Special Regulations and Seasons

Are You Up for a Challenge?

The Arizona Game and Fish Department has launched fishing challenges to encourage catch and release of the state’s biggest, oldest and most valuable fish. Pick your challenge of choice — or why not aim to complete all three?

Get more information and read the rules online. Good luck!

Arizona Bass Challenge

Arizona is home to five species of bass, including striped, yellow, and white bass from the temperate bass family and largemouth and smallmouth bass from the black bass family. The Arizona Game and Fish Department works to provide great opportunities for anglers to catch these bass all over the state.

The Arizona Bass Challenge is a new challenge, modeled after the popular Arizona Trout Challenge, that encourages anglers to learn about these species and explore new places to catch these fish.

How to complete the challenge:

1. Catch all five species of bass (striped, white, yellow, largemouth and smallmouth bass) in Arizona.
2. Photograph the fish you catch.
3. SUBMIT YOUR PHOTOS and a competed application form identifying where and when you caught your fish to the Arizona Game and Fish Department.

Where to find fish to complete your challenge:

Striped Bass: Lake Powell, Lake Mead, Lake Mohave, Lake Havasu, Lake Pleasant, and the Colorado River

Yellow Bass: Apache Lake, Canyon Lake, Roosevelt Lake, Saguaro Lake and upper Lake Mary

White Bass: Lake Pleasant and the Agua Fria River immediately upstream of Lake Pleasant

Largemouth Bass: Statewide

Smallmouth Bass: Apache Lake, Roosevelt Lake, Lake Powell, Lake Mead, Lake Mohave, Lake Havasu, Colorado River, Show Low Lake, Fool Hollow, Black River, and Verde River above Horseshoe Reservoir

Arizona Trout Challenge

If you’re looking for new places to catch trout this summer — or you’d like to catch a new trout species — we have a challenge for you. Rise to the Wild Trout Challenge and pursue naturally reproducing populations of native and nonnative trout, or chase the Arizona Trout Challenge, which includes hatchery-raised trout.

Arizona manages more than 100 waters statewide for trout. Both challenges offer the opportunity to fish for native Gila and Apache trout, found only in the Southwest. Thanks to conservation efforts for both species, they can be fished in certain waters.

Explore special fishing spots, learn about trout and enjoy Arizona’s high country.

Here’s how to take the challenge:

1. For the Wild Trout Challenge, catch all five species of wild trout in Arizona: Gila, Apache, brown, brook and rainbow trout.
2. For the Arizona Trout Challenge, catch six of the eight species in the state: the five named above, plus cutthroat, tiger trout and grayling.
3. Photograph the fish you catch.
4. SUBMIT YOUR PHOTOS and an application identifying where and when those fish were caught to the Arizona Game and Fish Department.

Are you up for the challenge? For the fine print and an application, visit online.

Simple Tips for Family Fun

Remembering these five simple kid-style tips will help make your next family fishing trip an enjoyable and memorable experience

1. Keep it simple and safe.

Forget technique and tactics, kids just want to throw a line in the water and catch something. Choose simple equipment. A push button spincast reel and a 5-6 foot rod are best. Pack only the amount of tackle you need to keep everybody fishing (hooks, bobbers and weights). Fish with easy-to-use bait secured under a small bobber or on the bottom. Provide your youngster with his or her own small tackle kit. Spend your time teaching and coaching the kids, don’t plan to do much fishing yourself.

2. Be prepared.

Have all the things you need to fish beforehand, so when you go fishing there are no delays. Get lots of worms. They are great universal bait and kids will love the dirt, slime and squirm of worms. Bring drinks and snacks in a small tote — being in the outdoors makes kids hungry. Bring a camera to capture the memories.

3. Make it fun.

Take kids to a place where they can catch a lot of fish such as bluegill. Help them identify their catch and teach them how to properly handle the fish they catch. If fishing is slow, take a short break and walk the shoreline or play at the nearby playground. Relax and have patience. Seize opportunities to explore and discover, to make up games and to tell stories.

4. Involve the kids.

Whenever you can, let kids do things themselves — bait the hook, cast their own rods, reel in the fish and remove the fish from the hook. Give kids a role for the day — choosing where to fish, what to bring for snacks, how long to fish each spot, netting the fish or counting the birds.

5. Go where the fish are.

Nearby Community Fishing Program waters are excellent locations to catch all kinds of fish including bluegill, trout and catfish.

FishAZ Network — Recruitment, Retention & Reactivation

Are you interested in going fishing, but not sure where to start?

You’re in the right place. Welcome to the FishAZ Network, an extensive group of partners along with the Arizona Game and Fish Department that have developed a statewide program of events and activities just for you.

Our fishing events and activities are conducted in a safe environment by seasoned and passionate fishermen and women. These events are designed to teach fishing skills, aquatic conservation and the fun of fishing to the public and offer instructional and experiential, hands-on activities for all skill levels and interests.

Arizona has extensive opportunities and destinations to go fishing, from a local pond to a remote mountain stream, so let’s get you started.

To get started, visit online.

FishAZ Network — Events, Activities, Connections & Networking

The FishAZ Network is a centralized calendar and registration listing of events and activities. We’ve collected the many events happening throughout the state by Game and Fish and the many partners and put them in one place.

From large public fishing clinics in a local community to stream fishing, social meet ups and advanced fishing techniques. Many provide guidance on where and when to fish; selecting tackle and bait; casting and rigging techniques; fishing safety and ethics; care of your catch; and more.

Event Types — Skill-Based, Progressive Experiences

We’ve created five categories to help guide you based on your skill, experience, interests and expectations. However, these are merely guidelines — they are not prerequisites.

Introductory Events

• Non-live fishing events, classroom, lessons, demonstrations, practice, equipment, casting practice, types of knots and tackle setups, species info, biology, habitats, etc.

Beginner Events

• Beginner fishing events, equipment provided, basic reel and tackle combos, instruction, catching fish, cleaning fish, cooking fish, locally area waters, other outdoor recreation activities.

Developing Events

• Progressive fishing using your equipment, streams, rivers and lakes near local areas, advanced tackle, lures and casting, where and when to fish, different species and approaches, cleaning and cooking fish, catch and release and ethics.

Intermediate Events

• Mountain water fishing, advanced casting, equipment and tackle, more challenging/rarer fish species, use of watercraft (boats, kayaks, canoes, float tubes) trolling, specialty baits and lures.

Experienced Events

• Remote fishing location, unique/rare destinations, specialty species, challenges, tournaments, using electronics, watercraft, advanced fishing experiences.

Become a Fishing Volunteer

The Department is looking for dedicated individuals who want to volunteer with the FishAZ Network. You don’t have to be an expert to help others learn how to fish and about fishing conservation. Volunteering is rewarding and engaging. To get started, visit online.

Information & Contact

For information about the FishAZ Network, how to get involved in our partner program, or our equipment and loaner program, visit online, or email.

Whirling Disease and Aquatic Invasive Species

Illegal Fish Stocking — It’s Stealing Your Angling Future!

It is illegal to stock fish or aquatic wildlife including crayfish, frogs, waterdogs and turtles. Illegal fish stocking, and everything else moved along with them, plants, mussels, viruses, harmful algae, etc., threaten the quality of our fishing waters as well as the Department’s ability to manage them.

If you observe or know of someone stocking Arizona waters, report it to Operation Game Thief at 1-800-352-0700. Information leading to an arrest may be rewarded up to $1,000. Anyone found guilty of illegally stocking fish or aquatic wildlife may be subject to revocation of hunting and fishing privileges and civil assessments.

Cleaning Your Gear Protects Our Waters

Unknowingly moving a species between waterbodies can cause irreversible ecological damage. The following protocols shall be taken for any equipment that has been in or on waters or locations listed in Director’s Order 2. Anglers should inspect and clean equipment including but not limited to waders, boots, nets and tackle. Remove any visible plants, algae, animals, and mud, and disinfect the equipment using one or more of the following decontamination methods:

Option 1: Submerge equipment in a mixture of water and quaternary ammonium based cleaner (6 ounces quaternary ammonium per 1 gallon of water) for 20 minutes.

Option 2: Soak equipment in 140º F water for 10 minutes.

Option 3: Freeze equipment overnight.

Option 4: Completely dry equipment for at least 7 consecutive days from May through October or 18 consecutive days from November through April.

Prevent the Spread of Whirling Disease

Whirling disease is a parasitic infection that attacks juvenile trout, eventually killing them. The disease is transmitted primarily by infected fish or fish parts, or fishing equipment and wading gear. Whirling disease is not a human health concern. The Arizona Game and Fish Department continues to monitor and test for any presence of the disease. You can help prevent the spread of whirling disease in the following ways:

• Do not transport live fish or fish parts from one body of water to another.
• Rinse all mud and debris from equipment and wading gear, and drain water from boats before leaving the infected water.
• Allow gear to dry thoroughly before next use.

For more information, visit www.stopaquatichitchhikers.org.

Arizona Game and Fish Department Aquatic Invasive Species (AIS) Protocols

(A.R.S. 17-255 — Director’s Order 3)

DAY USERS: Any watercraft, boats, vehicles, conveyances, or other equipment that have been in or on aquatic invasive species (AIS) listed waters for 5 days or less (lakes Mead, Mohave, Havasu, Pleasant, Powell, Canyon, Apache, Saguaro; and Lower Colorado River, Lees Ferry and the Lower Salt/Verde rivers). Please see Director’s Order 2 for a full list of AIS waters online.

Day-use Protocols:

Step 1 After removing from water and before transport from an AIS listed water, clean and remove any clinging material (plants, mud, snails).

Step 2 Remove the plug and drain all residual water. The plug(s) must remain out during transport.

Step 3 Dry completely prior to use in any other water.

*If launching in another waterbody in less than 18 consecutive days November through April or 7 days May through October, please call the AIS Program to determine if an inspection or decontamination may be necessary.

Long-Term Users And Moored Boats: Any watercraft, boats, vehicles, equipment, or conveyances that have been in or on aquatic invasive species (AIS) listed waters for 6 consecutive days or longer.

Long-term Moored Protocols:

Step 1 Contact the AIS Program prior to departure (recommend a minimum of 72 hours notice) to schedule decontamination with an authorized inspector.

Step 2 Clean and remove any clinging material (plants, mud, snails).

Step 3 Remove the plug and drain all residual water. The plug(s) must remain out during transport.

Step 4 Following decontamination, keep the boat out of the water and dry for a minimum of 18 consecutive days from November through April or 7 consecutive days from May through October. Boaters will be issued seal and receipt as proof inspection/decontamination.

For more information, call the AIS Program at 623-236-7608.

Listing of Arizona’s aquatic invasive species:

(A.R.S. 17-255 — Director’s Order 1)

Plants

• didymo (a.k.a. rock snot)
• giant salvinia
• golden algae
• hydrilla
• water hyacinth

Animals

• apple snail
• Asian carp (silver, big head, black)
• golden mussel
• New Zealand mudsnail
• quagga mussel
• red claw crayfish
• rusty crayfish
• snakehead species
• water fleas (spiny, fishhook)
• zebra mussel

This list was effective June 19, 2023.

Arizona’s list of aquatic invasive species affected waters:

(A.R.S. 17-255 — Director’s Order 2)

• Lake Powell (quagga mussel)
• Lake Mead (quagga mussel, New Zealand mudsnail)
• Lake Mohave (quagga mussel, New Zealand mudsnail)
• Lake Havasu (quagga mussel, didymo)
• Lower Colorado River (quagga mussel, New Zealand mudsnail, giant salvinia, apple snail, water hyacinth, didymo)
• Lake Pleasant (quagga mussel)
• Lees Ferry (quagga mussel, New Zealand mudsnail, didymo)
• Lower Salt/Verde River (quagga mussel, apple snail, New Zealand mudsnail)
• Apache Lake (quagga mussel, golden algae)
• Canyon Creek (New Zealand mudsnail)
• Canyon Lake (quagga mussel, golden algae)
• Oak Creek (New Zealand mudsnail)
• Saguaro Lake (quagga mussel, golden algae)
• Tonto Creek (New Zealand mudsnail)
• Roosevelt Lake (golden algae)
• Red Mountain Park Lake (quagga mussel, apple snail)

This list was effective June 19, 2023. A full list of AIS-affected waters can be found online.

New Zealand Mudsnail Decontamination Options

Decontamination Options

The following protocols shall be taken for any equipment that has been in or on waters or locations listed in Director’s Order 2. Anglers should inspect and clean equipment including but not limited to waders, boots, nets and tackle.

Remove any visible plants, algae, animals, and mud, and disinfect the equipment using one or more of the following decontamination methods:

Boot brushes should be used, where available, when done recreating in an affected waterbody and should be done regardless of disinfection method selected. (Several are currently located along Canyon and Tonto Creeks at popular access sites.)

Examples of equipment to be disinfected: waders, boots, tackle, shoes, pets, and anything else that comes in contact with shoreline or water.

Option 1: Submerge waders and gear in a large tub filled with a quaternary ammonia-based institutional cleaner. If using consumer-grade 409*, the solution does not need to be diluted. If using a product such as Super HDQ Neutral, mix 6 ounces per gallon of water. Equipment must be soaked for at least 20 minutes, scrubbing and inspecting all items before rinsing. The rinse water must be from a source free of AIS (to avoid re-exposure), and the chemical bath must be properly disposed of away from the body of water.

Option 2: Place waders and boots in a freezer overnight between uses.

Option 3: Dry waders and equipment completely for seven consecutive days (May through October) or 18 consecutive days (November through April).

Option 4: Spray or soak waders and gear with 140 degree Fahrenheit water for at least 10 minutes.

*AZGFD does not endorse any particular product. Mention of any brand is for example only.

Unknowingly moving a species between water bodies can cause irreversible ecological damage.

Angling Recommendations

Also consider these options to help minimize the spread of these aquatic invasive species:

• Start your fishing trip at the most upstream point, then move downstream to avoid introducing aquatic invasive species into unoccupied areas.
• When fishing in multiple lakes on the same trip, a second pair of wading equipment (waders and wading boots) is recommended until gear can be properly cleaned and decontaminated.
• Avoid felt-bottom boots and waders to prevent the spread of pathogens and aquatic invasive species.

Help Protect Our Fisheries from Crayfish

Help reduce crayfish populations in our waters by removing crayfish at every opportunity. Crayfish are not native to Arizona, yet they have become established in many waters throughout the state. They endanger aquatic native species as well as sport fish by:

• Preying on all life stages of fish, amphibians and invertebrates
• Aggressively competing for habitat and food
• Destroying productive habitat in our streams, ponds and lakes

Be careful with the use and disposal of crayfish.

• It is unlawful to transport live crayfish (except for that part of southwestern Arizona south of I-10 and west of Highway 95).
• If you intend to keep and eat crayfish, pack them in ice for transport. This will kill them while keeping them fresh until you arrive at your destination.
• By law, you may only use live crayfish as bait in the same body of water where they were caught.
• Do not throw unused bait crayfish, or bait of any kind, back into the water alive.

With a valid fishing license (or for youth under age 10), an unlimited number of crayfish may be caught by the following methods:

• By hand or hand-held device, such as a fishing pole.
• Landing nets, dip nets or umbrella nets
• Crayfish nets or traps not exceeding 3 feet on a side or diameter
• Cast nets not exceeding a 4-foot radius
• Minnow traps not exceeding 1 foot in height and width, and 2 feet in length
• Seine nets not exceeding 10 feet in length and 4 feet in width
• Crayfish may be caught during the day or night.

See online for more information on crayfish capture methods and cooking recipes.

Violators Steal Your Fish – Help Us Catch Thieves

Poaching is a crime! Poachers are thieves stealing from you!

Do the right thing. Report a violator. Your tip can make the difference in apprehending a fish thief.

Operation Game Thief is a 24/7 hotline to report fish and wildlife violations.

Report a violation. Rewards of $50–$1,000 are offered for information leading to an arrest for fishing violations. Callers can remain confidential. Call 1-800-352-0700.

Bag and possession limits provide everyone with a chance at a quality fishing experience and protect the fishery. Anyone who keeps or gives away more than their limit is breaking the law — they are thieves stealing fish from you and other responsible anglers.

Your help is needed to catch these violators. If you witness someone keeping more than the daily bag and possession limit, fishing with more than two poles at the same time, or not complying with other fishing rules, contact the Operation Game Thief hotline to report the violation.

