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Fishing
There is no such thing as a bad day of fishing … especially when you are on Arizona’s public land!  Whether you prefer fishing on a river, from a boat, or just casting from the shoreline, the BLM offers every enthusiast an opportunity to fish at a number of different recreation sites throughout the State of Arizona.  With a valid Arizona fishing license, everyone can enjoy a day of fishing for popular species of fish, such as large and small-mouth bass, crappie, sunfish, catfish and trout. Those seeking an even further adventure can try their skill in catching a few of Arizona’s unique species, such as the desert sucker and northern pike.   BLM fishing sites range in setting and many are located near major metropolitan areas.  There’s simply no excuse, GO FISH on your public lands!    

Lake Havasu Field Office

Safford Field Office 

Vermilion Cliffs National Monument

Yuma Field Office

fishing in arizona

Fishing Rules & Etiquette

Unless specifically prohibited, all federal lands managed by the Bureau of Land Management, the U.S. Forest Service, and some state lands, are open to fishing. It's important to fish only on lands where it is legally allowed. Private lands are open to fishing only if you have the permission of the private land owner. Private land does not have to be posted with "NO FISHING" signs to be off limits to fishing. If you don't have permission to fish on private lands, you are trespassing and can be prosecuted.

It is your responsibility to know of any fishing restrictions and where they apply. The Arizona Game and Fish Department regulates fishing on all public lands.  Extensive information and regulations related to fishing in Arizona can be found on their web site. The Game and Fish Department’s publication “2011 & 2012 Fishing Regulations” is also online.  This publication is available at some of the BLM field offices, as well as Arizona Game and Fish offices.

Fishing is one of the many ways to experience Arizona’s public lands managed by the Bureau of Land Management.  Treat these lands as if they were your own -- because they are!

Additional guidelines for responsible fishing can be found on the following sites:

   
Last updated: 02-26-2013