Are you planning a fishing trip to Arizona in 2024? Before you cast your line, it’s crucial to understand the state’s fishing license requirements. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about obtaining an Arizona fishing license, including who needs one, the different types available, and where to purchase them.
Who Needs an Arizona Fishing License?
According to Arizona fishing regulations, a valid fishing license is required for both Arizona residents and non-residents who are 10 years of age or older and wish to fish in any publicly accessible water in the state. This includes lakes, rivers, streams, and other bodies of water that are open to the public.
However, there are a few exceptions to this rule:
Youth under the age of 10 do not need to purchase a fishing license to fish in Arizona.
Blind residents of Arizona are also exempt from the fishing license requirement.
It’s important to note that while these individuals may fish without a license, they must still comply with all other fishing regulations, such as size and bag limits, and use legal fishing methods.
Types of Arizona Fishing Licenses
Arizona offers several types of fishing licenses to accommodate the needs of different anglers. The most common licenses include:
General Fishing License: This license allows anglers to fish for all species statewide, including at Community Fishing waters. The cost is $37 for residents and $55 for non-residents.
Combination Hunt and Fish License: This license combines fishing and hunting privileges, allowing anglers to fish statewide (including at Community Fishing waters) and hunt small game, fur-bearing animals, predatory animals, and upland game birds. The cost is $57 for residents and $160 for non-residents.
Youth Combination Hunt and Fish License: Available to youth ages 10-17, this license allows fishing statewide (including at Community Fishing waters) and hunting privileges similar to the Combination Hunt and Fish License. The cost is $5 for both residents and non-residents.
Short-term Combination Hunt and Fish License: This license is valid for one or more days and allows fishing statewide (including at Community Fishing waters) and hunting privileges similar to the Combination Hunt and Fish License. The cost is $15 per day for residents and $20 per day for non-residents.
In addition to these licenses, Arizona also offers lifetime licenses for both fishing and hunting, as well as special licenses for certain groups, such as the Honorary Scout Combination License for Boy and Girl Scouts.
Where to Purchase an Arizona Fishing License
Arizona fishing licenses can be purchased from a variety of sources, including:
Online: Anglers can purchase licenses online through the Arizona Game and Fish Department’s website, which allows for immediate printout of the license.
License Dealers: There are approximately 150 license dealers statewide, including many local sporting goods stores, bait and tackle shops, major retailers, and convenience stores.
Arizona Game and Fish Department Offices: Licenses can be purchased directly from the Arizona Game and Fish Department offices.
When purchasing a license, anglers should ensure that they have all the necessary information, such as their date of birth, residency status, and any applicable identification numbers (e.g., driver’s license number).
Fishing Without a License
While most anglers 10 years of age and older are required to have a fishing license, there are a few instances when a license is not needed:
Free Fishing Day: Usually held on the first Saturday of National Fishing and Boating Week, Free Fishing Day allows anglers to fish any public water without a license. In 2024, Free Fishing Day will be on June 1.
Fishing Clinics: Anglers registered and participating in a Department-sponsored fishing clinic do not need a license.
Private Waters: Fishing on private waters, tanks, or ponds with the permission of the property owner does not require a state fishing license.
It’s important to note that while these exceptions exist, anglers should still be aware of and follow all other applicable fishing regulations, such as size and bag limits, and use legal fishing methods.
In conclusion, obtaining an Arizona fishing license is a crucial step for anglers 10 years of age and older who wish to fish in the state’s public waters. By understanding the different types of licenses available, where to purchase them, and the exceptions to the licensing requirement, anglers can ensure they are fishing legally and contributing to the conservation of Arizona’s aquatic resources.