26/06
White Amur (triploid) 44 in. Colorado River, Yuma Richard Halliwill, Nutrioso 4/9/09
COLORADO RIVER WATERS NON-HOOK AND LINE
Carp (archery) 23 lb. 4.0 oz. 37.5 in. Colorado River, Imperial Dam Gil Blum, Wittmann 2/4/95
Carp (spear) 31 lb. 14.08 oz. 38 in. Lake Mohave Giovanni Cappelli, Willow Beach 7/14/14
Striped Bass (spear) 26 lb. 12.4 oz. 41 in. Colorado River, Lake Mohave Giovanni Cappelli, Willow Beach 8/20/13
Striped Mullet (archery) 3 lb. 13.0 oz. 21.0 in. Colorado River, Yuma Dell Owens, Phoenix 5/19/91
Tilapia (archery) 7 lb. 11.0 oz. 19.38 in. Colorado River, Imperial Dam Kenny Marler, Yuma 9/21/96
NOTES: Records are based upon weight recorded on 1. Based on total length only and rounded down to 3. World record for all tackle as verified by the Na-
state-certified (legal for trade) scales and two witnesses nearest inch. New entries must exceed existing tional Fresh Water Fishing Hall of Fame.
to the weighing. Record fish must be available for inspec- entry by at least 1 inch. 4. Fort Apache Indian Reservation.
tion by Department personnel. New record fish must 2. Larger than current all-tackle world record listed by 5. Species now protected, may not be taken.
outweigh the standing record for the species by at least the International Game Fish Assn. and the National
one full ounce. Fish taken from private waters that are Fresh Water Fishing Hall of Fame.
closed to public access are not eligible for record status.
Arizona Fish Entry Form (Use this form or a copy for all Arizona State Records, Statewide or
Community Fish-of-the-Year, or Catch-and-Release entries.)
Yes, the Arizona Game and Fish Department may use my photo for promotional purposes.
Anglers Name:____________________________________________________ (check applicable box) Kept Catch and Release
Address:_________________________________________________________ State Record

Statewide Fish-of-the-Year
_______________________________________________________________ Community Fish-of-the-Year
Phone:___________________________________________________________
Requirements For Reporting
Species:________________________and/or_____________________________
Common Name Scientific Name Rule #1 Fish must be weighed on a certified fair trade scale in pounds.
Date Caught:______________________________________________________ Scale location, register number and expiration date of scale
certification must be recorded on entry form. Fish should be
Certified Weight (Rule #1) _________________________lbs (for example, 3.18 lbs) weighed whole and ungutted. The Department reserves the
Total Length (Rule #2) ______________________ inches right to cut open any fish after weighing. (Rule #1 not required
for catch-and-release entries).
Location of Catch (Rule #3):___________________________________________ Rule #2 Length of the fish must be measured by a straight line from the
Type of Lure or Bait_________________________________________________ tip of the snout to the tip of the compressed tail in inches.
Rule #3 Fish must be caught in Arizona waters including the Colorado
Species Identified By (Rule #4):_________________________________________ River where it borders Mexico, California and Nevada, and
Fishing License Number:______________ Verified by (Rule #5):________________ all of Lake Powell. Fish must be taken during the legal open
season and by the legal method of take for the water where
Scale Location:_____________________________________________________ taken. Any illegal act associated with taking or handling of the
fish will disqualify the record.
Registered Scale Number:___________________________________________
Rule #4 Identification of species must be verified by a member of the
Expiration Date or Certification Date:___________________________________ Arizona Game and Fish Department. A photograph of the fish
is required for the record file and for identification purposes.
Witnesses to Weight (except catch-and-release entries): Rule #5 Angler must provide a valid Fishing License number. A photo
We, the undersigned, witnessed the weighing of the fish described above and attest to copy of the current valid license, or verification by a member
the weight and length as listed (Rule #1, 2, 6). of the Arizona Game and Fish Department, is required.
Rule #6 If the weights and measurements are not witnessed by the
Printed Name:_____________________________________________________ Department personnel, two witnesses must be present at the
Signature:______________________________________________________ time the fish is weighed and measured (except catch-and-
release entries).
Address:________________________________________________________ Rule #7 The Arizona Game and Fish Department reserves the right to
Phone:_________________________________________________________ further check identification and/or verification of witnesses and
to refuse an application that is questionable.
Printed Name:_____________________________________________________ Rule #8 Fish taken from private waters that are closed to public access
Signature:______________________________________________________ are not eligible for Record or Fish-of-the-Year.
Rule #9 Eligible fish species for both State record and Fish-of-the-Year
Address:________________________________________________________ entries are those sportfish listed under the current State records.
Phone:_________________________________________________________ Illegally released fish species from pet and aquarium trades are
not eligible for a State record or Fish-of-the-Year.
______________________________________________________________ Rule #10 In the event of any dispute regarding the authenticity of the
Submit your completed entry form and photograph to: fish record application, the fish must be made available for
inspection by Arizona Game and Fish Department personnel.
Arizona Game and Fish Department, Fisheries Branch
The determination made by Department personnel shall be
5000 W. Carefree Highway conclusive.
Phoenix, AZ 85086
Catch-and-Release Record Program

The Catch-and-Release State Record Program requires only an accurate, total- Total length of the fish must be measured. A clear photo verifying the species
length measurement (no weight) and a photograph. This record program is and length must be included with the entry form, include a tape measure,
designed to minimize fish stress and maximize fish survival for those who wish ruler or other measuring device next to the fish in the photograph. Entries
to return fish to the water. It is based on the principle that the less you restrain cannot be considered without a measuring device in the photograph.
and handle a fish after capture (live well transport, weight handling, re-release, All fractions of length will be rounded down to the nearest inch.
etc.) the greater the likelihood of survival. Here is a highlight of the rules:
New catch-and-release record must exceed existing record by at least 1 inch.
Catch-and-Release state record fish are recognized by total length in inches Witnesses to the capture of Catch and Release fish entries are desirable, how-
only (longest measurement from the snout or nose to the tip of the com- ever, the program is honor-based and witnesses are not mandatory.
pressed tail).

Fish Weighing Scales at a Location Near You
The Arizona Game and Fish Department has placed 23 fish weighing scales at locations across the state. The scales are intended to ease the difficulty many
anglers have had finding certified scales to weigh their record fish catches.
Phoenix Area Flagstaff Area Pinetop Area Yuma Area

Arizona Game and Fish Arizona Game and Fish Arizona Game and Fish Arizona Game and Fish
Department Department Department Department
7200 E. University Ave. 3500 S. Lake Mary Rd. 2878 E. White Mountain Blvd. 9140 E. 28th St.
Mesa, AZ 85207 Flagstaff, AZ 86001 Pinetop, AZ 85935 Yuma, AZ
(480) 981-9400 (928) 774-5045 (928) 532-3680 (928) 342-0091
Hours MonFri 8:00 a.m.5:00 p.m. Hours: MonFri 8:00 a.m.5:00 p.m. Hours: MonFri 8:00 a.m.5:00 p.m. Hours: MonFri 8:00 a.m.5:00 p.m.
Scale capacity: 30 pounds Scale capacity: 30 pounds Scale capacity: 30 pounds Scale capacity: 120 pounds
Arizona Game and Fish Big Lake Store Alamo Lake State Park Store
Department Kingman Area (928) 521-1387 38 miles north of Wenden at the
5000 W. Carefree Highway Arizona Game and Fish Hours: Summer 6:00 a.m. lake
Phoenix, AZ 85086 Department 7:00 p.m.; Spring/Fall 8:00 a.m. Hours: MonSun 8:00 a.m.
(602) 942-3000 5325 N. Stockton Hill Road 5:00 p.m.; Closed Winter 5:00 p.m.
Hours: MonFri 8:00 a.m.5:00 p.m. Kingman, AZ 86409 Scale capacity: 30 pounds Scale capacity: 30 pounds
Scale capacity: 120 pounds (928) 692-7700 Fishers Landing
Apache Lake Marina Hours: MonFri 8:00 a.m.5:00 p.m. Tucson Area Martinez Lake Road
P.O. Box 15627 Scale capacity: 60 pounds Yuma, AZ
Arizona Game and Fish
Tortilla Flat, AZ 85290 Willow Beach Store Department 11 miles W. on Martinez Lake Rd.
Hours: MonSun 7:30 a.m. 25804 N. Willow Beach Rd. 555 N. Greasewood Rd. from Hwy 95 (MP 46.9)
5:00 p.m. Willow Beach, AZ 86445 Tucson, AZ Winter hours: MonSun 8:00 a.m.
Scale capacity: 30 pounds (928) 767-4747 (520) 628-5376 4:00 p.m.
Canyon Lake Marina Summer Hours: Hours: MonFri 8:00 a.m.5:00 p.m. Summer hours: MonThurs 8:00
Hours: MonSun 24 hours MonSun 7:00 a.m.7:00 p.m.; Scale capacity: 30 pounds a.m.4:00 p.m.; FriSun 7:00 a.m.
Scale Capacity: 30 pounds Winter Hours: to dusk
MonSun 9:00 a.m.5:00 p.m. Patagonia Lake Scale capacity: 120 pounds
Saguaro Lake Marina Scale capacity: 120 pounds
Hours: MonSun 7:00 a.m. Marina Cove Store at Patagonia Sportsmens Hide-A-Way
5:00 p.m. Prescott Lake State Park 1645 S. Engler Ave.
Scale capacity: 30 pounds (520) 287-5545 Yuma, AZ
Walmart Hours: MonSun 10:00 a.m.4:00 p.m. Hours: MonSat 8:00 a.m.5:00 p.m.
Roosevelt Lake Marina Store 3050 E. State Route 69 Scale capacity: 120 pounds Scale capacity: 30 pounds
Highway 188 Prescott, AZ 86301

Roosevelt, AZ 85545 (928) 445-1113 Lake Havasu
(928) 467-2245 Open 24 hours
Hours: Mon-Sun 8:00 a.m. Bass Tackle Master
Scale capacity: 30 pounds
5:00 p.m. 362 London Bridge Rd., Suite 1
Bullhead Lake Havasu, AZ
Killmers Kountry Store Hours: MonFri 6:00 a.m.6:p.m.,
HC02 Box 115 Riviera Marina Sat 6:00 a.m.5:00 p.m.;
Globe, AZ 85501 520 Riviera Blvd Sun 6:00 a.m.noon
(928) 425-0700 Bullhead City, AZ 86442 Scale capacity: 30 pounds
Hours: MonSun 5:00 a.m. (928)763-8550
7:00 p.m. Hours: MonSun 7:30 a.m.
Scale capacity: 120 pounds 6:30 p.m.
Liars Corner Scale capacity: 60 pounds
9529 E. Apache Trail
Mesa, AZ
(480) 986-2515
Hours: MonSat 6:00 a.m.
6:00 p.m.;
Sun 6:00 a.m.4:00 p.m.
Scale capacity: 30 pounds

Fish Consumption and Your Health
Fishing is a great way to spend time with friends and family. Eating Fish consumption guidelines are primarily designed to protect preg-
fish is a contributor to your overall health and is an excellent source nant women, women of child bearing age, children and anglers who
of protein and omega-3 fatty acids, which benefit heart health. The regularly consume fish in larger quantities over long periods of time.
American Heart Association recommends eating fish at least This information is not intended to discourage you from eating
twice a week. fish but to guide you in making healthy choices. Dont stop eating
fish; just be careful of the fish and amounts you eat, and where they
However, some types of fish (store-bought or sport-caught) from
come from.
some locations, may containelevated levels of mercury or other
environmental contaminants. The amount of these substances in the Working with the Arizona Department of Environmental Quality, the
fishs flesh is generally highest in older, larger, predatory fish. Arizona Game and Fish Department investigates areas where there
may be concern for environmental contaminants in fish. In Arizona,
The benefits and risks of eating fish vary depending on a persons
mercury and pesticides have been found in several waters affecting
stage of life:
various species. Based on these investigations, site-specific public
Children and pregnant women are advised by the U.S. Food and advisories from the Arizona Department of Health Services and the
Drug Administration (FDA) to avoid eating fish with high levels of Department of Environmental Quality have been developed, and
mercury contamination. anglers are advised to limit the consumption of certain kinds of fish
from these locations.
For middle-aged and older men and postmenopausal women, the
benefits of fish consumption far outweigh the potential risks when Please examine the Site Specific Fish
the amount of fish eaten is within the recommendations estab-
lished by the FDA and Environmental Protection Agency (see EPA Consumption Advisories table (at right).
website www.epa.gov/waterscience/fish/publicinfo.html).
Health and Environmental Information
Lead and Fishing

Some kinds of fishing equipment such as sinkers and jigs are made Some birds have been poisoned by eating lead fishing equipment
from lead, which can be dangerous to the health of humans and because they mistake it for food. Although there is little evidence that
wildlife. You can reduce your exposure to lead from fishing equipment this occurs often in Arizona, you can help to assure that this does not
by following a few simple guidelines: happen. To prevent wildlife exposure to lead:
Never put lead in your mouth (use pliers to close sinkers around Consider using alternatives to lead when you purchase fishing
fishing line). equipment (steel, bismuth, tungsten, resin, or glass weights).
Dont touch or eat food after handling lead fishing equipment Make reasonable attempts to recover any lost equipment made
without washing your hands first. from lead.
Dont let small children handle lead fishing equipment. Clean up any lead fishing tackle you find on shore or in the
shallows.

Arizona Fish Consumption Advisories
Trout produced by the Arizona Game and Fish Department and channel catfish that are stocked into Community Fishing
waters have been tested by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency for mercury. The results of the analysis indicate
that these fish are safe for consumption. Also, the AZGFD in cooperation with the Arizona Department of Environmental
Quality are in the process of identifying waters and fish species that do not have mercury problems. This list will soon
be published on the AZGFD website and will be referred to as a Green category fishery.
Site Specific Fish Consumption Advisories

Please check the AZGFD website for the latest information.
RED ADEQ recommends that the public not consume this species.
ADEQ recommends that adults limit consumption of these fish to 2.4 ounces (uncooked weight) per week and
ORANGE
children 12 years old and younger limit consumption to 2 ounces per month (uncooked weight).
GREEN Waters with no advisories.
WATERBODY SPECIES CATEGORY

Black Crappie Red
Alamo Lake Channel Catfish Orange
Largemouth Bass Red
Apache Lake Largemouth Bass Orange
Arivaca Lake Largemouth Bass Red
Channel Catfish Orange
Bartlett Lake Flathead Catfish Orange
Largemouth Bass Orange
Walleye Red
Lake Mary (Upper and Lower)
Northern Pike Orange
Lake Pleasant
Striped Bass Orange
Lake Powell Striped Bass Orange

Long Lake Walleye Orange
Lyman Lake Channel Catfish Orange
Bluegill Orange
Parker Canyon Lake
Largemouth Bass Red
Largemouth Bass Red
Pena Blanca Lake Black Crappie Orange
Bullhead Orange
Channel Catfish Orange
Roosevelt Lake
Scott Reservoir Largemouth Bass Orange
Soldier and Soldiers Annex Lakes Walleye Red
Smallmouth Bass Red
Tonto Creek
Carp Orange
All other waters not listed All species Green
Previously the lower Salt and Gila rivers from 59th Avenue down to and including Painted Rocks Reservoir, Painted
Rocks Borrow Pit and the lower portion of the Hassayampa River were listed as contaminated with pesticides. That fish
consumption advisory has been rescinded by the ADEQ as of Aug. 7, 2015.

