Arizona fishing lakes for bass, trout and other sportfish

Fishing in Arizona

Originally written by Tony Subia

Reviewed and updated by AZ Leisure Staff Writers on August 3, 2026.

Arizona Fishing Overview
Popular Fish Species
Best Fishing by Season
Fishing Lakes by Region
Community Fishing
Licenses and Regulations
Fish Stocking
Frequently Asked Questions

Arizona offers remarkably diverse fishing, from warm desert reservoirs filled with bass, crappie, catfish and striped bass to cool mountain lakes stocked with trout. Anglers can fish large impoundments near Phoenix, forest lakes along the Mogollon Rim and White Mountains, community ponds in cities, and Colorado River waters along the state’s western border. The best destination depends on the season, target species, preferred scenery and type of watercraft. This guide organizes Arizona fishing lakes by region and explains when, where and how to plan a successful trip.

Rick Seaman holding a 4-pound largemouth bass caught at Apache Lake Arizona

Four-pound largemouth bass caught at Apache Lake. © AA-Fishing

Arizona Fishing at a Glance

Best-known bass reservoirs: Lake Havasu, Roosevelt Lake, Bartlett Lake, Alamo Lake, Apache Lake and Saguaro Lake
Popular striped bass waters: Lake Mead, Lake Mohave, Lake Havasu and Lake Pleasant
Popular trout regions: White Mountains, Mogollon Rim, Flagstaff area and Lees Ferry
Good family fishing: Community Fishing Program lakes and stocked mountain lakes
High-country summer fishing: White Mountains, Flagstaff and Payson-area lakes
Low-desert winter fishing: Phoenix-area reservoirs, Colorado River lakes and southern Arizona waters
Common sportfish: Largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, striped bass, rainbow trout, brown trout, crappie, catfish, sunfish and walleye
Fishing license: Generally required for anglers age 10 and older at publicly accessible Arizona waters

Popular Fish Species in Arizona

Arizona supports both warm-water and cold-water fisheries. Species vary considerably by elevation, water temperature, habitat and fish-stocking practices.

Bass

Largemouth bass occur in many desert reservoirs and lower-elevation lakes, while smallmouth bass are especially popular in several Colorado River and canyon reservoirs. Striped bass and hybrid striped bass provide open-water fishing opportunities in selected large lakes.

Trout

Rainbow trout are widely stocked in mountain lakes, streams and winter community waters. Brown, brook, cutthroat, Apache and tiger trout are available in selected high-country waters, with regulations varying by location.

Crappie and Sunfish

Crappie, bluegill and other sunfish provide productive fishing in reservoirs, smaller lakes and community waters. Spring spawning periods are especially popular with bank and boat anglers.

Catfish

Channel catfish occur statewide, while flathead catfish and large channel catfish attract anglers to several desert reservoirs and Colorado River fisheries.

Other Sportfish

Depending on the lake, anglers may also encounter walleye, northern pike, yellow bass, white bass, yellow perch and native fish species. Always confirm the current species regulations for the water being fished.

Best Time to Fish in Arizona

Spring

Spring is one of the best all-around fishing seasons in Arizona. Warming desert reservoirs activate bass, crappie and catfish, while trout fishing remains productive in stocked lakes and streams. Rising water temperatures frequently bring fish into shallower areas.

Summer

Summer anglers often travel to higher elevations around Flagstaff, Payson and the White Mountains for cooler weather and trout fishing. At low-desert reservoirs, fishing is usually most comfortable before sunrise, at night or during the final hours of daylight.

Fall

Cooling water can improve bass, crappie, trout and striped bass activity. Fall also provides comfortable weather at many desert lakes and less congestion at popular high-country destinations.

Winter

Winter is a productive season for trout in community waters and lower-elevation lakes. Desert reservoirs remain fishable, although fish location and activity can change after cold fronts. Ice fishing is uncommon and should only be attempted where local conditions and managing agencies confirm safe access.

Angler fishing from a boat on an Arizona lake

Arizona Fishing Lakes by Region

Phoenix and Scottsdale Area Fishing Lakes

Central Arizona offers large desert reservoirs within driving distance of Phoenix and Scottsdale. Popular waters include Lake Pleasant, Bartlett Lake, Saguaro Lake, Canyon Lake, Apache Lake and Roosevelt Lake. Depending on the reservoir, anglers may target largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, striped bass, crappie, sunfish, catfish and stocked rainbow trout.

Boat rules, launch access, horsepower limits and shoreline conditions differ by lake. Some reservoirs have marinas, fuel, restaurants, boat rentals or campgrounds, while others offer more limited services. Check current water levels, launch-ramp conditions and managing-agency rules before towing a boat.

Explore Phoenix-area fishing lakes

Central and Southern Arizona Fishing Lakes

Central and southern Arizona contain fewer large natural-looking lakes than the northern high country, but several waters support productive warm-water fisheries. Roosevelt Lake and Alamo Lake are well known for bass, crappie and catfish, while Patagonia Lake supports largemouth bass, flathead catfish, crappie, sunfish and seasonal trout opportunities.

