The Best Fishing Lakes Near Las Cruces

Discover the Best Places to Fish near Las Cruces

Las Cruces, New Mexico is surrounded by a beautiful landscape that is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts. The area is known for its stunning views and unique natural attractions, including a variety of nearby fishing lakes. Whether you’re an avid angler or just looking to spend a peaceful day by the water, there are plenty of great fishing lakes near Las Cruces to choose from, and undoubtedly some of the best fishing lakes in New Mexico.

Fishing in Las Cruces is only a few small ponds and seasonally the Rio Grande River so you are going to have to drive to find the best fishing. Check out these great places to fish in Southern New Mexico.

Elephant Butte Lake

Elephant Butte Lake is the largest lake in New Mexico and is located about an hour’s drive north of Las Cruces located just north of Truth or Consequences, New Mexico. Formed by the damming of the Rio Grande, it is the largest man-made lake in New Mexico. The lake is renowned for its outstanding fishing opportunities. The lake is over 36,000 acres with over 200 miles of shoreline, making it great for fishing, boating, and other water activities.

Some of the best fishing Las Cruces has to offer is at Elephant Butte Lake is for largemouth and smallmouth bass. While largemouth bass are the most common target, striped bass fishing can also be productive here. During their spring run, anglers can catch migrating striped bass of trophy size in the main river channel and along the dam face, using live bait like shad or cut bait. Anglers can find bass in all parts of the lake year-round.

Other popular gamefish include white bass, crappie, bluegill, and catfish. Fishing is generally best in the spring and fall when water temperatures are moderate. Fishermen will have the most success working plastic worms, spinnerbaits, crankbaits, and jigs along shorelines, drop-offs, and structures. Some of the popular fishing spots at Elephant Butte Lake include Rattlesnake Island, Dam Site Marina, and Rock Canyon Marina. 

In addition to fishing, Elephant Butte Lake offers a variety of other recreational activities. Boating is very popular during the summer months. The main boat ramp is situated at near Marina del Sur and access is through Elephant Butte State Park. The main boat ramp is a large concrete ramp that provides excellent paved access to the big waters of the lake. There are additional ramps located further north near the Damsite Marina and also at Rock Canyon. You can also rent pontoon boats and kayaks at Marina del Sur and the Damsite Marina and boat slips too.

Marina del Sur and Damsite Marina are both full-service marinas that offer a variety of amenities for boaters and anglers. They each have a large concrete boat ramp that provides paved access to launch vessels of all sizes into Elephant Butte Lake. Both marinas rent boat slips daily or seasonally to dock boats.

Each marina has a fuel dock where boaters can refill their gas tanks. They also offer pump-out services for boats with holding tanks. Both locations have well-stocked tackle and gift shops selling bait, lures, fishing licenses, and supplies. Marina del Sur and Damsite Marina also offer boat repairs and maintenance services. Anglers will find cleaning stations and ice machines available.

Anglers are required to have a valid New Mexico fishing license before fishing at Elephant Butte Lake. Fishing rules and regulations are strictly enforced, and anglers are encouraged to familiarize themselves with the fishing rules and regulations before heading out to the lake. Fishing maps and regulations are available on the Elephant Butte Lake website.

Elephant Butte Lake State Park

Elephant Butte Lake State Park is located on the northern shore of Elephant Butte Lake. The park encompasses over 4,000 acres and offers visitors a variety of recreational activities. It is one of the most popular state parks in New Mexico, drawing hundreds of thousands of visitors each year.

Camping is a major draw at Elephant Butte Lake State Park. It has over 300 campsites ranging from basic tent sites to full RV hookups with water, and electricity. Many of the sites have stunning views overlooking the lake. Campers enjoy amenities like modern restrooms and showers, picnic areas, playgrounds, and hiking trails.

In addition to camping, the state park has plenty to keep visitors busy during the day. Boating, fishing, swimming, and watersports are popular on the big lake. Elephant Butte Lake State Park has two boat ramps that provide access to the water. Hiking trails wind through the desert landscape and along the shoreline. Ranger-led programs educate guests about the local wildlife, geology, and history.

At night, the park transforms into a dark night sky sanctuary where visitors can stargaze through telescopes at the observatory. Rangers give astronomy programs that highlight the constellations visible in New Mexico’s clear night skies. With its combination of outdoor recreation and natural beauty, Elephant Butte Lake State Park offers something for visitors of all ages and interests.

