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Blue Tilapia

Blue Tilapia

Blue Tilapia (Oreochromis aureus) are non-native cichlids from Africa and the Middle East that have been established in Arizona since about 1975. These invasive fish are now locally common in various parts of the lower Colorado River system.

Scientific Name: Oreochromis aureus

Physical Characteristics:

Silvery-gray with a blue-green tint, averaging 1-2 feet long and weighing 2-5 pounds, though they can reach up to 10+ pounds

What to know

Habitat Distribution

Documented in the Lower Colorado, Lower Gila, Middle Gila, Upper Gila-San Carlos Reservoir, Upper San Pedro, Upper Santa Cruz, Lower Salt, Bill Williams, and Lake Mead watersheds. The Central Arizona Project canal system serves as a major dispersal route.

Key Locations

Lower Colorado River system, including Lake Havasu above Parker Dam, Alamo Reservoir on the Bill Williams River, and the Gila River north of Yuma. Dankworth ponds in Graham County and Randolph Park in Tucson. Salt River Project canals and Alamo Lake.

Specific Spots

Target shallow, vegetated areas and structure

Blue Tilapia FAQ

Answers from onWater's species guide.

What flies work for Blue Tilapia in Arizona?

Terrestrial patterns like hoppers work exceptionally well, along with elk hair caddis and beadhead pheasant tail nymphs stripped like small streamers

When is the best time to fish for Blue Tilapia in Arizona?

Best fishing in warmer months when water temperatures are above 68°F, with spring and fall offering the best fishing. Avoid fishing during spawning periods (January-May) when they're building nests in shallow areas.

How do you catch Blue Tilapia in Arizona?

For fly fishing, present flies with short twitches 3-6 inches at a time, or use smooth, slow retrieves for larger fish. Strip-set hooks due to their tough jaws.

What do Blue Tilapia eat?

Adults are primarily herbivorous, feeding on filamentous algae, blue-green algae, rooted plants, and organic debris, though they're opportunistic and will consume small fish, zooplankton, and insects. Juveniles eat more varied diets including copepods, cladocerans, and small invertebrates.

Where do Blue Tilapia live in Arizona?

Documented in the Lower Colorado, Lower Gila, Middle Gila, Upper Gila-San Carlos Reservoir, Upper San Pedro, Upper Santa Cruz, Lower Salt, Bill Williams, and Lake Mead watersheds. The Central Arizona Project canal system serves as a major dispersal route.

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