Southern Arizona also includes urban and community waters around Tucson, Sahuarita and nearby communities. These smaller lakes can provide convenient bank fishing for families and beginning anglers.

Roosevelt Lake
Alamo Lake
Patagonia Lake

Flagstaff Area Fishing Lakes

Flagstaff sits near 7,000 feet in elevation and provides access to forest lakes, reservoirs and seasonal waters. Popular area lakes include Upper Lake Mary, Ashurst Lake, Kinnikinick Lake and Mormon Lake. Species may include northern pike, walleye, trout, yellow perch, catfish and bass, depending on the water.

Several Flagstaff-area lakes depend heavily on snowmelt and seasonal runoff, so water levels can fluctuate substantially. Boat restrictions, campground availability and road access also vary. Review current conditions before traveling, particularly after dry winters or during wildfire restrictions.

Explore Flagstaff-area fishing lakes

Lower Colorado River and Western Arizona Fishing

The Colorado River forms much of Arizona’s western boundary and supports several major fisheries, including Lake Mead, Lake Mohave, Lake Havasu and river reaches near Bullhead City, Parker and Yuma. Common sportfish include striped bass, largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, crappie, sunfish and channel and flathead catfish.

These waters can be large, windy and exposed. Anglers should monitor weather, water levels, launch-ramp availability and boating advisories. Regulations may differ from statewide rules because some waters are shared with neighboring states.

Lake Havasu
Lake Mead
Lake Mohave
Parker Strip

Lake Mead and Lake Powell

Lake Mead and Lake Powell are two of the largest reservoirs in the United States and provide expansive fishing opportunities in desert canyon settings. Lake Mead is part of Lake Mead National Recreation Area along the Arizona-Nevada border. Lake Powell extends across the Arizona-Utah border within Glen Canyon National Recreation Area.

Both reservoirs support warm-water sportfish, but species, access and current conditions differ. Lake Mead is especially known for striped bass, catfish and black bass, while Lake Powell supports striped bass, smallmouth bass, largemouth bass, walleye, crappie and other species. Changing water levels can affect ramps, shore access and fish location.

Fishing and recreation at Lake Mead
Fishing and recreation at Lake Powell

Payson and Mogollon Rim Fishing Lakes

Payson provides access to the Mogollon Rim and a collection of forest lakes generally located between about 5,000 and 7,600 feet. Popular waters include Woods Canyon Lake, Willow Springs Lake, Bear Canyon Lake, Knoll Lake and Chevelon Canyon Lake.

Rainbow trout are the primary attraction at many Rim lakes, with brown trout, tiger trout and warm-water fish available in selected waters. Several lakes restrict boats to electric motors or prohibit motorized watercraft. Some backcountry lakes require travel on unpaved roads or a hike from the nearest parking area.

Explore Payson and Mogollon Rim lakes

Prescott Area Fishing Lakes

The Prescott area offers several smaller, scenic lakes above 5,000 feet, including Watson Lake, Willow Lake, Goldwater Lake and Lynx Lake. Depending on the water and season, anglers may find trout, largemouth bass, crappie, sunfish and catfish.

These lakes are popular for bank fishing, kayaking and small boats. Motor restrictions and boating rules vary, and some lakes emphasize nonmotorized recreation. Nearby trails, picnic areas and campgrounds make the region useful for family fishing trips.

Explore Prescott-area fishing lakes

White Mountains Fishing Lakes

Arizona’s White Mountains contain many high-elevation lakes surrounded by ponderosa pine, spruce and aspen forests. Popular destinations include Big Lake, Becker Lake, Crescent Lake, Fool Hollow Lake, Hawley Lake, Luna Lake, Rainbow Lake and Show Low Lake.

Rainbow, brook, brown, cutthroat, Apache and tiger trout occur in selected waters. Several lakes also support bass, walleye, northern pike, catfish or sunfish. Boat restrictions, Tribal permits, seasonal closures and campground rules vary considerably, so anglers should identify the managing agency before traveling.

Explore White Mountains fishing lakes

Community Fishing in Arizona

Arizona’s Community Fishing Program provides convenient fishing in city parks and neighborhood lakes. Participating waters are found in the Phoenix, Tucson, Yuma, Prescott Valley and other areas, giving many residents access to stocked fishing without traveling to a large reservoir.

Community waters may receive rainbow trout during cooler months, channel catfish during spring and fall, and sunfish during spring. Each water has posted regulations and bag limits, and boating may be prohibited at smaller park lakes.

Convenient bank fishing near populated areas
Stocked trout, catfish and sunfish at participating waters
Parking, restrooms, playgrounds or picnic areas at many parks
Good locations for children and beginning anglers
Water-specific rules and posted bag limits

Arizona Fishing Licenses and Regulations

A valid Arizona fishing or combination license is generally required for resident and nonresident anglers age 10 and older fishing publicly accessible waters. Children under age 10 and qualifying blind residents do not require a state fishing license. Licenses are valid for 365 days from the purchase date.