Reported violations are prioritized based on the quality of the information provided. Because the Department has a limited number of Wildlife Officers statewide, it is not possible to have an immediate response to every call. That is why it is important that you be a good witness so that follow-up by an officer can be conducted.

Be a good witness:

• Recognize what specific activities are violations.
• Do not put yourself in danger or confront the violator.
• Write down the date, time and specific park and lake location.
• Write down a description of the person(s) (physical and clothing).
• If possible, get the vehicle description and license plate number.
• Try to take pictures or video of the violation and violator.
• Call or go online to report the violation as soon as possible.

Fish & Boat Arizona: Plan Your Hook-and-Line Adventure

The adventurous Arizona angler, boater or paddler has a tackle-box tool that can unlock just about any fishing excursion in state.

With destinations ranging from high-elevation lakes in pine forests to waters in grasslands and desert areas, how does someone decide where to go? The new edition of the Fish & Boat Arizona map is available at fishandboataz.azgfd.com for anglers to choose their own hook-and-line adventure.

Fish & Boat Arizona not only gives door-to-ramp driving directions to individual waters statewide, it also is filled with fishing reports and forecasts, stocking information, bag limits, accessibility details and locations of marinas, pump-out stations, license dealers, fishing docks, life jacket loaner stations, certified fish scales and more.

The map includes all major lakes statewide, as well as Community Fishing Program waters.

Already have the perfect experience in mind? Use the Interactive Search tool to find individual waters, filter locations by species, watercraft regulations and more. Once you’ve narrowed your options, zoom into the map to see the facilities and amenities available to help make that perfect outdoor experience a reality.

With the Fish & Boat Arizona map displayed on your mobile device browser, click “Add to home screen,” to create a shortcut that functions similar to an app. Then explore all the fishing and boating opportunities Arizona has to offer.

Where will you go to get hooked?

Explore Fish & Boat Arizona online.

Proper Catch-and-Release Methods

Fish are a valuable resource, and fishing for them is a fun and exciting recreational experience. By limiting your harvest, and practicing good catch-and-release techniques, you can help preserve a fishery and ensure that angling opportunity remains for another day. Currently, native trout fishing opportunities can only exist from anglers using these techniques.

DO’S

Appropriate hooks and quick hook sets: Avoid letting fish swallow hooks by paying attention to your line and using an appropriate hook size and type. Single hooks are more easily removed than multi-point hooks.

Hook type: Barbless hooks are easier to remove and result in less injury to fish and shorter handling times during hook removal.

Appropriate tackle: The use of artificial flies and lures generally hook fish more superficially than those using live bait.

Quick retrieve: Exhaustion stress can be fatal, the longer you play a fish, the more stress it endures.

Soft mesh nets: The use of soft mesh nets, if nets are necessary, will help keep their protective slime on and will avoid entanglement.

Wet hands and a gentle touch: Handling fish with wet hands will help keep their protective slime from coming off.

Keep the fish in the water as much as possible: It is best to unhook the fish while it is still in the water and avoid holding the fish out of the water for pictures for more than a few seconds.

DON’TS

Avoid forcefully removing swallowed hooks: If the hook is embedded down the throat, clip the line as close to the eye of the hook as possible and avoid attempting to remove the hook which may result in bleeding and injury. Hooks will dissolve over time. A fish hooked deeply has a better chance of survival if the line is cut than if its organs are torn in the unhooking process.

Avoid touching the gills or eyes: Holding a fish by the gills can be lethal; these are extremely sensitive and easily damaged organs.

Avoid a firm grip: Fish are slippery and wiggly. Make sure to support the fish properly while holding it. Instinct will lead an angler to tighten their grip on the fish, and potentially crush its internal organs with force.

Can’t Stand the Heat? Neither Can Trout

Record-setting heat has raised water temperatures in many trout lakes and streams.

Trout thrive in cool (below 68 degrees), clean, well-oxygenated water. During the summer months, when water levels and flows decrease due to lack of rainfall, water temperatures rise and dissolved oxygen decreases, which in turn causes additional stress on trout.

Anglers are reminded to consider these conditions and take some personal responsibility when fishing for trout during these periods of stress. Arizona Game and Fish recommends:

Fish early in the morning, when water temperatures are cooler.

Land a hooked fish quickly — do not “play” the fish.

After landing a fish, release it as quickly as possible without removing it from the water.

Avoid fishing when water temperatures are above 68 degrees. This is especially important at special regulation waters (like Becker Lake) that rely on low fishing-related mortality to maintain populations due to the limited number of trout that are stocked each year (in the hopes of growing trout as large as possible). Even a limited number of mortalities related to fishing during high-water temperatures at Becker Lake could harm the fishery for years, because larger fish are generally more sensitive to increased water temperatures than smaller fish.

When fishing for stocked trout in waters with a temperature greater than 68 degrees F, plan to keep the first four fish that are caught.

Anglers seeking to catch Apache or Gila trout in recovery streams are advised to avoid the summer months of June, July, and August, as elevated stream temperatures can create stressful conditions for trout and poor conditions for angling.

Check with the appropriate AZGFD regional office for the latest fishing conditions before heading out.

Arizona State Fish Records

As reported to and verified by the Arizona Game and Fish Department. Updated Oct. 24, 2024. For more current record listings, go to azgfd.gov.

Inland Waters — Hook and Line

Species Name	Size	Location	Angler	Date
Bass, Hybrid Striped	2 lb. 13.76 oz. 18.5 in.	Lake Pleasant	Ray Gilmore, Peoria	10/29/13
Bass, Largemouth	16 lb. 7.68 oz 28.0 in.	Canyon Lake	Randall E. White, Mesa	4/22/97
Bass, Rock	0 lb. 12.96 oz. 10.25 in.	Upper Verde River	Eric Woolsey, Cottonwood	4/6/06
Bass, Smallmouth	7 lb. 0.96 oz. 22.75 in.	Roosevelt Lake	Dennis K. Barnhill, Mesa	3/18/88
Bass, Striped	29 lb. 13.76 oz. 45.25 in.	Lake Pleasant	Bob Liddington, Phoenix	7/13/10
Bass, White	4 lb. 11.7 oz. 19.5 in.	Lake Pleasant	David Amburgey, Peoria	4/72
Bass, Yellow	2 lb. 2.56 oz. 14.25 in.	Canyon Lake	Ron Johnson, Chandler	2/7/20
Bluegill	3 lb. 15.68 oz. 15.75 in.	Goldwater Lake	Christopher Ray Mapes, Prescott Valley	5/2/04
Buffalo, Bigmouth	36 lb. 6 oz. 38.5 in.	Roosevelt Lake	Leon Steward, Payson	3/14/95
Buffalo, Black	35 lb. 6.72 oz. 40.5 in.	Canyon Lake	David Hoenshell, Mesa	5/24/95
Bullhead, Black	2 lb. 6.1 oz. 16.5 in.	Parker Canyon Lake	Mikki St. George, Sierra Vista	9/9/02
Bullhead, Yellow	4 lb. 8.1 oz. 17.75 in.	Mormon Lake	Patricia Simmon, Phoenix	7/15/89
Carp	37 lb. 0.0 oz. 40.0 in.	Bartlett Lake	Jonathan Gardner, Phoenix	8/8/87
Catfish, Channel	33 lb. 5.76 oz. 39.5 in.	Upper Lake Mary	Carson Pete, Flagstaff	3/26/17
Catfish, Flathead	76 lb. 8.64 oz., 53.5 in.	Bartlett Lake	Eddie Wilcoxson, Surprise	04/12/13
Crappie, Black	4 lb. 10.0 oz. --in.	San Carlos Lake	John Shadrick, Mammoth	1959
Crappie, White	3 lb. 5.28 oz. 16.75 in.	Lake Pleasant	Robert Schnell, Glendale	2/22/82
Grayling, Arctic	1 lb. 9.76 oz. 14.65 in.	Lee Valley Lake	Glenn D. Davis III, Flagstaff	7/10/95
Northern Pike	32 lb. 5.6 oz. 49 in.	Ashurst Lake	Ronald Needs, Flagstaff	11/5/04
Roundtail Chub 2	3 lb. 14.9 oz. 18.5 in.	Lower Salt River	Richard L. Walton, Chandler	3/3/84
Striped Mullet	5 lb. 2.24 oz. 23.75 in.	Fortuna Pond	Robert Bayles, Yuma	4/24/04
Sucker, Desert 3	2 lb. 10.75 oz. 18.0 in.	Verde River	Edith Toney, Mesa	9/20/92
Sucker, Sonora	6 lb. 23 in.	Lower Salt River	Ronald Nuss Jr., Gilbert	10/20/20
Sunfish, Green	1 lb. 15.84 oz. 12.5 in.	Patagonia Lake	Kevin M. Naujelis, Tucson	5/20/17
Sunfish, Hybrid 2	2 lb. 2.22 oz. 12.5 in.	Patagonia Lake	Mikey Alan Porter, Tucson	6/5/98
Sunfish, Redear	3 lb. 9.0 oz. 14.5 in.	Goldwater Lake	Jay Adkins, Prescott	8/12/93
Tilapia	7 lb 10.5 oz 20.75 in.	SRP Canal	Tyson Borden	5/5/23
Trout, Apache 3	5 lb. 15.5 oz. 24.0 in.	Hurricane Lake 4	Lyle Hemphill, Lakeside	6/10/93
Trout, Brook	4 lb. 15.2 oz. 20.5 in.	Sunrise Lake 4	Marshall Gregg, Whiteriver	10/20/95
Trout, Brown	22 lb. 14.5 oz. 36.0 in.	Reservation Lake 4	Bryce Sisson, Prescott	8/6/99
Trout, Cutthroat	6 lb. 5.0 oz. 22.3 in.	Luna Lake	Eric James Walter, Tucson	10/76
Trout, Gila	5 lb. 1.92 oz. 23 in.	Goldwater Lake	David Worsham, Avondale	6/2/18
Trout, Rainbow	15 lb. 9.12 oz. 32.5 in.	Willow Springs Lake	Harold Wright, Sun City	9/29/06
Trout, Tiger	5 lb 15.36 oz 23.5 in.	Woods Canyon Lake	Carl Erickson	6/22/23
Walleye	16 lb. 1.76 oz. 31 in.	Show Low Lake	Gregg Munck, Show Low	11/18/02
White Amur (triploid)	61 lb. 1.92 oz. 60 in.	Red Mountain Park	Dennis Gleason, Mesa	4/2/19
Yellow Perch	1 lb. 10.0 oz. 13.5 in.	Stoneman Lake	Art Ellico, Kingman	3/21/84

Inland Waters — Catch-and-Release 1

Species Name	Size	Location	Angler	Date
Bass, Largemouth	28 in.	Lake Pleasant	Bill Wilson, Glendale	3/12/05
Bass, Smallmouth	23 in.	Roosevelt Lake	Ginger Wright, Tonto Basin	6/18/06
Bass, Striped	34.25 in.	Lake Pleasant	Eric Martinez Jr.	4/11/21
Bass, White	18 in.	Lake Pleasant	Bradley Garraway, Phoenix	3/24/05
Bass, Yellow	13 in.	Roosevelt Lake	Tom Simpson, Pahrump, NV	12/10/08
Bluegill	13 in.	Mohawk Wellton Canal	Bob Dippery Sr., Apache Junction	4/15/11
Buffalo, Black	41 in.	Apache Lake	Bill Groseclose, Apache Junction	4/23/03
Carp	37 in.	McKellips Lake	Mack Hollen Jr., Phoenix	5/6/06
Catfish, Channel	34 in.	Upper Lake Mary	Jared Sandall, Rimrock	3/28/15
Catfish, Flathead	53 in.	Roosevelt Lake	Andrew Srejic, Avondale	9/23/06
Crappie, Black	16 in.	Apache Lake	Ron Robinson, Alta Vista, IA	4/6/98
Crappie, White	16 in.	San Carlos Reservoir	Matthew Rokusek, Gilbert	3/31/18
Grayling, Arctic	12 in.	Aker Lake	Chase Mainville	7/1/23
Northern Pike	44 in.	Upper Lake Mary	Scott A. Webster, Phoenix	4/26/13
Roundtail Chub	17 in.	Verde River	Rudolph Hoffman, Gilbert	7/12/15
Sucker, Desert	18 in.	Lower Salt River	Kendra Loubere, New River	1/17/22
Sucker, Sonora	25 in.	Lower Salt River	Alex Loubere, New River	3/21/22
Sunfish, Green	13 in.	Lake Pleasant	Tyler Johnson, New Brighton, MN	4/10/17
Sunfish, Hybrid	10 in.	Papago Ponds #2	Mack Hollen Jr., Phoenix	6/19/04
Sunfish, Redear	13.75 in.	Pena Blanca Lake	Colin Parish, Tucson	6/19/21
Tilapia	18 in.	Tempe Town Lake	Brandon Williams, Scottsdale	4/29/09
Trout, Apache	27 in.	Silver Creek	Tim McGough, Scottsdale	10/2/09
Trout, Brook	15 in.	Perkins Tank	Rob Gerlak	4/9/15
Trout, Brown	23 in.	Black River	Benjamin A. Payne, Tucson	6/23/07
Trout, Cutthroat	22 in.	Big Lake	Carisa Joy Cordaro	10/14/23
Trout, Gila	16 in.	Green Valley Park	Zachary Young	11/14/21
Trout, Rainbow	32 in.	Silver Creek	Ben Sandall, Flagstaff	1/30/10
Trout, Tiger	20 in.	Becker Lake	Reese McFarland, Tucson	10/19/19
Walleye	33 in.	Fool Hollow Lake	Gregg Munck, Show Low	6/27/04
White Amur (triploid)	47 in.	Encanto Park Lake	Denny Noel, Phoenix	10/18/06
Yellow Perch	12 in.	Upper Lake Mary	Larry Larsen	5/30/20

Inland Waters — Non-Hook and Line

Species Name	Size	Location	Angler	Date
Buffalo, Bigmouth (archery)	39 lb. 8.0 oz. 41.5 in.	Saguaro Lake	Michael T. Young, Mesa	3/28/90
Buffalo, Black (archery)	56 lb. 0 oz. 44 in.	Apache Lake	Sarina VanAsdlan	3/10/24
Buffalo, Smallmouth (archery)	42 lb. 0 oz. 35.5 in.	Saguaro Lake	Tristen K. McGee	2/20/21
Catfish, Channel (archery)	12 lb. 1.6 oz. 30 in.	Apache Lake	Sean Toolson, Gilbert	3/29/18
Catfish, Flathead (archery)	60 lb. 0 oz. 47 in.	Roosevelt Lake	Dean W. Linne	5/31/15
Carp (archery)	42 lb. 3.84 oz. 40.5 in.	Saguaro Lake	Travis Frazier	2/18/22
Striped Mullet (archery)	9 lb. 1.6 oz. 27.25 in.,	Yuma Salinity Canal	Daniel S. Day, Yuma	5/2/04
Sonora Sucker (archery) 6	4 lb. 15.52 oz. 23.5 in.	Lower Salt River	Ronald Nuss, Jr., Mesa	4/28/97
Tilapia (archery)	10 lb. 0 oz.	SRP canal	Trevor Gamble	3/21/15