Angler Access Restrictions
In addition to fishing area and season closures identified on pages 12-25, other fishing areas may be seasonally closed
due to bald eagle breeding areas and/or Wildlife Area restrictions.
BALD EAGLE CLOSURES

The Arizona Game and Fish Department, in cooperation with the Southwestern Bald Eagle Management Committee and land management agen-
cies, closes sensitive bald eagle breeding areas along Arizonas rivers and lakes during fiveeight months of the year. The closures prevent public
entry and deter human activity during critical times of the breeding cycle. You can identify the closure areas by looking for No Entry signs on roads,
trails and at boat ramps, and No Entry buoys on the water. Some closures may not be enacted or lifted early depending on when and where the
eagles nest. For additional information on any closure, contact the Arizona Game and Fish Department, Terrestrial Branch, (623) 236-7506.
Lakes With Bald Eagle Breeding Lynx Lake (not enacted unless pair Forest, Verde Ranger District, (928) District, (480) 595-3300.
Closure Areas moves nesting location) Portions 567-4121. Tonto Creek
Crescent Lake A portion of the of the lakes east side may be closed Verde River near Cold Water Creek, Tonto Creek from Gisela to 76
dirt entrance road to the west side to vehicle or foot traffic and a por- allows watercraft to float through but Ranch is closed to vehicle, foot
may be restricted to a no stopping tion of the shoreline may be closed no stopping on the river or landing is entry, and floating through from
zone and a portion of land near to watercraft from Dec. 1 to June 30. allowed Dec. 1 to June 30. Dec. 1 to June 30. Contact Tonto
the parking area on the west side Contact the Prescott National Forest, Contact Prescott National Forest, National Forest, Tonto Basin
may be closed to foot entry from Bradshaw Ranger District, (928) Verde Ranger District, (928) 567-4121. Ranger District (928) 467-3200.
April 1 through Aug. 31. Contact the 443-8000. Verde River near East Verde River, Tonto Creek inlet to Roosevelt Lake
Apache-Sitgreaves National Forest, Show Low Lake A portion of the allows watercraft to float through but is closed to vehicle and foot entry
Springerville Ranger District, (928) lake is closed to watercraft and a no stopping on the river or landing within 1000 feet of the nest on land,
333-6200. portion of the shoreline may be is allowed Dec. 1 to June 30. Contact and to watercraft within 300 feet
Greer Lakes (Tunnel and River) (not closed to foot entry from March 1 to Tonto National Forest, Cave Creek on water from Dec. 1 to June 30.
enacted unless pair moves nesting August 31. Contact Apache-Sitgreaves Ranger District, (928) 595-3300. Contact Tonto National Forest, Tonto
location) Portions of the lakes may National Forest, Lakeside Ranger Verde River near Mule Shoe Bend, Basin Ranger District (928) 467-3200.
be closed to watercraft and a portion District, (928) 368-2100. allows watercraft to float through Salt River
of the shoreline may be closed to Whitehorse Lake A portion of but no stopping in the river or land-
the shoreline may be closed to foot Salt River from Horseshoe Bend to
foot entry from March 1 through July ing is allowed from Dec. 1 to June
entry from March 1 to August 31. Redmond Flat allows watercraft to
31. Contact the Apache-Sitgreaves 30. Contact Tonto National Forest,
Contact Kaibab National Forest, Wil- float through, but no stopping in the
National Forest, Springerville Ranger Cave Creek Ranger District, (480)
liams Ranger District (928) 635-5600. river or landing is allowed from Dec.
District, (928) 333-6200. 595-3300. 1 to June 30. Contact Tonto National
Horseshoe Lake A portion of the Woods Canyon Lake A portion of Verde River below Horseshoe Dam Forest, Globe Ranger District, (928)
lake is closed from Dec. 1 to June 30. the lake may be closed to watercraft is closed to vehicle or foot entry on 402-6200.
Contact the Arizona Game and Fish and a portion of the shoreline is the southwest side of the river from
closed to foot entry from April 1 Salt River near Meddler Point is
Department, (623) 236-7506. Dec. 1 to June 30. Floating through is
through August 31. Contact the closed to vehicle and foot entry
Lake Pleasant No vehicle, water- allowed, but no stopping in the river within 1000 feet of the nest on land,
craft, or foot entry is allowed into Apache-Sitgreaves National Forest, or landing on the southwest side of
Black Mesa Ranger District, (928) and to watercraft within 300 feet
the Lower Agua Fria River Arm from the river is allowed. Contact Tonto on water from Dec. 1 to June 30.
Dec. 15 to June 15. Contact Maricopa 535-7300. National Forest, Cave Creek Ranger Contact Tonto National Forest, Tonto
County Parks and Recreation, (928) District, (480) 595-3300. Basin Ranger District (928) 467-3200.
Rivers/Creeks with Bald Eagle
501-1710. Breeding Closure Areas Verde River below Bartlett Dam is Salt River below Stewart Mountain
Lower Lake Mary (not enacted closed to foot or vehicle entry from Dam, is closed to vehicle or foot
Verde River
unless pair moves nesting loca- Dec. 1 to June 30. Floating through entry on the south side of the river
tion) There may be no vehicle or Not planned for enactment unless is allowed. Contact Tonto National
nesting resumes. Verde River below from Dec. 1 to June 30. Floating
foot traffic allowed on a portion of Forest, Cave Creek Ranger District, through is allowed. Contact the
the north side of the lake from Jan. 1 Sycamore Canyon Wilderness (480) 595-3300.
may be closed to foot and vehicle Tonto National Forest, Mesa Ranger
to Aug. 30. Contact the Coconino Na- Verde River at the Needle Rock District, (480) 610-3300.
tional Forest, Mormon Lake Ranger entry from Dec. 1 to June 15. Float-
Recreation area is closed to foot Salt River near Goldfield-Kerr Fire
District, (928) 774-1147. ing through is allowed. Contact
and vehicle entry on the east and Station is closed to foot and vehicle
Coconino National Forest, Sedona
Luna Lake There is no vehicle portions of the west side of the river entry on the north side of the river
Ranger District, (928) 282-4119.
or foot traffic allowed on the north from Dec. 1 to June 30. Floating from Dec. 1 to June 30. Floating
side from Jan. 1 to June 15. Contact Verde River near Chasm Creek is through is allowed, but no stopping
closed to foot and vehicle entry from through is allowed. Contact Tonto
Apache-Sitgreaves National Forest, in the river or landing on east side National Forest, Mesa Ranger Dis-
Alpine Ranger District, (928) 339- Dec. 1 to June 15. Floating through of river is allowed. Contact Tonto
is allowed. Contact Prescott National trict, (480) 610-3300.
5000. National Forest, Cave Creek Ranger
WILDLIFE AREA RESTRICTIONS (R12-4-802) AND OTHER CLOSURES

The following areas have seasonal closures that may affect fishing access to a Mittry Lake Wildlife Area: Posted portions closed to public entry.
portion of these lakes:
Roosevelt Lake Wildlife Area: Posted portions closed to public entry from
Luna Lake Wildlife Area: Posted portions closed to public entry from Feb. 15 Nov. 15 through Feb. 15 annually.
through July 31 annually.
Silver Creek Hatchery
Accessible Fishing Opportunities
Bartlett Lake (21 miles east of Cave Creek) Lake Mary, Upper (17 miles southeast of Cholla Recreation Area
Rattlesnake Recreation Site Flagstaff) Boat ramp and courtesy dock, passenger
Parking, restrooms, fishing pier Day Use Site #2 loading platform, parking, restrooms
Boat ramp and courtesy dock, parking,
Becker Lake (2 miles west of Springerville) Roper Lake (6 miles south of Safford)
restrooms
Designated fishing pier, parking Accessible dock, restrooms, parking
Lake Mohave (5 miles north of Bullhead
Big Lake ( 25 miles south of Eagar) Rose Canyon Lake (30 miles north of
City)
Boat ramp and courtesy dock, parking, Tucson)
Katherine Landing,
restrooms Parking, restrooms, shoreline access
Restrooms, fishing pier
Canyon Lake (18 miles north of Saguaro Lake (20 miles north of Mesa)
Lake Pleasant (15 miles north of Peoria)
Apache Junction) Butcher Jones Cove
10 lane boat ramp
LaBarge Cove Parking, restrooms
Parking, fishing pier, restrooms, picnic
restrooms Saguaro del Norte
facilities
Lake Powell (5 miles north of Page)
Palo Verde Recreation Area restrooms, picnic facilities, fishing piers
Wahweep
Developed fishing pier Topock Marsh (4 miles north of Golden
restrooms
Shores)
Lynx Lake (7 miles east of Prescott)
Crescent Lake (22 miles south of Eagar) Catfish Paradise
Fishing pier, interpretive trail, parking,
Parking, restrooms Restrooms
restrooms
Fain Lake (City of Prescott Valley) Willow Springs Lake (17 miles west of
Mittry Lake (14 miles north of Yuma)
Restrooms, paved fishing access Heber)
Parking, fishing jetty, asphalt trail, rest-
Fool Hollow Lake (4 miles west of Show rooms, boat dock
restrooms
Low)
Nelson Reservoir (8 miles southwest of
Parking, restrooms, fishing docks Woodland Lake (Pinetop/Lakeside)
Springerville)
Parking, restrooms, fishing dock
Kaibab Lake (2 miles north of Williams) Parking, fishing ramadas, restrooms
Designated fishing pier All designated Community
Parker Canyon Lake (30 miles southwest of
Sierra Vista) Fishing waters
Lake Havasu (near Lake Havasu City)
Boat ramp and courtesy dock, parking, (Consult the Community Fishing Program
Mesquite Cove
restrooms, fishing pier guidebook for locations in the Phoenix and
Parking, restrooms, fishing piers
Tucson areas, as well as Payson and Yuma)
Patagonia Lake (10 miles northeast of

Site Six Parking, restrooms, shade, shoreline ac-
Boat ramp and courtesy dock, parking, Nogales) cess, picnic facilities
restrooms, fishing pier Parking, restrooms, fishing pier
Bill Williams Refuge Headquarters Pena Blanca Lake (8 miles northwest of

Parking, restrooms, fishing dock, lighted Nogales)
pathway Boat ramp and courtesy dock, parking,
restrooms, fishing pier
Take-Off Point
Boat ramp and courtesy dock, parking, Riggs Flat Lake (15 miles southwest of
restrooms Safford)
Parking, trail access to shoreline
Lake Havasu State Park
Boat ramp and courtesy dock, parking, Roosevelt Lake (26 miles northwest of
restrooms Globe)

