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"URBAN FISHING" Arizona has long offered anglers a variety of venues and species in which to fish. Rivers, streams, high mountain lakes and desert reservoirs are all located within our borders. The only problem is, we don’t always have the time or the money it takes to get to our favorite fishing holes. That is where "Urban Fishing" comes in. The Arizona Urban Fishing Program was established in 1983 as a cooperative venture between the Arizona Game and Fish Department and the cities of Chandler, Gilbert, Mesa, Payson, Phoenix, Scottsdale, Tempe, and Tucson. Currently there are 16 designated "Urban" waters in the state. The fisheries are regularly stocked with keeper size fish. However, on average, there is one big fish stocked for every 20 keepers. In fact, a 11lb. 10.4oz. Largemouth bass was caught earlier this year at Papago Ponds, and a 39lb. White Amur was reeled in at Encanto Park. Other fish commonly stocked in the "Urban Lakes" are,Channel Catfish, Carp, Tilapia, Crappie, Bluegill, and Rainbow Trout. The Trout are stocked in the winter only, from November to March. The "Urban Fishing Program" is funded by the sale of Urban Fishing Licenses and from grants from the city parks and recreation departments. Each city pays $700 per year for each surface acre of water stocked. A Class U, Urban Fishing License is required at Urban Lakes, and can be purchased for a $12 yearly fee. A Class U covers all fish in all urban lakes. Class D, Pioneer, and Disabled Veterans are accepted along with one-day license purchases. If you are 14 or older whether a resident or non-resident you are required to purchase one of the licenses mentioned above. Check with the Arizona Game and Fish Dept. or the City Parks and Recreation Dept. for more information or the location of urban lakes, and be sure to ask about the rules and regulations. Limits and slots do vary. Kip Polly
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