Colorado River Waters — Hook and Line

Species Name	Size	Location	Angler	Date
Bass, Largemouth	16 lb. 14.0 oz. 28.25 in.	Yuma	Dale Uden, Yuma	3/8/96
Bass, Smallmouth	6 lb. 4.48 oz. 21 in.	Lake Havasu	Sue Nowak, Lake Havasu City	2/23/17
Bass, Striped 3	67 lb. 1.0 oz. 47.5 in.	Willow Beach	Jeff Smith, Henderson, NV	8/15/97
Bass, White	5 lb. 5.0 oz. 19.6 in.	Imperial Reservoir	Norman Mize, Chula Vista, CA	3/72
Bluegill	3 lb. 10.4 oz. 15.25 in.	Laughlin Lake	Michael Tahash, Laughlin, NV	9/14/10
Bullhead, Yellow	2 lb. 8.8 oz. 15.5 in.	Near Bullhead City	Douglas R. Pinotti, Mesa	3/24/86
Carp	42 lb. 0.0 oz. 43.0 in.	Lake Havasu	Gary Ramsfield, Lake Havasu City	3/79
Catfish, Channel	35 lb. 4.0 oz. 38.0 in.	Topock Marsh	Wando L. Tull, Barstow, CA	1952
Catfish, Flathead	74 lb. 0.0 oz. 51.5 in.	Laguna Dam	Walter Wilson, Bard, CA	5/11/98
Crappie, Black	2 lb. 12.0 oz 16.0 in.	Havasu Springs, Lake Havasu	Julie Grammer, Makanda, IL	3/11/96
Pacific Tenpounder	12.6 oz. 15.75 in.	Near Pilot Knob	Charles Reel, Jr., Yuma	6/13/81
Striped Mullet	9 lb. 8.0 oz. 25.5 in.	Colorado River/Gila River confluence	Buddy E. Fike, Glendale	3/76
Sucker, Razorback 2, 5	9 lb. 13.0 oz. 29.0 in.	Lake Havasu	Freeman Summers, Lake Havasu City	1/23/78
Sunfish, Green	1 lb. 5.28 oz. 11.5 in.	Lake Havasu	Jose Orozco, Poston	7/16/97
Sunfish, Hybrid 2	3 lb. 1.28 oz. 16.0 in.	Parker	Rob Woodford, Bullhead City	10/12/00
Sunfish, Redear 3	6 lb. 0.0 oz. 17 in.	Lake Havasu	Thomas M. Farchione	5/4/21
Tilapia	6 lb. 2.72 oz. 19 in.	Parker	A. Clark Wellard, Pocatello, ID	1/27/06
Trout, Brook	5 lb. 4.0 oz. 19.0 in.	Lees Ferry	Moe Beck, Glendale	3/6/82
Trout, Brown	17 lb. 0.0 oz. 32.0 in.	Last Chance Bay, Lake Powell	Chuck Holland, Phoenix	5/1/71
Trout, Cutthroat	9 lb. 8.0 oz. 30.5 in.	South of Davis Dam	Jeff Vincent, Mohave Mesa	8/79
Trout, Rainbow	21 lb. 5.5 oz. --in.	Willow Beach	John Reid, Las Vegas, NV	9/66
Walleye	8 lb. 1.0 oz. 29.0 in.	Lake Powell	Bud Clifford, Phoenix	5/77
Warmouth	12.0 oz. 10.0 in.	Senator Lake	Patrick R. Ferguson, Yuma	3/74

Colorado River Waters — Catch-and-Release 1

Species Name	Size	Location	Angler	Date
Bass, Largemouth	28 in.	Lower Colorado River	David Percell, Bullhead City	2/17/04
Bass, Smallmouth	23 in.	Lake Havasu	Mark Hill, Yuma	1/2/23
Bass, Striped	45 in.	Bullhead City	Kenan Guleryuz, Bullhead City	10/4/10
Carp	48 in.	Lake Mohave	Gary Sweet, Bullhead City	10/20/07
Catfish, Channel	35 in.	Lake Havasu	George S. Terro Jr., Bullhead City	4/25/18
Catfish, Flathead	50.75 in.	Colorado River	Robert Wright, Buckeye	2/16/20
Sunfish, Redear	14.25 in.	Lake Havasu	Darren Van Houten, Kingman	4/25/19
Tilapia	17 in.	Colorado River	Barbara Harp, Mackay, ID	2/10/12
Trout, Brown	27 in.	Colorado River	Kevin Horton	4/15/23
Trout, Rainbow	22 in.	Bullhead City	Kenan Guleryuz, Bullhead City	11/5/10
Warmouth	10 in.	Imperial Dam	Barbara Harp, Mackay, ID	3/26/06
White Amur (triploid)	44 in.	Yuma	Richard Halliwill, Nutrioso	4/9/09

Colorado River Waters — Non-Hook and Line

Species Name	Size	Location	Angler	Date
Carp (archery)	38 lb. 39.5 in.	Lake Havasu	Ted Keller, Lake Havasu City	5/9/19
Carp (spear)	31 lb. 14.08 oz. 38 in.	Lake Mohave	Giovanni Cappelli, Willow Beach	7/14/14
Striped Bass (spear)	26 lb. 12.4 oz. 41 in.	Lake Mohave	Giovanni Cappelli, Willow Beach	8/20/13
Striped Mullet (archery)	3 lb. 13.0 oz. 21.0 in.	Yuma	Dell Owens, Phoenix	5/19/91
Tilapia (archery)	8 lb. 12.5 oz. 20.5 in.	Colorado River	Jason Rabe, Yuma	3/16/24

NOTES: Records are based upon weight recorded on state-certified (legal for trade) scales and two witnesses to the weighing. Record fish must be available for inspection by Department personnel. New record fish must outweigh the standing record for the species by at least one full ounce. Fish taken from private waters that are closed to public access are not eligible for record status.

1. Based on total length only and rounded down to nearest inch. New entries must exceed existing entry by at least 1 inch.
2. Larger than current all-tackle world record listed by the International Game Fish Association and the National Fresh Water Fishing Hall of Fame.
3. World record for all tackle as verified by the National Fresh Water Fishing Hall of Fame
4. Fort Apache Indian Reservation.
5. Species now protected, may not be taken.
6. No longer can be taken by non-hook-and-line methods.

Catch-and-Release Record Form

The Catch-and-Release State Record Program requires only an accurate, total-length measurement (no weight) and a photograph. This record program is designed to minimize fish stress and maximize fish survival for those who wish to return fish to the water. It is based on the principle that the less you restrain and handle a fish after capture (live well transport, weight handling, re-release, etc.) the greater the likelihood of survival. Here is a highlight of the rules:

• Catch-and-Release state record fish are recognized by total length in inches only (longest measurement from the snout or nose to the tip of the com- pressed tail).
• Total length of the fish must be measured. A clear photo verifying the species and length must be included with the entry form, include a tape measure, ruleror other measuring device next to the fish in the photograph. Entries cannot be considered without a measuring device in the photograph.
• All fractions of length will be rounded down to the nearest inch.
• New catch-and-release record must exceed existing record by at least 1 inch.

Witnesses to the capture of Catch and Release fish entries are desirable, however, the program is honor-based and witnesses are not mandatory.

Fish Weighing Scales at a Location Near You

The Arizona Game and Fish Department has placed 21 fish weighing scales at locations across the state. The scales are intended to ease the difficulty many anglers have had finding certified scales to weigh their record fish catches.

Phoenix Area

Arizona Game and Fish Department

7200 E. University Ave., Mesa, AZ 85207

(480) 981-9400

Hours Mon–Fri - 8 a.m.–5 p.m.

Scale capacity: 120 pounds

Arizona Game and Fish Department

5000 W. Carefree Highway, Phoenix, AZ 85086

(602) 942-3000

Hours: Mon–Fri- 8 a.m.–5 p.m.

Scale capacity: 120 pounds

Roosevelt Lake Marina Store

Highway 188, Roosevelt, AZ 85545

(602) 977-7170

Hours: Mon-Sun - 7 a.m.–6 p.m.

Liar’s Corner

9529 E. Apache Trail, Mesa, AZ

(480) 986-2515

Hours: Mon–Sat - 6 a.m.–6 p.m.; Sun 6 a.m.–4 p.m.

Scale capacity: 30 pounds

Flagstaff Area

Arizona Game and Fish Department

3500 S. Lake Mary Rd., Flagstaff, AZ 86001

(928) 774-5045

Hours: Mon–Fri - 8 a.m.–5 p.m.

Scale capacity: 60 pounds

Kingman Area

Arizona Game and Fish Department

5325 N. Stockton Hill Road, Kingman, AZ 86409

(928) 692-7700

Hours: Mon–Fri - 8 a.m.–5 p.m.

Scale capacity: 60 pounds

Willow Beach Store

25804 N. Willow Beach Rd., Willow Beach, AZ 86445

(928) 767-4747

Summer Hours: Mon–Sun - 7 a.m.–7 p.m.; Winter Hours: Mon–Sun - 9 a.m.–5 p.m.

Scale capacity: 120 pounds

Prescott

Walmart

3050 E. State Route 69, Prescott, AZ 86301

(928) 445-1113

Open 24 hours

Scale capacity: 30 pounds

Bullhead

Riviera Marina

520 Riviera Blvd, Bullhead City, AZ 86442

(928)763-8550

Hours: Mon–Sun - 7:30 a.m.–6:30 p.m.

Scale capacity: 60 pounds

Pinetop Area

Arizona Game and Fish Department

2878 E. White Mountain Blvd., Pinetop, AZ 85935

(928) 532-3680

Hours: Mon–Fri - 8 a.m.–5 p.m.

Scale capacity: 30 pounds

Big Lake Store

(928) 521-1387

Hours: Summer - 6:00 a.m.–7:00 p.m.; Spring/Fall - 8 a.m.–5 p.m.; Closed Winter

Scale capacity: 30 pounds

Tucson Area

Arizona Game and Fish Department

555 N. Greasewood Rd., Tucson, AZ

(520) 628-5376

Hours: Mon–Fri - 8 a.m.–5 p.m.

Scale capacity: 30 pounds

Yuma Area

Arizona Game and Fish Department

9140 E. 28th St., Yuma, AZ

(928) 342-0091

Hours: Mon–Fri - 8 a.m.–5 p.m.

Scale capacity: 120 pounds

Alamo Lake State Park Store

38 miles north of Wenden at the lake

Hours: Mon–Sun - 8 a.m.–5 p.m.

Scale capacity: 30 pounds

Fisher’s Landing

Martinez Lake Road, Yuma, AZ

11 miles W. on Martinez Lake Rd. from Hwy 95 (MP 46.9)

Winter hours: Mon–Sun - 8 a.m.–4 p.m.

Summer hours: Mon–Thurs - 8 a.m.–4 p.m.; Fri–Sun 7 a.m. to dusk

Scale capacity: 120 pounds

Sportsmen’s Hide-A-Way

1645 S. Engler Ave., Yuma, AZ

Hours: Mon–Sat - 8 a.m.–5 p.m.

Scale capacity: 30 pounds

Lake Havasu

Bass Tackle Master

362 London Bridge Rd., Suite 1, Lake Havasu, AZ

Hours: Mon–Fri - 6 a.m.–6 p.m.; Sat 6 a.m.–5 p.m.; Sun 6 a.m.–noon

Scale capacity: 30 pounds

Fish Consumption and Your Health

Fishing is a great way to spend time with friends and family. Eating fish is a contributor to your overall health and is an excellent source of protein and omega-3 fatty acids, which benefit heart health. The American Heart Association recommends eating fish at least twice a week.

However, some types of fish (store-bought or sport-caught) from some locations, may contain elevated levels of mercury or other environmental contaminants. The amount of these substances in the fish’s flesh is generally highest in older, larger, predatory fish.

The benefits and risks of eating fish vary depending on a person’s stage of life:

• Children and pregnant women are advised by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to avoid eating fish with high levels of mercury contamination.
• For middle-aged and older men and postmenopausal women, the benefits of fish consumption far outweigh the potential risks when the amount of fish eaten is within the recommendations established by the FDA and Environmental Protection Agency.

Fish consumption guidelines are primarily designed to protect pregnant women, women of child bearing age, children and anglers who regularly consume fish in larger quantities over long periods of time. This information is not intended to discourage you from eating fish but to guide you in making healthy choices. Don’t stop eating fish; just be careful of the fish and amounts you eat, and where they come from.

Working with the Arizona Department of Environmental Quality, the Arizona Game and Fish Department investigates areas where there may be concern for environmental contaminants in fish. In Arizona, mercury and pesticides have been found in several waters affecting various species.

Based on these investigations, site-specific public advisories from the Arizona Department of Health Services and the Department of Environmental Quality have been developed, and anglers are advised to limit the consumption of certain kinds of fish from these locations.

Health and Environmental Information

Lead and Fishing

Some kinds of fishing equipment such as sinkers and jigs are made from lead, which can be dangerous to the health of humans and wildlife. You can reduce your exposure to lead from fishing equipment by following a few simple guidelines:

• Never put lead in your mouth (use pliers to close sinkers around fishing line).
• Don’t touch or eat food after handling lead fishing equipment without washing your hands first.
• Don’t let small children handle lead fishing equipment.

Some birds have been poisoned by eating lead fishing equipment because they mistake it for food. Although there is little evidence that this occurs often in Arizona, you can help to assure that this does not happen. To prevent wildlife exposure to lead:

• Consider using alternatives to lead when you purchase fishing equipment (steel, bismuth, tungsten, resin, or glass weights).
• Make reasonable attempts to recover any lost equipment made from lead.
• Clean up any lead fishing tackle you find on shore or in the shallows.

Fish Consumption Advisories

Arizona Fish Consumption Advisories

Trout produced by the Arizona Game and Fish Department and channel catfish that are stocked into Community Fishing Program waters have been tested by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency for mercury. The results of the analysis indicate that these fish are safe for consumption.

Site Specific Fish Consumption Advisories

Please check the AZGFD website or online for the latest information.

RED	ADEQ recommends that the public not consume this species.
ORANGE	ADEQ recommends that adults limit consumption of these fish to 2.4 ounces (uncooked weight) per week and children 12 years old and younger limit consumption to 2 ounces per month (uncooked weight).
GREEN	AZGFD and ADEQ provide a “green light” list of fish species from specific waters that may be consumed without limits.Visit azdeq.gov/fca for more information and to view an interactive map of the Green Light Fisheries.

Waterbody		Species	Category
Alamo Lake		Black Crappie	Red
		Channel Catfish	Orange
		Largemouth Bass	Red
Apache Lake		Largemouth Bass	Orange
Arivaca Lake		Largemouth Bass	Red
Bartlett Lake		Channel Catfish	Orange
		Flathead Catfish	Orange
		Largemouth Bass	Orange
Becker Lake		Largemouth Bass	Orange
Black Canyon Lake		Largemouth Bass	Orange
Canyon Lake		Yellow Bass	Orange
Horsethief Basin		Largemouth Bass	Orange
Lake Mary (Upper and Lower)		Walleye	Red
		Northern Pike	Orange
Lake Pleasant		Largemouth Bass	Orange
		Striped Bass	Orange
Lake Powell		Striped Bass	Orange
Long Lake		Walleye	Orange
Lyman Lake		Channel Catfish	Orange
		Walleye	Red
Parker Canyon Lake		Bluegill	Orange
		Largemouth Bass	Red
Patagonia Lake		Flathead Catfish	Orange
Pena Blanca Lake		Largemouth Bass	Red
Roosevelt Lake		Channel Catfish	Orange
		Largemouth Bass	Orange
Santa Fe Reservoir		Black Crappie	Orange
Scott Reservoir		Largemouth Bass	Orange
Soldier and Soldiers Annex Lakes		Walleye	Red
Tonto Creek		Smallmouth Bass	Red
		Carp	Orange
Willow Springs Lake		Largemouth Bass	Orange
		Smallmouth Bass	Orange

Angler Access Restrictions

In addition to fishing area and season closures, other fishing areas may be seasonally closed due to bald eagle breeding areas and/or Wildlife Area restrictions.

Bald Eagle Closures

The Arizona Game and Fish Department, in cooperation with the Southwestern Bald Eagle Management Committee and land management agencies, closes sensitive bald eagle breeding areas along Arizona’s rivers and lakes during five to eight months of the year. The closures prevent public entry and deter human activity during critical times of the breeding cycle. You can identify the closure areas by looking for No Entry signs on roads, trails and at boat ramps, and No Entry buoys on the water. Some closures may not be enacted or lifted early depending on when and where the eagles nest. For additional information on any closure, contact the Arizona Game and Fish Department, Terrestrial Branch, (623) 236-7506.

