Phoenix & Tucson Urban Ponds

Arizona’s Urban Fishing Program provides convenient, year-round angling opportunities across city parks in Phoenix and Tucson. Managed by the Arizona Game and Fish Department, these ponds are stocked with rainbow trout in winter and catfish in warmer months, with additional species like sunfish and bass available throughout the year.

Trout fishing peaks from November to March and is best with PowerBait, salmon eggs, or small spinners. Channel catfish bite well in spring and fall, especially on stink bait or chicken liver. Bluegill and sunfish provide consistent action with worms or small jigs, ideal for beginners. Many lakes also contain largemouth bass, with catch-and-release encouraged in certain locations.

A Community Fishing or General Fishing License is required for anglers 10 and older, and daily limits are typically two fish per species. These waters are heavily regulated and intensively stocked, ensuring steady success for urban anglers.

Locations like Chaparral Lake in Phoenix and Kennedy Lake in Tucson offer amenities such as paved paths, ADA-accessible docks, picnic areas, and restrooms, creating a welcoming environment for families. Regular events and youth clinics foster community engagement and outdoor education.

Arizona’s urban ponds are a vital resource, blending recreation and conservation to bring quality fishing experiences into the heart of the state’s largest cities.