Amphibians: Commission Order 41 Requires a valid fishing or combination license
Open Areas - Statewide - As defined in ARS17-101, but does not include any area closed under ARS 17-303 and 17-304, or R12-4-801, R12-4-802 and R12-4-803
Open Season Dates Notes Open Areas Legal Amphibians Bag and Possession Limit
A. Jan 1 Dec 31, 2017 Statewide, except areas All amphibians, except those named in Subsections B, C, D, Ten (10) per year or in possession
(1, 2, 5, 7, and 8)
Jan 1 Dec 31, 2018 closed in Note 7 E, F, G, and H of each species live or dead.
B. Jan 1 Dec 31, 2017 Statewide, except areas Bufo cognatus (Great Plains toad), B. punctatus (red- Ten (10) per day or in possession
(1, 2, 7, and 8) spotted toad), Scaphiopus couchi (Couchs spadefoot), and
Jan 1 Dec 31, 2018 closed in Note 7 Spea multiplicata (Mexican spadefoot) per species live or dead.
C. Jan 1 Dec 31, 2017 Statewide, except areas Two (2) per year or in possession
(1, 2, 3, 7, and 8) Craugaster augusti (barking frog)
Jan 1 Dec 31, 2018 closed in Note 7 live or dead.
D. Jan 1 Dec 31, 2017 Statewide, except areas All species in the genus Ambystoma (waterdog or tiger
(1, 2, 4, 7, and 8) Unlimited live or dead.
Jan 1 Dec 31, 2018 closed in Notes 4 and 7 salamander)
E. Jan 1 Dec 31, 2017 Statewide, except areas
(1, 2, 7, 8, 9, and 10) Rana catesbeiana (bullfrog) Unlimited dead.
Jan 1 Dec 31, 2018 closed in Notes 7 and 9
F. Jan 1 Dec 31, 2017 Statewide, except areas All species in the genus Xenopus (clawed frog) and Bufo
(1, 2, 7, and 8) Unlimited dead.
Jan 1 Dec 31, 2018 closed in Note 7 marinus (giant toad)
G. Jan 1 Dec 31, 2017 Statewide, except areas
(1, 2, 6, 7, and 9) Rana berlandieri (Rio Grande leopard frog) Unlimited dead.
Jan 1 Dec 31, 2018 closed in Notes 6 and 7.
H. There is no open season on Ambystoma tigrinum stebbinsi (Sonoran tiger salamander), Rana tarahumarae (Tarahumara frog), Rana blairi (plains leopard frog), Rana chiricahuensis
(Chiricahua leopard frog), Rana pipiens (northern leopard frog), Rana yavapaiensis (lowland leopard frog), Rana onca (relict leopard frog).
Amphibian Notes:
1. A fishing or combination license is required for (1) Posted boundaries of State or Federal Spawning Pond Number 2 located along (22) Sycamore Creek in Santa Cruz County.
take of amphibians. Amphibians may be taken hatcheries, except for Arizona Game and the Salinity Canal north of Yuma. (23) Cibola Lake from the first Monday in
day or night. Methods of take are prescribed in Fish Department sponsored fishing clinics. (11) The Luna Lake Wildlife Area from April 1 September (Labor Day) through March 15.
R12-4-313. (2) Posted boundary of the Region I regional through July 31. (24) Posted portions of Martinez Lake from
2. The Fort Huachuca Military Reservation controls headquarters in Pinetop. (12) Posted portions of Alamo Lake. October 1 through March 1.
access to the taking of aquatic wildlife on its (3) The Colorado River one-half mile upstream (13) Posted portions of the Tonto Arm of Roo- (25) Posted in accordance with and pursuant to
installation. and one-half mile downstream from its sevelt Lake from November 15 through ARS 17-303 and 304.
3. The possession limit for Craugaster augusti (bark- confluence with the Little Colorado River. February 15 annually. 8. The Grand Canyon-Parashant, Vermillion Cliffs,
ing frog) legally held prior to January 1, 2005 is (4) That portion of the Little Colorado River lying (14) Posted portions of Mittry Lake from Novem- Sonoran Desert, Ironwood Forest, and Agua Fria
10 per person. within the Grand Canyon National Park. ber 15 through February 15 annually. National Monuments are open to the take of
4. No waterdogs or salamanders may be taken (5) Lee Valley Creek above Lee Valley Lake. (15) Posted portions of Becker Lake are closed to wildlife.
in that portion of Santa Cruz County lying east (6) Gap Creek between Honeymoon Cabin and all public entry from December 15 through 9. Havasu, Bill Williams River, Cibola, and Imperial
and south of State Highway 82 or that portion of its confluence with the Verde River. June 15. National Wildlife Refuges are open to the take
Cochise County lying west of the San Pedro River (7) Mineral Creek in Apache County upstream (16) Posted portions of Lake Mead. of bullfrogs, as permitted by refuge regulations
and south of State Highway 82. of the Apache-Sitgreaves National Forest (17) Posted portions of Powers Butte Wildlife (posted areas are closed).
5. No Hyla wrightorum (Arizona treefrogs) may be Boundary. Area are closed to entry for the purpose of 10. Within Unit 25M, bullfrogs may only be taken
taken in Cochise or Santa Cruz counties. (8) Posted areas immediately above the dams taking wildlife.
at Upper Lake Mary, Alamo Lake and Lake by minnow trap, crayfish net, hand, or with any
6. Rana berlandieri (Rio Grande leopard frogs) may (18) Posted portions of Bog Hole Wildlife Area. hand-held, non-motorized implement that does
Mead.
not be taken from the portion of the Hassayampa (19) Posted portions of Lake Havasu. not discharge a projectile, as prescribed in R12-
River between Wickenburg and Morristown. (9) Posted areas immediately below Davis,
(20) Posted portions of Cienega Creek in Pima 4-313(D.6).
Hoover, Glen Canyon, Waddell (Lake Pleas-
7. Amphibians may not be taken at any time (or ant), Roosevelt, Horse Mesa and Mormon County.
during periods specified) within the following Flat dams. (21) Aravaipa Creek in Pinal and Graham coun-
areas: ties.
(10) Posted, Spawning Pond Number 1 and
Crustaceans and Mollusks: Commission Order 42 Requires a valid fishing or combination license
Open Areas - Statewide - As defined in ARS17-101, but does not include any area closed under ARS 17-303 and 17-304, or R12-4-801, R12-4-802 and R12-4-803.
Open Season Dates Notes Open Areas Legal Crustaceans and Mollusks Bag and Possession Limit
A. Jan 1 - Dec 31, 2017 All crustaceans and mollusks, except
All Statewide, except areas in Notes below. Unlimited dead, except that area in Note 3.
Jan 1 - Dec 31, 2018 those named in Subsection B
B. There is no open season on any species in the genus Oxyloma (ambersnails), the genus Pyrgulopsis (springsnails; see Note 2 as it applies to the Huachuca springsnail [P. thompsoni]),
the genus Tryonia (springsnails), Sonorella eremita (San Xavier talussnail), Sonorella macrophallus (Wet Canyon talussnail), Sonorella grahamensis (Pinaleno talussnail), Sonorella
imitator (mimic talussnail), Sonorella christenseni (Clark Peak talussnail), Oreohelix grahamensis (Pinaleno mountainsnail), Gastrocopta dalliana (shortneck snaggletooth), Gastrocopta
quadrigens (cross snaggletooth), and Anodonta californiensis (California floater).
Crustaceans and Mollusks Notes:

1. By law, crustaceans and mollusks are considered aquatic wildlife mopyrgus antipodarum (New Zealand mudsnail), Dreissena in Pinetop.
and a fishing or combination license is required for take. Methods polymorpha (zebra mussel), Dreissena bugensis (quagga (3). The Colorado River one-half mile upstream and one-half
of take are prescribed at R12-4-313. mussel), Cherax quadricarinatus (red-claw crayfish), Orconectes mile downstream from its confluence with the Little
2. The Fort Huachuca Military Reservation controls access to the rusticus (rusty crayfish), and Pomacea species (applesnails) in Colorado River.
taking of aquatic wildlife on its installation. Arizona is prohibited (with the exception of preserved scientific (4). That portion of the Little Colorado River lying within the
and educational specimens). Grand Canyon National Park.
3. Crayfish may be possessed live or dead in that portion of La Paz
County west of Highway 95 and south of Interstate 10; in Yuma 5. Crustaceans and mollusks may not be taken at any time within (5). Lee Valley Creek above Lee Valley Reservoir.
County and on the Colorado River from Palo Verde Diversion the following areas: (6). Gap Creek between Honeymoon Cabin and its confluence
Dam downstream to the southern international boundary with (1). Posted boundaries of State or Federal hatcheries, except with the Verde River.
Mexico. for Arizona Game and Fish Department sponsored (7). Mineral Creek in Apache County upstream of the Apache-
4. Intentional transport of live or dead aquatic invasive species fishing clinics. Sitgreaves National Forest Boundary.
[crustaceans and mollusks listed in Directors Order #1: Pota- (2). Posted boundary of the Region I regional headquarters (8). Posted areas immediately above the dams at Upper Lake

Crustaceans and Mollusks Notes (continued):
Mary, Alamo Lake and Lake Mead. (14). Posted portions of Mittry Lake from November 15 through (21). Aravaipa Creek in Pinal and Graham counties.
(9). Posted areas immediately below Davis, Hoover, Glen February 15 annually. (22). Sycamore Creek in Santa Cruz County.
Canyon, Waddell (Lake Pleasant), Roosevelt, Horse Mesa (15). Posted portions of Becker Lake are closed to all public (23). Cibola Lake from the first Monday in September (Labor
and Mormon Flat dams. entry from December 15 through June 15. Day) through March 15.
(10). Posted, Spawning Pond Number 1 and Spawning Pond (16). Posted portions of Lake Mead. (24). Posted portions of Martinez Lake from October 1 through
Number 2 located along the Salinity Canal north of Yuma. (17). Posted portions of Powers Butte Wildlife Area are closed March 1.
(11). Luna Lake Wildlife Area from April 1 through July 31. to entry for the purpose of taking wildlife. (25). Posted in accordance with and pursuant to ARS 17-303
(12). Posted portions of Alamo Lake. (18). Posted portions of Bog Hole Wildlife Area. and 304.
(13). Posted portions of the Tonto Arm of Roosevelt Lake from (19). Posted portions of Lake Havasu. 6. The Grand Canyon-Parashant, Vermillion Cliffs, Sonoran Desert,
November 15 through February 15 annually. (20). Posted portions of Cienega Creek in Pima County Ironwood Forest, and Aqua Fria National Monuments are open
to the take of wildlife.
Reptiles: Commission Order 43 (aquatic only) Requires a valid fishing or combination license
GENERAL
CONSULT THE 2017 & 2018 ARIZONA REPTILE AND AMPHIBIAN REGULATIONS FOR A COMPLETE LISTING OF COMMISSION ORDER 43 (includes terrestrial).
*Open Areas do not include areas within municipal parks, municipal preserves, county parks, county preserves, airports, golf courses, or posted water treatment facilities (except as
specifically opened in this Commission Order) or areas closed under A.R.S. Sections 17-101, 17-303 and 17-304, or Commission Rules R12-4-321, R12-4-801, R12-4-802 and R12-4-803.
Other Notes may apply (see Open Areas information below).
Open Season Dates Notes Open Areas Legal Reptiles Bag and Possession Limit
Nerodia fasciata (banded watersnake), Apalone
Statewide, except areas closed in Notes 9, 11, 14,
Jan 1, Dec 31, 2017 (1, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, spinifera (spiny softshell), Trachemys scripta
15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, Unlimited dead.
Jan 1, Dec 31, 2018 22, 26, 30, 31, 32) (slider), and all species of the family Chelydridae
and 29 (also noted above*).
(snapping turtles)
LIMITED WEAPON HAND OR HAND-HELD IMPLEMENT REPTILES

Open Areas do not include any area closed under A.R.S. Sections 17-101, 17-303 and 17-304, or Commission Rules R12-4-801, R12-4-802 and R12-4-803.
Open Season Dates Notes Open Areas Legal Reptiles Bag and Possession Limit
Statewide, including private lands within city
Nerodia fasciata (banded watersnake), Apalone
limits and areas within municipal parks, municipal
Jan 1, Dec 31, 2017 spinifera (spiny softshell), Trachemys scripta
(2, 7, 8, 9, 13) preserves, county parks, county preserves, Unlimited dead.
Jan 1, Dec 31, 2018 (slider), and all species of the family Chelydridae
airports, golf courses, or posted water treatment
(snapping turtles)
facilities. except areas closed in Note 10.
Reptile Notes:
1. A hunting or combination license is required for take of reptiles. A (15) Posted portions of Becker Lake are closed to all public entry from 9. A limited weapon hand or hand-held implement season
fishing or combination license is required for take of softshell turtles. December 15 through June 15. may use one or more of the following methods or devices
Reptiles may be taken day or night. See R12-4-304 (F) for restrictions (16) Posted portions of Lake Mead. for taking wildlife, if authorized under R12-4-304 as lawful
on trapping and the use of artificial light and firearms. By law, softshell for the species hunted:
(17) Posted portions of Powers Butte Wildlife Area are closed to entry
turtles are considered aquatic wildlife and a fishing or combination a. Catch-pole,
for the purpose of taking wildlife.
license is required for take; methods of take are prescribed in R12-4-313.
(18) Posted portions of Bog Hole Wildlife Area. b. Hand,
2. A hunting or combination license is required for take of reptiles. A c. Snake hook, or
(19) Posted portions of Lake Havasu.
fishing or combination license is required for take of softshell turtles.
(20) Posted portions of Cienega Creek in Pima County. d. Snake tongs.
Reptiles may be taken day or night. See R12-4-304 (F) for restrictions
22. The following Pima County parks and preserves are open to hunting

for trapping and the use of artificial light. By law, softshell turtles are (21) Aravaipa Creek in Pinal and Graham counties.
considered aquatic wildlife and a fishing or combination license is (22) Sycamore Creek in Santa Cruz County. concurrent with a game hunting season in the unit in which they occur:
required for take. Methods of take are prescribed in R12-4-318 (C.9). A-7 Ranch in Units 32 and 33, Oracle Ridge Property in Unit 33, Six
(23) Cibola Lake from the first Monday in September (Labor Day) Bar Ranch in Unit 33, Emperita Ranch in Unit 34B, Bar V Ranch in Unit
7. The Fort Huachuca Military Reservation, the Yuma Proving Ground, and through March 15. 34B, Sands Ranch in Unit 34B, Clyne Ranch in Unit 34B, Diamond Bell
Camp Navajo control access to hunting on their installations. (24) Posted portions of Martinez Lake from October 1 through March Ranch in Unit 36A, Marley Ranch in Unit 36A and 36B, Rancho Seco in
8. The Fort Huachuca Military Reservation controls access to the taking of 1. Units 36A and 36B, Kings 98 Ranch in Unit 36C, Old Hayhook Ranch in
aquatic wildlife on its installation. (25) Posted in accordance with and pursuant to ARS 17-303 and 304. Unit 36C, Verdugo in Unit 36C, Bee Ranch in Unit 37A, Mordka Ranch
10. The Grand Canyon-Parashant, Vermillion Cliffs, Sonoran Desert, Iron- in Unit 37A, Buckelew Ranch in Unit 37A, Carpenter Ranch in Unit 37A,
9. Turtles may not be taken at any time (or during periods specified) within Cochise Canyon Ranch in Unit 37A, Lords Ranch in Unit 37A, and Tortolita
the following areas: wood Forest, and Agua Fria national monuments are open to hunting
concurrent with a game hunting season in the unit in which they occur. Mountain Park in Unit 37A. Hunting in County Parks, opened by this
(1) Posted boundaries of State or Federal hatcheries, except for Commission Order, is not permitted within mile of any developed
Arizona Game and Fish Department sponsored fishing clinics. 11. Open Areas do not include private lands within city limits and areas within picnic area, developed camp ground, shooting range, occupied building,
municipal parks, municipal preserves, county parks, county preserves, boat ramp, or golf course. Developed areas do not include trails.
(2) Posted boundary of the Region I regional headquarters in Pinetop. airports, golf courses, or posted water treatment facilities (except as
(3) The Colorado River one-half mile upstream and one-half mile specifically opened in this Commission Order) or any area closed to 26. The following parks and preserves in Maricopa County are open to
downstream from its confluence with the Little Colorado River. hunting, fishing, or trapping under A.R.S, Sections 17-303 and 17-304, hunting as defined in R12-4-321: Lake Pleasant, White Tank Mountains,
(4) That portion of the Little Colorado River lying within the Grand or Commission Rules R12-4-321, R12-4-801, R12-4-802 and R12-4-803. McDowell Mountain, and Estrella Mountain Regional parks. Hunting in
Canyon National Park. parks and preserves opened by this Commission Order is not permitted
12. General Reptile seasons must comply with R12-4-304 - Lawful Methods within mile of any developed picnic area, developed camp ground,
(5) Lee Valley Creek above Lee Valley Lake. for Taking Wild Mammals, Birds, and Reptiles: shooting range, occupied building, boat ramp, or golf course. Developed
(6) Gap Creek between Honeymoon Cabin and its confluence with areas do not include trails.
F. An individual may take reptiles by any method not prohibited in R12-
the Verde River. 4-303 or R12-4-318 under the following conditions. An individual: 30. The area within the fenced enclosure inside the loop formed by Tonto
(7) Mineral Creek in Apache County upstream of the Apache-Sitgreaves 1. Shall check pitfall traps of any size daily, release non-target spe- National Forest Road 647, also known as the Walnut Canyon Enclosure,
National Forest Boundary. cies, remove pitfalls when no longer in use, and fill any holes; is open to public entry and hunting during a concurrent open game
(8) Posted areas immediately above the dams at Upper Lake Mary, hunting season.
2. Shall not use firearms at night; and
Alamo Lake and Lake Mead.
3. May use artificial light while taking reptiles, if the light is not 31. The following City of Tucson water Properties located in Avra Valley are
(9) Posted areas immediately below Davis, Hoover, Glen Canyon, attached to or operated from a motor vehicle, motorized open to hunting via foot access only: the Duval property in Unit 36C and
Waddell (Lake Pleasant), Roosevelt, Horse Mesa and Mormon watercraft, watercraft under sail, or floating object towed by the Buckelew property in Unit 37A; all other Tucson water properties
Flat dams. a motorized watercraft or a watercraft under sail. are closed to hunting.
(10) Posted, Spawning Pond Number 1 and Spawning Pond Number 13. Limited Weapon Hand or Hand-held Implement Reptile seasons must 32. In the northern portion of Unit 5A, access is permitted on the Clear Creek
2 located along the Salinity Canal north of Yuma. comply with R12-4-318 - Seasons for Lawfully Taking Wild Mammals, Ranch by written permission only by contacting the Hopi Tribe Wildlife
(11) The Luna Lake Wildlife Area from April 1 through July 31. Birds, and Reptiles: and Ecosystems Management Program via e-mail at hopihunts@hopi.
(12) Posted portions of Alamo Lake. nsn.us or by calling (928) 734-3606 or (928) 734-3605 from Monday-
C. When designated by Commission order, the following seasons have
(13) Posted portions of the Tonto Arm of Roosevelt Lake from November specific requirements and lawful methods of take more restrictive Friday 8am-5pm. Please contact in advance to gain access for hunting
15 through February 15 annually. than those for general and special seasons, as prescribed in this and scouting. In Unit 5B North, access is permitted on the Hopis Hart/
(14) Posted portions of Mittry Lake from November 15 through February Section. While taking the species authorized by the season, a Drye Ranch and in Unit 4A on the Hopis Aja Ranch by signing in at
15 annually. person participating in: designated sign-in boxes located at access points.

