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Top Species for Fishing in Arizona
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Everything to Know About Booking a Fishing Guide in Arizona
What are the best fishing trips in Arizona?
The best fishing trips in Arizona are:
Why should I book a fishing trip in Arizona with Captain Experiences?
Our Damn Good Guides currently offer 2 trips in Arizona, and the most popular trips in the area are Lake Havasu Fishing guided by and Lake Powell Fishing Trips guided by .
All guides on Captain Experiences are vetted by our team. You can access their reviews, click through trip photos, read bios to get to know them, and preview trip details like species, techniques, group sizes, boat specs and more.
Looking for kid friendly guides / fishing lessons in Arizona? Check out our beginner and family friendly guides in Arizona.
What types of fishing trips are common in Arizona?
The most commonly sought after species in Arizona are: 1. largemouth bass, 2. smallmouth bass, 3. striped bass, 4. bluegill, and 5. carp.
How much does an Arizona fishing trip cost?
Prices in Arizona can range anywhere from about $450 to $1,035, but the average price for a half day trip in Arizona is $613. The average price for a full day trip in Arizona is $852.
Is booking a fishing guide worth the money?
Hiring a guide provides a number of benefits and many choose to book a fishing guide for a combination of experience, local knowledge, convenience, and cost-effectiveness.
Working with experienced fishing guides who know the best local spots and techniques can dramatically increase your odds of a great day. Having someone who is on the water every day and knows the area like the back of their hand is going to give you the best chances of success.
Booking a guide is also more cost effective, especially if you only get out a handful of times per year. When you consider all of the costs you would incur on your own such as the price of a boat, maintenance, insurance, gas, high-quality gear and tackle, repairs, and more, you’ll find that DIY is sometimes not worth the expense.
Even if you’ve got a great setup already in your home waters, booking a guide also provides a great opportunity to experience new techniques, new locations, or even a chance at a new target species to knock off the bucket list.
What month is best for fishing in Arizona?
The most popular season for fishing in Arizona is summer, and most anglers book their trips 0 days in advance.
Do I need a Arizona fishing license and what are the bag limits in Arizona?
See here for more information on fishing licenses in Arizona, bag limits for target species, and fishing season regulations in Arizona. When in doubt, your fishing guide will always know the right rules and regulations in Arizona.
What is fishing in Arizona all about?
Fishing in Arizona isn’t just about catching fish—it's about finding your rhythm in the desert's rugged beauty. Whether you’re in search of the mighty bass or the elusive trout, Arizona’s lakes, rivers, and streams offer a variety of terrain for all types of anglers. You’ll find yourself casting into cool, deep waters at places like Roosevelt Lake or the Verde River, where the crisp air and stunning desert landscape stretch far beyond what the eye can see. The sound of the line slicing through the air, the sun warming your back—these are the moments that stick with you long after the sun dips behind the jagged mountains.
And while the fishing is incredible, the journey itself is what makes Arizona stand out. Picture this: you’re out on a remote stretch of the Colorado River, surrounded by towering cliffs, with the only sound being the gentle lapping of the water against your boat. The desert, with all its silence and stillness, feels alive. The wind whispers through the pines, and you know you’re a world away from the hustle. The satisfaction of reeling in your catch isn’t just about the fish—it’s about the experience, the connection with a land that’s as harsh as it is beautiful.
If you’re lucky enough to land a monster, there’s no mistaking the pride that comes with it. Arizona’s waters aren’t easy to conquer, but they reward patience and persistence with fish that make every cast worth it. So, whether you’re casting for a quiet afternoon on a backcountry lake or chasing the big one on a river that’s as wild as the terrain around it, fishing in Arizona is an adventure that will stick with you, long after the hook’s been set and the line’s gone slack.
What are the most popular months to go fishing in Arizona?
Fishing in Arizona isn’t bound by the typical seasonal rhythm you might expect. While the desert can be unforgiving, it has a way of turning each season into its own kind of adventure, and that’s something anglers quickly come to appreciate. Spring is one of the best times to hit the water, especially as the weather warms up and the fish come to life. The trout start biting in the cool mountain streams and high-country lakes, while the bass make their way into the shallows, giving you the kind of action you’ll want to remember. The skies are clear, the air is crisp, and the water—oh, the water is just right for a long day on the lake.
