Dead Horse Ranch Lake Fishing Guide 🎣

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Bass Fishing I Dead Horse Ranch Park, AZ I Daughter and Dad

Dead Horse Ranch Lake in Cottonwood, AZ, is a wonderful place for fishing and outdoor fun. Located in Dead Horse Ranch State Park, the lake is surrounded by scenic desert landscapes and lush greenery. Anglers can enjoy catching rainbow trout, catfish, and bluegill, with the lake regularly stocked to ensure plenty of action.

Fishing is easy from the shore, but the calm waters are also great for kayaks and canoes. Early mornings and late evenings are the best times to fish, especially during spring and fall when the weather is cooler.

The park offers picnic spots, hiking trails, and camping areas, making it a great destination for families or anyone looking to connect with nature. Whether you’re fishing or just enjoying the peaceful views, Dead Horse Ranch Lake is a fun and relaxing getaway!

Lake Details

Dead Horse Ranch Lake Fishing Guide 🎣 :

  • Dead Horse Ranch Lake in Cottonwood, AZ, is a fantastic spot for fishing and outdoor fun. Located in the heart of Dead Horse Ranch State Park, this lake offers a peaceful escape with beautiful desert landscapes, lush greenery, and plenty of fish to catch. It’s perfect for anglers and nature lovers alike.
  • Lake Details: Dead Horse Ranch Lake features three lagoons, covering a combined area of about 20 acres. The average depth of the lagoons is 8 feet, with some areas reaching up to 10 feet. Nestled in the Verde Valley, the lake is surrounded by picturesque desert views and is easily accessible from the park’s amenities.
  • Fish Species: The lake is regularly stocked with rainbow trout, especially in the cooler months. You’ll also find channel catfish, largemouth bass, and bluegill, offering a variety of options for anglers. The diversity of fish makes it enjoyable for beginners and experienced fishers alike.
  • Fishing Conditions: Fishing is best early in the morning or late in the evening when fish are more active. Spring and fall are the ideal seasons due to cooler temperatures, but the lake is accessible year-round. The lagoons’ calm waters make for a relaxing fishing experience, whether you’re on the shore or out on the water.
  • Boating Regulation: Non-motorized boats like kayaks and canoes are allowed on the lake, making it easy to explore quieter fishing spots. Gas-powered boats are not permitted, ensuring the waters remain peaceful and safe for everyone.
  • Fishing Techniques: For rainbow trout, try using small spinners, flies, or PowerBait. Catfish are best caught with live bait like worms or stink bait, while bluegill can be caught using small jigs or crickets. Shore fishing is convenient, but a kayak or canoe can help you reach less-crowded areas.
  • Dead Horse Ranch Lake in Cottonwood, AZ, is a fantastic destination for fishing and enjoying the outdoors. With its variety of fish, peaceful setting, and easy access, it’s the perfect spot for a day of fun and relaxation. Bring your gear and enjoy the beauty of this unique lake
  • For the most current information on fishing conditions, regulations, and amenities, it’s advisable to consult the Arizona Game and Fish Department‘s official resources or contact local authorities directly.
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Top Fish at Dead Horse Ranch Lake 🐟

Lake Information

  • Name/Location:
    Dead Horse Ranch Lake
  • Surface Acres: 20
  • Avg Depth: 8 feet
  • Max Depth: 10 feet
  • County: Yavapai County
  • Website:
  • Azstateparks.com
  • Fishing License: A valid fishing or combination license is required for resident and nonresident anglers 10 years of age or older fishing any public accessible water in Arizona.

Lake Amenities

  • Fishing-Friendly Shoreline: Easy access to the lagoons for a relaxing day of fishing.
  • Picnic Areas: Shaded tables and grassy spots to enjoy a meal or take a break.
  • Hiking Trails: Scenic trails around the park for a peaceful walk or adventure.
  • Camping Sites: Nearby campgrounds for an overnight stay or weekend getaway.
  • Restrooms: Clean and convenient facilities close to the lagoons.
  • Wildlife Viewing: Great opportunities to spot birds, deer, and other wildlife in their natural habitat.

Fish Types

Rainbow Trout Fishing

Fish Spots & Tips

  • Where to Fish for Rainbow Trout:
    Center of the lake offers deeper, cooler waters in the center of the lake are ideal for catching Rainbow Trout. You can reach these areas by casting from the fishing docks or using a small boat if allowed.
  • Rainbow Trout Fishing Tips:
    Suspend these baits on the right at different depths with a bobber.
  • Baits: PowerBait, worms, and small minnows
  • Lures: Spinners, spoons, and small jigs
  • Tackle: Light to medium spinning gear with 4-6 lb test line

Bass Fishing

Fish Spots & Tips

  • Where to Fish for Bass:
    Fishing along the shoreline and inlets is great for catching Bass. Look for spots with vegetation, fallen branches, and rocks where these fish like to hide.
  • Bass Fishing Tips:
    Bass thrive in warmer waters and are most active during the spring and summer
  • Baits: Live shad, crayfish, and plastic worms
  • Lures: Crankbaits, spinnerbaits, and topwater lures
  • Tackle: Medium to heavy spinning or baitcasting gear with 8-12 lb test line

SunFish Fishing

Fish Spots & Tips

  • Where to Fish for Sunfish:
    Sunfish are commonly found in the shallow areas of the lake, especially around docks and vegetation.
  • Sunfish Fishing Tips:
    They are active throughout the day, particularly in the summer.
  • Baits: Worms, crickets, and small pieces of bread
  • Lures: Tiny jigs and small spinners
  • Tackle: Ultra-light spinning gear with 2-4 lb test line

CatFish Fishing

Fish Spots & Tips

  • Where to Fish for Catfish:
    Channel Catfish are bottom dwellers and can be found in the deeper, murkier parts of the lake.
  • Catfish Fishing Tips:
    Catfish are popular among night anglers. They are most active after sunset.
  • Baits: Stink bait, chicken liver, and cut bait
  • Lures: Not commonly used, as they prefer natural baits
  • Tackle: Medium to heavy spinning or baitcasting gear with 12-20 lb test line

Gear & Tackle

AZGFD 2023 & 2024 Fishing Regulations

Directions

FAQs

You can catch rainbow trout, channel catfish, largemouth bass, and bluegill. The lake is regularly stocked, so it’s great for anglers of all levels!

Yes, an Arizona state fishing license is required to fish at the lake. Licenses can be purchased online or at local shops in Cottonwood.

Yes, non-motorized boats like kayaks, canoes, and paddleboards are allowed. Gas-powered boats aren’t permitted, keeping the waters calm and peaceful.

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