Where Can I Fish Without a License in Arizona in 2024?

Fishing is a popular pastime in Arizona, and the state offers numerous opportunities for anglers to enjoy their favorite hobby. However, in most cases, a valid fishing license is required to fish in Arizona waters. Fortunately, there are a few exceptions where you can fish without a license, at least for a limited time. In this article, we’ll explore where you can fish without a license in Arizona in 2024, focusing on the East Valley area.

Fishing Without a License in Chandler

Chandler, a city in the East Valley, offers two prime fishing locations: Desert Breeze Park and Veterans Oasis Park. Both lakes are stocked with various fish species, including rainbow trout, bluegill, redear sunfish, hybrid sunfish, and largemouth bass.

While a fishing license is typically required, Chandler hosts an annual event called the “Free Fishing Day” where anglers can fish without a license for a limited time. In 2024, this event is scheduled to take place on a Saturday in early June.

During the Free Fishing Day, the Arizona Game and Fish Department (AZGFD) stocks the lakes with larger trout, known as “incentive fish,” measuring 13-18 inches and weighing four or more pounds. The event also features educational activities, crafts, and live music for children.

After the Free Fishing Day ends, anglers 14 and older will need an urban fishing license to continue fishing at Desert Breeze and Veterans Oasis parks. These licenses are available for purchase from most sporting goods stores or online through the AZGFD website.

Fishing Without a License in Gilbert

Gilbert, another city in the East Valley, offers fishing opportunities at Water Ranch Lake. This lake is also part of the AZGFD’s Community Fishing Program and is stocked with various fish species.

Similar to Chandler, Gilbert may host a Free Fishing Day event in 2024, allowing anglers to fish without a license for a limited time. However, it’s essential to check with the city or the AZGFD for specific event details and dates.

Fishing Without a License in Mesa

Mesa, the largest city in the East Valley, has several lakes that are part of the AZGFD’s Community Fishing Program, including Red Mountain Lake and Riverview Lake.

While these lakes typically require a fishing license, Mesa may also host a Free Fishing Day event in 2024, allowing anglers to fish without a license for a limited time. As with Gilbert, it’s crucial to check with the city or the AZGFD for event details and dates.

Fishing Without a License in Other Arizona Cities

In addition to the East Valley cities, there are several other locations in Arizona where you can fish without a license, at least for a limited time:

• Papago Ponds one, two, and three in Phoenix
• Chaparral Lake in Scottsdale
• Canal and Kiwanis lakes in Tempe
• Several other lakes outside the East Valley

These locations may host Free Fishing Day events in 2024, allowing anglers to fish without a license for a limited time. It’s essential to check with the specific city or the AZGFD for event details and dates.

In conclusion, while a fishing license is typically required to fish in Arizona waters, there are a few exceptions where you can fish without a license, at least for a limited time. In 2024, the East Valley cities of Chandler, Gilbert, and Mesa, along with several other locations in Arizona, may host Free Fishing Day events that allow anglers to fish without a license. Be sure to check with the specific city or the AZGFD for event details and dates to take advantage of these opportunities.