Arizona Revised Statutes, Title 17 Laws (Game and Fish)
A.R.S. 17-101 in number or amount of wildlife, that may be of a jacklight, other artificial light, or illegal device,
Definitions possessed at one time by any one person. except as provided by the commission.
A. In this title, unless the context otherwise requires: 17. Resident, for the purposes of applying for a B. A person shall not take wildlife, except aquatic
license, permit, tag or stamp, means a person wildlife, or discharge a firearm or shoot any other
1. Angling means the taking of fish by one line
who is: device from a motor vehicle, including an automobile,
and not to exceed two hooks, by one line and
one artificial lure, which may have attached (a) A member of the armed forces of the United aircraft, train or powerboat, or from a sailboat, boat
more than one hook, or by one line and not to States on active duty and who is stationed under sail, or a floating object towed by powerboat
exceed two artificial flies or lures. in: or sailboat except as expressly permitted by the
(i) This state for a period of thirty days im- commission. No person may knowingly discharge
2. Bag limit means the maximum limit, in number
mediately preceding the date of applying any firearm or shoot any other device upon, from,
or amount, of wildlife that may lawfully be taken
for a license, permit, tag or stamp. across or into a road or railway.
by any one person during a specified period of
time. (ii) Another state or country but who lists this C. Fish may be taken only by angling unless otherwise
3. Closed season means the time during which state as the persons home of record at provided by the commission. The line shall be con-
wildlife may not be lawfully taken. the time of applying for a license, permit, stantly attended. In every case the hook, fly or lure
tag or stamp. shall be used in such manner that the fish voluntarily
4. Commission means the Arizona game and
(b) Domiciled in this state for six months im- take or attempt to take it in their mouths.
fish commission.
mediately preceding the date of applying (law not cited in entirety)
5. Department means the Arizona game and
for a license, permit, tag or stamp and who
fish department.
6. Device means any net, trap, snare, salt lick,
does not claim residency privileges for any A.R.S. 17-303
purpose in any other state or jurisdiction. Taking or driving wildlife from closed areas
scaffold, deadfall, pit, explosive, poison or
18. Road means any maintained right-of-way for
stupefying substance, crossbow, firearm, bow It is unlawful for any person, except by commission
public conveyance.
and arrow, or other implement used for taking order, to enter upon a game refuge or other area
wildlife. Device does not include a raptor or any 19. Statewide means all lands except those areas closed to hunting, trapping or fishing and take, drive
equipment used in the sport of falconry. lying within the boundaries of state and federal or attempt to drive wildlife from such areas.
refuges, parks and monuments, unless specifi-
7. Domicile means a persons true, fixed and
cally provided differently by commission order.
permanent home and principal residence. A.R.S. 17-304
Proof of domicile in this state may be shown 20. Take means pursuing, shooting, hunting,
fishing, trapping, killing, capturing, snaring or Prohibition by landowner upon hunting;
as prescribed by rule by the commission. posting; exception
netting wildlife or the placing or using of any
9. Fishing means to lure, attract or pursue aquatic
net or other device or trap in a manner that A. Landowners or lessees of private land who desire
wildlife in such a manner that the wildlife may
may result in the capturing or killing of wildlife. Landowners or lessees of private land who desire to
be captured or killed.
24. Wildlife means all wild mammals, wild birds prohibit hunting, fishing or trapping on their lands
11. Guide means a person who does any of the without their written permission shall post such lands
and the nests or eggs thereof, reptiles, amphib-
following: closed to hunting, fishing or trapping using notices
ians, mollusks, crustaceans and fish, including
(a) Advertises for guiding services. or signboards.
their eggs or spawn.
(b) Holds himself out to the public for hire as a B. State or federal lands including those under lease
25. Youth means a person who is under eighteen
guide. may not be posted except by consent of the com-
years of age.
(c) Is employed by a commercial enterprise as mission.
26. Zoo means a commercial facility open to the
a guide.
public where the principal business is holding C. The notices or signboards shall meet all of the fol-
(d) Accepts compensation in any form com- wildlife in captivity for exhibition purposes. lowing criteria:
mensurate with the market value in this state
B. The following definitions of wildlife shall apply: 1. Be not less than eight inches by eleven inches
for guiding services in exchange for aiding,
assisting, directing, leading or instructing a 1. Aquatic wildlife are all fish, amphibians, mol- with plainly legible wording in capital and bold-
person in the field to locate and take wildlife. lusks, crustaceans and soft-shelled turtles. faced lettering at least one inch high.
(e) Is not a landowner or lessee who, without 8. Nongame animals are all wildlife except game 2. Contain the words no hunting, no trapping
full fair market compensation, allows access mammals, game birds, fur-bearing animals, or no fishing either as a single phrase or in
to the landowners or lessees property and predatory animals and aquatic wildlife. any combination.
directs and advises a person in taking wildlife. 13. Game fish are trout of all species, bass of all 3. Be conspicuously placed on a structure or
12. License classification means a type of license, species, catfish of all species, sunfish of all spe- post at least four feet above ground level at
permit, tag or stamp authorized under this title cies, northern pike, walleye and yellow perch. all points of vehicular access, at all property or
and prescribed by the commission by rule to 14. Nongame fish are all the species of fish except fence corners and at intervals of not more than
take, handle or possess wildlife. game fish. one-quarter mile along the property boundary,
15. Trout means all species of the family salmonidae, except that a post with one hundred square
13. License year means the twelve-month period
including grayling. inches or more of orange paint may serve as
between January 1 and December 31, inclusive,
the interval notices between property or fence
or a different twelve-month period as prescribed (law not cited in entirety)
corners and points of vehicular access. The
by the commission by rule.
orange paint shall be clearly visible and shall
14. Nonresident, for the purposes of applying for A.R.S. 17-301 cover the entire aboveground surface of the
a license, permit, tag or stamp, means a citizen Times when wildlife may be taken; exceptions; post facing outward and on both lateral sides
of the United States or an alien who is not a methods of taking from the closed area.
resident. A. A person may take wildlife, except aquatic wildlife, D. The entry of any person for the taking of wildlife shall
15. Open season means the time during which only during daylight hours unless otherwise pre- not be grounds for an action for criminal trespassing
wildlife may be lawfully taken. scribed by the commission. A person shall not take pursuant to section 13-1502 unless either:
16. Possession limit means the maximum limit, any species of wildlife by the aid or with the use

1. The land has been posted pursuant to this 8. Obtain a license or take wildlife during the A.R.S. 17-314
section and the notices and signboards also period for which the persons license has been Civil liability for illegally taking or wounding
contain the words no trespassing. revoked or suspended or the person has been wildlife; recovery of damages
2. The person knowingly remains unlawfully on denied a license. A. The commission or any officer charged with
any real property after a reasonable request 9. Litter hunting and fishing areas while taking enforcement of the laws relating to game and
to leave by the owner or any other person wildlife. fish, if so directed by the commission, may bring
having lawful control over the property or 10. Take wildlife during the closed season. a civil action in the name of the state against any
the person knowingly disregards reasonable 11. Take wildlife in an area closed to the taking of person unlawfully taking, wounding or killing, or
notice prohibiting trespass at the persons that wildlife. unlawfully in possession of, any of the following
entry to any real property. 12. Take wildlife with an unlawful device. wildlife, or part thereof, and seek to recover the
13. Take wildlife by an unlawful method. following minimum sums as damage:
A.R.S. 17-306 1. For each turkey or javelina $500.00
Importation, transportation, release or pos- 14. Take wildlife in excess of the bag limit.
session of live wildlife; violations; classifica- 15. Possess wildlife in excess of the possession 2. For each bear, mountain lion, antelope or
tion limit. deer, other than trophy $1,500.00
16. Possess or transport any wildlife or parts of 3. For each elk or eagle, other than trophy or
A. No person shall import or transport into this state
the wildlife that was unlawfully taken. endangered species $2,500.00
or sell, trade or release within this state or have
in the persons possession any live wildlife except 17. Possess or transport the carcass of big game 4. For each predatory, fur-bearing or nongame
as authorized by the commission or as defined in without a valid tag being attached. animal $250.00
title 3, chapter 16. 18. Use the edible parts of any game mammal or 5. For each small game or aquatic wildlife animal
any part of any game bird or nongame bird $50.00
B. It is unlawful for a person to knowingly and without
lawful authority under state or federal law import as bait. 6. For each trophy or endangered species animal
and transport into this state and release within 19. Possess or transport the carcass or parts of a $8,000.00
this state a species of wildlife that is listed as a carcass of any wildlife that cannot be identified B. No verdict or judgment recovered by the state in
threatened, endangered or candidate species under as to species and legality. such action shall be for less than the sum fixed
the endangered species act of 1973 (P.L. 93-205; 20. Take game animals, game birds and game fish in this section. The minimum sum that the com-
87 Stat. 884; 16 United States Code sections 1531 with an explosive compound, poison or any mission may seek to recover as damages from a
through 1544). other deleterious substances. person pursuant to this section may be doubled
21. Import into this state or export from this state for a second verdict or judgment and tripled for a
C. A person who violates subsection B of this section
the carcass or parts of a carcass of any wildlife third verdict or judgment. The action for damages
is guilty of a class 6 felony.
unlawfully taken or possessed. may be joined with an action for possession, and
D. A person who violates subsection B of this section recovery had for the possession as well as the
with the intent to disrupt or interfere with the B. Unless a different or other penalty or punishment
damages.
development or use of public natural resources is specifically prescribed a person who violates
any provision of this title, or who violates or fails C. The pendency or determination of an action for
to establish the presence of the species in an area
to comply with a lawful order or rule of the com- damages or payment of a judgment, or the pen-
not currently known to be occupied by that species
mission, is guilty of a class 2 misdemeanor. dency or determination of a criminal prosecution
is guilty of a class 4 felony.
for the same taking, wounding, killing or possession,
C. A person who knowingly takes any big game dur-
is not a bar to the other, nor does either affect the
A.R.S. 17-309 ing a closed season or who knowingly possesses,
right of seizure under any other provision of the
Violations; classification transports or buys any big game that was unlawfully
laws relating to game and fish.
taken during a closed season is guilty of a class 1
Arizona Revised Statutes and Commission Rules

A. Unless otherwise prescribed by this title, it is D. All monies recovered pursuant to this section
unlawful for a person to: misdemeanor.
D. A person is guilty of a class 6 felony who knowingly:
shall be placed in the wildlife theft prevention
1. Violate any provision of this title or any rule fund.
adopted pursuant to this title. 1. Barters, sells or offers for sale any big game
2. Take, possess, transport, buy, sell or offer or or parts of big game taken unlawfully. A.R.S. 17-331
expose for sale wildlife except as expressly 2. Barters, sells or offers for sale any wildlife
License or proof of purchase required;
permitted by this title. or parts of wildlife unlawfully taken during a violation of child support order
3. Destroy, injure or molest livestock, growing closed season.
A. Except as provided by this title, rules prescribed
crops, personal property, notices or sign- 3. Barters, sells or offers for sale any wildlife
xcept as provided by this title, rules prescribed by
boards, or other improvements while hunting, or parts of wildlife imported or purchased
the commission or commission order, a person
trapping or fishing. in violation of this title or a lawful rule of the
shall not take any wildlife in this state without a
4. Discharge a firearm while taking wildlife within commission.
valid license or a commission approved proof of
one-fourth mile of an occupied farmhouse 4. Assists another person for monetary gain with purchase. The person shall carry the license or
or other residence, cabin, lodge or building the unlawful taking of big game. proof of purchase and produce it on request to
without permission of the owner or resident. 5. Takes or possesses wildlife while under any game ranger, wildlife manager or peace officer.
5. Take a game bird, game mammal or game permanent revocation under section 17-340,
B. A certificate of noncompliance with a child support
fish and knowingly permit an edible portion subsection B, paragraph 3.
order issued pursuant to section 25-518 invalidates
thereof to go to waste, except as provided in E. A peace officer who knowingly fails to enforce a any license or proof of purchase issued to the
section 17-302. lawful rule of the commission or this title is guilty support obligor for taking wildlife in this state and
6. Take big game, except bear or mountain lion, of a class 2 misdemeanor. prohibits the support obligor from applying for
with the aid of dogs. any additional licenses issued by an automated
7. Make more than one use of a shipping permit drawing system under this title.
or coupon issued by the commission.