Lakes With Bald Eagle Breeding Closure Areas

• Concho Lake - There is no vehicle or foot traffic allowed on a portion of the south side of the lake from Dec. 1 to June 30. Contact the Arizona Game and Fish Pinetop office, (928) 367-4281.
• Crescent Lake - A portion of the west side is closed to all entry from March 1 through Aug. 31. Contact the Apache-Sitgreaves National Forest, Springerville Ranger District, (928) 333-6200.
• Greer Lakes - Portions of the lakes may be closed to watercraft and a portion of the shoreline may be closed to foot entry from March 1 through July 31. Contact the Apache-Sitgreaves National Forest, Springerville Ranger District, (928) 333-6200.
• Lake Pleasant - No vehicle, watercraft, or foot entry is allowed into the Lower Agua Fria River Arm from Dec. 15 to June 15. Contact Maricopa County Parks and Recreation, (928) 501-1710.
• Luna Lake - There is no vehicle or foot traffic allowed on a portion of the north side of the lake from Jan. 1 to June 15. Contact Apache-Sitgreaves National Forest, Alpine Ranger District, (928) 339-5000.
• Lynx Lake - A portion of the lake’s east side is closed to vehicle and foot traffic from Dec. 1 to June 30. Contact the Prescott National Forest, Bradshaw Ranger District, (928) 443-8000.
• Show Low Lake - A portion of the lake is closed to watercraft and a portion of the shoreline may be closed to foot entry from March 1 to Aug. 31. Contact Apache-Sitgreaves National Forest, Lakeside Ranger District, (928) 368-2100.
• Woods Canyon Lake - A portion of the lake may be closed to watercraft and a portion of the shoreline is closed to foot entry from March 1 through Aug. 31. Contact the Apache-Sitgreaves National Forest, Black Mesa Ranger District, (928) 535-7300.

Rivers/Creeks with Bald Eagle Breeding Closure Areas

Verde River

• Verde River near Chasm Creek is closed to foot and vehicle entry from Dec. 1 to June 30. Floating through is allowed. Contact Prescott National Forest, Verde Ranger District, (928) 567-4121.
• Verde River near East Verde River, allows watercraft to float through but no stopping on the river or landing is allowed Dec. 1 to June 30. Contact Tonto National Forest, Cave Creek Ranger District, (928) 595-3300.
• Verde River near Mule Shoe Bend, allows watercraft to float through but no stopping in the river or landing is allowed from Dec. 1 to June 30. Contact Tonto National Forest, Cave Creek Ranger District, (480) 595-3300.
• Not planned for enactment unless nesting resumes. Verde River below Horseshoe Dam is closed to vehicle or foot entry on the southwest side of the river from Dec. 1 to June 30. Floating through is allowed, but no stopping in the river or landing on the southwest side of the river is allowed. Contact Tonto National Forest, Cave Creek Ranger District, (480) 595-3300.
• Verde River at the Box Bar Recreation area is closed to foot and vehicle entry on portions of the west side of the river from Dec. 1 to June 30. Contact Tonto National Forest, Cave Creek Ranger District, (480) 595-3300.

Tonto Creek

• Tonto Creek from Gisela to 76 Ranch may be closed depending on nesting location to all entry from Dec. 1 to June 30. Contact Tonto National Forest, Tonto Basin Ranger District (602) 225-5395.
• Tonto Creek inlet to Roosevelt Lake is closed to vehicle and foot entry within 1000 feet of the nest on land, and to watercraft within 300 feet on water from Dec. 1 to June 30. Contact Tonto National Forest, Tonto Basin Ranger District (602) 225-5395.

Salt River

• Salt River from Horseshoe Bend to Redmond Flat allows watercraft to float through, but no stopping in the river or landing is allowed from Dec. 1 to June 30. Contact Tonto National Forest, Globe Ranger District, (928) 402-6200.
• Salt River near Meddler Point is closed to vehicle and foot entry within 1000 feet of the nest on land, and to watercraft within 300 feet on water from Dec. 1 to June 30. Contact Tonto National Forest, Tonto Basin Ranger District (602) 225-5395.
• Salt River below Stewart Mountain Dam, is closed to vehicle or foot entry on the south side of the river from Dec. 1 to June 30. Floating through is allowed. Contact the Tonto National Forest, Mesa Ranger District, (480) 610-3300.
• Salt River near Goldfield-Kerr Fire Station is closed to foot and vehicle entry on the north side of the river from Dec. 1 to June 30. Floating through is allowed. Contact Tonto National Forest, Mesa Ranger District, (480) 610-3300.

Wildlife Area Restrictions (R12-4-802) And Other Closures

The following areas have seasonal closures that may affect fishing access to a portion of these lakes:

• Luna Lake Wildlife Area: Posted portions closed to public entry from Feb. 15 through July 31 annually.
• Mittry Lake Wildlife Area: Posted portions closed to public entry.
• Roosevelt Lake Wildlife Area: Posted portions closed to public entry from Nov. 15 through Feb. 15 annually.
• Silver Creek Hatchery

Boating Information

Motor Restrictions

Powerboats restricted to an electric motor not exceeding 10 horsepower on:

• Aker Lake
• Bear Canyon Lake
• Bunch Reservoir
• Carnero Lake
• Chaparral Park Lake
• Cluff Ponds
• Coconino Reservoir
• Coors Lake
• Dankworth Pond
• Dogtown Reservoir
• Fortuna Lake
• Goldwater Lake
• Granite Basin Lake
• Horsethief Basin Lake
• Hulsey Lake
• J.D. Dam Lake
• Knoll Lake
• Lee Valley Lake
• McKellips Pond
• Pratt Lake
• Quigely Lake
• Redondo Lake
• Riggs Flat Lake
• Roper Lake
• Santa Fe Lake
• Scott’s Reservoir
• Sierra Blanca Lake
• Soldier Lake (in Coconino County)
• Stehr Lake
• Stoneman Lake
• Tunnel Reservoir
• Whitehorse Lake
• Willow Valley Lake
• Woodland Reservoir
• Woods Canyon Lake

Powerboats restricted to a single electric motor or a single gasoline engine not exceeding 10 horsepower on:

• Arivaca Lake
• Ashurst Lake
• Becker Lake
• Big Lake
• Black Canyon Lake
• Blue Ridge Reservoir
• Cataract Lake
• Chevelon Canyon Lake
• Cholla Lake Hot Pond
• Concho Lake
• Cresent Lake
• Fool Hollow Lake
• Kaibab Lake
• Kinnikinick Lake
• Little Mormon Lake
• Lower Lake Mary
• Luna Lake
• Lynx Lake
• Marshall Lake
• Mexican Hay Lake
• Nelson Reservoir
• Parker Canyon Lake
• Pena Blanca Lake
• Rainbow Lake
• River Reservoir
• Show Low Lake
• Whipple Lake
• White Mountain Lake (in Apache County)
• Willow Springs Lake

No watercraft allowed on:

• Frances Short Pond
• Frye Mesa Reservoir
• Rose Canyon Lake

AGFD R12-4-517 (A)(B)(C) - This list was effective Aug. 5, 2017.

Hook Up with the Right Gear

• Boat registration
• Life jackets for all
• Throwable flotation aid
• Fire extinguisher
  • Vessel model year 2018 and newer (5-B or 20-B / unexpired)
  • Vessel model year between 1953 and 2017 (B-I or B-II / serviceable condition, 5-B or 20-B / unexpired)
• Horn, whistle or bell
• Navigation lights

Visit online for additional tips and details on free boating safety courses in your area.

Tournament Day Fish Care & Livewell Recommendations

Anglers must take an active role in maintaining the health of their catch. Do not assume the boat’s livewell system will automatically do all that is necessary to keep fish alive. Black bass mortality during tournament day can be reduced. Water temperature is the most significant factor, followed by water quality, barotrauma, and stress.

Key Points

Cooler water holds more oxygen.

Bass metabolism increases with temperature and stress. A fish with high metabolism uses more oxygen.

A fish’s need for oxygen is twice as high at 85° F, than at 50° F. Fish health is dependent on the pounds of fish in your livewell. A 20 lb. bag will use more oxygen than a 5 lb. bag.

Conventional livewell aeration systems cannot increase oxygen over 5 mg/L once temperature is below 77° F.

Maintaining Livewell Temperature and Oxygen

Below 75° F:

• Continuously running flow-through aeration will be sufficient to maintain oxygen levels and remove waste products.

Above 75° F:

• Flow-through aeration will not be adequate for surface water temperature over 75° F.
• It is best to recirculate temperature-controlled water.
• Ice cools the water and slows fish metabolism.
• Methods to manually control livewell water:
  • Do not cool livewell water to more than 10° F below lake water surface temperature.
  • One 8 lb. ice block (or two frozen half-gallon jugs) will cool a 30-gallon livewell 10° F for about 3 hours.
  • Add more or less ice depending on your livewell capacity. Block ice melts slower than cubed and will maintain temperature longer.
  • At 3 hours, refill livewell with fresh water to remove waste products, then repeat cooling with additional ice blocks or frozen water bottles/jugs.
  • Aftermarket devices for livewell-water cooling can be installed.

SurfaceWater Temperature	Livewell Water Temperature
<75° F	Maintain water temperature and water quality bycontinuously running flow- through pumps.
75-85° F	Using methods outlined above, cool water 10° F.
Over 85° F	Consider canceling tournament or alternate weigh-in methods.

Water Quality and Metabolic Waste

At 80° F and a pH of 8, 10 lbs. of bass in a 15-gallon livewell can excrete enough ammonia to be stressful in 4 hours and lethal by the end of the tournament day.

If guidelines for temperature control are followed, waste accumulation should not be a problem.

Avoid adding water from stagnant or shallow areas that may be warm and low in oxygen.

Avoid recirculating livewell water with lake water in lakes known to contain golden algae or when known golden algae blooms are ongoing.

Swim Bladder Relief for Barotrauma

Fish caught at depths of 30 feet or more and brought to the surface quickly, may suffer from over expansion of the swim bladder. Symptoms of barotrauma include: inability to submerge and maintain upright position with head, tail, and side breaking the water surface.

Side fizzing – A method used to relieve air bladder pressure. Fizzing is most effective when done immediately following observed symptoms. See figure to the right.

The location for needle insertion varies with fish size, but in general, draw an imaginary line between the notch in the dorsal fins (A) and the anus (B). Draw another line from the tip of the pectoral fin to the fork in the tail.

CAUTION: Side fizzing can cause delayed fish death due to infection or vital organ injury, when not done correctly.

Stress Reduction

Fish under stress take in more water than normal, diluting their blood.

By keeping salinity of the livewell water near what their blood should be, stress and delayed mortality can be reduced.

To achieve this, use noniodized salt at a rate of 1/3 cup per 5 gallons of water.

It may be convenient to pre-measure salt into containers and have them ready for use during the tournament day.

State fish and wildlife agencies cannot recommend the use of commercial water additives as they may contain chemicals not approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration for use on fish that may be eaten by humans at a later date.

Fish Release

Release fish near where they were captured either by the anglers or using a release boat. This is important in lakes with multiple tournaments, lakes that contain golden algae, and in warmer water temperatures. Studies have shown fish do not immediately disperse from the release location. Fish stockpiled up at one location are more susceptible to predation, angling, and water quality issues.

Much of this information was obtained from the BASS Conservation Organization and “Keeping Bass Alive: A Guidebook for Anglers and Tournament Organizers.”

Amphibians: Commission Order 41 Requires a valid fishing or combination license

Open Areas - Statewide - As defined in ARS§17-101, but does not include any area closed under ARS §17-303 and 17-304, or R12-4-801, R12-4-802 and R12-4-803

Open Season Dates	Notes	Open Areas	Legal Amphibians	Bag and Possession Limit
A. Jan 1 – Dec 31,2025 See online regulations for 2026 information.	(1, 2, 5, 7, and 8)	Statewide, except areasclosed in Note 7	All amphibians, except those named inSubsections B, C, D, E, F, G, and H	Ten (10) per year or in possession of each species live or dead.
B. Jan 1 – Dec 31,2025 See online regulations for 2026 information.	(1, 2, 7, and 8)	Statewide, except areas closed in Note 7	Bufo cognatus (Great Plains toad), B. punctatus (red-spotted toad), Scaphiopus couchi (Couch’s spadefoot), and Speamultiplicata (Mexican spadefoot)	Ten (10) per day or inpossession per species live or dead.
C. Jan 1 – Dec 31,2025 See online regulations for 2026 information.	(1, 2, 3, 7, and 8)	Statewide, except areas closed in Note 7	Craugaster augusti (barking frog)	Two (2) per year or in possession live or dead.
D. Jan 1 – Dec 31,2025 See online regulations for 2026 information.	(1, 2, 4, 7, and 8)	Statewide, except areas closed in Notes 4and 7	All species in the genus Ambystoma (waterdog or tiger salamander)	Unlimited live or dead.
E. Jan 1 – Dec 31, 2025 See online regulations for 2026 information.	(1, 2, 7, 8, 9, and 10)	Statewide, except areas closed in Notes 7 and 9	Rana catesbeiana (bullfrog)	Unlimited dead.
F. Jan 1 – Dec 31,2025 See online regulations for 2026 information.	(1, 2, 7, and 8)	Statewide, except areas closed in Note 7	All species in the genus Xenopus (clawed frog) and Bufo marinus (giant toad)	Unlimited dead.
G. Jan 1 – Dec 31,2025 See online regulations for 2026 information.	(1, 2, 6, 7, and 9)	Statewide, except areas closed in Notes 6 and 7	Rana berlandieri (Rio Grande leopard frog)	Unlimited dead.
H. There is no open season on Ambystoma tigrinum stebbinsi (Sonoran tiger salamander), Rana tarahumarae (Tarahumara frog), Rana blairi (plains leopard frog), Rana chiricahuensis (Chiricahua leopard frog), Rana pipiens (northern leopard frog), Rana yavapaiensis (lowland leopard frog), Rana onca (relict leopard frog).

Amphibian Notes:

1. A fishing or combination license is required for take of amphibians. Amphibians may be taken day or night. Methods of take are prescribed in R12-4-313.
2. The Fort Huachuca Military Reservation controls access to the taking of aquatic wildlife on its installation.
3. The possession limit for Craugaster augusti (barking frog) legally held prior to January 1, 2005 is 10 per person.
4. No waterdogs or salamanders may be taken in that portion of Santa Cruz Coun- ty lying east and south of State Highway 82 or that portion of Cochise County lying west of the San Pedro River and south of State Highway 82.
5. No Hyla wrightorum (Arizona treefrogs) may be taken in Cochise or Santa Cruz counties.
6. Rana berlandieri (Rio Grande leopard frogs) may not be taken from the portion of the Hassayampa River between Wickenburg and Morristown.
7. Amphibians may not be taken at any time (or during periods specified) within the following areas:
   1. Posted boundaries of State or Federal hatcheries, except for Arizona Game and Fish Department sponsored fishing clinics.
   2. Posted boundary of the Region I regional headquarters in Pinetop.
   3. The Colorado River one-half mile up stream and one-half mile downstream from its confluence with the Little Colorado River.
   4. That portion of the Little Colorado River lying within the Grand Canyon National Park.
   5. Lee Valley Creek above Lee Valley Lake.
   6. Gap Creek between Honeymoon Cabin and its confluence with the Verde River.
   7. Mineral Creek in Apache County upstream of the Apache-Sitgreaves National Forest Boundary.
   8. Posted areas immediately above the dams at Upper Lake Mary, Alamo Lake and Lake Mead.
   9. Posted areas immediately below Davis, Hoover, Glen Canyon, Waddell (Lake Pleasant), Roosevelt, Horse Mesa and Mormon Flat dams.
   10. Posted, Spawning Pond Number 1 and Spawning Pond Number 2 located along the Salinity Canal north of Yuma.
   11. The Luna Lake Wildlife Area from April 1 through July 31.
   12. Posted portions of Alamo Lake.
   13. Posted portions of the Tonto Arm of Roosevelt Lake from November 15 through February 15 annually.
   14. Posted portions of Mittry Lake from November 15 through February 15 annually.
   15. Posted portions of Becker Lake are closed to all public entry from December 15 through June 15.
   16. Posted portions of Lake Mead.
   17. Posted portions of Powers Butte Wildlife Area are closed to entry for the purpose of taking wildlife.
   18. Posted portions of Bog Hole Wildlife Area.
   19. Posted portions of Lake Havasu.
   20. Posted portions of Cienega Creek in Pima County.
   21. Aravaipa Creek in Pinal and Graham counties.
   22. Sycamore Creek in Santa Cruz County.
   23. Cibola Lake from the first Monday in September (Labor Day) through March 15.
   24. Posted portions of Martinez Lake from October 1 through March 1.
   25. Posted in accordance with and pursuant to ARS 17-303 and 304.
8. The Grand Canyon-Parashant, Vermilion Cliffs, Sonoran Desert, Ironwood Forest, and Agua Fria National Monuments are open to the take of wildlife.
9. Havasu, Bill Williams River, Cibola, and Imperial National Wildlife Refuges are open to the take of bullfrogs, as permitted by refuge regulations (posted areas are closed).
10. Within Unit 25M, bullfrogs may only be taken by minnow trap, crayfish net, hand, or with any hand-held, non-motorized implement that does not discharge a projectile, as prescribed in R12-4-313(D.6).

