On a rainy (if you can believe) Arizona morning, 44 fly anglers gathered for the fifth annual Valley of the Sun Carp Rally, hosted by AZ Fly Shop. Twenty-two two-person teams spread out across the city’s desert waterways in search of suburban salmon (grass carp) that test patience, precision, and teamwork in the muddy waters. But more than a competition, this rally has become one of the region’s signature gatherings—a celebration of camaraderie, conservation, and a community impact event.
What began as a friendly local challenge has evolved into a full-scale annual event that draws anglers from across the country. This year, participants represented seven of the United States to join the fun, underscoring the growing reputation of Arizona’s urban carp fishery and the welcoming spirit of its fly-fishing community.
At its heart, the Carp Rally isn’t just 24 hours of catching fish—it’s about connecting people. The event provides an opportunity for new and seasoned anglers alike to share knowledge, swap stories, and build relationships that extend well beyond the water. It’s a day where fly rods bring people together, and friendships form as easily as casts roll out across the canals targeting the spooky beast, the monster carp.
This year’s proceeds benefited Wildlife for Tomorrow, a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting the Arizona Game and Fish Department’s mission of conserving and restoring wildlife habitat across the state. Through this partnership, the rally continues to demonstrate that anglers are among conservation’s most active advocates—using their passion for fishing as a vehicle for positive environmental change.
When the 24 hour Carp Rally concluded the real party began 6 hours later, on Sunday afternoon, the 44 participants are joined by another 180 anglers, friends and family for the an awards celebration held in conjunction with an iconic charity auction, BBQ and the Fly Fishing Film Tour (FT3), where participants and spectators alike came together to relive the day’s highlights, share laughs, and applaud the winners. This year’s “Most Fish” , Josh and Niko Ebert, exemplify the community spirit that defines the event. Longtime supporters and one of several father-and-son duos in attendance, the Eberts’ win was a testament to both skill and shared passion passed down through generations. Finding this father son team on Arizona waters in a social capacity or in Niko’s case in a professional capacity as a local guide leans toward their 2026 success, yet it has been 3 years in the making…proving practice makes perfect with a little added luck of the day!
New to the fly fishing family in Arizona, winning “Biggest Fish” was Champions was a dynamically enthusiastic team, Jaime Pinto and Arthur Martinez proving that knowing your fishery and a great net man fosters victory.
From friendly competition to conservation impact, the Valley of the Sun Carp Rally has proven that when anglers come together, the ripple effects reach far beyond the water. The event continues to grow each year, strengthening the bonds within Arizona’s fly-fishing community and ensuring that its natural resources—and the memories they create—endure for generations to come.
Mark your calendars! Next year’s Valley of the Sun Carp Rally will take place September 27–28, 2026. Whether you’re a seasoned carp chaser or new to the game, we invite fly anglers from near and far to come play with us, connect with the community, and help make an impact for conservation once again.