C. On receipt of a certificate of compliance with a child other improvements while hunting, trapping notice may be served personally or by certified mail
support order from the court pursuant to section or fishing. sent to the address appearing on the license.
25-518 and without further action: 4. Littering public hunting or fishing areas while F. The commission shall furnish to license dealers the
1. Any license or proof of purchase issued to the taking wildlife. names and addresses of persons whose licenses
support obligor for taking wildlife that was 5. Knowingly allowing another person to use the have been revoked or suspended, and the periods
previously invalidated by a certificate of non- persons big game tag, except as provided by for which they have been denied the right to secure
compliance and that has not otherwise expired section 17-332, subsection D. licenses.
shall be reinstated. 6. A violation of section 17-303, 17-304, 17-316 or G. The commission may use the services of the office of
2. Any ineligibility to apply for any license issued by 17-341 or section 17-362, subsection A. administrative hearings to conduct hearings and to
an automated drawing system shall be removed. 7. A violation of section 17-309, subsection A, make recommendations to the commission pursuant
paragraph 5 involving a waste of edible portions to this section.
A.R.S. 17-335 other than meat damaged due to the method H. Except for a person who takes or possesses wildlife
Blind resident; fishing license exemption of taking as follows: while under permanent revocation, a person who
A blind resident may fish without a license and is entitled (a) Upland game birds, migratory game birds takes wildlife in this state, or attempts to obtain a
to the same privileges as the holder of a valid license. and wild turkey: breast. license to take wildlife, at a time when the persons
(b) Deer, elk, pronghorn (antelope), bighorn privilege to do so is suspended, revoked or denied
A.R.S. 17-336 sheep, bison (buffalo) and peccary (javelina): under this section is guilty of a class 1 misdemeanor.
Complimentary and honorary youth licenses hind quarters, front quarters and loins.
(c) Game fish: fillets of the fish. A.R.S. 17-341
A. The commission may issue a complimentary license
8. A violation of section 17-309, subsection A, Violation; classification
to:
paragraph 1 involving any unlawful use of A. It is unlawful for a person to knowingly purchase,
1. A pioneer who is seventy years of age or older aircraft to take, assist in taking, harass, chase, apply for, accept, obtain or use, by fraud or misrep-
and who has been a resident of this state for drive, locate or assist in locating wildlife. resentation a license, permit, tag or stamp to take
twenty-five or more consecutive years immedi-
B. On conviction or after adjudication as a delinquent wildlife and a license or permit so obtained is void
ately preceding application for the license. The
juvenile and in addition to any other penalties and of no effect from the date of issuance thereof.
pioneer license is valid for the lifetime of the
prescribed by this title: B. Any person who violates this section is guilty of a
licensee, and the commission shall not require
renewal of the license. 1. For a first conviction or a first adjudication as class 2 misdemeanor.
2. A veteran of the armed forces of the United States a delinquent juvenile, for unlawfully taking or
who has been a resident of this state for one year wounding wildlife at any time or place, the A.R.S. 17-342
or more immediately preceding application for commission, after a public hearing, may revoke, Colorado river special use permit
the license and who is receiving compensation suspend or deny a persons privilege to take
wildlife for a period of up to five years. A. A person taking fish or amphibians for purposes
from the United States government for perma- other than for profit from or while on a boat or other
nent service connected disabilities rated as one 2. For a second conviction or a second adjudication
floating device on all waters of the Colorado river
hundred per cent disabling. as a delinquent juvenile, for unlawfully taking
south of the Nevada-Arizona boundary shall have
B. The commission may issue a youth license for a or wounding wildlife at any time or place, the
in his possession a valid angling or fishing license
reduced fee, as prescribed by the commission, to commission, after a public hearing, may revoke,
issued by either the state of Arizona or the state of
a resident of this state who is a member of the boy suspend or deny a persons privilege to take
California. In addition to one of the above described
scouts of America who has attained the rank of eagle wildlife for a period of up to ten years.
licenses, such person shall have in his possession a
scout or a member of the girl scouts of the USA who 3. For a third conviction or a third adjudication valid California or Arizona-Colorado river special use
has received the gold award. as a delinquent juvenile, for unlawfully taking permit, as provided by sections 17-343 and 17-344,
or wounding wildlife at any time or place, the which shall be obtained on payment of a fee to be
A.R.S. 17-340 commission, after a public hearing, may revoke, fixed by the commission at not to exceed four dollars.
suspend or deny a persons privilege to take Such a permit shall not be required to take fish or
Revocation, suspension and denial of privilege
of taking wildlife; notice; violation; classifica- wildlife permanently. amphibians from canals, drains or ditches used to
tion C. A person who is assessed civil damages under section carry water from the Colorado river for irrigation or
A. On conviction or after adjudication as a delinquent 17-314 shall not apply for or obtain a license dur- domestic purposes.
juvenile as defined in section 8-201 and in addi- ing the pendency of an action for damages, while
B. A person having in his possession a valid Arizona
tion to other penalties prescribed by this title, the measures are pursued to collect damages or prior
fishing license must have a California-Colorado
commission, after a public hearing, may revoke or to the full payment of damages.
river special use permit to legally fish the waters
suspend a license issued to any person under this D. On receiving a report from the licensing authority of described in subsection A of this section. A person
title and deny the person the right to secure another a state that is a party to the wildlife violator compact, having in his possession a valid California angling
license to take or possess wildlife for a period of not adopted under chapter 5 of this title, that a resident license must have an Arizona-Colorado river special
to exceed five years for: of this state has failed to comply with the terms of use permit to legally fish the waters described in
1. Unlawful taking, unlawful selling, unlawful of- a wildlife citation, the commission, after a public subsection A of this section. Such special use permit
fering for sale, unlawful bartering or unlawful hearing, may suspend any license issued under when accompanied by the proper license will allow
possession of wildlife. this title to take wildlife until the licensing authority the holder to fish in any portion of such waters and
furnishes satisfactory evidence of compliance with permit him to enter the waters from any point.
2. Careless use of firearms that has resulted in the
the terms of the wildlife citation.
injury or death of any person. C. Shore line fishing does not require a Colorado river
3. Destroying, injuring or molesting livestock, E. In carrying out this section the director shall notify special use permit as long as the fisherman remains
or damaging or destroying growing crops, the licensee, within one hundred eighty days after on the shore of the state from which he holds a valid
personal property, notices or signboards, or conviction, to appear and show cause why the license license and does not embark on the water.
should not be revoked, suspended or denied. The

Arizona Game and Fish Commission Rules About Fishing
R12-4-101 2. On that portion of the Colorado River that forms R12-4-209
Definitions the common boundary between Arizona and Community Fishing License; Exemption
A. In addition to the definitions provided under A.R.S. Nevada and Arizona and California and con- A. A community fishing license is valid for taking
17-101, R12-4-301, R12-4-401, and R12-4-501, the nected adjacent water, provided Arizona has all aquatic wildlife from Commission designated
following definitions apply to this Chapter, unless an agreement with California and Nevada that community waters, only, and allows the license
otherwise specified: recognizes a general fishing license as valid holder to engage in simultaneous fishing as defined
for taking aquatic wildlife on any portion of under R12-4-301. The list of Commission designated
Commission Order means a document adopted by the the Colorado River that forms the common
Commission that does one or more of the following: community waters is available at any license dealer,
boundary between Arizona and Nevada and Department office, and online at www.azgfd.gov.
Open, close, or alter seasons, Arizona and California.
B. The community fishing license is valid for one-year
Open areas for taking wildlife, B. The general fishing license is valid for one-year
from:
from:
Set bag or possession limits for wildlife, 1. The date of purchase when a person purchases
1. The date of purchase when a person purchases
Set the number of permits available for limited hunts, or the community fishing license from a license
the fishing license from a license dealer, as
Specify wildlife that may or may not be taken. dealer, as defined under R12-4-101; or
defined under R12-4-101; or
Day-long means the 24-hour period from midnight 2. The selected start date when a person pur-
2. The selected start date when a person purchases
to midnight. chases the community fishing license from
the fishing license from a Department office or
a Department office or online. A person may
Identification number means the number assigned to online. A person may select the start date for
select the start date for the community fishing
each applicant or license holder by the Department, the fishing license provided the date selected
license provided the date selected is no more
as established under R12-4-111. is no more than 60 calendar days from and
than 60 calendar days from and after the date
after the date of purchase.
License dealer means a business authorized to sell of purchase.
hunting, fishing, and other licenses as established C. A resident or nonresident may apply for a general
C. A resident or nonresident may apply for a com-
under to R12-4-105. fishing license by submitting an application to the
munity fishing license by submitting an application
Department, a License Dealer as defined under R12-
Live baitfish means any species of live freshwater fish to the Department, a License Dealer as defined
4-101, or online at www.azgfd.gov. The application
designated by Commission Order as lawful for use under R12-4-101, or online at www.azgfd.gov. The
is furnished by the Department and is available at
in taking aquatic wildlife under R12-4-317. application is furnished by the Department and is
any Department office, license dealer, and online at
Management unit means an area established by the available at any Department office, license dealer,
www.azgfd.gov. A general fishing license applicant
Commission for management purposes. and online at www.azgfd.gov. A community fish-
shall provide the following information on the ap-
ing license applicant shall provide the following
Stamp means a form of authorization in addition to a plication:
information on the application:
license that allows the license holder to take wildlife 1. The applicants:
specified by the stamp. 1. The applicants:
a. Name;
a. Name;
Waterdog means the larval or metamorphosing stage b. Date of birth,
of salamanders. b. Date of birth,
c. Physical description, to include the ap-
c. Physical description, to include the ap-
Wildlife area means an area established under 12 plicants eye color, hair color, height, and
plicants eye color, hair color, height, and
A.A.C. 4, Article 8. weight;
weight;
(rule not cited in entirety) d. Department identification number, when
d. Department identification number, when
applicable;
applicable;
R12-4-117 e. Residency status and number of years of
e. Residency status and number of years of

Indian Reservations residency immediately preceding applica-
residency immediately preceding applica-
tion, when applicable;
A state license, permit, or tag is not required to hunt tion, when applicable;
f. Mailing address, when applicable;
or fish on any Indian reservation in this State. Wildlife f. Mailing address, when applicable;
lawfully taken on an Indian reservation may be trans- g. Physical address;
g. Physical address;
ported or processed anywhere in the State if it can h. Telephone number, when available; and
h. Telephone number, when available; and
be identified as to species and legality as provided in i. E-mail address, when available; and
i. E-mail address, when available; and
A.R.S. 17-309(A)(19). All wildlife transported any- 2. Affirmation that the information provided on
where in this State is subject to inspection under the 2. Affirmation that the information provided on
the application is true and accurate; and
provisions of A.R.S. 17-211(E)(4). the application is true and accurate; and
3. Applicants signature and date.
3. Applicants signature and date.
D. In addition to the requirements listed under subsec-
R12-4-207 D. In addition to the requirements listed under
tion (C), an applicant who is applying for a general
subsection (C), an applicant who is applying for a
General Fishing License; Exemption fishing license:
community fishing license:
A. A general fishing license is valid for the taking of 1. In person shall pay the applicable fee required
1. In person shall pay the applicable fee required
all aquatic wildlife and allows the license holder to under R12-4-102.
under R12-4-102.
engage in simultaneous fishing as defined under 2. Online shall electronically pay the fee required
R12-4-301. The general fishing license is valid: 2. Online shall electronically pay the fee required
under R12-4-102 and print the new license. A
under R12-4-102 and print the new license. A
1. State-wide including Mittry Lake and Topock person applying online shall affirm, or provide
person applying online shall affirm, or provide
Marsh and the Arizona shoreline of Lake Mead, permission for another person to affirm, the
permission for another person to affirm, the
Lake Mohave and Lake Havasu, and Commis- information electronically provided is true and
information electronically provided is true and
sion designated community waters. The list of accurate.
accurate.
Commission designated community waters is E. In addition to the exemption prescribed under A.R.S.
E. In addition to the exemption prescribed under
available at any license dealer, Department 17-335, a person who is under 10 years of age
A.R.S. 17-335, a person who is under 10 years of
office, and online at www.azgfd.gov. may fish without a fishing license.