Crustaceans and Mollusks: Commission Order 42 Requires a valid fishing or combination license

Open Areas - Statewide - As defined in ARS§17-101, but does not include any area closed under ARS §17-303 and 17-304, or R12-4-801, R12-4-802 andR12-4-803.

Open Season Dates	Notes	Open Areas	Legal Crustaceans and Mollusks	Bag and Possession Limit
A. Jan 1 - Dec 31,2025 Jan 1 - Dec 31, 2026	All	Statewide, except areas in Notesbelow.	All crustaceans and mollusks, except those named in Subsection B	Unlimited dead, except that area in Note 3.
B. There is no open season on any species in the genus Oxyloma (ambersnails), the genus Pyrgulopsis (springsnails; see Note 2 as it applies to theHuachuca springsnail [P. thompsoni]), the genus Tryonia (springsnails), Sonorella eremita (San Xavier talussnail), Sonorella macrophallus (Wet Canyon talussnail), Sonorella grahamensis (Pinaleno talussnail), Sonorella imitator (mimic talussnail), Sonorella christenseni (Clark Peak talussnail), Oreohelixgrahamensis (Pinaleno mountainsnail), Gastrocopta dalliana (shortneck snaggletooth), Gastrocopta quadrigens (cross snaggletooth), and Anodontacaliforniensis (California floater).

Crustaceans and Mollusks Notes:

1. By law, crustaceans and mollusks are considered aquatic wildlife and a fishing or combination license is required for take. Methods of take are prescribed at R12-4-313.
2. The Fort Huachuca Military Reservation controls access to the taking of aquatic wildlife on its installation.
3. Crayfish may be possessed live or dead in that portion of La Paz County west of High- way 95 and south of Interstate 10; in Yuma County and on the Colorado River from Palo Verde Diversion Dam downstream to the southern international boundary with Mexico.
4. Intentional transport of live or dead aquatic invasive species [crustaceans and mollusks listed in Director’s Order #1: Potamopyrgus antipodarum (New Zealand mudsnail), Dreissena polymorpha (zebra mussel), Dreissena bugensis (quagga mussel), Cherax quadricarinatus (red-claw crayfish), Orconectes rusticus (rusty crayfish), and Pomacea species (applesnails) in Arizona is prohibited (with the exception of preserved scientific and educational specimens).
5. Crustaceans andmollusks may not be taken at any time within the following areas:
   1. Posted boundaries of State or Federal hatcheries, except for Arizona Game and Fish Department sponsored fishing clinics.
   2. Posted boundary of the Region I regional headquarters in Pinetop.
   3. The Colorado River one-half mile upstream and one-half mile downstream from its confluence with the Little Colorado River.
   4. That portion of the Little Colorado River lying within the Grand Canyon National Park.
   5. Lee Valley Creek above Lee Valley Reservoir.
   6. Gap Creek between Honeymoon Cabin and its confluence with the Verde River.
   7. Mineral Creek in Apache County upstream of the Apache-Sitgreaves National Forest Boundary.
   8. Posted areas immediately above the dams at Upper Lake Mary, Alamo Lake and Lake Mead.
   9. Posted areas immediately below Davis, Hoover, Glen Canyon, Waddell (Lake Pleasant), Roosevelt, Horse Mesa and Mormon Flat dams.
   10. Posted, Spawning Pond Number 1 and Spawning Pond Number 2 located along the Salinity Canal north of Yuma.
   11. Luna Lake Wildlife Area from April 1 through July 31.
   12. Posted portions of Alamo Lake.
   13. Posted portions of the Tonto Arm of Roosevelt Lake from November 15 through February 15 annually.
   14. Posted portions of Mittry Lake from November 15 through February 15 annually.
   15. Posted portions of Becker Lake are closed to all public entry from December 15 through June 15.
   16. Posted portions of Lake Mead.
   17. Posted portions of Powers Butte Wildlife Area are closed to entry for the purpose of taking wildlife.
   18. Posted portions of Bog Hole Wildlife Area.
   19. Posted portions of Lake Havasu.
   20. Posted portions of Cienega Creek in Pima County
   21. Aravaipa Creek in Pinal and Graham counties.
   22. Sycamore Creek in Santa Cruz County.
   23. Cibola Lake from the first Monday in September (Labor Day) through March 15.
   24. Posted portions of Martinez Lake from October 1 through March 1.
   25. Posted in accordance with and pursuant to ARS 17-303 and 304.
6. The Grand Canyon-Parashant, Vermillion Cliffs, Sonoran Desert, Ironwood Forest, and Aqua Fria National Monuments are open to the take of wildlife.

Reptiles: Commission Order 43 (aquatic only) Requires a valid hunting or combination license

General

CONSULT THE 2021-2025 ARIZONA REPTILE AND AMPHIBIAN REGULATIONS FOR A COMPLETE LISTING OF COMMISSION ORDER 43 (includes terrestrial). A fishing or combination license is required for take of softshell turtles. *Open Areas do not include areas within municipal parks, municipal preserves, county parks, county preserves, airports, golf courses, or posted water treatment facilities (except as specifically opened in this Commission Order) or areas closed under A.R.S. Sections 17-101, 17-303 and 17-304, or Commission Rules R12-4-321, R12-4-801, R12-4-802 and R12-4-803. Other Notes may apply (see Open Areas information below).

Open Season Dates	Notes	Open Areas	Legal Reptiles	Bag and Possession Limit
Jan 1 – Dec 31, 2025 See online regulations for 2026 information.	(1, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 22, 26, 30, 31, 32)	Statewide, except areas closed in Notes 9, 11, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, and 29 (also noted above*).	Nerodia fasciata (banded watersnake), Apalone spinifera (spiny softshell), Trachemys scripta (slider), and all species of the family Chelydridae (snapping turtles)	Unlimited dead.

Limited Weapon Hand Or Hand-Held Implement Reptiles

Open Areas do not include any area closed under A.R.S. Sections 17-101, 17-303 and 17-304, or Commission Rules R12-4-801, R12-4-802 and R12-4-803.

Open Season Dates	Notes	Open Areas	Legal Reptiles	Bag and PossessionLimit
Jan 1 – Dec 31,2025 See online regulations for 2026 information.	(2, 7, 8, 9, 13)	Statewide, including private lands within city limits and areas within municipal parks, municipal preserves, county parks, county preserves, airports, golf courses, or posted water treatment facilities. except areas closed in Note 10.	Nerodia fasciata (banded watersnake), Apalone spinifera (spiny softshell),Trachemys scripta (slider), and all species of the family Chelydridae (snapping turtles)	Unlimited dead.

Reptile Notes:

1. A hunting or combination license is required for take of reptiles. A fishing or combination license is required for take of softshell turtles. Reptiles may be taken day or night. See R12-4-304 (F) for restrictions on trapping and the use of artificial light and firearms. By law, softshell turtles are considered aquatic wildlife and a fishing or combination license is required for take; methods of take are prescribed in R12-4-313.

2. A hunting or combination license is required for take of reptiles. A fishing or combination license is required for take of softshell turtles. Reptiles may be taken day or night. See R12-4-304 (F) for restrictions for trapping and the use of artificial light. By law, softshell turtles are considered aquatic wildlife and a fishing or combination license is required for take. Methods of take are prescribed in R12-4-318 (C.9).

7. The Fort Huachuca Military Reservation, the Yuma Proving Ground, and Camp Navajo control access to hunting on their installations.

8. The Fort Huachuca Military Reservation controls access to the taking of aquatic wildlife on its installation.

9. Turtles may not be taken at any time (or during periods specified) within the follow- ing areas:

(1) Posted boundaries of State or Federal hatcheries, except for Arizona Game and Fish Department sponsored fishing clinics.

(2) Posted boundary of the Region I regional headquarters in Pinetop.

(3) The Colorado River one-half mile upstream and one-half mile downstream from its confluence with the Little Colorado River.

(4) That portion of the Little Colorado River lying within the Grand Canyon National Park.

(5) Lee Valley Creek above Lee Valley Lake.

(6) Gap Creek between Honeymoon Cabin and its confluence with the Verde River.

(7) Mineral Creek in Apache County upstream of the Apache-Sitgreaves National Forest Boundary.

(8) Posted areas immediately above the dams at Upper Lake Mary, Alamo Lake and Lake Mead.

(9) Posted areas immediately below Davis, Hoover, Glen Canyon, Waddell (Lake Pleasant), Roosevelt, Horse Mesa and Mormon Flat dams.

(10) Posted, Spawning Pond Number 1 and Spawning Pond Number 2 located along the Salinity Canal north of Yuma.

(11) The Luna Lake Wildlife Area from April 1 through July 31.

(12) Posted portions of Alamo Lake.

(13) Posted portions of the Tonto Arm of Roosevelt Lake from November 15 through February 15 annually.

(14) Posted portions of Mittry Lake from November 15 through February 15 annually.

(15) Posted portions of Becker Lake are closed to all public entry from December 15 through June 15.

(16) Posted portions of Lake Mead.

(17) Posted portions of Powers Butte Wildlife Area are closed to entry for the purpose of taking wildlife.

(18) Posted portions of Bog Hole Wildlife Area.

(19) Posted portions of Lake Havasu.

(20) Posted portions of Cienega Creek in Pima County.

(21) Aravaipa Creek in Pinal and Graham counties.

(22) Sycamore Creek in Santa Cruz County.

(23) Cibola Lake from the first Monday in September (Labor Day) through March 15.

(24) Posted portions of Martinez Lake from October 1 through March 1.

(25) Posted in accordance with and pursuant to ARS 17-303 and 304.

10. The Grand Canyon-Parashant, Vermilion Cliffs, Sonoran Desert, Ironwood Forest, and Agua Fria national monuments are open to hunting concurrent with a game hunting season in the unit in which they occur.

11. Open Areas do not include private lands within city limits and areas within municipal parks, municipal preserves, county parks, county preserves, airports, golf courses, or posted water treatment facilities (except as specifically opened in this Commission Order) or any area closed to hunting, fishing, or trapping under A.R.S, Sections 17-303 and 17-304, or Commission Rules R12-4-321, R12-4-801, R12-4-802 and R12-4-803.

12. General Reptile seasons must comply with R12-4-304 - Lawful Methods for Taking Wild Mammals, Birds, and Reptiles:

F. An individual may take reptiles by any method not prohibited in R12-4-303 or R12-4-318 under the following conditions. An individual:

1. Shall check pitfall traps of any size daily, release non-target species, remove pitfalls when no longer in use, and fill any holes;

2. Shall not use firearms at night; and

3. May use artificial light while taking reptiles, if the light is not attached to or operated from a motor vehicle, motorized watercraft, watercraft under sail, or floating object towed by a motorized watercraft or a watercraft under sail.

13. Limited Weapon Hand or Hand-held Implement Reptile seasons must comply with R12-4-318 - Seasons for Lawfully Taking Wild Mammals, Birds, and Reptiles:

c. When designated by Commission order, the following seasons have specific requirements and lawful methods of take more restrictive than those for general and special seasons, as prescribed in this Section. While taking the species authorized by the season, a person participating in:

9. A “limited weapon hand or hand-held implement” season may use one or more of the following methods or devices for taking wildlife, if authorized under R12-4-304 as lawful for the species hunted:

a. Catch-pole,

b. Hand,

c. Snake hook, or

d. Snake tongs.

22. The following Pima County parks and preserves are open to hunting concurrent with a game hunting season in the unit in which they occur: A-7 Ranch in Units 32 and 33, Oracle Ridge Property in Unit 33, Six Bar Ranch in Unit 33, Emperita Ranch in Unit 34B, Bar V Ranch in Unit 34B, Sands Ranch in Unit 34B, Clyne Ranch in Unit 34B, Dia- mond Bell Ranch in Unit 36A, Marley Ranch in Unit 36A and 36B, Rancho Seco in Units 36A and 36B, Kings 98 Ranch in Unit 36C, Old Hayhook Ranch in Unit 36C, Verdugo in Unit 36C, Bee Ranch in Unit 37A, Mordka Ranch in Unit 37A, Buckelew Ranch in Unit 37A, Carpenter Ranch in Unit 37A, Cochise Canyon Ranch in Unit 37A, Lords Ranch in Unit 37A, and Tortolita Mountain Park in Unit 37A. Hunting in County Parks, opened by this Commission Order, is not permitted within ¼ mile of any developed picnic area, developed camp ground, shooting range, occupied building, boat ramp, or golf course. Developed areas do not include trails.

26. The following parks and preserves in Maricopa County are open to hunting as defined in R12-4-321: Lake Pleasant, White Tank Mountains, McDowell Mountain, and Estrella Mountain Regional parks. Hunting in parks and preserves opened by this Commission Order is not permitted within ¼ mile of any developed picnic area, developed camp ground, shooting range, occupied building, boat ramp, or golf course. Developed areas do not include trails.

30. The area within the fenced enclosure inside the loop formed by Tonto National Forest Road 647, also known as the Walnut Canyon Enclosure, is open to public entry and hunting during a concurrent open game hunting season.

31. The following City of Tucson water Properties located in Avra Valley are open to hunting via foot access only: the Duval property in Unit 36C and the Buckelew property in Unit37A; all other Tucson water properties are closed to hunting.

32. In the northern portion of Unit 5A, access is permitted on the Clear Creek Ranch by written permission only by contacting the Hopi Tribe Wildlife and Ecosystems Management Program via e-mail or by calling (928) 734-3606 or (928) 734-3605 from Monday-Friday 8am-5pm. Please contact in advance to gain access for hunting and scouting. In Unit 5B North, access is permitted on the Hopi’s Hart/Drye Ranch and in Unit 4A on the Hopi’s Aja Ranch by signing in at designated sign-in boxes located at access points.

Arizona Revised Statutes, Title 17 Laws (Game and Fish)

A.R.S. 17-101

Definitions

A. In this title, unless the context otherwise requires:

1. “Angling” means the taking of fish by one line and not to exceed two hooks, by one line and one artificial lure, which may have attached more than one hook, or by one line and not to exceed two artificial flies or lures.

2. “Bag limit” means the maximum limit, in number or amount, of wildlife that may lawfully be taken by any one person during a specified period of time.

3. “Closed season” means the time during which wildlife may not be lawfully taken.

4. “Commission” means the Arizona game and fish commission.

5. “Department” means the Arizona game and fish department.

6. “Device” means any net, trap, snare, salt lick, scaffold, deadfall, pit, explosive, poison or stupefying substance, crossbow, firearm, bow and arrow, or other implement used for taking wildlife. Device does not include a raptor or any equipment used in the sport of falconry.

7. “Domicile” means a person’s true, fixed and permanent home and principal residence. Proof of domicile in this state may be shown as prescribed by rule by the commission.

9. “Fishing” means to lure, attract or pursue aquatic wildlife in such a manner that the wildlife may be captured or killed.

11. “Guide” means a person who does any of the following:

(a). Advertises for guiding services.

(b). Holds himself out to the public for hire as a guide.

(c). Is employed by a commercial enterprise as a guide.

(d). Accepts compensation in any form commensurate with the market value in this state for guiding services in exchange for aiding, assisting, directing, leading or instructing a person in the field to locate and take wildlife.

(e). Is not a landowner or lessee who, without full fair market compensation, allows access to the landowner’s or lessee’s property and directs and advises a person in taking wildlife.

12. “License classification” means a type of license, permit, tag or stamp authorized under this title and prescribed by the commission by rule to take, handle or possess wildlife.

13. “License year” means the twelve-month period between January 1 and December 31, inclusive, or a different twelve-month period as prescribed by the commission by rule.

14. “Nonresident”, for the purposes of applying for a license, permit, tag or stamp, means a citizen of the United States or an alien who is not a resident.

15. “Open season” means the time during which wildlife may be lawfully taken.

16. “Possession limit” means the maximum limit, in number or amount of wildlife, that may be possessed at one time by any one person.

