As you gear up with other outdoor media professionals for our 2024 annual conference in El Paso, Texas September 20-22, you may be looking for nearby outdoor adventures to enhance your experience. And if fishing is on your agenda, you’re in luck — New Mexico offers several opportunities just a short drive away from El Paso.
Whether you’re looking to unwind before the conference or extend your stay afterward, the “Land of Enchantment” has some great spots for you to cast a line.
Close to El Paso: Southern New Mexico’s fishing spots
While you’re staying in El Paso, New Mexico’s fishing opportunities are accessible. The northern part of the state is known for its fishing destinations and the southern region has its own charm — particularly around Las Cruces, located just about an hour north of El Paso.
Caballo Lake and Elephant Butte Lake are two prime spots to consider. Both lakes are managed by New Mexico’s Department of Game and Fish and are well-stocked with a variety of fish species.
Elephant Butte, the largest lake in New Mexico, is ideal for anglers looking to reel in striped bass, largemouth bass, and catfish.
Caballo Lake, located just south of Elephant Butte, is a quieter option where you can catch walleye, white bass, and the occasional lake trout.
Las Cruces: An underrated fishing locale
“In Las Cruces, people often fish at the pond in Young Park, which is regularly stocked by the Game & Fish Department,” said Hilary Dutcher, destination experience manager at Visit Las Cruces.
“There’s also fishing along the Rio Grande, where shore fishing is popular, particularly near the Mesilla Dam. You’ll find catfish, sunfish, crappie, carp, bluegill, and bass in these waters.”
For those willing to venture a bit farther, Dutcher recommended the Gila National Forest area to the west of Las Cruces.
“The Gila and San Francisco Rivers offer serene settings and the chance to catch largemouth bass, sunfish, channel catfish, and the protected Gila trout,” she said. With lakes like Snow Lake, Quemado Lake, and Lake Roberts, this region is ideal for those looking to fish in more remote, scenic locations.
Plan your fishing adventure
If you’re attending the OWAA conference in El Paso this September and you want to explore New Mexico’s fishing scene before or after the conference, here are a few tips:
Caballo Lake and Elephant Butte Lake: Both are about a 1.5 to 2-hour drive from El Paso, making them perfect for a day trip.
Rio Grande at Las Cruces: For a quick fishing fix close to the city, the Rio Grande offers easy access and a variety of fish species.
Gila National Forest: If you have extra time and want to experience New Mexico’s wilderness, head west to the Gila National Forest. This area is about a 2 to 5-hour drive from Las Cruces, depending on your destination.
New Mexico’s tourism website and the New Mexico Department of Game and Fish offer excellent resources for planning your fishing adventure. The state’s weekly Fishing and Stocking Report is a valuable tool to stay updated on the latest conditions and fish stocking information.
So, whether you’re looking to relax before the conference or unwind afterward, don’t miss out on the opportunity to explore these lesser-known fishing spots in New Mexico. They’re close, convenient and offer a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of El Paso.
Register for the OWAA 2024 conference in El Paso today!
