Trout fishing in Arizona presents a real treat to anglers. This desert state offers a variety of different cold water trout species, like the Apache Brook, Brown, Cutthroat, and Rainbow trout which may be found in Arizona's rivers, streams and lakes. Fishing season in this State is open all year round in revered places like Lee's Ferry and to a few lakes in White Mountain. Occasionally on long cold winters, lakes in higher elevations may experience winterkill, but there are streams and cool water lakes where trout fishing can be outstanding during this period.



Trout fishing takes skill, patience, and understanding, and more often than not a little creativity. Knowing how and where they move helps in picking a good trout spot. Arizona's cold water lakes and streams are often preferred by fly fisherman for its variety of trout and its various regions to choose from. Trout fishing in this State brings you to the remote pine forests of the White Mountains, the small trout lakes of the Mogollon Rim or to Central Arizona, where you can enjoy trout fishing all year round. Arizona's trout variety combined with its lush landscape offer fly anglers a leisurely way to spend time with family and friends. The crisp air and serene environment makes fishing for trout an experience unlike any other. No matter what lure, line or method you prefer to catch trout, Arizona's cold water lakes and streams are filled with varieties of trout, some exclusive to this region which you'll find all year round.

The Arizona Game and Fish Hatcheries are responsible for stocking these lakes and streams with the varieties of trout. They produce 3 million trout a year for anglers to catch. Raising trout is a complex process, which includes importing millions of eggs from different hatcheries and providers, then raising and stocking them to fulfill the high demand. Revenues raised from anglers are primarily the source for the production of trout. Coordination with field biologists is important to determine which areas are suitable conditions for the survival of each variety. Data gathered from the biologists help in the planning process, although this system is flexible to allow it to adapt to changing conditions.

Arizona requires a valid fishing license for taking trout or any aquatic wildlife from public waters. Arizona's Fishing Rules and Regulations are designed to protect the fishery and to give everyone equal opportunity to partake of this exciting fishing adventure.