Dead Horse Ranch State Park
Dead Horse Ranch State Park offers anglers a reliable cold-weather option for chasing quality fish in stocked water just minutes from the town of Cottonwood. Through the fall and winter months, the park’s lagoons see regular stockings, making it a great destination when higher-elevation fisheries are iced over or hard to access.
Upon entering the park, expect a per-vehicle day-use fee to fish the grounds. Once inside, anglers will find easy access and plenty of shoreline, making this a comfortable and productive spot for both quick outings and longer sessions.
A lighter rod can add to the fun here, though a trusty 5-weight will handle everything the lagoons have to offer. Productive setups have included chironomid patterns suspended under an indicator, often paired with a black or olive balanced leech as a dropper. Adjust your depth frequently—fish often cruise at varying levels, especially during colder mornings.
As pressure can increase on popular days, lighter tippets are sometimes necessary to seal the deal. Be sure to carry a range of 4X–6X to match conditions and fish behavior. Slow, deliberate retrieves and patient presentations tend to outperform aggressive tactics during the colder months.
Dead Horse Ranch State Park remains a dependable option for central Arizona anglers looking to stay on the water year-round, offering accessible fishing, consistent stockings, and the chance to tangle with some solid fish close to town.
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