Overall, Elephant Butte Lake is a great destination for fishermen, families, and outdoor enthusiasts. With its stunning scenery, great fishing opportunities, and a variety of amenities, Elephant Butte Lake is a must-visit destination for anyone visiting or living in Las Cruces that are looking to fish.

Overall, Elephant Butte Lake and Elephant Butte Lake State Park is an excellent destination for anglers, families, and outdoor enthusiasts alike. With so much natural beauty and outdoor activities available, Elephant Butte Lake truly has something for everyone. It’s no wonder the lake is one of New Mexico’s most visited state parks and attractions. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing weekend getaway or a full-day excursion, Elephant Butte Lake should be at the top of the list for anyone living in or visiting the Las Cruces area who wants to enjoy fishing, boating, and breathtaking New Mexico scenery. Its stunning vistas and recreation make it a must-visit southern New Mexico destination.

Caballo Lake

Caballo Lake is another popular fishing destination located about 60 miles north of Las Cruces. The lake is stocked with a variety of fish, including largemouth bass, catfish, and crappie, making it a great place for anglers of all skill levels. The lake is easily accessible by car, and there are plenty of boat ramps and fishing piers available.

Caballo Lake is one of the best fishing spots near Las Cruces, located about 60 miles north of the city. It is a freshwater lake that offers fishing for largemouth bass, catfish, and rainbow trout. The lake is also a great place for paddle and kayak enthusiasts, as well as for those who enjoy picnicking and camping.

Fishing regulations at Caballo Lake are enforced, and fishermen are expected to adhere to the state’s fishing rules. A fishing license is required for anyone over the age of 12 to fish in New Mexico. Fishing maps and fishing gear can be purchased at the park’s store. Fishermen are also encouraged to check the weather and fishing intel before heading out.

Caballo Lake State Park offers a variety of amenities, including picnic tables, restrooms, and campsites. The park is open year-round, but the fishing season varies depending on the selected species. Brown trout are stocked here in the winter, while catfish and largemouth bass are more abundant in the summer months.

Caballo Lake is easily accessible by car, and driving directions can be found on the park’s website. Reviews of the lake are generally positive, with many visitors praising the park’s beautiful scenery and peaceful atmosphere.

Leasburg Dam State Park

Leasburg Dam State Park, nestled along the Rio Grande, offers a tranquil oasis in the Chihuahuan Desert of southern New Mexico. This picturesque park, located approximately 15 miles north of Las Cruces, is a delightful destination for campers, picnickers, and nature enthusiasts.

The park’s main attraction, the Leasburg Dam, was constructed in the early 1900s for irrigation purposes. It creates a pocket of riparian habitat, a welcome green space in the arid surroundings. The dam diverts water from the Rio Grande into an extensive canal system that irrigates the local agricultural fields, contributing to the lush landscape within the park boundaries.

Fishing at Leasburg Dam State Park is a popular pastime, with the Rio Grande offering a habitat for various fish species. Anglers can cast their lines in the hopes of catching catfish, bass, and bluegill. The fishing experience here is ideal for those who appreciate a peaceful setting away from crowded fishing spots. Whether you are a seasoned angler or a beginner, the river’s gentle flow provides a relaxing backdrop for a day of fishing.

The park’s facilities include picnic areas, restrooms, and a playground, making it a family-friendly destination. There are also campsites available for those who wish to extend their visit overnight, with some sites offering utility hookups for RVs.

Rio Grande

The Rio Grande runs through Las Cruces, and there are several fishing spots along the river for seasonal fishing. You can fish in the Rio Grande near Las Cruces when the water is being released from Elephant Butte Dam during the summer months. A lot of people have success fishing in the Rio Grande just below Elephant Butte Dam but there are other locations south of there that are good for fishing also.

Additional Fishing Locations

In addition to the fishing spots mentioned above, several other locations near Las Cruces offer excellent fishing opportunities. Here are a few more options to consider:

Lake Roberts

Located north of Silver City NM, about 100 miles north of Las Cruces, Lake Roberts is a popular fishing destination that offers plenty of opportunities to catch rainbow and gila trout, smallmouth bass, and catfish.

The lake is surrounded by the Gila National Forest, which means that visitors can also enjoy hiking, camping, and other outdoor activities while they’re there. There is a small boat launch at Lake Roberts for non-motorized boats and boats with electric motors.