Statewide limits do not apply uniformly to every lake. Special regulations may control bag limits, minimum sizes, bait, fishing methods, seasons or protected species. Tribal waters may require a separate Tribal permit, and interstate waters may have regulations coordinated with a neighboring state.

Purchase the correct Arizona fishing license before fishing.
Review the current statewide fishing regulations.
Check for lake-specific or stream-specific rules.
Confirm whether a Tribal permit is required.
Follow posted boating, access and fire restrictions.
Never transport live fish between waters unless specifically authorized.

Arizona Fish Stocking

The Arizona Game and Fish Department stocks catchable-size trout in selected lakes, streams and community waters. Stocking schedules identify the week in which a delivery is planned, but fish may be stocked on any day during that week.

Schedules are tentative and may change because of weather, road conditions, water quality, wildfire restrictions, hatchery production or unsuitable conditions at a destination. A scheduled stocking does not guarantee that fish will remain concentrated near an access point.

Check the current statewide stocking schedule before traveling.
Treat listed dates as stocking weeks rather than exact delivery days.
Expect seasonal changes at high-elevation lakes.
Confirm road and lake access during winter and wildfire season.
Review special regulations even at recently stocked waters.

Fishing Safety and Responsible Angling

Wear a properly fitted life jacket when boating or paddling.
Monitor wind, thunderstorms and extreme heat before launching.
Carry more drinking water than expected at desert lakes.
Use sun protection and avoid strenuous midday activity during summer.
Pack out fishing line, hooks, bait containers and other trash.
Do not move live fish, crayfish or bait between waters.
Handle fish with wet hands and minimize time out of the water when releasing them.
Respect seasonal closures, wildlife habitat and private property.
Confirm launch-ramp and road conditions before towing a boat.
Use extra caution around steep canyon shorelines and fluctuating reservoirs.

Frequently Asked Questions About Fishing in Arizona

Is fishing good in Arizona?

Yes. Arizona offers bass, trout, crappie, catfish, striped bass, walleye, pike and sunfish in waters ranging from desert reservoirs to mountain lakes, streams and stocked community ponds.

What are the best bass fishing lakes in Arizona?

Popular bass waters include Lake Havasu, Roosevelt Lake, Alamo Lake, Bartlett Lake, Apache Lake, Saguaro Lake and several Colorado River reservoirs. The best choice depends on the bass species, season, water level and preferred fishing style.

Where is the best trout fishing in Arizona?

Popular trout regions include the White Mountains, Mogollon Rim, Flagstaff area and Lees Ferry. Individual lakes and streams may support rainbow, brown, brook, cutthroat, Apache or tiger trout.

Do I need an Arizona fishing license?

Most resident and nonresident anglers age 10 or older need a valid Arizona fishing or combination license when fishing publicly accessible waters. Tribal waters may require a separate permit.

Can children fish without a license in Arizona?

Children under age 10 generally may fish Arizona public waters without purchasing a state fishing license, although all applicable bag limits and water-specific regulations still apply.

Are Arizona fishing licenses valid for a calendar year?

No. Arizona fishing licenses are generally valid for 365 days beginning on the purchase date.

What is the best fishing season in Arizona?

Spring and fall provide excellent statewide opportunities. Winter is productive at many desert and community waters, while summer is a popular time to fish cooler mountain lakes around Payson, Flagstaff and the White Mountains.

Does Arizona stock trout?

Yes. Arizona Game and Fish stocks catchable-size trout in selected lakes, streams and community waters. Schedules are tentative and can change because of weather or water conditions.

Can I fish in Phoenix city lakes?

Yes. Numerous Phoenix-area park lakes participate in Arizona’s Community Fishing Program. Each lake has its own posted rules, bag limits and permitted activities.

Can I use a boat on every Arizona fishing lake?

No. Boat access and motor restrictions vary. Some reservoirs permit large motorboats, while smaller mountain and community lakes may allow only electric motors, nonmotorized boats or no boating.

Are there fishing lakes near Tucson?

Yes. Southern Arizona fishing options include Patagonia Lake and several Tucson-area Community Fishing Program waters. Additional lakes are available farther east and north.

Can I fish year-round in Arizona?

Many waters are open year-round, but seasonal access, weather, ice, wildfire restrictions, stocking schedules and special regulations can affect individual lakes and streams.

Where can I catch striped bass in Arizona?

Striped bass are popular at Lake Mead, Lake Mohave, Lake Havasu and Lake Pleasant. Fish location and success vary with forage, season, water temperature and reservoir conditions.

Does Arizona have ice fishing?

Ice fishing is limited and inconsistent because safe ice rarely develops for long periods. Never enter lake ice unless the managing authority and current local conditions confirm that access is permitted and safe.

Fishing conditions, water levels, fish stockings, road access, launch ramps and regulations can change. Confirm current information with the Arizona Game and Fish Department and the agency managing the specific lake before traveling.