As summer sets in, Arizona’s fishing game shifts into another gear. Sure, it’s hot, but that’s when the big bass come out to play. Whether it’s a quiet morning or a late evening cast, the fish are hungry, and the warm water makes for active, aggressive catches. If you're on the lakes near Phoenix or Tucson, you can almost feel the energy in the air. Summer means longer days, later sunsets, and more time to chase down that big one. It's a whole different vibe out here, but that’s the thing about fishing in the desert—it doesn't stop just because the sun is blazing.
When fall rolls around, there’s a shift again. The desert cools off, and with it, the fish get a little more unpredictable, a little more challenging. But that’s the fun part. Whether you're chasing after a stubborn largemouth or going after the smaller, feisty species in the cool, fast-moving waters, the fall is when the desert shows its full spectrum of moods. And don’t forget about winter—though not traditionally thought of as a fishing season, it’s prime time to cast your line in Arizona's higher elevations. If you’re looking to escape the snow, the colder months bring a quiet calm, the kind where you can find yourself alone on a glassy lake or river, the only thing moving the ripples of your line.
What types of fishing are popular in Arizona?
Fishing in Arizona is as diverse as the landscape itself. From high mountain lakes to winding desert rivers, there’s a method for every type of water and every angler. For the freshwater purist, fly fishing is king in the cooler, spring-fed waters tucked away in the state’s high country. The crisp mountain streams around Flagstaff or the White Mountains are home to rainbow trout, and there’s nothing like the challenge of casting a dry fly to a rising fish. The beauty of fly fishing in Arizona lies in the untouched solitude of these remote waters, where the only sound is the whisper of your line cutting through the air and the soft splash of a catch.
If you're after something a little more aggressive, Arizona's lakes and reservoirs offer plenty of opportunities for bass fishing. The state’s warm waters are home to both largemouth and smallmouth bass, and these fish aren’t shy about putting up a fight. The most popular technique here is fishing with soft plastics, spinnerbaits, and crankbaits. There’s nothing quite like the adrenaline rush of feeling a strong bass hit your line. Whether you're casting from a boat or fishing from the shore, lakes like Saguaro and Roosevelt offer the kind of action that makes you feel alive. As the sun dips low and the water calms, the bass often become more aggressive, and that’s when you know it’s time to reel in a monster.
For those looking for a more wild experience, Arizona’s rivers—like the Verde, Salt, and Colorado—offer some of the best opportunities for drift fishing and jet boat excursions. These rivers are full of surprises, with everything from trout to catfish waiting for the right bait. The technique here varies depending on where you’re fishing, but many anglers will find success by drifting bait or using a weighted rig to keep it in the strike zone. There’s something incredibly satisfying about seeing your line drift lazily along a river current, knowing that at any moment, you might hook into a massive fish. It’s all part of the thrill, and with Arizona’s rugged landscapes as your backdrop, it’s an experience that’s hard to beat.
What species are popular for fishing in Arizona?
When you’re fishing in Arizona, the options are as wide as the desert sky. Start with the state’s most sought-after species: the bass. Largemouth and smallmouth bass are the crown jewels of Arizona’s lakes, and whether you’re casting in the early morning or late afternoon, they’re always hungry. The hard fight and the size of these fish make them a worthy challenge, especially in lakes like Roosevelt, Saguaro, and Alamo. The conditions here—the warm, clear water and the sun-drenched shores—make bass fishing a year-round pursuit that never loses its thrill. There’s nothing like feeling a hefty bass hit your line and watching it make a run for it.
If you’re after something with a little more finesse, trout fishing in Arizona is a treat, especially when you're in the high country. The White Mountains, Mogollon Rim, and even the cold waters of the Colorado River offer some of the best trout fishing in the state. Rainbow and brown trout are the stars of these chilly, crystal-clear waters, and fly fishing is often the go-to technique. Whether you're casting a dry fly to a rising fish or nymphing along the streambed, there’s a satisfaction in landing a trout that’s been cruising these cool waters. It’s the kind of fishing that feels timeless, tucked away in Arizona’s most serene corners.