Bill Evans Lake

Bill Evans Lake is located just outside of Silver City, which is about 70 miles northwest of Las Cruces. The lake is stocked with rainbow trout, largemouth bass, and catfish, and there are also opportunities to catch crappie and bluegill. Visitors can fish from the shore or from a non-motorized boat, and there are picnic areas and hiking trails nearby.

If your goal is to catch giant largemouth bass this is the place to go.

On the lake’s northern shore, the New Mexico Department of Game and Fish has enhanced road access, built a new boat ramp, and created fishing access sites. To improve accessibility for non-motorized watercraft, the outdated boat ramp has been rebuilt and multiple fishing jetties have been added.

Fishing Techniques and Tips

Fishing in lakes around Las Cruces can be a fun and rewarding experience, but it requires the right techniques and tips to increase your chances of success. Whether you are targeting bass, trout, or catfish, here are some general tips to keep in mind:

• Choose the right fishing gear: The type of fishing gear you use can greatly affect your success. For example, if you are targeting largemouth bass, using a baitcasting reel with a medium-heavy rod and a spinnerbait or a plastic worm can be effective. On the other hand, if you are targeting trout, using a light spinning rod with a small lure or bait can work well.
• Understand the behavior of selected species: Different fish species behave differently and require different techniques to catch them. For example, largemouth bass tend to hide in cover and ambush their prey, so fishing around weed beds, fallen trees, or other structures can be effective. In contrast, trout tend to feed on the surface or near the bottom, so using a floating or sinking lure or bait can be useful.
• Pay attention to fishing reports and fishing intel: Keeping up to date with fishing reports and fishing intel can give you an idea of where the fish are biting and what techniques are working. Websites like Fishbrain can provide you with real-time information about fishing spots, species, and tips.
• Use a variety of fishing techniques: Using a variety of fishing techniques can help you find the right approach that works for the fish you are targeting. For example, if you are not having success with a certain lure or bait, try switching to a different one or changing your retrieve speed or depth.

By following these tips and techniques, you can increase your chances of catching fish in the lakes around Las Cruces.

Regulations and Conservation

Before heading out to the fishing lakes near Las Cruces, it is important to be aware of the fishing regulations and conservation efforts in the area. The New Mexico Department of Game and Fish regulates fishing in the state and enforces fishing rules to ensure the sustainability of fish populations and their habitats.

To fish in New Mexico, anglers are required to have a valid fishing license, which can be purchased online or at various vendors throughout the state. Fishing licenses are available for residents and non-residents, and fees vary depending on the length of the license and the type of fishing being done.

It is also important to note that fishing seasons vary by species and location. Anglers should consult the New Mexico Fishing Rules and Information booklet or visit the department’s website for up-to-date information on fishing seasons and regulations.

To help conserve fish populations, the department has implemented various rules and regulations, such as catch limits and size restrictions. Anglers should be aware of these rules and do their part in preserving the fish populations and their habitats.

Overall, by following fishing regulations and conservation efforts, anglers can help ensure the sustainability of fish populations in the area and continue to enjoy the beauty and serenity of the fishing lakes near Las Cruces.

Amenities and Activities

The fishing lakes near Las Cruces offer more than just fishing opportunities. Many of these lakes have additional amenities and activities to make your visit more enjoyable. Here are some of the amenities and activities you can expect to find:

• Parks: Most of the fishing lakes near Las Cruces are located in parks, which offer plenty of green space, trees, and picnic areas. Some of the parks also have hiking trails and playgrounds for children.
• Picnic Areas: Many of the parks have designated picnic areas with picnic tables and grills, making it a great spot for a family outing or a romantic picnic.
• Kayaking and Paddleboarding: Some of the fishing lakes near Las Cruces allow kayaking and paddleboarding. This is a great way to explore the lake and get some exercise at the same time.
• Ponds: There are some small ponds and fishing lakes in the Las Cruces area which are great for fishing with children or for those who prefer a more tranquil fishing experience.
• Rio Grande: The Rio Grande runs through Las Cruces, and there are several fishing spots along the river. You can fishing in the Rio Grande near Las Cruces when the water is being released from Elephant Butte Dam during the summer months.

Overall, the fishing lakes near Las Cruces offer a variety of amenities and activities to make your visit more enjoyable. Whether you want to fish, kayak, or have a picnic, there is something for everyone. Do you have a favorite fishing spot that we didn’t cover? Let us know.