The cost of an Arizona fishing license depends on your residency status and whether you want to fish only or combine fishing with hunting.
Here are the current fees published by the Arizona Game and Fish Department.
| License type | Resident cost | Non-resident cost |
| General fishing license | $37 | $55 |
| Combination hunting and fishing license | $57 | $160 |
| Youth combination hunting and fishing license (ages 10–17) | $5 | $5 |
| Short-term combination hunting and fishing license | $15 per day | $20 per day |
Source: Arizona Game and Fish Department. Fees and eligibility rules can change, so check the official website before purchasing.
How much is an Arizona non-resident fishing license?
An Arizona non-resident fishing license costs $55 for a general annual license. If you also want to hunt, the combination hunting and fishing license costs $160. Young anglers aged 10–17 can purchase a youth combination license for $5, regardless of residency.
If you’re visiting Arizona for a fishing holiday, the general license is usually the relevant option when you only plan to fish. Remember that Arizona licenses are valid for 365 days from the date of purchase, rather than just for the calendar year.
Visiting Arizona for a few days? Find spots near where you’re staying and check conditions for each day of your trip. [Plan my trip]
Types of Arizona fishing licenses
The Arizona Game and Fish Department offers different licenses depending on your needs.
| License | Who it’s for | Resident cost | Non-resident cost | Key details |
| General fishing license | Anglers who want to fish without hunting | $37 | $55 | Covers fishing in publicly accessible waters across Arizona, subject to applicable regulations. |
| Combination hunting and fishing license | Anglers who also hunt | $57 | $160 | Covers fishing and certain hunting privileges. |
| Youth combination hunting and fishing license | Anglers aged 10-17 | $5 | $5 | Same fee for residents and non-residents. Children under 10 don’t need a state fishing license, though regulations still apply. |
| Short-term combination license | Anglers on a shorter trip | $15 per day | $20 per day | Combination hunting and fishing only. Check the license conditions before buying, especially for a fishing-only trip. |
| Lifetime hunting and fishing license | Eligible Arizona residents | Varies | Not available | Specific eligibility requirements and application procedures apply. See AZGFD licensing information for current details. |
What age do you need a fishing license in Arizona?
Arizona’s fishing license age requirement is straightforward: anglers aged 10 and older need a valid fishing license to fish in publicly accessible waters, whether they live in Arizona or are visiting from another state.
Here’s a quick breakdown:
| Angler | Fishing license required? |
| Children under 10 | No |
| Youth aged 10–17 | Yes, unless an exemption applies |
| Adults aged 18 and older | Yes, unless an exemption applies |
| Non-residents aged 10 and older | Yes, unless an exemption applies |
| Eligible blind residents | No state fishing license required |
Do kids need a fishing license in Arizona?
Children under 10 can fish without buying a state fishing license. Once a child turns 10, they generally need a valid license to fish in public waters.
For anglers aged 10–17, the $5 youth combination hunting and fishing license is an affordable option. Before taking children fishing, make sure you understand the rules for the specific lake or river you plan to visit.
How much is a senior fishing license in Arizona?
Arizona does not list a separate standard senior-priced general fishing license on its main licensing page. However, some older residents may qualify for a free Pioneer License.
To qualify, you must be at least 70 years old and have been an Arizona resident for at least 25 consecutive years immediately before applying. The Pioneer License includes hunting and fishing privileges, including access to Community Fishing Program waters.
Eligible applicants must apply through an Arizona Game and Fish Department office. See the official Pioneer License requirements for details.
Is there an urban fishing license in Arizona?
Arizona has a Community Fishing Program, which provides fishing opportunities at more than 50 city park lakes and ponds across participating communities.
However, there is no separate urban fishing license listed among the standard license types. Anglers aged 10 and older generally need a valid Arizona fishing or qualifying combination license to fish in these designated waters.
Community Fishing Program locations are a convenient option for families and beginners. Depending on the season, participating waters may be stocked with channel catfish, bluegill, or rainbow trout.
You can explore participating lakes and ponds on the AZGFD Community Fishing page.
Looking for your next freshwater fishing spot? Explore fishing locations with Fishbox to discover promising lakes and other places to cast your line.
Where to get an Arizona fishing license
Buying an Arizona fishing license is simple. You can purchase one online, visit an Arizona Game and Fish Department office, or buy one from an authorized license dealer.
Your main options are:
- Online: Visit the Arizona Game and Fish Department website to select and purchase a license.
- In person: Visit an AZGFD office.
- Authorized dealers: Purchase a license from a participating retailer or other licensed dealer.
Check the residency and identification requirements when purchasing your license. Once you have it, make sure you can access or carry the required license documentation while fishing.
When can you fish without a license?
There are limited situations when a fishing license is not required:
- Children under 10: They do not need a state fishing license.
- Eligible blind residents: They are exempt from the state fishing license requirement.
- Free Fishing Day: Arizona designates a day when fishing without a license is allowed at eligible state waters and community lakes.
Free Fishing Day does not mean fishing regulations are suspended. Bag limits and other applicable rules still apply, and the exemption may not cover private, tribal, or other excluded waters. Check the AZGFD announcement for the current year’s date and conditions before heading out.
Plan your next Arizona fishing trip
Arizona fishing runs from desert park lakes to high-country reservoirs, and conditions shift with the weather and season.
Fishbox helps you find spots near you and check forecasts based on weather, lunar patterns, and fish activity, so you can pick your day with more information. No forecast can promise fish, but it can help you plan.