FISHING IN NEW MEXICO
From pristine high-mountain lakes and streams to large reservoirs and lazy meandering rivers, New Mexico’s waters provide some of the best fishing in the Southwest. Anglers can find a variety of warm-water species, including largemouth and smallmouth bass, walleye, white bass, catfish, bluegills, perch and pike in lakes and reservoirs; as well as a variety of trout species in lakes, rivers and streams throughout the state.
FIND FISHING SPOTS NEAR YOU
TOP FISHING SPOTS IN NEW MEXICO
UTE LAKE
BLUEWATER LAKE STATE PARK
Located 40 miles west of Grants. The park offers boating, camping, hiking, birding and fishing opportunities.
EAGLE NEST LAKE STATE PARK
Anglers can fish from the banks or by boat. The park offers a nice retreat for fisherman, boaters, and wildlife enthusiasts.
GET A NEW MEXICO FISHING LICENSE
COMMON CATCHES IN NEW MEXICO
| GEAR TO USE | |
|---|---|
| Rod | 6.5 foot medium or medium-heavy action graphite spinning rod |
| Reel | Spinning reel |
| Line | 8-pound test monofilament fishing line |
| Lure | Spinnerbaits, Crankbaits, Frog & Toad Fishing Baits, Soft Plastic Baits, Topwater Fishing Baits |
SMALLMOUTH BASS
FIND WHERE TO CATCH
There is no doubt that the smallmouth bass rivals the largemouth in popularity.
| GEAR TO USE | |
|---|---|
| Rod | 6-7.5 foot rod built for light line |
| Reel | Spinning reel |
| Line | 8-pound test monofilament fishing line |
| Lure | Jerkbaits, Crankbaits, Jigs, Spinnerbait, Hook and a Worm (the best) |
CHANNEL CATFISH
FIND WHERE TO CATCH
The channel catfish is very highly regarded for its food and sports value.
| GEAR TO USE | |
|---|---|
| Rod | 6-7-foot, medium-heavy spinning rod |
| Reel | Spinning reel |
| Line | 14-pound or stronger abrasion-resistant monofilament line |
| Lure | Terminal tackle (circle or bait hooks, treble hooks, egg sinkers), live worms or minnows, cut-bait |
BLUEGILL
FIND WHERE TO CATCH
Today the bluegill is one of the most popular panfish species in North America.
| GEAR TO USE | |
|---|---|
| Rod | 4-or-5 weight fly rod (most effective) or ultra-light spinning rod |
| Reel | Spinning reel |
| Line | 3-4 pound test monofilament fishing line |
| Lure | Small Worms, Crickets, Grasshoppers, Hotdog, Doughballs, Small Spinnerbaits like Beetlespins or Tiny jigs |
RAINBOW TROUT
FIND WHERE TO CATCH
The rainbow trout is an extremely valuable species in any and all of its forms.
| GEAR TO USE | |
|---|---|
| Rod | Light (2-8 lbs) spinning rod |
| Reel | 1500 spinning reel |
| Line | 2-4 pound test fishing line |
| Lure | Deli Shrimp, Dew Worm, Krill, Marshmellow, Single Salmon Egg, Artificial Baits |
WALLEYE
FIND WHERE TO CATCH
Walleye have needle-like teeth, bite well when the waters are cold, and make excellent table fare.
| GEAR TO USE | |
|---|---|
| Rod | 6.5 and 7 feet long medium-action graphite rod |
| Reel | Spinning reel |
| Line | 8 or 10 pound test monofilament fishing line |
| Lure | Jigs, Plastic Baits, Crankbaits, Bottom Bouncers |
LAKES & PONDS
Learn about the structures in lakes and ponds. Learn where to find fish, tips and more.
STREAMS & RIVERS
River & stream fishing means knowing where the water is moving, and how fish behave in it.