17. “Resident”, for the purposes of applying for a license, permit, tag or stamp, means a person who is:

(a). A member of the armed forces of the United States on active duty and who is stationed in:

(i) This state for a period of thirty days immediately preceding the date of applying for a license, permit, tag or stamp.

(ii) Another state or country but who lists this state as the person’s home of record at the time of applying for a license, permit, tag or stamp.

(b) Domiciled in this state for six months immediately preceding the date of applying for a license, permit, tag or stamp and who does not claim residency privileges for any purpose in any other state or jurisdiction.

18. “Road” means any maintained right-of-way for public conveyance.

19. “Statewide” means all lands except those areas lying within the boundaries of state and federal refuges, parks and monuments, unless specifically provided differently by commission order.

20. “Take” means pursuing, shooting, hunting, fishing, trapping, killing, capturing, snaring or netting wildlife or the placing or using of any net or other device or trap in a manner that may result in the capturing or killing of wildlife.

24. “Wildlife” means all wild mammals, wild birds and the nests or eggs thereof, reptiles, amphibians, mollusks, crustaceans and fish, including their eggs or spawn.

25. “Youth” means a person who is under eighteen years of age.

26. “Zoo” means a commercial facility open to the public where the principal business is holding wildlife in captivity for exhibition purposes.

B. The following definitions of wildlife shall apply:

1. “Aquatic wildlife” means fish, amphibians, mollusks, crustaceans and soft-shelled turtles.

4. “Game fish” means trout of all species, bass of all species, catfish of all species, sunfish of all species, northern pike, walleye and yellow perch.

7. “Nongame animals” means all wildlife except game mammals, game birds, fur-bearing animals, predatory animals and aquatic wildlife.

9. “Nongame fish” means all the species of fish except game fish.

13. “Trout” means all species of the family salmonidae, including grayling.

(law not cited in entirety)

A.R.S. 17-301

Times when wildlife may be taken; exceptions; methods of taking

A. A person may take wildlife, except aquatic wildlife, only during daylight hours unless otherwise prescribed by the commission. A person shall not take any species of wildlife by the aid or with the use of a jacklight, other artificial light, or illegal device, except as provided by the commission.

B. A person shall not take wildlife, except aquatic wildlife, or discharge a firearm or shoot any other device from a motor vehicle, including an automobile, aircraft, train or powerboat, or from a sailboat, boat under sail, or a floating object towed by powerboat or sailboat except as expressly permitted by the commission. No person may knowingly discharge any firearm or shoot any other device upon, from, across or into a road or railway.

C. Fish may be taken only by angling unless otherwise provided by the commission. The line shall be constantly attended. In every case the hook, fly or lure shall be used in such manner that the fish voluntarily take or attempt to take it in their mouths.

(law not cited in entirety)

A.R.S. 17-303

Taking or driving wildlife from closed areas

It is unlawful for any person, except by commission order, to enter upon a game refuge or other area closed to hunting, trapping or fishing and take, drive or attempt to drive wildlife from such areas.

A.R.S. 17-304

Prohibition by landowner upon hunting; posting; exception

A. Landowners or lessees of private land who desire to prohibit hunting, fishing or trapping on their lands without their written permission shall post such lands closed to hunting, fishing or trapping using notices or signboards.

B. State or federal lands including those under lease may not be posted except by consent of the commission.

C. The notices or signboards shall meet all of the following criteria:

1. Be not less than eight inches by eleven inches with plainly legible wording in capital and boldfaced lettering at least one inch high.

2. Contain the words “no hunting”, “no trapping” or “no fishing” either as a single phrase or in any combination.

3. Be conspicuously placed on a structure or post at least four feet above ground level at all points of vehicular access, at all property or fence corners and at intervals of not more than one-quarter mile along the property boundary, except that a post with one hundred square inches or more of orange paint may serve as the interval notices between property or fence corners and points of vehicular access. The orange paint shall be clearly visible and shall cover the entire aboveground surface of the post facing outward and on both lateral sides from the closed area.

D. The entry of any person for the taking of wildlife shall not be grounds for an action for criminal trespassing pursuant to section 13-1502 unless either:

1. The land has been posted pursuant to this section and the notices and signboards also contain the words “no trespassing”.

2. The person knowingly remains unlawfully on any real property after a reasonable request to leave by the owner or any other person having lawful control over the property or the person knowingly disregards reasonable notice prohibiting trespass at the person’s entry to any real property.

A.R.S. 17-306

Importation, transportation, release or possession of live wildlife; violations; classification

A. No person shall import or transport into this state or sell, trade or release within this state or have in the person’s possession any live wildlife except as authorized by the commission or as defined in title 3, chapter 16.

B. It is unlawful for a person to knowingly and without lawful authority under state or federal law import and transport into this state and release within this state a species of wildlife that is listed as a threatened, endangered or candidate species under the endangered species act of 1973 (P.L. 93-205; 87 Stat. 884; 16 United States Code sections 1531 through 1544).

C. A person who violates subsection B of this section is guilty of a class 6 felony.

D. A person who violates subsection B of this section with the intent to disrupt or interfere with the development or use of public natural resources to establish the presence of the species in an area not currently known to be occupied by that species is guilty of a class 4 felony.

A.R.S. 17-309

Violations; classification

A. Unless otherwise prescribed by this title, it is unlawful for a person to:

1. Violate any provision of this title or any rule adopted pursuant to this title.

2. Take, possess, transport, buy, sell or offer or expose for sale wildlife except as expressly permitted by this title.

3. Destroy, injure or molest livestock, growing crops, personal property, notices or signboards, or other improvements while hunting, trapping or fishing.

4. Discharge a firearm while taking wildlife within one-fourth mile of an occupied farmhouse or other residence, cabin, lodge or building without permission of the owner or resident.

5. Take a game bird, game mammal or game fish and knowingly permit an edible portion thereof to go to waste, except as provided in section 17-302.

6. Take big game, except bear or mountain lion, with the aid of dogs.

7. Make more than one use of a shipping permit or coupon issued by the commission.

8. Obtain a license or take wildlife during the period for which the person’s license has been revoked or suspended or the person has been denied a license.

9. Litter hunting and fishing areas while taking wildlife.

10. Take wildlife during the closed season.

11. Take wildlife in an area closed to the taking of that wildlife.

12. Take wildlife with an unlawful device.

13. Take wildlife by an unlawful method.

14. Take wildlife in excess of the bag limit.

15. Possess wildlife in excess of the possession limit.

16. Possess or transport any wildlife or parts of the wildlife that was unlawfully taken.

17. Possess or transport the carcass of big game without a valid tag being attached.

18. Use the edible parts of any game mammal or any part of any game bird or nongame bird as bait.

19. Possess or transport the carcass or parts of a carcass of any wildlife that cannot be identified as to species and legality.

20. Take game animals, game birds and game fish with an explosive compound, poison or any other deleterious substances.

21. Import into this state or export from this state the carcass or parts of a carcass of any wildlife unlawfully taken or possessed.

B. Unless a different or other penalty or punishment is specifically prescribed a person who violates any provision of this title, or who violates or fails to comply with a lawful order or rule of the commission, is guilty of a class 2 misdemeanor.

C. A person who knowingly takes any big game during a closed season or who knowingly possesses, transports or buys any big game that was unlawfully taken during a closed season is guilty of a class 1 misdemeanor.

D. A person is guilty of a class 6 felony who knowingly:

1. Barters, sells or offers for sale any big game or parts of big game taken unlawfully.

2. Barters, sells or offers for sale any wildlife or parts of wildlife unlawfully taken during a closed season.

3. Barters, sells or offers for sale any wildlife or parts of wildlife imported or purchased in violation of this title or a lawful rule of the commission.

4. Assists another person for monetary gain with the unlawful taking of big game.

5. Takes or possesses wildlife while under permanent revocation under section 17-340, subsection B, paragraph 3.

E. A peace officer who knowingly fails to enforce a lawful rule of the commission or this title is guilty of a class 2 misdemeanor.

A.R.S. 17-314

Illegally taking, wounding, killing or possessing wildlife; civil penalty; enforcement

A. The commission may impose a civil penalty against any person for unlawfully taking, wounding, killing or possessing any of the following wildlife, or part thereof, to recover the following minimum sums:

1. For each turkey or javelina $500.00

2. For each bear, mountain lion, pronghorn (antelope) or deer $1,500.00

3. For each elk or eagle, other than endangered species $2,500.00

4. For each predatory, fur-bearing or nongame animal $250.00

5. For each small game or aquatic wildlife animal $50.00

6. For each bighorn sheep, bison (buffalo) or endangered species animal $8,000.00

B. The commission may bring a civil action in the name of this state to enforce the civil penalty. The civil penalty, or a verdict or judgment to enforce the civil penalty, shall not be less than the sum fixed in this section. The minimum sum that the commission may recover from a person pursuant to this section may be doubled for a second violation, verdict or judgment and tripled for a third violation, verdict or judgment. The action to enforce the civil penalty may be joined with an action for possession and recovery had for the possession as well as the civil penalty.

C. The pendency or determination of an action to enforce the civil penalty or for payment of the civil penalty or a judgment, or the pendency or determination of a criminal prosecution for the same taking, wounding, killing or possession, is not a bar to the other, nor does either affect the right of seizure under any other provision of the laws relating to game and fish.

D. All monies recovered pursuant to this section shall be deposited in the wildlife theft prevention fund established by section 17-315.

A.R.S. 17-331

License or proof of purchase required; violation of child support order

A. Except as provided by this title, rules prescribed by the commission or commission order, a person shall not take any wildlife in this state without a valid license or a commission approved proof of purchase. The person shall carry the license or proof of purchase and produce it on request to any game ranger, wildlife manager or peace officer.

B. A certificate of noncompliance with a child support order issued pursuant to section 25-518 invalidates any license or proof of purchase issued to the support obligor for taking wildlife in this state and prohibits the support obligor from applying for any additional licenses issued by an automated drawing system under this title.

C. On receipt of a certificate of compliance with a child support order from the court pursuant to section 25-518 and without further action:

1. Any license or proof of purchase issued to the support obligor for taking wildlife that was previously invalidated by a certificate of noncompliance and that has not otherwise expired shall be reinstated.

2. Any ineligibility to apply for any license issued by an automated drawing system shall be removed.

A.R.S. 17-333

License classifications; fees; reduced fee and complimentary licenses; annual report; review

A. The commission shall prescribe by rule license classifications that are valid for the taking or handling of wildlife, fees for licenses, permits, tags and stamps and application fees.

B. The commission may temporarily reduce or waive any fee prescribed by rule under this title on the recommendation of the director.

C. The commission may reduce the fees for licenses and issue complimentary licenses, including the following:

1. A complimentary license to a pioneer who is at least seventy years of age and who has been a resident of this state for twenty-five or more consecutive years immediately before applying for the license. The pioneer license is valid for the licensee’s lifetime, and the commission may not require renewal of the license.

2. A complimentary license to a veteran of the armed forces of the United States who has been a resident of this state for one year or more immediately before applying for the license and who receives compensation from the United States government for a permanent service-connected disability rated as one hundred percent disabling.

3. A license for a reduced fee of up to twenty-five percent less than the full license fee to a veteran of the United States armed forces who has been a resident of this state for one year or more immediately before applying for the license and who receives compensation from the United States government for a service-connected disability.

4. A license for a reduced fee that is one-half of the full license fee to a person who has been a resident of this state for one year or more immediately before applying for the license and who submits satisfactory proof to the department that the person is a veteran and a bona fide purple heart medal recipient.

5. A youth license for a reduced fee to a resident of this state who is either:

(a) A member of the boy scouts of America and who has attained the rank of eagle scout.

(b) A member of the girl scouts of the USA and who has received the gold award.

D. All monies collected pursuant to this section shall be deposited, pursuant to sections 35-146 and 35-147, in the game and fish fund established by section 17-261.

E. On or before December 31 of each year, the commission shall submit an annual report to the president of the senate, the speaker of the house of representatives, the chairperson of the senate natural resources, energy and water committee and the chairperson of the house of representatives energy, environment and natural resources committee, or their successor committees, that includes information relating to license classifications, fees for licenses, permits, tags and stamps and any other fees that the commission prescribes by rule. The joint legislative audit committee may assign a committee of reference to hold a public hearing and review the annual report submitted by the commission.

A.R.S. 17-335

Blind resident; fishing license exemption

A blind resident may fish without a license and is entitled to the same privileges as the holder of a valid license.

A.R.S. 17-340

Revocation, suspension and denial of privilege of taking wildlife; civil penalty; notice; violation; classification

1. On conviction or after adjudication as a delinquent juvenile as defined in section 8-201 and in addition to other penalties prescribed by this title, the commission, after a public hearing, may revoke or suspend a license issued to any person under this title and deny the person the right to secure another license to take or possess wildlife for a period of not to exceed five years for:

2. Unlawful taking, unlawful selling, unlawful offering for sale, unlawful bartering or unlawful possession of wildlife.

3. Careless use of firearms that resulted in the injury or death of any person.

4. Destroying, injuring or molesting livestock, or damaging or destroying growing crops, personal property, notices or signboards or other improvements while hunting, trapping or fishing.

3. Littering public hunting or fishing areas while taking wildlife.

5. Knowingly allowing another person to use the person’s big game tag, except as provided by section 17-332, subsection D.

6. A violation of section 17-303, 17-304, 17-316 or 17-341 or section 17-362, subsection A.

7. A violation of section 17-309, subsection A, paragraph 5 involving a waste of edible portions other than meat damaged due to the method of taking as follows:

(a) Upland game birds, migratory game birds and wild turkey: breast.

(b) Deer, elk, pronghorn (antelope), bighorn sheep, bison (buffalo) and peccary (javelina): hind quarters, front quarters and loins.

(c) Game fish: fillets of the fish.

8. A violation of section 17-309, subsection A, paragraph 1 involving any unlawful use of aircraft to take, assist in taking, harass, chase, drive, locate or assist in locating wildlife.

B. On conviction or after adjudication as a delinquent juvenile and in addition to any other penalties prescribed by this title:

1. For a first conviction or a first adjudication as a delinquent juvenile, for unlawfully taking or wounding wildlife at any time or place, the commission, after a public hearing, may revoke, suspend or deny the person’s privilege to take wildlife for a period of up to five years.

2. For a second conviction or a second adjudication as a delinquent juvenile, for unlawfully taking or wounding wildlife at any time or place, the commission, after a public hearing, may revoke, suspend or deny the person’s privilege to take wildlife for a period of up to ten years.

3. For a third conviction or a third adjudication as a delinquent juvenile, for unlawfully taking or wounding wildlife at any time or place, the commission, after a public hearing, may revoke, suspend or deny the person’s privilege to take wildlife permanently.

C. In accordance with title 41, chapter 6, article 10 and notwithstanding subsection A of this section, a person against whom the commission imposes a civil penalty under section 17-314 for the unlawful taking, wounding, killing or possession of wildlife may be denied the right to obtain a license to take wildlife until the person has made full payment of the civil penalty.

D. On receiving a report from the licensing authority of a state that is a party to the wildlife violator compact adopted under chapter 5 of this title that a resident of this state has failed to comply with the terms of a wildlife citation, the commission, after a public hearing, may suspend any license issued under this title to take wildlife until the licensing authority furnishes satisfactory evidence of compliance with the terms of the wildlife citation.

E. In carrying out this section, the director shall notify the licensee, within one hundred eighty days after conviction, to appear and show cause why the license should not be revoked, suspended or denied. The notice may be served personally or by certified mail sent to the address appearing on the license.

F. The commission shall furnish to license dealers the names and addresses of persons whose licenses have been revoked or suspended, and the periods for which they have been denied the right to secure licenses.

G. The commission may use the services of the office of administrative hearings to conduct hearings and to make recommendations to the commission pursuant to this section.

H. Except for a person who takes or possesses wildlife while under permanent revocation, a person who takes wildlife in this state, or attempts to obtain a license to take wildlife, at a time when the person’s privilege to do so is suspended, revoked or denied under this section is guilty of a class 1 misdemeanor.

A.R.S. 17-341

Violation; classification

A. It is unlawful for a person to knowingly purchase, apply for, accept, obtain or use, by fraud or misrepresentation a license, permit, tag or stamp to take wildlife and a license or permit so obtained is void and of no effect from the date of issuance thereof.