age may fish in Commission designated community date, as authorized under subsection a. Name;
waters without a fishing license. R12-4-104(C). If an applicant does not b. Date of birth,
possess a combination hunting and fishing c. Physical description, to include the applicants
R12-4-210 license that meets the requirements of this eye color, hair color, height, and weight;
Combination Hunting and Fishing License; subsection, the applicant shall purchase
d. Department identification number, when
Exemption the license at the time of application; or
applicable;
A. A combination hunting and fishing license is valid iv. The selected start date when a person
e. Residency status and number of years of
for the taking of small game, fur-bearing animals, purchases the combination hunting and
residency immediately preceding application,
predatory animals, nongame animals, and upland fishing license from a Department office
when applicable;
game birds. or online. A person may select the start
date for the combination hunting and f. Mailing address, when applicable;
B. A combination hunting and fishing license is valid g. Physical address;
fishing license provided the date selected
for the taking of all aquatic wildlife and allows the h. Telephone number, when available; and
is no more than 60 calendar days from
license holder to engage in simultaneous fishing as
and after the date of purchase. i. E-mail address, when available; and
defined under R12-4-301. The combination hunting
and fishing license is valid: b. A valid hunt permit-tag, nonpermit-tag, or 2. Affirmation that the information provided on
stamp is required to validate the combina- the application is true and accurate; and
1. State-wide including Mittry Lake and Topock tion hunting and fishing license for the take 3. Applicants signature and date.
Marsh and the Arizona shoreline of Lake Mead, of big game animals, migratory game birds,
Lake Mohave and Lake Havasu, and Commis- E. In addition to the requirements listed under
or other wildlife authorized by an applicable subsection (C), an applicant who is applying for a
sion designated community waters. The list of tag or stamp.
Commission designated community waters is combination hunting and fishing license:
3. A youth combination hunting and fishing license
available at any license dealer, Department 1. In person shall pay the applicable fee required
for a person through age 17.
office, and online at www.azgfd.gov. under R12-4-102.
a. The combination hunting and fishing
2. On that portion of the Colorado River that forms 2. Online shall electronically pay the fee required
license is valid for one-year from:
the common boundary between Arizona and under R12-4-102 and print the new license. A
Nevada and Arizona and California and con- i. The date of purchase when a person person applying online shall affirm, or provide
nected adjacent water, provided Arizona has purchases the combination hunting and permission for another person to affirm, the
an agreement with California and Nevada that fishing license from a license dealer, as information electronically provided is true and
recognizes a combination hunting and fishing defined under R12-4-101; accurate.
license as valid for taking aquatic wildlife on ii. On the last day of the application deadline F. Exemptions authorized under R12-4-206(E), R12-4-
any portion of the Colorado River that forms for that draw, as established by the hunt 207(E), and R12-4-209(E) also apply to this Section,
the common boundary between Arizona and permit-tag application schedule published as applicable.
Nevada and Arizona and California. by the Department;
C. The Department offers three combination hunting iii. On the last day of an extended deadline R12-4-215
and fishing licenses: date, as authorized under subsection Youth Group Two-day Fishing License
R12-4-104(C). If an applicant does not
1. A short-term combination hunting and fishing A. A youth group two-day fishing license authorizes
possess a combination hunting and fishing
license, valid for one 24-hour period from a nonprofit organization or governmental entity as
license that meets the requirements of this
midnight to midnight. defined under subsection (C), which sponsors adult
subsection, the applicant shall purchase
a. The short-term combination hunting and the license at the time of application; or supervised activities for youth, to take up to 25 youths
fishing license is not valid for the take of big fishing. The youth group two-day fishing license is
iv. The selected start date when a person
game animals. only available from a Department office. The youth
purchases the combination hunting and
b. The short-term combination hunting and group two-day fishing license is valid for:
fishing license from a Department office
fishing license is valid for the take of migra- or online. A person may select the start 1. Two consecutive days,
tory game birds and waterfowl, provided date for the combination hunting and 2. The take of all aquatic wildlife, and
the person possesses the applicable State fishing license provided the date selected 3. All privileges established under R12-4-207(A).
Migratory Bird stamp and Federal Waterfowl is no more than 60 calendar days from
stamp. B. A nonprofit organization or governmental entity
and after the date of purchase. may apply for a youth group two-day fishing license
c. The Department does not limit the number b. A valid hunt permit-tag, nonpermit-tag, or at any Department office. An applicant for a youth
of short-term combination hunting and fish- stamp is required to validate the combina- group two-day fishing license shall be a resident. The
ing licenses a resident or nonresident may tion hunting and fishing license for the take applicant shall pay the fee required under R12-4-102
purchase. of big game animals, migratory game birds, and provide the following information at the time of
2. A combination hunting and fishing license for or other wildlife authorized by an applicable application:
a person age 18 and over. tag or stamp.
1. The nonprofit organizations or governmental
a. The combination hunting and fishing license D. A resident or nonresident may apply for a combina- entitys:
is valid for one-year from: tion hunting and fishing license by submitting an
a. Name;
i. The date of purchase when a person application to the Department, a License Dealer as
purchases the combination hunting and defined under R12-4-101, or online at www.azgfd.gov. b. Mailing address; and
fishing license from a license dealer, as The application is furnished by the Department and is c. Telephone number, when available;
defined under R12-4-101; available at any Department office, license dealer, and 2. The applicants:
ii. On the last day of the application dead- online at www.azgfd.gov. A combination hunting and a. Name;
line for that draw, as established by the fishing license applicant shall provide the following b. Date of birth,
hunt permit-tag application schedule information on the application: c. Physical description, to include the applicants
published by the Department; 1. The applicants: eye color, hair color, height, and weight;
iii. On the last day of an extended deadline
d. Department identification number, when Person means any individual, corporation, partner- carpio), buffalofish (Ictiobus spp.), or crayfish
applicable; ship, limited liability company, non-governmental (families Astacidae, Cambaridae, and Parastacidae)
e. Mailing address, when applicable; organization or club, licensed animal shelter, gov- carcass taken under Commission Order may sell
f. Physical address; ernment entity other than the Department, and the carcass.
any officer, employee, volunteer, member, or (rule not cited in entirety)
g. Telephone number, when available; and
agent of a person.
h. E-mail address, when available;
3. The dates on which the nonprofit organization
Simultaneous fishing means taking fish by using two R12-4-310
lines and not more than two hooks or two artificial Fishing Permits
intends to conduct the youth group fishing
lures or flies per line.
activity. A. The Department may issue a fishing permit to state,
4. The approximate number of youth participating (rule not cited in entirety) county, or municipal agencies or departments and
in the group fishing activity. to nonprofit organizations licensed by or contracted
C. For the purpose of this Section, governmental R12-4-305 with the Department of Economic Security or Depart-
entity means any town, city, county, municipality, Possessing, Transporting, Importing, Exporting, ment of Health Services, whose primary purpose
or other political subdivision of this state or any and Selling Carcasses or Parts of Wildlife is to provide physical or mental rehabilitation or
department, agency, board, commission, authority, A. An individual shall ensure that evidence of legality training for individuals with physical, developmental,
division, office, public school, public charter school, remains with the carcass or parts of a carcass of or mental disabilities.
public corporation, or other public entity of this any wild mammal, bird, or reptile that the individual B. The permit:
state or any department agency bureau, or office possesses, transports, or imports until arrival at 1. Is valid for the two days specified on the permit;
of the federal government that is physically located the individuals permanent abode, a commercial
2. Authorizes up to 20 individuals with physical,
within this state. processing plant, or the place where the wildlife is
developmental, or mental disabilities to fish
to be consumed.
without a fishing license upon any public waters
R12-4-301 C. An individual who has lawfully taken wildlife that except that fishing in the waters of the Colorado
Definitions requires a valid tag when prescribed by the Commis- River is restricted to fishing from the Arizona
In addition to the definitions provided under A.R.S. sion may authorize its transportation or shipment shoreline only, unless the persons fishing under
17-101, the following definitions apply to this Article by completing and signing the Transportation and the authority of the permit also possess a valid
unless otherwise specified: Shipping Permit portion of the valid tag for that Colorado River stamp from the adjacent state;
animal. A separate Transportation and Shipping and
Administer means to pursue, capture, or otherwise Permit issued by the Department is necessary to
restrain wildlife in order to directly apply a drug to 3. Does not exempt individuals fishing under the
transport or ship to another state or country any authority of the permit from compliance with
wildlife by injection, inhalation, ingestion or any big game taken with a resident license. Under A.R.S.
other means. other statutes, Commission Orders, and rules
17-372(B), an individual may ship other lawfully not contained in this Section.
Artificial lures and flies means man-made devices taken wildlife by common carrier after obtaining
intended as visual attractants for fish and does not C. An applicant for a fishing permit shall submit a
a valid Transportation and Shipping Permit issued
include living or dead organisms or edible parts of properly completed application to the Department.
by the Department. The individual shall provide the
those organisms, natural or prepared food stuffs, The application is furnished by the Department and
following information on the permit form:
artificial salmon eggs, artificial corn, or artificial is available from any Department office and online
1. Number and description of the wildlife to be at www.azgfd.gov.
marshmallows. transported or shipped;
Barbless hook means any fishhook manufactured 1. The applicant shall provide all of the following
2. Name, address, license number, and license information:
without barbs or on which the barbs have been class of the individual who took the wildlife;
completely closed or removed. a. The name, address, and telephone number

3. Tag number; of the agency, department, or nonprofit
Crayfish net means a net that does not exceed 36 4. Name and address of the individual receiv- organization requesting the permit;
inches on a side or in diameter and is retrieved by ing a portion of the carcass of the wildlife as
means of a hand-held line. b. The name, position title, and telephone
authorized under subsection (D), if applicable; number of the individual responsible for
Dip net means any net, excluding the handle, that is 5. Address of destination where the wildlife is to supervising the individuals fishing under
no greater than 3 feet in the greatest dimension, that be transported or shipped; and the authority of the permit;
is hand-held, non-motorized, and the motion of the 6. Name and address of transporter or shipper. c. The total number of individuals who will be
net is caused by the physical effort of the individual. M. Except for cervids, which are subject to requirements fishing under the authority of the permit;
Drug means any chemical substance, other than food established under subsections (I), (J), and (K), an d. The dates of the two days for which the
or mineral supplements, which affects the structure individual may import into this state the carcasses or permit will be valid; and
or biological function of wildlife. parts of wildlife, including aquatic wildlife, lawfully e. The location for which the permit will be
Evidence of legality means the wildlife is accompanied taken in another state or country if transported and valid.
by the applicable license, tag, stamp, or permit exported in accordance with the laws of the state
2. In addition to the information required under
required by law and is identifiable as the legal or country of origin.
subsection (C)(1), nonprofit organizations
wildlife prescribed by Commission Order, which N. An individual in possession of or transporting the shall also submit documentation that they are
may include evidence of species, gender, antler or carcass of any freshwater fish taken within this state licensed by or have a contract with the Depart-
horn growth, maturity and size. shall ensure that the head, tail, or skin is attached so ment of Economic Security or the Department
Minnow trap means a trap with dimensions that do that the species can be identified, numbers counted, of Health Services for the purpose of providing
not exceed 12 inches in depth, 12 inches in width and any required length determined. rehabilitation or treatment services to individu-
and 24 inches in length. O. An individual shall not transport live crayfish from als or groups with physical, developmental, or
Nonprofit organization means an organization that the site where taken, except as permitted under mental disabilities.
is recognized as nonprofit under Section 501(c) of R12-4-316. D. The Department shall issue or deny the fishing
the U.S. Internal Revenue Code. P. An individual in possession of a carp (Cyprinus permit to an applicant within 30 calendar days of

receiving an application. purposes of this subsection, authorized 5. Catfish may be taken by bow and arrow or
E. The fishing permit holder shall provide instruction volunteer instructor means a person who crossbow in waters designated by Commission
on fish identification, fishing ethics, safety, and has successfully passed the Departments Order.
techniques to the individuals who will be fishing required background check and sport fishing 6. Amphibians, soft-shelled turtles, mollusks, and
under authority of the permit. The Department shall education workshop. crustaceans may be taken by minnow trap,
provide the lesson plan for this instruction to the (rule not cited in entirety) crayfish net, hand, or with any hand-held, non-
permit holder. motorized implement that does not discharge
F. Each individual fishing without a license under the R12-4-313 a projectile, unless otherwise permitted under
Lawful Methods of Taking Aquatic Wildlife this Section.
authority of the fishing permit may take only one-
half the regular bag limit established by Commission A. An individual may take aquatic wildlife as defined 7. In addition to the methods described under
Order for any species, unless the regular bag limit is under A.R.S. 17-101, subject to the restrictions subsection (D)(5), bullfrogs may be taken by:
one, in which case the permit authorizes the regular prescribed under R12-4-303, R12-4-317, and this a. Bow and arrow,
limit. Section. Aquatic wildlife may be taken during the b. Crossbow,
G. The permit holder shall submit a report to the day or night and may be taken using artificial light c. Pneumatic weapon, or
Department not later than 30 days after the end as prescribed under A.R.S. 17-301. d. Slingshot.
of the authorized fishing dates. The report form is B. The Commission may, through Commission Order, 8. In addition to the methods described under
furnished by the Department and is available at any prescribe legal sizes for possession of aquatic wildlife. subsection (D)(5), crayfish may be taken with
Department office. The permit holder shall report all C. An individual may take aquatic wildlife by angling or the following devices:
of the following information on the form: simultaneous fishing as defined under R12-4-301 with a. A trap not more than 3 feet in the greatest
1. The fishing permit number and the information any bait, artificial lure, or fly subject to the following dimension,
contained in the permit; restrictions, an individual: b. A dip net as defined under R12-4-301, or
2. The total number of individuals who fished and 1. Shall not possess aquatic wildlife other than c. A seine net not larger than 10 feet in length
total hours fished; aquatic wildlife prescribed by Commission and 4 feet in width.
3. The total number of fish caught, kept, and Order; E. An individual who uses a crayfish net and minnow
released, by species. 2. Shall not use the flesh of game fish as bait, except trap shall:
H. The Department may deny future fishing permits to a sunfish of the genus Lepomis; 1. Attach a water-resistant identification tag to the
permit holder who failed to submit the report until the 3. May use live baitfish, as defined under R12-4-101, trap when it is unattended. The tag shall include
permit holder complies with reporting requirements. only in areas designated by Commission Order; the individuals:
and a. Name,
R12-4-311 4. Shall not use waterdogs as live bait in that por- b. Address, and
Exemptions from Requirement to Possess an tion of Santa Cruz County lying east and south
Arizona Fishing License or Hunting License c. Fishing license number.
of State Highway 82 or that portion of Cochise
While Taking Wildlife 2. Raise and empty the trap daily.
County lying west of the San Pedro River and
In addition to the exemptions prescribed under A.R.S. south of State Highway 82.
17-335, R12-4-206(E), R12-4-207(E), and R12-4-209(E)
R12-4-315
D. In addition to angling, an individual may also take
and provided the persons fishing and hunting license Possession of Live Fish; Unattended Live Boxes
the following aquatic wildlife using the following and Stringers
privileges are not currently revoked by the Commission: methods, subject to the restrictions established under
R12-4-303, R12-4-317, and this Section: A. An individual may possess fish taken alive as provided
1. A fishing license is not required when a person under R12-4-313 on the waters where taken, except
is: 1. Carp (Cyprinus carpio), buffalofish, mullet, when the take or possession is expressly prohibited
a. Fishing from artificial ponds, tanks, and lakes tilapia, goldfish, and shad may be taken by: under R12-4-313 or R12-4-317, but the individual shall
contained entirely on private lands that are a. Bow and arrow, not transport the fish alive from the waters where
not: b. Crossbow, taken except as authorized under R12-4-316.
i. Open to the public, and c. Snare, B. An individual shall attach water resistant identification
ii. Managed by the Department. d. Gig, to any unattended live boxes or stringers holding fish
b. Taking terrestrial mollusks or crustaceans e. Spear or spear gun, or and ensure the identification bears the individuals:
from private property. f. Snagging, 1. Name,
c. Fishing in Arizona on any designated Saturday 2. Except for snagging, an individual shall not use 2. Address, and
occurring during National Fishing and Boat- any of the methods of take listed under subsec- 3. Fishing license number.
ing Week, except in waters of the Colorado tion (D)(1) within 200 yards of any boat dock
River forming the common boundaries or designated swimming area. R12-4-316
between Arizona and California, Nevada,
3. Striped bass may be taken by spear or spear Possession, Transportation, or Importation of
or Utah where fishing without a license is
gun in waters designated by Commission Order. Live Baitfish, Crayfish, or Waterdogs
limited to the shoreline, unless the state with
concurrent jurisdiction removes licensing 4. Live baitfish may be taken for personal use as A. An individual may possess live baitfish, crayfish, or
requirements on the same day. bait by: waterdogs for use as live bait only as established
d. Participating in an introductory fishing educa- a. A cast net not to exceed a radius of 4 feet under R12-4-317 and this Section.
tion program sanctioned by the Department, measured from the horn to the leadline; B. An individual may possess or transport the following
during scheduled program hours, only. A b. A minnow trap, as defined under R12-4-301; live baitfish for personal use as live bait as established
sanctioned program shall have a Depart- c. A seine net not to exceed 10 feet in length under R12-4-317:
ment employee, sport fishing contractor, and 4 feet in width; or 1. Fathead minnow (Pimephales promelas),
or authorized volunteer instructor present d. A dip net. 2. Mosquitofish (Gambusia affinis),
during scheduled program hours. For the

