Verde River - Cottonwood, AZ

The Verde River near Cottonwood provides a rewarding blend of warmwater and seasonal trout fishing in one of Arizona’s most scenic river corridors. Flowing through riparian woodlands and desert canyons, this section of the Verde is home to largemouth and smallmouth bass, catfish, and sunfish, with rainbow trout stocked in cooler months upstream.

Bass fishing is excellent in the slower-moving pools and near overhanging banks. Anglers use soft plastics, crankbaits, or live worms for best results. Channel and flathead catfish become active in deeper holes during warmer weather and readily bite on nightcrawlers or cut bait. Sunfish are abundant throughout and respond well to small jigs and worms, making them a great target for kids and beginners.

Fly anglers also enjoy this stretch, often fishing streamers or poppers for bass during spring and summer. Access is convenient near Cottonwood, with many pull-offs, public lands, and parks available. Dead Horse Ranch State Park is a popular base for bank anglers and kayak users alike.

A valid fishing license is required, and statewide regulations typically apply. Ethical catch-and-release is encouraged, especially for wild fish and native species.

With easy access, beautiful scenery, and multi-species action, the Verde River near Cottonwood is a top destination for Arizona river anglers.