B. Any person who violates this section is guilty of a class 2 misdemeanor.

A.R.S. 17-342

Colorado river special use permit

A. A person taking fish or amphibians for purposes other than for profit from or while on a boat or other floating device on all waters of the Colorado river south of the Nevada-Arizona boundary shall have in his possession a valid angling or fishing license issued by either the state of Arizona or the state of California. In addition to one of the above described licenses, such person shall have in his possession a valid California or Arizona-Colorado river special use permit, as provided by sections 17-343 and 17-344, which shall be obtained on payment of a fee to be fixed by the commission at not to exceed four dollars. Such a permit shall not be required to take fish or amphibians from canals, drains or ditches used to carry water from the Colorado river for irrigation or domestic purposes.

B. A person having in his possession a valid Arizona fishing license must have a California-Colorado river special use permit to legally fish the waters described in subsection A of this section. A person having in his possession a valid California angling license must have an Arizona-Colorado river special use permit to legally fish the waters described in subsection A of this section. Such special use permit when accompanied by the proper license will allow the holder to fish in any portion of such waters and permit him to enter the waters from any point.

C. Shore line fishing does not require a Colorado river special use permit as long as the fisherman remains on the shore of the state from which he holds a valid license and does not embark on the water.

R12-4-101 — Amended

Definitions

A. In addition to the definitions provided under A.R.S. § 17-101, R12-4-301, R12-4-401, and R12-4-501, the following definitions apply to this Chapter, unless otherwise specified:

“Commission Order” means a document adopted by the Commission that does one or more of the following:

• Open, close, or alter seasons,
• Open areas for taking wildlife,
• Set bag or possession limits for wildlife,
• Set the number of permits available for limited hunts, or
• Specify wildlife that may or may not be taken.

“Day-long” means the 24-hour period from one midnight to the following midnight.

“Identification number” means the number assigned to each applicant or license holder by the Department as established under R12-4-111.

“License dealer” means a business authorized to sell hunting, fishing, and other licenses as established under R12-4-105.

“Live baitfish” means any species of live freshwater fish designated by Commission Order as lawful for use in taking aquatic wildlife under R12-4-313 and R12-4-314.

“Nonprofit organization” means an organization that is recognized under Section 501(C) of the U.S. Internal Revenue Code.

“Management unit” means an area established by the Commission for management purposes.

“Person” has the meaning as provided under A.R.S. § 1-215.

“Stamp” means a form of authorization in addition to a license that authorizes the license holder to take wildlife specified by the stamp.

“Waterdog” means the larval or metamorphosing stage of a salamander.

“Wildlife area” means an area established under 12 A.A.C. 4, Article 8.

(rule not cited in entirety)

R12-4-117

Indian Reservations

A state license, permit, or tag is not required to hunt or fish on any Indian reservation in this State. Wildlife lawfully taken on an Indian reservation may be transported or processed anywhere in the State if it can be identified as to species and legality as provided in A.R.S. § 17-309(A)(19).

All wildlife transported anywhere in this State is subject to inspection under the provisions of A.R.S. § 17-211(E)(4).

R12-4-207

General Fishing License; Exemption

A. A general fishing license is valid for the taking of all aquatic wildlife and allows the license holder to engage in simultaneous fishing as defined under R12-4-301. The general fishing license is valid:

1. State-wide including Mittry Lake and Topock Marsh and the Arizona shoreline of Lake Mead, Lake Mohave and Lake Havasu, and Commission designated community waters. The list of Commission designated community waters is available at any license dealer, Department office, and online at www.azgfd.gov.

2. On that portion of the Colorado River that forms the common boundary between Arizona and Nevada and Arizona and California and connected adjacent water, provided Arizona has an agreement with California and Nevada that recognizes a general fishing license as valid for taking aquatic wildlife on any portion of the Colorado River that forms the common boundary between Arizona and Nevada and Arizona and California.

B. The general fishing license is valid for one-year from:

1. The date of purchase when a person purchases the fishing license from a license dealer, as defined under R12-4-101; or

2. The selected start date when a person purchases the fishing license from a Department office or online. A person may select the start date for the fishing license provided the date selected is no more than 60 calendar days from and after the date of purchase.

C. A resident or nonresident may apply for a general fishing license by submitting an application to the Department, a License Dealer as defined under R12-4-101, or online at www.azgfd.gov. The application is furnished by the Department and is available at any Department office, license dealer, and online at www.azgfd.gov. A general fishing license applicant shall provide the following information on the application:

1. The applicant’s:

a. Name;

b. Date of birth,

c. Physical description, to include the applicant’s eye color, hair color, height, and weight;

d. Department identification number, when applicable;

e. Residency status and number of years of residency immediately preceding application, when applicable;

f. Mailing address, when applicable;

g. Physical address;

h. Telephone number, when available; and

i. E-mail address, when available; and

2. Affirmation that the information provided on the application is true and accurate; and

3. Applicant’s signature and date.

D. In addition to the requirements listed under subsection (C), an applicant who is applying for a general fishing license:

1. In person shall pay the applicable fee required under R12-4-102.

2. Online shall electronically pay the fee required under R12-4-102 and print the new license. A person applying online shall affirm, or provide permission for another person to affirm, the information electronically provided is true and accurate.

E. In addition to the exemption prescribed under A.R.S. § 17-335, a person who is under 10 years of age may fish without a fishing license.

R12-4-210

Combination Hunting and Fishing License; Exemption

A. A combination hunting and fishing license is valid for the taking of small game, fur-bearing animals, predatory animals, nongame animals, and upland game birds.

B. A combination hunting and fishing license is valid for the taking of all aquatic wildlife and allows the license holder to engage in simultaneous fishing as defined under R12-4-301. The combination hunting and fishing license is valid:

1. State-wide including Mittry Lake and Topock Marsh and the Arizona shoreline of Lake Mead, Lake Mohave and Lake Havasu, and Commission designated community waters. The list of Commission designated community waters is available at any license dealer, Department office, and online at www.azgfd.gov.

2. On that portion of the Colorado River that forms the common boundary between Arizona and Nevada and Arizona and California and connected adjacent water, provided Arizona has an agreement with California and Nevada that recognizes a combination hunting and fishing license as valid for taking aquatic wildlife on any portion of the Colorado River that forms the common boundary between Arizona and Nevada and Arizona and California.

c. The Department offers three combination hunting and fishing licenses:

1. A short-term combination hunting and fishing license, valid for one 24-hour period from midnight to midnight.

a. The short-term combination hunting and fishing license is not valid for the take of big game animals.

b. The short-term combination hunting and fishing license is valid for the take of migratory game birds and waterfowl, provided the person possesses the applicable State Migratory Bird stamp and Federal Waterfowl stamp.

c. The Department does not limit the number of short-term combination hunting and fishing licenses a resident or nonresident may purchase.

2. A combination hunting and fishing license for a person age 18 and over.

a. The combination hunting and fishing license is valid for one-year from:

i. The date of purchase when a person purchases the combination hunting and fishing license from a license dealer, as defined under R12-4-101;

ii. On the last day of the application deadline for that draw, as established by the hunt permit-tag application schedule published by the Department;

iii. On the last day of an extended deadline date, as authorized under subsection R12-4-104(C). If an applicant does not possess a combination hunting and fishing license that meets the requirements of this subsection, the applicant shall purchase the license at the time of application; or

iv. The selected start date when a person purchases the combination hunting and fishing license from a Department office or online. A person may select the start date for the combination hunting and fishing license provided the date selected is no more than 60 calendar days from and after the date of purchase.

b. A valid hunt permit-tag, nonpermit-tag, or stamp is required to validate the combination hunting and fishing license for the take of big game animals, migratory game birds, or other wildlife authorized by an applicable tag or stamp.

3. A youth combination hunting and fishing license for a person through age 17.

a. The combination hunting and fishing license is valid for one-year from:

i. The date of purchase when a person purchases the combination hunting and fishing license from a license dealer, as defined under R12-4-101;

ii. On the last day of the application deadline for that draw, as established by the hunt permit-tag application schedule published by the Department;

iii. On the last day of an extended deadline date, as authorized under subsection R12-4-104(C). If an applicant does not possess a combination hunting and fishing license that meets the requirements of this subsection, the applicant shall purchase the license at the time of application; or

iv. The selected start date when a person purchases the combination hunting and fishing license from a Department office or online. A person may select the start date for the combination hunting and fishing license provided the date selected is no more than 60 calendar days from and after the date of purchase.

b. A valid hunt permit-tag, nonpermit-tag, or stamp is required to validate the combination hunting and fishing license for the take of big game animals, migratory game birds, or other wildlife authorized by an applicable tag or stamp.

D. A resident or nonresident may apply for a combination hunting and fishing license by submitting an application to the Department, a License Dealer as defined under R12-4-101, or online.

The application is furnished by the Department and is available at any Department office, license dealer, and online. A combination hunting and fishing license applicant shall provide the following information on the application:

1. The applicant’s:

a. Name;

b. Date of birth,

c. Physical description, to include the applicant’s eye color, hair color, height, and weight;

d. Department identification number, when applicable;

e. Residency status and number of years of residency immediately preceding application, when applicable;

f. Mailing address, when applicable;

j. Physical address;

h. Telephone number, when available; and

i. E-mail address, when available; and

2. Affirmation that the information provided on the application is true and accurate; and

3. Applicant’s signature and date.

E. In addition to the requirements listed under subsection (C), an applicant who is applying for a combination hunting and fishing license:

1. In person shall pay the applicable fee required under R12-4-102.

2. Online shall electronically pay the fee required under R12-4-102 and print the new license. A person applying online shall affirm, or provide permission for another person to affirm, the information electronically provided is true and accurate.

F. Exemptions authorized under R12-4-206(E), R12-4-207(E), and R12-4-209(E) also apply to this Section, as applicable.

R12-4-215

Youth Group Two-day Fishing License

A. A youth group two-day fishing license authorizes a nonprofit organization or governmental entity as defined under subsection (C), which sponsors adult supervised activities for youth, to take up to 25 youths fishing. The youth group two-day fishing license is only available from a Department office. The youth group two-day fishing license is valid for:

1. Two consecutive days,

2. The take of all aquatic wildlife, and

3. All privileges established under R12-4-207(A).

B. A nonprofit organization or governmental entity may apply for a youth group two-day fishing license at any Department office. An applicant for a youth group two day fishing license shall be a resident. The applicant shall pay the fee required under R12-4-102 and provide the following information at the time of application:

1. The nonprofit organization’s or governmental entity’s:

a. Name;

b. Mailing address; and

c. Telephone number, when available;

2. The applicant’s:

a. Name;

b. Date of birth,

c. Physical description, to include the applicant’s eye color, hair color, height, and weight;

d. Department identification number, when applicable;

e. Mailing address, when applicable;

f. Physical address;

g. Telephone number, when available; and

h. E-mail address, when available;

3. The dates on which the nonprofit organization intends to conduct the youth group fishing activity.

4. The approximate number of youth participating in the group fishing activity.

C. For the purpose of this Section, “governmental entity” means any town, city, county, municipality, or other political subdivision of this state or any department, agency, board, commission, authority, division, office, public school, public charter school, public corporation, or other public entity of this state or any department agency bureau, or office of the federal government that is physically located within this state.

R12-4-301 — Amended

Definitions

In addition to the definitions provided under A.R.S. § 17- 101 and R12-4-101, the following definitions apply to this Article unless otherwise specified:

“Administer” means to apply a drug directly to wildlife by injection, inhalation, ingestion, or any other means.

“Artificial flies and lures” means man-made devices intended as visual attractants to catch fish. Artificial flies and lures does not include living or dead organisms or edible parts of those organisms, natural or prepared food stuffs, or chemicals or organic materials intended to create a scent, flavor, or chemical stimulant to the device regardless of whether it is added or applied during or after the manufacturing process.

“Barbless hook” means any fish hook manufactured without barbs or on which the barbs have been completely closed or removed.

“Crayfish net” means a net that does not exceed 36 inches on a side or in diameter and is retrieved by means of a hand-held line.

“Dip net” means any net, excluding the handle, that is no greater than three feet in the greatest dimension, that is hand-held, non-motorized, and the motion of the net is caused by the physical effort of the person.

“Drug” means any chemical substance, other than food or mineral supplements, that affects the structure or biological function of wildlife.

“Edible portions of game meat” means, for:

• Game fish: fillets of the fish.

“Evidence of legality” means the wildlife is accompanied by the applicable license, tag, stamp, or permit required by law and is identifiable as the “legal wildlife” prescribed by Commission Order, which may include evidence of species, gender, antler or horn growth, maturity, and size.

“Minnow trap” means a trap with dimensions that do not exceed 12 inches in depth, 12 inches in width, and 24 inches in length.

“Simultaneous fishing” means taking fish by using only two lines at one time and not more than two hooks or two artificial flies or lures per line.

“Single-point barbless hook” means a fishhook with a single point, manufactured without barbs, or on which the barbs have been completely closed or removed. This does not include a treble fishhook.

(rule not cited in entirety)

R12-4-305 — Amended

Possessing, Transporting, Importing, Exporting, and Selling Carcasses or Parts of Wildlife

A. A person shall ensure that evidence of legality remains with the carcass or parts of a carcass of any wildlife that the person possesses, transports, or imports until arrival at the person’s permanent abode, a commercial processing plant, or the place where the wildlife is to be consumed.

B. In addition to the requirement under subsection (A), a person possessing or transporting the following wildlife shall ensure each:

5. Freshwater fish has the head, tail, or skin attached so the species can be identified and the total number and required length determined.

C. A person who has lawfully taken wildlife that requires a valid tag when prescribed by the Commission may authorize its transportation or shipment by completing and signing the Transportation and Shipping Permit portion of the valid tag or as indicated by the Department through the person’s electronic device, as applicable, for that animal. A separate Transportation and Shipping Permit issued by the Department is necessary to transport or ship to another state or country any big game taken with a resident license. Under A.R.S. § 17-372(B), a person may ship other lawfully taken wildlife by common carrier after obtaining a valid Transportation and Shipping Permit issued by the Department. The person shall provide the following information:

1. Number and description of the wildlife to be transported or shipped;

2. Name, address, license number, and license class of the person who took the wildlife;

3. Tag number;

4. Name and address of the person receiving a portion of the carcass of the wildlife as authorized under subsection (D), if applicable;

5. Address of destination where the wildlife is to be transported or shipped; and

6. Name and address of transporter or shipper.

E. A person who receives a portion of the wildlife shall provide the identity of the person who took and gave the portion of the wildlife upon request to any peace officer, wildlife manager, or game ranger.

N. Except for cervids, which are subject to requirements established under subsections (I) through (L), a person may import into this state the carcasses or parts of wildlife, including aquatic wildlife, lawfully taken in another state or country if transported and exported in accordance with the laws of the state or country of origin.

O. A person shall not transport live crayfish from the site where taken, except as permitted under R12-4-314.

P. A person in possession of a common carp (Cyprinus carpio), buffalofish (Ictiobus spp.), or crayfish (families Astacidae, Cambaridae, and Parastacidae) carcass taken under Commission Order may sell the carcass.

(rule not cited in entirety)

R12-4-310

Fishing Permits

A. The Department may issue a fishing permit to state, county, or municipal agencies or departments and to nonprofit organizations whose primary purpose is to provide treatment and care for persons with physical, developmental, or mental disabilities.

B. The permit:

1. Is valid for any two days within a 30 day period;

2. Authorizes persons with physical, developmental, or mental disabilities to fish without a fishing license upon any public waters except that fishing in the waters of the Colorado River is restricted to fishing from the Arizona shoreline only, unless the persons fishing under the authority of the permit also possess a valid Colorado River stamp from the adjacent state; and

3. Does not exempt persons fishing under the authority of the permit from compliance with other statutes, Commission Orders, and rules not contained in this Section.

C. An applicant for a fishing permit shall submit a properly completed application to the Department. The application is furnished by the Department and is available from any Department office and online.

1. The applicant shall provide all of the following information:

a. The name, address, and telephone number of the agency, department, or nonprofit organization requesting the permit;

b. The name, position title, and telephone number of the persons responsible for supervising the persons fishing under the authority of the permit;

c. The total number of persons who will be fishing under the authority of the permit;

d. The dates for which the permit will be used; and

e. The location for which the permit will be valid.

