Dead Horse Ranch

One of Arizona's Prime Verde River Fishing Spots

Dead Horse Ranch is located in Cottonwood, Arizona.

The easiest way to get to Dead Horse Ranch is to take Hwy 1-17 towards Cottonwood and exit on Hwy 260 and then continue on to Cottonwood. You'll want to stay on the Main Street (Hwy 260) and watch for signs to Dead Horse Ranch State Park. Be sure to turn on 10th Street and follow the road up to the main gate.

Dead Horse Ranch is on 423 acres at an elevation of 3,300 feet. The Verde River runs through the Ranch and there is approximately 80 fishable miles here.

Though some folks call it Dead Horse Lake, these big lagoons are pooled areas of the Verde River. And they are stocked by the Arizona Game and Fish Department. The average depth is about 10 feet.

Fishing at Dead Horse Ranch

Adults 14 and over do need a valid Arizona Fishing Licence with a trout stamp to fish at Dead Horse Ranch. There is a $6/car fee to enter the park and Golden Age passes are not accepted here (but Arizona's State Park Pass is).

Anglers can fish for the following species at Dead Horse Ranch:

• Rainbow Trout
• Sunfish (Bluegill and Crappie)
• Channel Catfish
• Largemouth Bass

There are reduced daily bag limits in effect at Dead Horse Ranch (which differ than normal bag limits at other lakes). The limits are listed below:

• 4 catfish
• 4 trout
• 2 Largemouth Bass (minimum 13 inches in length)
• 10 sunfish

This is a nice place for those fishing with spinning gear and fly fishing. Fly-fishermen seem to prefer fishing the Verde River between Riverfront Park and Dead Horse Ranch State Park.

If fishing with spinning gear, powerbait, worms and small spinners work well.

The Verde River Greenway State Natural Area is located next to Dead Horse Ranch and is another area that can be fished.

Boats

Small boats and float tubes are allowed at Dead Horse Ranch, but restrictions do apply. All boats must be coast-guard approved and personal flotation devices (PFD's) must be worn. Rowboats (powered by oar) are only allowed in the lower lagoons.

Park Rules

The following are NOT PERMITTED at Dead Horse State Park:

• Amplified Music and PA systems
• Swimming in lagoons
• Firewood gathering
• Generators
• Rowboats and float tubes are only permitted in lower lagoons

Handicap Access

Paved parking area and sidewalks allow for easy handicap access to many areas.

Camping

There are several camping options of Dead Horse Ranch including cabin rental. There are handicap accessible showers and restrooms near camp sites.

Facilities

The following amenities can be found at Fain Lake:

• Bathrooms & Showers (with hot water)
• Picnic area (covered Ramadas)
• BBQ grills
• Playground
• Camp Sites
• Hiking Trails
• Visitor Center (open 8 am to 5 pm)

For more information about Dead Horse Ranch, click here.