Arizona · Fishing
Fishing in Phoenix, Arizona
Phoenix is not the first city that comes to mind for fishing, but there are five urban lakes and tanks within city limits that give anglers a legitimate reason to bring a rod.
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Phoenix is not the first city that comes to mind for fishing, but there are five urban lakes and tanks within city limits that give anglers a legitimate reason to bring a rod. Skunk Creek Tank, Lockett Tank, and Cortez Park Lake are stocked urban fisheries managed through Arizona Game and Fish's urban fishing program, and Granada Lake and Encanto Lagoon round out the options for anyone who wants to fish without driving two hours into the mountains. These are small, accessible waters — think neighborhood parks with shoreline access — not remote wilderness destinations. That framing matters, because it sets the right expectations: you are fishing for stocked fish in a city park, and that is actually a solid setup for beginners, families, or anyone who wants a few hours on the water on a weekday morning before the heat sets in. Summer fishing in Phoenix means being on the water before 8 a.m. or waiting until the sun drops. Winter and early spring are genuinely comfortable and often the most productive months across all five locations.
Frequently asked questions
What species can I expect to catch at these Phoenix urban lakes?
Arizona Game and Fish stocks the urban program lakes with rainbow trout in the cooler months (roughly November through March) and channel catfish during the warmer months. Largemouth bass and sunfish are also present in several of these waters year-round. Check the AZGFD stocking schedule before your trip so you know what was recently put in and where.
Do I need a fishing license to fish Encanto Lagoon or Cortez Park Lake?
Arizona requires a valid fishing license for anyone 10 years of age and older. There is no special urban fishing permit on top of that — a standard Arizona fishing license covers all five of these locations. Licenses are available online through AZGFD or at most sporting goods retailers in the Phoenix area.
What is the best time of day to fish these lakes in summer?
Early morning, ideally from first light until around 8 or 9 a.m., is your best window in summer. Water temperatures at these shallow urban lakes climb quickly once the sun is up, and fish activity drops off significantly by mid-morning. If you can only go in the evening, the hour before sunset is your next best option.
What gear setup works well for these urban fisheries?
A light or ultralight spinning rod in the 6- to 7-foot range handles most situations at these lakes. For stocked trout, small spinners, PowerBait, or a simple hook-and-worm setup under a bobber are all effective. For catfish, a heavier bottom rig with cut bait or stink bait works well from the bank. None of these waters require a boat — all five locations are fishable from shore.
Are these lakes suitable for kids or first-time anglers?
Yes, and that is genuinely one of the strongest reasons to fish them. Encanto Lagoon and Cortez Park Lake in particular have paved paths, open shoreline, and nearby parking, which makes the logistics easy for families. Stocked fish are more catchable than wild fish, so the odds of a beginner landing something are reasonable, especially right after a stocking event.