Then, for those looking to test their patience and strength, catfish and carp offer a whole different kind of adventure. Arizona’s warm waters, like those in the lower Salt and Gila Rivers, are home to some monster catfish that will make you work for your catch. These fish are relentless fighters, and landing one is a serious test of skill. Carp, often overlooked but surprisingly fun to chase, can be found in abundance, particularly in the lower desert waters. Their size and strength make for a unique challenge, and targeting them on a quiet stretch of river offers a peaceful yet rewarding experience. Whatever you’re after, Arizona’s waters offer a mix of species that promise adventure and plenty of action, no matter where you’re casting.
What are the best places to fish in Arizona?
Arizona might be known for its deserts, but when it comes to fishing, it’s full of hidden gems. One of the crown jewels of Arizona’s fishing scene is Roosevelt Lake. Nestled in the Tonto National Forest, this expansive reservoir is a bass angler’s paradise, with both largemouth and smallmouth bass lurking in its deep, clear waters. Whether you’re in a boat or casting from the shoreline, the chance to reel in a monster bass in the shadow of Arizona’s rugged hills is what makes Roosevelt such a sought-after spot. The sheer size of the lake offers plenty of room to explore, and with camping and stunning views, it’s a perfect place to set up for a weekend on the water.
For those looking to take things up a notch and escape the crowds, head up to the cool, high-country waters of the White Mountains. Places like Big Lake and Rainbow Lake offer some of the state’s best trout fishing. These alpine lakes are tucked away in thick pines and surrounded by wilderness, offering an idyllic backdrop for a day of fishing. The water’s cool temperature makes it perfect for rainbow, brown, and even the occasional cutthroat trout. Whether you’re fly fishing or casting from the shore, there’s something magical about spending a morning in these peaceful, untouched waters. It’s not just about the catch here—it’s about finding your rhythm in the solitude.
And for a truly unique experience, head out to the Colorado River, especially near the area around Lake Mead. Known for its strong currents and diverse fish species, the Colorado offers a whole different kind of fishing adventure. Whether you’re chasing striped bass, catfish, or trying your hand at the smallmouth bass, the Colorado River rewards those who are willing to work for it. The dramatic desert landscape surrounding the river only adds to the adventure, with towering cliffs and miles of rugged terrain. The river's sheer size means you’ll never run out of new spots to explore, and there’s always a sense of anticipation with each cast, knowing that something big could be just beneath the surface.
Does Arizona have good fishing?
Arizona might not be the first place that comes to mind when you think about fishing, but it’s one of those hidden gems that quietly offers some of the best freshwater angling in the country. The state’s unique blend of desert, mountains, and rivers creates a diverse landscape of fishing opportunities that’ll have you casting your line in everything from cool, alpine lakes to warm, sun-drenched reservoirs. Whether you’re after bass, trout, or even the occasional catfish, Arizona has a spot for it. The state’s lakes, rivers, and streams provide plenty of room to roam and fish without the heavy crowds you might find elsewhere. It’s one of those places where the journey often feels just as rewarding as the catch.
What makes Arizona such a great fishing destination is the sheer variety of options. You can hit the high country for cold-water trout or fish the warm, expansive lakes for bass. There’s something special about casting a line in Arizona's waters, whether it’s the quiet solitude of the mountains or the vastness of the desert landscape that stretches as far as the eye can see. With so many different ecosystems at play, you’ll find yourself on the water at every time of year, chasing after different species as the seasons shift. Spring and fall are prime time, but even in the heat of summer, the fishing stays strong—especially if you’re after bass. Arizona’s unique climate means there’s always a good time to fish, and the weather keeps you comfortable enough to be out on the water year-round.
Beyond the fishing, Arizona’s landscape provides a whole experience that you won’t find anywhere else. From the deep blue waters of Roosevelt Lake to the serene, quiet fishing holes in the White Mountains, the state’s scenery becomes as much a part of the experience as the fishing itself. It’s rugged, beautiful, and remote—exactly the kind of place where you can truly unplug and reconnect with nature. Whether you're a seasoned pro or just looking to throw a line in for the day, Arizona’s fishing scene has everything you need to make it worth the trip.
The Best Places to Fish in Arizona
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