3. Threadfin shad (Dorosoma petenense), taking aquatic wildlife under R12-4-313 an individual k. Sell,
4. Golden shiners (Notemigonus crysoleucas), participating in: l. Sell as live bait,
and 1. An artificial lures and flies only season m. Stock,
5. Goldfish (Carassius auratus). shall use only artificial lures and flies as n. Trade,
C. An individual who possesses a valid Arizona fishing defined under R12-4-301. The Commission o. Transport; or
license may: may further restrict artificial lures and flies
4. Kill any captive live wildlife.
only season to the use of barbless or single
1. Import, transport, or possess live waterdogs B. The Department may seize, quarantine, hold, or
barbless hooks as defined under R12-4-301.
for personal use as bait, except in the portion euthanize any lawfully possessed wildlife held in a
of Santa Cruz County lying east and south of 2. A live baitfish season shall not possess
manner that poses an actual or potential threat to
State Highway 82 or the portion of Cochise or use any species of fish as live bait at, in,
the wildlife, other wildlife, or the safety, health, or
County lying west of the San Pedro River and or upon any waters unless that species is
welfare of the public. The Department shall make
south of State Highway 82. specified as a live baitfish for those waters
reasonable efforts to find suitable placement for
by Commission Order. Live baitfish shall
2. Import live baitfish listed under subsection (B) any animal prior to euthanizing it.
not be transported from the waters where
from California or Nevada without accompany- C. A person who does not lawfully possess wildlife in
taken except as authorized under R12-4-316.
ing documentation certifying the fish are free accordance with this Article shall be responsible
of disease. 3. An immediate kill or release season shall
kill and retain the designated species as part for all costs associated with the care and keeping
3. Import live baitfish listed under subsection of the wildlife.
of the bag limit or immediately release the
(B) from any other state with accompanying
wildlife. Further fishing is prohibited after
documentation certifying that the fish are free
the legal bag limit is killed. R12-4-404
of Furunculosis. Possession of Live Wildlife Taken Under an
4. A catch and immediate release season
D. An individual may: Arizona Hunting or Fishing License
shall immediately release the designated
1. Trap or capture live crayfish as provided under species. A. A person may take live wildlife from the wild under
R12-4-313. 5. An immediate kill season shall immedi- a valid Arizona hunting or fishing license provided
2. Use live crayfish as bait only in the body of ately kill and retain the designated species the current Commission Order authorizes a live
water where trapped or captured, not in an as part of the bag limit. bag and possession limit for that wildlife and the
adjacent body of water, except for the portion individual possesses the appropriate hunting or
6. A snagging season shall use this method
of La Paz County west of Highway 95 and south fishing license and special license, when applicable.
only at times and locations designated by
of Interstate 10, Yuma County, and on the Commission Order. B. Except for live baitfish which may only be possessed
Colorado River from the Palo Verde Diversion and transported as established under R12-4-316,
7. A spear or spear gun season shall use
Dam downstream to the Southern international a person may conduct any of the following activi-
this method only at times and locations
boundary with Mexico. ties with wildlife taken under an Arizona hunting
designated by Commission Order.
E. An individual shall not: or fishing license provided the activity is for a
C. A special season may be designated by Com-
1. Import, transport, move between waters, or noncommercial purpose:
mission Order to allow fish to be taken by hand
possess live crayfish for personal use as live or by any hand-held, non-motorized implement 1. Export,
bait except as allowed in 12 A.A.C. 4, Article 4, that does not discharge a projectile. The special 2. Kill,
and except for the portion of La Paz County season may apply to any waters where a fish die- 3. Place on educational display,
west of Highway 95 and south of Interstate 10, off is imminent due either to poor or low water 4. Possess,
Yuma County, and on the Colorado River from conditions, Department fish renovation activities,
the Palo Verde Diversion Dam downstream 5. Propagate, and
or as designated by Commission Order.

to the southern international boundary with 6. Transport.
Mexico. R12-4-402 C. A person possessing wildlife or offspring of wildlife
2. Transport crayfish alive from the site where taken under this Section shall dispose of the wildlife
Live Wildlife: Unlawful Acts
taken except for the portion of La Paz County or offspring of wildlife using any one or more of
west of Highway 95 and south of Interstate 10, A. A person shall not perform any of the following the following methods:
Yuma County, and on the Colorado River from activities with live wildlife unless authorized by a
1. Giving the wildlife as a gift,
the Palo Verde Diversion Dam downstream federal license or permit, this Chapter, or A.R.S.
Title 3, Chapter 16: 2. Exporting the wildlife to another state or
to the southern international boundary with jurisdiction, or
Mexico. 1. Import any live wildlife into the state;
3. Disposing of the wildlife as directed by the
3. Import, transport, move between waters, or 2. Export any live wildlife from the state; Department.
possess live red shiner (Cyprinella lutrensis) 3. Conduct any of the following activities with live D. A person shall not use wildlife or offspring of wildlife
for personal use. wildlife within the state: taken under this Section for commercial purposes.
a. Display,
R12-4-317 b. Exhibit,
E. A person exporting live wildlife for a noncom-
Seasons for Lawfully Taking Fish, Mollusks, mercial purpose shall verify exported live wildlife
c. Give away, and offspring of wildlife shall not be:
Crustaceans, Amphibians, and Aquatic Reptiles
d. Lease, 1. Bartered,
A. Methods of lawfully taking aquatic wildlife dur-
e. Offer for sale, 2. Leased,
ing seasons designated by Commission Order as
general seasons are designated under R12-4-313. f. Possess, 3. Offered for sale,
g. Propagate, 4. Purchased,
B. Other seasons designated by Commission Order
have specific requirements and lawful methods h. Purchase, 5. Rented,
of take more restrictive than those for general i. Release, 6. Sold, or
seasons, as prescribed under this Section. While j. Rent, 7. Used for any commercial purpose.

F. A person may temporarily hold and release live Equipment means an item used either in or on 1. Remove all clinging materials such as plants,
wildlife possessed under this Section into the wild, water; or to carry water. Equipment includes, but animals, and mud.
provided the person did not remove the wildlife is not limited to, trailers used to launch or retrieve 2. Remove any plug or other barrier that pre-
from the immediate area where it was taken. watercraft, rafts, inner tubes, kick boards, anchors vents water drainage or, where none exists,
G. A person shall not exceed the possession limit of and anchor lines, docks, dock cables and floats, take reasonable measures to drain or dry all
live wildlife established by Commission Order for buoys, beacons, wading boots, fishing tackle, bait compartments or spaces that hold water. Rea-
that species. buckets, skin diving and scuba diving equipment, sonable measures include, but are not limited
submersibles, pumps, sea planes, and heavy con- to, emptying bilges, application of absorbents,
1. Offspring of wildlife possessed under this struction equipment used in aquatic environments. or ventilation.
Section shall count towards the established
possession limit. Operator means a person who operates or is in actual C. Before transporting a watercraft, vehicle, convey-
physical control of a watercraft, vehicle, conveyance ance, or equipment to any waters located within
2. A person may possess offspring of amphibians
or equipment. or bordering this State from waters or locations
or reptiles in excess of the possession limit for
Owner means a person who claims lawful possession where aquatic invasive species are suspected or
no more than 12 months from the date of birth
of a watercraft, vehicle, conveyance, or equipment. known to be present, as listed in Directors Order
or hatching.
2, a person shall comply with the mandatory
3. On or before the day the offspring reach 12 Person has the same meaning as defined under conditions and protocols identified in Directors
months of age, the person possessing them A.R.S. 1-215. Order 3 for decontamination of watercraft, vehicles,
shall dispose of them as prescribed under Release means to place, plant, or cause to be placed conveyances, and equipment.
subsection (C). or planted in waters. D. Department employees, certified agents, and
4. A person is prohibited from releasing offspring
Transporter means a person responsible for the Arizona peace officers authorized under A.R.S.
of propagated wildlife into the wild.
overland movement of a watercraft, vehicle, convey- 17-104 may inspect a watercraft, vehicle, convey-
H. A person may use reptiles and amphibians taken ance, or equipment. ance, or equipment for the purposes of determining
under a valid Arizona hunting license for the pur- compliance with A.R.S. Title 17, Chapter 2, Article
pose of providing aversion or avoidance training Waters means surface water of all sources, whether
perennial or intermittent, in streams, canyons, 3.1 and this Section.
when the current Commission Order authorizes
a live bag and possession limit for that reptile or ravines, drainage systems, canals, springs, lakes, E. If the presence of an aquatic invasive species is
amphibian. marshes, reservoirs, ponds, and other bodies or documented or suspected on or in a watercraft,
accumulations of natural, artificial, public or private vehicle, conveyance, or equipment, a Department
I. A person may sell photographs of wildlife taken waters situated wholly or partly in or bordering employee or any Arizona peace officer may order
under a valid hunting or fishing license. this State. the person to decontaminate or cause to be decon-
J. A person who possesses live wildlife or offspring taminated such watercraft, vehicles, conveyances,
of wildlife taken under this Section shall comply R12-4-1102 and equipment using the mandatory protocols
with the requirements prescribed under R12-4-425 Aquatic Invasive Species; Prohibitions; Inspec- described in Directors Order 3.
if the wildlife becomes listed as restricted wildlife tion, Decontamination Protocols F. The following Directors orders are available at any
under R12-4-406. A. A person shall not, unless authorized under Article Department office and online at azgfd.gov:
4: 1. Directors Order 1 - Listing of Aquatic Invasive
R12-4-1101
1. Possess, import, ship, or transport into or within Species for Arizona,
Aquatic Invasive Species: Definitions
this State an aquatic invasive species, unless 2. Directors Order 2 - Designation of Waters
In addition to the definitions provided under A.R.S. authorized by the Director. or Locations Where Listed Aquatic Invasive
5-301 and 17-255, the following definitions apply to this 2. Sell, purchase, barter, or exchange in this State Species are Present, and
Article, unless otherwise specified: an aquatic invasive species. 3. Directors Order 3 - Mandatory Conditions on
Aquatic invasive species means those species listed 3. Release an aquatic invasive species into waters the Movement of Watercraft, Vehicles, Convey-
in Directors Order 1. or into any water treatment facility, water sup- ances, or Other Equipment from Listed Waters
Certified agent means a person who meets Depart- ply or water transportation facility, device or Where Aquatic Invasive Species are Present.
ment standards to conduct inspections authorized mechanism in this State. G. This Section does not apply to owners and operators
under A.R.S. 17-255.01(C)(1). B. Upon removing a watercraft, vehicle, conveyance, exempt under A.R.S. 17-255.04.
or equipment from any waters listed in Directors
Conveyance means a device designed to carry or
Order 2 and before leaving that location, a person
transport water. Conveyance includes, but is not
shall:
limited to, dip buckets, water hauling tanks, and
water bladders.

Listing of Arizonas aquatic

invasive species:
(A.R.S. 17-255 Directors Order 1)
quagga mussel
zebra mussel
rusty crayfish
redclaw crayfish
New Zealand mudsnail
didymo, a.k.a rock snot
giant salvinia
Asian carp (silver, big head, black)
apple snail
snakehead
largemouth bass virus (LMBV)
whirling disease (WD)
This list was effective May 1, 2016.
Arizonas list of aquatic invasive species

affected waters:
(A.R.S. 17-255 Directors Order 2)
Lake Powell (quagga mussel)
Lake Mead (quagga mussel, New Zealand mudsnail)
Lake Mohave (quagga mussel, New Zealand mudsnail)
Lake Havasu (quagga mussel, didymo)
Lower Colorado River below Lake Havasu to Mexico (quagga mussel,
giant salvinia, apple snail)
Lake Pleasant (quagga mussel, LMBV)
Lees Ferry (quagga mussel, New Zealand mudsnail, WD)

Lower Salt/Verde River (quagga mussel, apple snail)
Apache Lake (quagga mussel)
Canyon Lake (quagga mussel)
Saguaro Lake (quagga mussel, LMBV)
Bartlett Lake (LMBV)
Roosevelt Lake (LMBV)
Red Mountain Park Lake (apple snail)
This list was effective May 1, 2016.

Special Regulation Waters Index
A F P
Ackre Lake..................................................................12 Fain Lake.....................................................................14 Pacana Pond.............................................................. 22
Alamo Lake................................................................ 20 Fortuna Lake.............................................................. 20 Papago Park Ponds 1-3............................................ 22
Alvord Lake................................................................ 22 Fossil Creek, Middle Reach .....................................14 Parker Canyon Lake................................................. 24
Apache Lake.............................................................. 22 Francis Short Pond.....................................................14 Pena Blanca Lake...................................................... 24
Arivaca Lake.............................................................. 24 Frye Mesa Reservoir/Frye Creek............................ 24 Perkins Tank...............................................................14
Pioneer Lake.............................................................. 22
B G
Bartlett Lake.............................................................. 22 Goldwater Lake..........................................................14 Q
Bear Canyon Lake.....................................................16 Granada Ponds......................................................... 22 Quigley Pond............................................................. 20
Beaver Creek, Wet and Dry......................................14 Granite Basin Lake.....................................................14
Becker Lake................................................................12 Grant Creek............................................................... 24
R
Black Canyon Lake....................................................16 Green Valley Park Lakes...........................................16
Bonsall Pond.............................................................. 22 Growler Pond............................................................ 20 Red Mountain Park Lake......................................... 22
Bright Angel Creek.....................................................18 Redondo Lake........................................................... 20
H Rio Vista Park Pond.................................................. 22
Burro Creek................................................................12
Horseshoe Lake........................................................ 22 Riverview Park Lake................................................. 22
C Horton Creek..............................................................16 Roadrunner Pond..................................................... 22
Canals in the Yuma Area......................................... 20 Roosevelt Lake.......................................................... 22
J
Canyon Creek.............................................................16 Roper Lake................................................................. 24
Canyon Lake.............................................................. 22 J.D. Dam Lake............................................................14
S
Carnero Lake..............................................................12 K
Cataract Lake..............................................................14 Saguaro Lake............................................................. 22
CC Cragin Reservoir (Blue Ridge Reservoir)..........16 Kaibab Lake................................................................14 Sahuarita Park Lake.................................................. 24
Chaparral Park Lake................................................. 22 Kennedy Park Lake................................................... 24 Salt River (upper)...................................................... 22
Chevelon Creek..........................................................16 Kiwanis Park Lake..................................................... 22 Salt River Project Canal System.............................. 22
Chevelon Canyon Lake.............................................16 Knoll Lake...................................................................16 Santa Fe Reservoir.....................................................14
City Reservoir.............................................................14 L Silver Creek.................................................................12
Cluff Ranch Ponds 1 and 3...................................... 24 Silverbell Lake........................................................... 24
Lake Havasu.............................................................. 20 Steele Indian School Park Pond.............................. 22
Colorado River ................................................... 18, 20
Lake Mary, Lower......................................................14 Stone Dam Lake.........................................................14
Colorado River, Lees Ferry.......................................18
Lake Mead..................................................................18 Surprise Park Lake.................................................... 22
Colorado River, Parker Strip.................................... 20
Lake Mohave..............................................................18
Colorado River, Willow Beach.................................18 T
Lake Pleasant............................................................ 22
Colorado River, Yuma area..................................... 20
Lake Powell.................................................................18 Tempe Town Lake..................................................... 22
Copper Sky Lake....................................................... 22
Lakeside Lake............................................................ 24 The Pond at Town Hall............................................. 22
Cortez Park Lake....................................................... 22
Lee Valley Lake...........................................................12 Thompson Creek.......................................................12
Council Avenue Pond, Somerton........................... 20
Long Tom Lake...........................................................16 Topock Marsh.............................................................18
Coyote Creek..............................................................12
Crystal Gardens Water Treatment Facility............. 22 M U
D Mamie Creek..............................................................12 Upper East fork of the Little Colorado
Maricopa Lake........................................................... 22 River above Colter Dam............................................12
Dankworth Lake........................................................ 24
Martinez Lake............................................................ 20
Dead Horse State Park Lagoons..............................14
McKellips Pond......................................................... 22 V
Desert Breeze Park Lake.......................................... 22
McQueen Pond......................................................... 22 Verde River, and tributaries......................................14
Desert West Park Lake............................................. 22
Middle Tank................................................................14 Veterans Oasis Park Lake......................................... 22
Discovery Ponds....................................................... 22
Mittry Lake................................................................. 20 Virgin River.................................................................18
Dogtown Lake............................................................14
N W
E
Nelson Reservoir........................................................12 Water Ranch Park Lake............................................ 22
East Clear Creek.........................................................16
Nutrioso Creek...........................................................12 West Clear Creek.......................................................14
East Verde River...................................................14, 16
West Fork of the Black River....................................12
Eldorado Pond.......................................................... 22 O
West Wetlands Pond................................................ 20
Elk Tank.......................................................................14 Oak Creek...................................................................14 Whitehorse Lake........................................................14
Encanto Park Lake.................................................... 22 Oak Creek, West Fork................................................14 Willow Springs Lake..................................................16
Evelyn Hallman Pond............................................... 22
Woodland Lake..........................................................12
Woods Canyon Lake.................................................16

