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Goldfish

Goldfish

Goldfish (Carassius auratus) are an invasive species in Arizona with a complex status - listed as possibly established with uncertain population status according to U. S. Fish and Wildlife Service assessments.

Originally native to East Asia, goldfish have been documented in Arizona waters since the 1930s-1950s, with established populations in various water bodies.

Scientific Name: Carassius auratus

Physical Characteristics:
  • Wild goldfish in Arizona can grow much larger than aquarium specimens, reaching 13-25.5 cm (5-10 inches) and sometimes up to 38 cm (15 inches).

What to know

Habitat Distribution

  • Streams, ditches, ponds, and lakes with abundant aquatic vegetation.
  • Warm, still waters with ample vegetation.

Key Locations

  • Gila River Basin, San Pedro River, Colorado River system, and Central Arizona Project Canal.
  • Slow-moving sections of the Gila River system, San Pedro River, Colorado River backwaters, and Central Arizona Project Canal.
  • In the Central Arizona Project Canal concentrate efforts around pumping plants and forebays where populations have been documented.

Specific Spots

  • Areas with soft substrate where they can root for food.
  • Near structure and vegetation.
  • Shallow areas during morning and evening feeding periods.

Goldfish FAQ

Answers from onWater's species guide.

What are the best lures and bait for Goldfish in Arizona?

Worms, small dough balls, corn, or other plant-based baits. Small spinners, tiny spoons, and micro jigs.

What flies work for Goldfish in Arizona?

Small nymph patterns, midge larvae imitations, and tiny streamers presented near the bottom.

When is the best time to fish for Goldfish in Arizona?

Most active during warmer months when metabolism increases. During winter months when temperatures drop below 60°F, reduce fishing frequency as their metabolism slows significantly.

How do you catch Goldfish in Arizona?

Present baits near the bottom where they naturally forage. Work lures slowly near structure and vegetation. Focus on areas with soft substrate where they can root for food.

What do Goldfish eat?

As omnivores, goldfish feed on algae, small invertebrates, aquatic insects, fish e.g.gs, detritus, zooplankton, and plant matter throughout the day, often stirring up sediment while bottom-feeding.

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  1. 01 · Species map filter

    Map every Goldfish water

    Pick Goldfish and the map zeroes in on the waters they call home. No more guessing which lake holds them.

  2. 02 · Waterbody species

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    Species, behavior and seasonal patterns for every lake, river and pond, before you leave the driveway.

  3. 03 · Angler Intelligence

    Ask how to catch Goldfish

    Tactics, gear and timing from onWater's AI fishing guide, tuned to the species and the water you're on.

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Arizona licenses and regulations

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