Hiking, mountain biking, and wine tasting—Arizona is a one-stop destination for adrenaline junkies everywhere. If there’s one thing Arizona is famous for, it’s fishing. Arizona’s abundant lakes and picturesque landscapes make it an ideal site for catching fish, drinking beer, and generally having a good time.

Anglers ten years of age and older must possess a valid Arizona fishing license. Arizona game and fish licenses are available on the Arizona Game and Fish website, as well as at various authorized license dealers throughout the state. You can improve your chances of success by checking the current AZGFD fishing report before your trip.

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Top Fishing Spots in Arizona

Fish abound in Arizona’s waters, and you can catch them virtually anywhere, but if you want to have the ultimate fishing experience in the state, go to one of these spots:

1. Roosevelt Lake. As anglers cast their lines on this large lake, they will never have to compete for a position on the water. Fishing is popular at Roosevelt Lake Marina, and its members have access to a private fishing lounge. If you feel like sharing your fish stories, you can do so at the marina’s bar, where you’ll be able to get a drink and a bite. The Marina ShipStore offers live bait for your fishing expedition.
2. Patagonia Lake State Park. There are healthy populations of largemouth bass, flathead catfish, crappie, and sunfish in this 265-acre lake in southern Arizona. In southern Arizona, rainbow trout are stocked seasonally from November through March, offering anglers the chance to catch these beautiful, delicious fish in a unique environment. Anglers are able to fish from both shore and boat, and they typically do well no matter which species they target.
3. Lake Pleasant. Bask in the desert’s beauty while fishing here at the biggest lake in the Phoenix area. Its large reservoir is a powerboater’s dream come true. Lake Pleasant in Arizona offers great fishing for largemouth bass, channel catfish, black crappies, white crappies, bluegills, redear sunfish, tilapia, white bass, and striped bass. This clear, deep, desert lake has produced many monster bass strings and has been a longtime favorite of tournament fishermen for many years.
4. Oak Creek. Slide Rock State Park is primarily a water recreation destination, however, excellent trout fishing is possible upstream of the park in one of Arizona’s most scenic settings. The Arizona Game and Fish Department stocks trout seasonally to maintain healthy wild brown and rainbow trout populations. Oak Creek has consistently produced trophy trout of both species, especially in the more remote parts of the creek just north of Slide Rock and south of the West Fork confluence.

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What to Expect When Fishing in Arizona

Due to the high temperatures, wear light-colored clothing that will keep you cool while also protecting you from mosquito bites. Be sure to bring a range of fishing gear with you because Arizona’s water is home to a diversity of fish.

Arizona’s pure waterways teeming with aquatic life, as well as its gorgeous scenery, make it a worthy addition to any fishing enthusiast’s bucket list. Don’t miss the chance to go fishing the next time you’re in Arizona.

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