Index
A Fishing Tips............................................................. 35 O
Fishing Waters
Accessible Fishing Opportunities......................... 47 Operation Game Thief......................................9, 37
Central Arizona.............................................2223
Amphibian Regulations......................................... 48
Colorado River Northwest........................... 1819 P
Angler Access Restrictions.................................... 46
Colorado River Southwest...........................2021 Patagonia Lake ...................................................... 25
Apache-Sitgreaves National Forest..................... 63
Mogollon Rim................................................ 1617 Pioneer Fishing License....................................3, 52
Aquatic Invasive Species.......................... 38, 58, 59
North Central................................................ 1415 Prescott National Forest........................................ 63
Aquatic Reptile Regulations.................................. 49
Southeast Arizona........................................2425 Protected Native Fish........................................6, 33
Arizona Fish Records.......................................40, 41
White Mountains.......................................... 1213
Arizona Game and Fish Commission Rules....... 53 Q
Fool Hollow Lake....................................................13
Arizona Revised Statutes Title 17 Laws............... 50
Free Fishing Days..................................................... 3 Quagga Mussels..................................................... 38
Arizona State Parks State Office.......................... 63
Ashurst Lake............................................................15 G R
B General Limits and Seasons................................... 6 Rainbow Lake..........................................................13
General Statewide Regulations........................ 611 Record Fish Entry Form........................................ 40
Baitfish Regulations...............................7, 10, 11, 56
Glen Canyon NRA.................................................. 63 Regulation Changes................................................. 4
Bald Eagle Closures............................................... 46
Greer Lakes.............................................................13 Reptile Regulations (aquatic only)...................... 49
Big Lake....................................................................13
Bill Williams River National Wildlife Refuge...... 63 H Residency............................................................9, 50
Black River...............................................................13 Resource Agency Directory.................................. 63
Havasu National Wildlife Refuge......................... 63 Riggs Flat Lake........................................................ 25
Boating and Watercraft Information................... 39 Hook and Line Methods......................................... 7
Bobber Setup......................................................... 34 Rose Canyon Lake................................................. 25
Bow and Arrow Fishing............................. 4, 22, 56 I S
C Illegal Fish Stocking...........................................9, 37 Salt River (lower)................................................... 23
Imperial National Wildlife Refuge....................... 63 Show Low Lake.......................................................13
Capturing Live Baitfish..........................7, 10, 11, 56
Catch and Release Methods................................. 36 K Southeast Arizona Fishing Waters.................24, 25
Catch and Release Record Program.................... 42 Special Regulations..........................................1225
Kaibab National Forest......................................... 63
Central Arizona Fishing Waters.....................22, 23 Split Shot Sinker Setup.......................................... 34
Kinnikinick Lake......................................................15
Christopher Creek..................................................17 Sport Fish and Wildlife Restoration Programs... 60
Civil Liability............................................................. 8
L Stamps
Closures to Fishing.8, 12, 14, 16, 18, 20, 22, 24, 46 Lake Mead National Recreation Area................. 63 Colorado River Special Use...................7, 18, 20
Coconino National Forest..................................... 63 Lake Pleasant, Maricopa County Parks.............. 63 Fees...................................................................... 3
Colorado River Northwest Fishing Waters... 18, 19 Lead and Fishing.................................................... 44 Utah Lake Powell Stamp............................. 7, 18
Colorado River Southwest Fishing Waters... 20, 21 Length Limits............................................................ 8 Where to Buy...................................................... 5
Commission Order 40: Fish.......................8, 1224 Licenses..................................................................... 3 T
Commission Order 41: Amphibians.................... 48 Complimentary................................................... 3
Table of Contents..................................................... 2
Commission Order 42: Disabled Veteran..........................................3, 52
Tonto Creek.............................................................17
Crustaceans and Mollusks................................. 48 Fees...................................................................... 3
Tonto National Forest............................................ 63
Commission Order 43: Reptiles (aquatic only).49 Lifetime Fishing License.................................... 3
Transportation and Storage of Fish................... 8, 9
Common Violations............................................. 8, 9 Lost and Duplicate............................................. 7.
Trilene Knot............................................................ 35
Complimentary Licenses........................................ 3 Pioneer...........................................................3, 52
Coronado National Forest.................................... 63 Requirements..............................................2, 3, 7 U
Crayfish.................................................... 7, 9, 37, 56 Revocation........................................................... 8. Upper Lake Mary....................................................15
Crescent Lake..........................................................13 Where to Buy...................................................... 3 U.S. Bureau of Land Management State Office.63
Crustaceans and Mollusks Regulations.............. 48 Limits.................................................................6, 7, 8 U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service............................... 63
Littering..................................................................... 9
D V
Little Colorado River...............................................13
Daily Bag and Possession Limits...................6, 7, 9 Live Bait, Capturing...............................7, 10, 11, 56 Verde River............................................................. 23
Definitions.........................................................50, 53 Live Baitfish...................................................... 10, 11 Violations.............................................................. 8, 9
Department Offices................................................. 2 Long Lake.................................................................15
Luna Lake................................................................13
W
E
Lynx Lake.................................................................15 Watercraft and Motor Restrictions...................... 39
Egg Sinker Setup.................................................... 34 Waterdogs......................................................... 10, 56
M
Watson and Willow lakes......................................15
F Measuring Fish......................................................... 8 Where to Fish by Species in Arizona...................31
Mercury.............................................................44, 45 Whirling Disease.................................................... 38
Fish Consumption Advisory...........................44, 45
Mogollon Rim Fishing Waters.........................16, 17 White Mountains Fishing Waters................... 12, 13
Fire Restrictions/and or Closures........................ 63
Motor Restrictions................................................. 39 Whitehorse Lake.....................................................15
Fish Identification.............................................26-33
Fish Weighing Scale Locations............................. 43 N Wildlife Area Restrictions...................................... 46
Fishing Clinics.....................................................3, 36 Nonresident....................................................3, 9, 50 Y
Fishing Setups........................................................ 34 North Central Fishing Waters......................... 14, 15 Youth Fishing......................................................3, 36
Resource Agency Directory
For the Weekly Fishing Report
on the Web............................................................................... www.azgfd.gov
To Report a Game or Fish Violation.................................................(800) 352-0700
To Report Vandalism or Livestock Depredation.......(800) VANDALS (826-3257)
For Fire Restrictions and/or Closures on State
and Federal Lands in Arizona
on the Web.............................................................http://gacc.nifc.gov/swcc/
or call toll-free.........................................................................(877) 864-6985
Apache-Sitgreaves National Forests.................................................(928) 333-4301
Coconino National Forest....................................................................(928) 527-3600
Coronado National Forest...................................................................(520) 388-8300
Kaibab National Forest........................................................................(928) 635-8200
Prescott National Forest..................................................................... (928) 443-8000
Tonto National Forest...........................................................................(602) 225-5200
U.S. Bureau of Land Management State Office
on the Web.............................................................................www.az.blm.gov
or call.........................................................................................(602) 417-9200
Arizona State Parks State Office
on the Web..................................................................www.azstateparks.com
or call.........................................................................................(602) 542-4174
Alamo Lake State Park....................................................................(928) 669-2088
Buckskin Mountain State Park....................................................... (928) 667-3231
Cattail Cove State Park....................................................................(928) 855-1223
Dead Horse Ranch State Park........................................................(928) 634-5283
Fool Hollow Lake Recreation Area................................................(928) 537-3680
Lake Havasu State Park...................................................................(928) 855-2784
Patagonia Lake State Park..............................................................(520) 287-6965
Red Rock State Park.........................................................................(928) 282-6907
Roper Lake State Park.....................................................................(928) 428-6760
Slide Rock State Park.......................................................................(928) 282-3034
U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service
on the Web...............................................................http://southwest.fws.gov
or call........................................................................................ (505) 248-6911
U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Arizona
Fisheries Resources Office .................................................................(928) 338-4288
Bill Williams River National Wildlife Refuge ................................ (928) 667-4144
Havasu National Wildlife Refuge .....................................................(760) 326-3853
Imperial National Wildlife Refuge.................................................... (928) 783-3371
Lake Mead National Recreation Area
on the Web........................................................................ www.nps.gov/lake/
or call........................................................................................(702) 293-8990
Glen Canyon (Lake Powell, Lees Ferry)
on the Web........................................................................ www.nps.gov/glca/
or call........................................................................................(928) 608-6200
Lake Pleasant Maricopa County Parks.......................................... (928) 501-1710

Know? Did you
24/7 online services

are available
SAVE TIME, BUY ONLINE!
Fishing, hunting and combo Take an online boater education
licenses available 24/7 class at home 24/7
Renew your watercraft from Create a free portal membership for
the lake 24/7 easy access to all your Game and
Apply for the draw without leaving Fish needs 24/7
your house 24/7 Watch real time wildlife from your
Get the latest and greatest wildlife office 24/7
news, hints and announcements
delivered to your fingertips 24/7
WWW.AZGFD.GOV ARIZONA GAME AND FISH DEPARTMENT WWW.AZGFD.GOV

Outdoor Products & Services
Fishing Guide / Outtter Lake Mary Fish Luna Lake
If You Provide a Product or Service to Arizona Hunters or Anglers

You should advertise it in the
Official Arizona Hunting & Fishing Regulation Books.
Advertising Options to Fit All Needs and Budgets
2018 Spring Turkey, Javelina,

Bison and Bear
185,000 copies in August 17 2018 Pronghorn &
Elk Hunt
Draw Regulations
220,000 copies in
December 17
2017 Fall Hunting

2019 & 2020 Fishing Regulations
Regulations 235,000 copies in
250,000 copies in May 17
December 18
Call us: (800) 564-6818 or e-mail: wildlife@centurytel.net
AdPages2017.indd 1 11/29/2016 12:38:50 PM

AdPages2017.indd 4 11/29/2016 1:48:37 PM

2017and2018 Fish Regs

Uploaded by

Copyright:

Available Formats

2017and2018 Fish Regs

Uploaded by

Document Information

Original Description:

Copyright

Available Formats

Share this document

Share or Embed Document

Sharing Options

Did you find this document useful?

Is this content inappropriate?

Copyright:

Available Formats

2017and2018 Fish Regs

Uploaded by

Copyright:

Available Formats

ARIZONA GAME AND FISH DEPARTMENT

2017 & 2018 Fishing Regulations

Fish AZ: Your License Dollars at Work

4 Arizona Game and Fish Department www.azgfd.gov

2017 & 2018 Arizona Fishing Regulations 5

DAILY BAG LIMITS

STATEWIDE POSSESSION LIMITS

PROTECTED NATIVE FISH

6 Arizona Game and Fish Department www.azgfd.gov

General Statewide Fishing Regulations

STATEWIDE FISHING REGULATIONS

LICENSE REVOCATION AND CIVIL LIABILITY

License Revocation unlawful posting of state or federal lands

8 Arizona Game and Fish Department www.azgfd.gov

General Statewide Fishing Regulations

Illegal Fish Stocking Its Stealing Your Angling Future!

2017 & 2018 Arizona Fishing Regulations 9

Legal Areas Allowing the Use of Live Baitfish

Legal Areas Allowed

Fathead minnow Threadfin shad Mosquitofish

Legal Areas Allowed

10 Arizona Game and Fish Department www.azgfd.gov

General Statewide Fishing Regulations

Legal Areas Allowed

Legal Areas Allowed

Legal Areas Allowed

Legal Areas Allowed

Legal Areas Allowed

2017 & 2018 Arizona Fishing Regulations 11

Special Regulations and Seasons Fish: Commission Order 40

24 Patterson Ponds (Community Fishing

2017 & 2018 Arizona Fishing Regulations 13

14 Arizona Game and Fish Department www.azgfd.gov

Special Regulations and Seasons Fish: Commission Order 40

00 Popular General Regulation Fishing Waters

2017 & 2018 Arizona Fishing Regulations 15

Notes: Green Valley Park Lakes (Town of Payson)

16 Arizona Game and Fish Department www.azgfd.gov

Special Regulations and Seasons Fish: Commission Order 40

2017 & 2018 Arizona Fishing Regulations 17

18 Arizona Game and Fish Department www.azgfd.gov

Special Regulations and Seasons Fish: Commission Order 40

4 Pearce North Rim

NOTE: For Lake Havasu information, see page 20.

2017 & 2018 Arizona Fishing Regulations 19

20 Arizona Game and Fish Department www.azgfd.gov

Special Regulations and Seasons Fish: Commission Order 40

3 Colorado River Yuma area Topock

4 Council Avenue Pond (Community Fishing)

District Canal System Bouse la

13 Yuma County Water Users

2017 & 2018 Arizona Fishing Regulations 21

22 Arizona Game and Fish Department www.azgfd.gov

Special Regulations and Seasons Fish: Commission Order 40

Black Canyon Rye Young

Sun Lakes Queen Florence

00 Popular General Regulation Fishing Waters

2017 & 2018 Arizona Fishing Regulations 23

24 Arizona Game and Fish Department www.azgfd.gov