Can You Fish in Arizona Without a License in 2024?

As an avid angler, you may be wondering if you can fish in Arizona without a license in 2024. The short answer is no, with a few exceptions. In this article, we’ll dive into the details of Arizona’s fishing license requirements, explore who is exempt, and provide helpful information to ensure you’re fishing legally and responsibly in the Grand Canyon State.

Arizona Fishing License Requirements

According to the Arizona Game and Fish Department, a valid fishing or combination license is required for resident and nonresident anglers 10 years of age or older fishing any publicly accessible water in Arizona. This rule applies to all types of fishing, including taking frogs, waterdogs, crayfish, and softshell turtles.

Licenses are valid for one year from the date of purchase and must be in possession while engaging in fishing activities. Anglers can purchase licenses from various authorized dealers, including local sporting goods stores, bait and tackle shops, major retailers, convenience stores, and Arizona Game and Fish Department offices.

Exceptions to the Fishing License Requirement

While most anglers 10 years and older need a license, there are a few exceptions to the rule:

• Youth under the age of 10 do not need to purchase a state fishing license.
• Blind residents are exempt from the fishing license requirement.
• Anglers can fish without a license on free fishing day, which usually takes place on the first Saturday of National Fishing and Boating Week. In 2024, free fishing day will be held on June 1.
• Registered participants in a Department-sponsored fishing clinic do not need a license.
• Fishing on private waters, tanks, or ponds with the property owner’s permission does not require a license.

Types of Arizona Fishing Licenses

Arizona offers several types of fishing licenses to cater to different anglers’ needs:

• General Fishing License: Allows the take of all fish species statewide, including at Community Fishing waters. Resident: $37, Non-resident: $55.
• Combination Hunt and Fish License: Allows fishing statewide (including at Community Fishing waters), small game, fur-bearing animals, predatory animals, nongame animals, and upland game birds. Resident: $57, Non-resident: $160.
• Youth Combination Hunt and Fish License (ages 10–17): Allows fishing statewide (including at Community Fishing waters), small game, fur-bearing animals, predatory animals, nongame animals, migratory birds, and upland game birds. Resident: $5, Non-resident: $5.
• Short-term Combination Hunt and Fish License: Allows fishing statewide (including at Community Fishing waters), small game, fur-bearing animals, predatory animals, nongame animals, and upland game birds. Resident: $15/day, Non-resident: $20/day.

Arizona also offers lifetime fishing and combination licenses for residents, with fees varying based on the license type and the angler’s age.

Responsible Fishing Practices

While a fishing license is required for most anglers, it’s important to remember that the fees collected contribute to the Arizona Game and Fish Department’s efforts to conserve the state’s diverse wildlife resources for future generations. As responsible anglers, we should strive to protect our aquatic natural resources by following fishing regulations, practicing catch-and-release techniques, and educating ourselves on conservation best practices.

In conclusion, with a few exceptions, anglers 10 years and older must purchase a valid fishing or combination license to fish in Arizona in 2024. By understanding the license requirements, exploring the different types of licenses available, and embracing responsible fishing practices, we can ensure that the Grand Canyon State’s fisheries remain healthy and abundant for generations to come.