Fishing at Dankworth Pond: An Arizona State Park

Dankworth Pond State Park is about 3-miles south of Roper Lake, another Arizona State Park on the eastern side of the state.

Dankworth Pond is a small, 15-acre lake which is popular for fishing. Before AZ State Parks acquired it in 1975, it was a private catfish fishing lake.

Key Info on Dankworth Pond:

• It’s a popular fishing spot
• Stocked with largemouth bass, trout, and other fish
• South of the small city of Safford, AZ
• $10 fee per vehicle

Fishing in the Pond

Dankworth Pond is a popular fishing spot, especially for families looking for a quieter, low-key outdoor experience.

The pond is stocked with species like rainbow trout, catfish, largemouth bass, bluegill, and green sunfish.

Anglers commonly catch bass using soft plastics or topwater lures, especially near the reeds.

Trout are stocked from October to March, and albino rainbow trout were introduced in 2020.

You’ll find a small dock that makes it easy to fish from the shore, and the pond’s smaller size allows for easy access without needing a boat.

Best Fishing Times

Early morning and late evening tend to be the best times to catch fish, especially during the warmer months. In winter, trout fishing is especially popular since the pond is regularly stocked.

Fishing License

As with any fishing spot in Arizona, you’ll need a valid state fishing license, which can be purchased online or at local shops.

Other Activities at Dankworth

Dankworth Pond is one of the smaller, less-spectacular AZ State Parks, and is primarily known for fishing.

Still, the small crowds mean peace and quiet for a few other activities, too:

Hiking Trails

The park features a few short trails that are great for a quick hike. The Dankworth Pond Trail takes you through the surrounding desert, offering panoramic views of the pond and Mount Graham.

The Dos Arroyos Trail begins at the eastern end of the pond, and takes hikers on a nearly 2-mile loop to a re-created Indian village, featuring replicas of homes, tools, and other artifacts from southwestern tribes.

Wildlife Viewing

Dankworth Pond is a haven for birds and other wildlife. Keep an eye out for herons, egrets, and various desert species. The surrounding wetlands provide an excellent habitat for birdwatching.

Picnicking

With shaded picnic tables and picturesque views of the pond, this is a great spot to bring a packed lunch and enjoy a quiet afternoon. There’s also a small playground area, making it a family-friendly destination.

State Park Costs and Reservations

• Entrance Fee: The day-use fee for Dankworth Pond is the same as Roper Lake—$10 per vehicle (up to 4 adults). Additional adults are charged $3 each.
• No Camping: Unlike Roper Lake, Dankworth Pond doesn’t have designated camping areas.  

Weather & Seasons Around Safford, Arizona

Dankworth Pond, like many spots in Arizona, is best visited during certain times of the year depending on your activity preferences:

• Spring (March-May): Expect temperatures ranging from 60-80°F.  
• Summer (June-August): Summers are hot, with temperatures climbing up to 100°F. If you’re visiting during this season, plan to go early in the morning or late in the evening.   
• Fall (September-November): Temperatures begin to cool down in the fall, hovering around 70-80°F, creating a great environment for hiking and fishing.  
• Winter (December-February): Winters are mild, with daytime highs between 50-60°F.  

Wrap: Is Dankworth Pond Worth Visiting?

If you’re looking for a quiet fishing trip in Arizona, Dankworth is worth a stop. The pond has a reputation of being nicely-stocked.

It’s not uncommon to catch 10+ fish a day at Dankworth Pond, with some bass weighing in at 5 pounds.