2. In addition to the information required under subsection (C)(1), nonprofit organizations shall also submit:

a. A copy of the organization’s articles of incorporation and evidence that the organization has tax-exempt status under Section 501(c) of the Internal Revenue Code, unless a current and correct copy is already on file with the Department; and

b. Document identifying the organization’s mission.

D. The Department shall either grant or deny the fishing permit within the applicable overall time-frame established under R12-4-106.

E. The fishing permit holder shall provide instruction on fish identification, fishing ethics, safety, and techniques to the persons who will be fishing under authority of the permit curriculum outline provided by the Department.

F. Each person fishing under the sole authority of the fishing permit may take only one-half the regular bag limit established by Commission Order for any species, unless the regular bag limit is one, in which case the permit authorizes the regular bag limit.

G. The permit holder shall submit a report to the Department no later than 30 days after the end of the authorized fishing dates. The report form is furnished by the Department and is available at any Department office. The permit holder shall report all of the following information on the form:

1. The fishing permit number and the information contained in the permit;

2. The total number of persons who fished and total hours fished;

3. The total number of fish caught, kept, and released, by species.

H. The Department may deny future fishing permits to a permit holder who failed to submit the report required under subsection (G) until the permit holder complies with reporting requirements.

R12-4-311

Exemptions from Requirement to Possess an Arizona Fishing License or Hunting License While Taking Wildlife

In addition to the exemptions prescribed under A.R.S. § 17-335, R12-4-206(E), R12-4-207(E), and R12-4-209(E) and provided the person’s fishing and hunting license privileges are not currently revoked by the Commission:

1. A fishing license is not required when a person is:

a. Fishing from artificial ponds, tanks, and lakes contained entirely on private lands that are not:

i. Open to the public, and

ii. Managed by the Department.

b. Taking terrestrial mollusks or crustaceans from private property.

c. Fishing in Arizona on any designated Saturday occurring during National Fishing and Boating Week, except in waters of the Colorado River forming the common boundaries between Arizona and California, Nevada, or Utah where fishing without a license is limited to the shoreline, unless the state with concurrent jurisdiction removes licensing requirements on the same day.

d. Participating in an introductory fishing education program sanctioned by the Department, during scheduled program hours, only. A sanctioned program shall have a Department employee, or authorized volunteer instructor present during scheduled program hours. For the purposes of this subsection, “authorized volunteer instructor” means a person who has successfully passed the Department’s required background check, or provided documentation of the person’s application for a fingerprint clearance card, and sport fishing education workshop.

(rule not cited in entirety)

R12-4-313 — Amended

Lawful Methods of Take and Season for Aquatic Wildlife

A. Subject to the restrictions of this Section, a person may take aquatic wildlife during the day or night using artificial light as prescribed under A.R.S. § 17-301. When a fish die-off is imminent or when otherwise deemed appropriate, the Commission may designate a special season by Commission Order to allow fish to be taken by hand or by any hand-held, non-motorized implement that does not discharge a projectile.

B. A person who possesses a valid Arizona fishing license may take aquatic wildlife by angling or simultaneous fishing as defined under R12-4-301 with any bait, artificial fly, or lure subject to the following restrictions:

1. Except for sunfish of the genus Lepomis, the flesh of game fish may not be used as bait.

2. Live baitfish, as defined under R12-4-101, may only be used in designated areas prescribed by Commission Order and designated areas may subsequently be closed or restricted by Commission Order.

3. Waterdogs may not be used as live bait in that portion of Santa Cruz County lying east and south of State Highway 82 or that portion of Cochise County lying west of the San Pedro River and south of State Highway 82.

4. Shall not use more than two lines at any one time.

5. The Commission may further restrict the lawful methods of take on particular waters by designating one or more of the following special seasons by Commission Order:

a. An “artificial flies and lures” season in which only artificial flies and lures may be used in designated areas,

b. A “barbless hooks” season in which only the use of barbless or single-point barbless hooks may be used in designated areas,

c. An “immediate kill or release” season in which a person must kill and retain the designated species as part of the person’s bag limit or immediately release the wildlife,

d. A “catch and immediate release” in which a person must immediately release the designated species,

e. An “immediate kill” season in which a person must immediately kill and retain the designated species as part of the person’s bag limit, or

f. A “limited-entry” season in which a limited number of permits is made available to the public for a designated species, a particular water, or both.

C. In addition to angling, a person who possesses a valid Arizona fishing license may also take the following aquatic wildlife using the following methods:

1. A hybrid device is lawful for the take of aquatic wildlife provided all components of the device are authorized for the take of that species under this subsection.

2. Carp (Cyprinus carpio), buffalofish, mullet, tilapia, goldfish, and shad may be taken by:

a. Bow and arrow,

b. Crossbow,

c. Snare,

d. Gig,

e. Spear or spear gun, or

f. Snagging.

3. A person shall not use any of the methods of take listed under subsection (C)(2) within 200 yards of a designated swimming area as indicated by way of posted signs or notices.

4. Except for snagging, a person shall not use any of the methods of take listed under subsection (C)(2) within 200 yards of any boat dock or fishing pier.

5. Striped bass may be taken by spear or spear gun in waters designated by Commission Order.

6. Catfish may be taken by bow and arrow or crossbow in waters designated by Commission Order.

7. Amphibians, soft-shelled turtles, mollusks, and crustaceans may be taken by minnow trap, crayfish net, hand, or with any hand-held, non-motorized implement that does not discharge a projectile, unless otherwise permitted under this Section.

8. In addition to the methods described under subsection (C)(7), bullfrogs may be taken by:

a. Bow and arrow,

b. Crossbow,

c. Pneumatic weapon, or

d. Slingshot.

9. Live baitfish may be taken for personal use as bait by:

a. A cast net not to exceed a radius of 4 feet measured from the horn to the leadline;

b. A minnow trap, as defined under R12-4-301;

c. A seine net not to exceed 10 feet in length and 4 feet in width; or

d. A dip net.

10. In addition to the methods described under subsection (C)(7), crayfish may be taken with the following devices:

a. A trap not more than 3 feet in the greatest dimension,

b. A dip net as defined under R12-4-301, or

c. A seine net not larger than 10 feet in length and 4 feet in width.

11. The Commission may further specify the lawful methods of take on particular waters and for particular species by designating one or more of the following special seasons by Commission Order:

a. A “snagging” season in which a person may use this method only at times and locations designated by Commission Order, or

b. A “spear or spear gun” season in which a person may use this method only at times and locations designated by Commission Order.

D. Aquatic wildlife taken in violation of this Section is unlawfully taken.

R12-4-314

Possession, Transportation, or Importation of Aquatic Wildlife

A. The Commission may prescribe legal sizes for possession of aquatic wildlife through Commission Order.

B. A person who possesses a valid Arizona fishing license may possess live aquatic wildlife lawfully taken on the waters where taken, but the person shall not transport the aquatic wildlife alive from the waters where taken except that:

1. A person may transport live baitfish listed in subsection (C)(1);

2. A person may transport live waterdogs except in the portion of Santa Cruz County lying east and south of State Highway 82 or the portion of Cochise County lying west of the San Pedro River and south of State Highway 82; and

3. Any crayfish taken on waters within Yuma or La Paz Counties may be transported alive for use as live bait in that portion of La Paz County west of Highway 95 and south of Interstate 10, Yuma County, and on the Colorado River from the Palo Verde Diversion Dam downstream to the Southern international boundary with Mexico.

C. A person who possesses a valid Arizona fishing license may import, transport, or possess live baitfish, crayfish, or waterdogs for personal use as live bait only as follows:

1. A person may possess or transport only the following live baitfish for personal use as live bait:

a. Fathead minnow (Pimephales promelas),

b. Golden shiners (Notemigonus crysoleucas),

b. Goldfish (Carassius auratus),

c. Longfin Dace (Agosia chrysogaster)

d. Sonora Sucker (Catostomus insignis),

e. Speckled Dace (Rhynicthys osculus), and

f. Desert Sucker (Catostomus clarki).

2. A person may import for personal use live baitfish listed in subsection (C)(1) from:

a. California or Nevada, or

b. From any other state with accompanying documentation certifying that the fish are free of Furunculosis.

3. A person may import, transport, or possess live waterdogs for personal use as bait, except in the portion of Santa Cruz County lying east and south of State Highway 82 or the portion of Cochise County lying west of the San Pedro River and south of State Highway 82.

4. A person shall not import, transport, or move live crayfish between waters for personal use as live bait except as allowed in 12 A.A.C. 4, Article 4, or except as allowed in subsection (B)(3).

D. A person shall attach water-resistant identification to any unattended live boxes or stringers holding fish and ensure the identification bears the person’s:

1. Name,

2. Address, and

3. Fishing license number.

E. A person who uses a crayfish net or a minnow trap shall raise and empty the trap daily and shall attach water-resistant identification to any unattended traps and ensure the identification bears the person’s:

1. Name,

2. Address, and

3. Fishing license number.

F. A person shall not knowingly disturb the crayfish net, live box, minnow trap, or stringer of another unless authorized to do so by the owner.

R12-4-402

Live Wildlife: Unlawful Acts

A. A person shall not perform any of the following activities with live wildlife unless authorized by a federal license or permit, this Chapter, or A.R.S. Title 3, Chapter 16:

1. Import any live wildlife into the state;

2. Export any live wildlife from the state;

3. Conduct any of the following activities with live wildlife within the state:

a. Display,

b. Exhibit,

c. Give away,

d. Lease,

e. Offer for sale,

f. Possess,

g. Propagate,

h. Purchase,

i. Release,

j. Rent,

k. Sell,

l. Sell as live bait,

m. Stock,

n. Trade,

o. Transport; or

4. Kill any captive live wildlife.

B. The Department may seize, quarantine, hold, or euthanize any lawfully possessed wildlife held in a manner that poses an actual or potential threat to the wildlife, other wildlife, or the safety, health, or welfare of the public. The Department shall make reasonable efforts to find suitable placement for any animal prior to euthanizing it.

C. A person who does not lawfully possess wildlife in accordance with this Article shall be responsible for all costs associated with the care and keeping of the wildlife.

D. Performing activities authorized under a federal license or permit does not exempt a federal agency or its employees from complying with state permit requirements.

R12-4-404

Possession of Live Wildlife Taken Under an Arizona Hunting or Fishing License

A. A person may take live wildlife from the wild under a valid Arizona hunting or fishing license provided the current Commission Order authorizes a live bag and possession limit for that wildlife and the individual possesses the appropriate hunting or fishing license and special license, when applicable.

B. Except for live baitfish which may only be possessed and transported as established under R12-4-314, a person may conduct any of the following activities with wildlife taken under an Arizona hunting or fishing license provided the activity is for a noncommercial purpose:

1. Export,

2. Kill,

3. Place on educational display,

4. Possess,

5. Propagate, and

6. Transport.

C. A person possessing wildlife or offspring of wildlife taken under this Section shall dispose of the wildlife or offspring of wildlife using any one or more of the following methods:

1. Giving the wildlife as a gift,

2. Exporting the wildlife to another state or jurisdiction, or

3. Disposing of the wildlife as directed by the Department.

D. A person shall not use wildlife or offspring of wildlife taken under this Section for commercial purposes.

E. A person exporting live wildlife for a noncommercial purpose shall verify exported live wildlife and offspring of wildlife shall not be:

1. Bartered,

2. Leased,

3. Offered for sale,

4. Purchased,

5. Rented,

6. Sold, or

7. Used for any commercial purpose.

F. A person may temporarily hold and release live wildlife possessed under this Section into the wild, provided the person did not remove the wildlife from the immediate area where it was taken. G. A person shall not exceed the possession limit of live wildlife established by Commission Order for that species.

1. Offspring of wildlife possessed under this Section shall count towards the established possession limit.

2. A person may possess offspring of amphibians or reptiles in excess of the possession limit for no more than 12 months from the date of birth or hatching.

3. On or before the day the offspring reach 12 months of age, the person possessing them shall dispose of them as prescribed under subsection (C).

4. A person is prohibited from releasing offspring of propagated wildlife into the wild.

H. A person may use reptiles and amphibians taken under a valid Arizona hunting license for the purpose of providing aversion or avoidance training when the current Commission Order authorizes a live bag and possession limit for that reptile or amphibian.

I. A person may sell photographs of wildlife taken under a valid hunting or fishing license.

J. A person who possesses live wildlife or offspring of wildlife taken under this Section shall comply with the requirements prescribed under R12-4-425 if the wildlife becomes listed as restricted wildlife under R12-4-406.

R12-4-901

Aquatic Invasive Species: Definitions

In addition to the definitions provided under A.R.S. §§ 5-301 and 17-255, the following definitions apply to this Article, unless otherwise specified:

“Aquatic invasive species” means those species listed in Director’s Order 1.

“Certified agent” means a person who meets Department standards to conduct inspections authorized under A.R.S. § 17-255.01(C)(1).

“Conveyance” means a device designed to carry or transport water. Conveyance includes, but is not limited to, dip buckets, water hauling tanks, and water bladders.

“Equipment” means an item used either in or on water; or to carry water. Equipment includes, but is not limited to, trailers used to launch or retrieve watercraft, rafts, inner tubes, kick boards, anchors and anchor lines, docks, dock cables and floats, buoys, beacons, wading boots, fishing tackle, bait buckets, skin diving and scuba diving equipment, submersibles, pumps, sea planes, and heavy construction equipment used in aquatic environments.

“Operator” means a person who operates or is in actual physical control of a watercraft, vehicle, conveyance or equipment.

“Owner” means a person who claims lawful possession of a watercraft, vehicle, conveyance, or equipment.

“Person” has the same meaning as defined under A.R.S. § 1-215.

“Release” means to place, plant, or cause to be placed or planted in waters.

“Transporter” means a person responsible for the overland movement of a watercraft, vehicle, conveyance, or equipment.

“Waters” means surface water of all sources, whether perennial or intermittent, in streams, canyons, ravines, drainage systems, canals, springs, lakes, marshes, reservoirs, ponds, and other bodies or accumulations of natural, artificial, public or private waters situated wholly or partly in or bordering this State.

R12-4-902

Aquatic Invasive Species; Prohibitions; Inspection, Decontamination Protocols

A. A person shall not, unless authorized under Article 4:

1. Possess, import, ship, or transport into or within this State an aquatic invasive species, unless authorized by the Director.

2. Sell, purchase, barter, or exchange in this State an aquatic invasive species.

3. Release an aquatic invasive species into waters or into any water treatment facility, water supply or water transportation facility, device or mechanism in this State.

B. Upon removing a watercraft, vehicle, conveyance, or equipment from any waters listed in Director’s Order 2 and before leaving that location, a person shall:

1. Remove all clinging materials such as plants, animals, and mud.

2. Remove any plug or other barrier that prevents water drainage or, where none exists, take reasonable measures to drain or dry all compartments or spaces that hold water. Reasonable measures include, but are not limited to, emptying bilges, application of absorbents, or ventilation.

C. Before transporting a watercraft, vehicle, conveyance, or equipment to any waters located within or bordering this State from waters or locations where aquatic invasive species are suspected or known to be present, as listed in Director’s Order 2, a person shall comply with the mandatory conditions and protocols identified in Director’s Order 3 for decontamination of watercraft, vehicles, conveyances, and equipment.

D. Department employees, certified agents, and Arizona peace officers authorized under A.R.S. § 17-104 may inspect a watercraft, vehicle, conveyance, or equipment for the purposes of determining compliance with A.R.S. § Title 17, Chapter 2, Article 3.1 and this Section. E. If the presence of an aquatic invasive species is documented or suspected on or in a watercraft, vehicle, conveyance, or equipment, a Department employee or any Arizona peace officer may order the person to decontaminate or cause to be decontaminated such watercraft, vehicles, conveyances, and equipment using the mandatory protocols described in Director’s Order 3.

F. The following Director’s orders are available at any Department office and online:

1. Director’s Order 1 - Listing of Aquatic Invasive Species for Arizona,

2. Director’s Order 2 - Designation of Waters or Locations Where Listed Aquatic Invasive Species are Present, and

3. Director’s Order 3 - Mandatory Conditions on the Movement of Watercraft, Vehicles, Conveyances, or Other Equipment from Listed Waters Where Aquatic Invasive Species are Present.

G. This Section does not apply to owners and operators exempt under A.R.S. § 17-255.04.