In Arizona, anglers have several options when it comes to fishing licenses, including the General Fishing License and the Community Fishing License. The question of whether a General Fishing License covers community fishing in Arizona is a common one among anglers. In this article, we’ll explore the differences between these two licenses and help you determine which one is right for you.
General Fishing License
The General Fishing License in Arizona is a comprehensive permit that allows anglers to fish in all public waters throughout the state, including Community Fishing Program (CFP) waters. This license costs $37 for residents and $55 for non-residents, and it is valid for one year from the date of purchase.
With a General Fishing License, anglers can fish for all species of fish, including trout, and they can use up to two poles or lines simultaneously. The license also includes privileges that allow fishing from the shore or from a boat on any portion of the Colorado River and impounded waters that form mutual boundaries between Arizona and California or Nevada.
Community Fishing License
The Community Fishing License is a specialized permit that allows anglers to fish in designated CFP waters. These waters are typically located in city parks and are stocked with fish throughout the year to provide a convenient and family-friendly fishing experience.
In 2023, the Arizona Game and Fish Department announced that it would no longer offer Community Fishing Licenses for sale beginning January 1, 2024. However, Community Fishing Licenses purchased through December 31, 2023, will remain valid for one year from the date of purchase at designated CFP waters.
Despite the discontinuation of the Community Fishing License, anglers can still fish in CFP waters with a General Fishing License. The Arizona Game and Fish Department has established more than 50 CFP waters in 23 communities across the state, making it easy for anglers to find a convenient location to fish.
Fishing in Arizona’s Community Fishing Program
Arizona’s Community Fishing Program is a partnership between the Arizona Game and Fish Department and 23 communities across the state. The program provides a fun and family-friendly fishing experience at park lakes and ponds throughout Arizona.
More than 4 million Arizona residents live within a 20-minute drive of a stocked CFP lake, making it easy for anglers to enjoy a day of fishing close to home. The lakes are stocked with ready-to-catch fish during the fall, winter, and spring seasons, ensuring that anglers have a good chance of catching fish.
Distinctive Community Fishing Program signs are posted at key locations at all participating waters, uniquely identifying these fisheries from other waters. The signs also highlight the fishing license requirements and bag limit regulations that apply to CFP waters.
Conclusion
In conclusion, while the Community Fishing License will no longer be available for purchase in 2024, anglers can still fish in CFP waters with a General Fishing License. The General Fishing License provides comprehensive fishing privileges throughout Arizona, including CFP waters, and it is a cost-effective option for anglers who plan to fish in multiple locations.
Whether you’re an experienced angler or just starting out, Arizona’s Community Fishing Program offers a convenient and enjoyable fishing experience. With more than 50 CFP waters located throughout the state, there’s a perfect spot for everyone to enjoy a day of fishing with family and friends.