Southwest Catch of the Week 102926

ATTENTION: Several lakes throughout New Mexico are under Harmful Algae Bloom (HAB) watches or warnings. Be sure to visit the New Mexico Environment Department's HAB Advisory Map for the latest conditions and advisories before going out.

Southwest Catch of the Week 102926

Water levels are changing across Caballo Lake, so boaters should use caution in low-water areas. Boating conditions are currently listed as fair. (Photo courtesy New Mexico State Parks)

Southwest Fishing Report

Bear Canyon Lake: Closed to the public Monday–Thursday. The lake will remain open Friday-Sunday. Regular use is projected to return in January 2027.

Bill Evans Lake: The most recent report was received Oct. 22. At that time, fishing for largemouth bass was good when using live baits (fathead minnows).

Caballo Lake: With recent flooding along the Rio Grande, water levels are changing across the lake; boaters should exercise caution in low-water areas. For more information, visit the Caballo Lake State Park webpage or call 575-743-3942.

Elephant Butte Lake: The most recent report was received Oct. 22. At that time, fishing for catfish was slow to fair when usting cut shad. The Marina del Sur boat ramp is now open. Park staff reminds visitors to remain cautious of lake debris and shallow areas due to recent changes in water levels. The Rock Canyon and South Monticello boat ramps are closed. For more information, visit the Elephant Butte State Park webpage or call 575-744-5923.

Escondida Lake: The most recent report was received Oct. 15. At that time, fishing for catfish was good when using chicken liver and fair when using worms. Fishing for bluegill was fair when using worms. Fishing for carp was fair when using chicken liver.

Gila River: Streamflow near Gila on Tuesday morning was 309 cfs.

Gila Waters: Streamflow near Gila Hot Springs on Tuesday morning was 163 cfs.

Lake Roberts: The most recent report was received Oct. 22. At that time, fishing for trout was fair to good when using PowerBait.

Quemado Lake: The lake has reopened after recent rains cooled lake temperatures and diluted the amount of cyanobacteria in the water. The lake remains under a Harmful Algae Bloom Danger Advisory.

Rio Grande: Streamflow below Elephant Butte Lake was 0.43 cfs.

We received no reports for the following waterbodies over the past three weeks: Glenwood Pond, Percha Dam, Rancho Grande Ponds, Trees Lake, Snow Lake, Whitewater Creek and Young Pond.