Bass Fishing In New Mexico

Guide to fishing for spotted, redeye, shoal, smallmouth and largemouth bass in New Mexico lakes.

By Rick Seaman

New Mexico Bass Fishing

Bass fishing in New Mexico is a beloved pursuit, cherished by anglers of all ages, backgrounds, and skill levels. Few experiences rival the thrill of hooking into a largemouth or smallmouth bass, making it a timeless pastime that transcends cultural boundaries. Whether you're a seasoned pro or a novice angler eager to learn the ropes, mastering the art of bass fishing can be immensely rewarding. That's why this page is dedicated to offering invaluable insights and tips on bass fishing, providing a comprehensive guide on everything from bass fishing techniques to essential bass-catching strategies. Whether you're seeking advice on selecting the perfect lure or honing your casting skills, we're here to equip you with the knowledge and expertise needed to excel on the water. Dive into our wealth of information to discover the secrets of successful bass fishing and unlock the full potential of your angling endeavors.

Bass fishing basics video.

Bass Fishing In The State

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Largemouth Bass Fishing In New Mexico

Largemouth bass are the most abundant, and most pursued bass in New Mexico. They are available in most warm-water lakes in the state, they tend to thrive in most water conditions and grow to bragging size in relative short order. Often called big mouth bass, or wide mouth bass, they are savvy predators that feed on most things that live in their territory. Bass in the 5 to 10-pound range are common in New Mexico. The state record largemouth bass is over 15 pounds.

Finding & Catching Bigmouth Bass

Anglers can target big mouth bass in various lakes, reservoirs, and rivers. Spring and early summer are typically the best seasons for targeting largemouth bass as they are more active and feeding in the shallows near shoreline cover. Start with topwater baits, as they cover the water most efficiently. Reaction baits like crankbaits and spinnerbaits are the next choice. For finicky bass, plastic worms and jigs may entice a bite as you can move them very slowly around cover. In the heat of summer and the cold of winter bass move to deeper water, usually following the baitfish. Jigs, drop shot rigs and spoons are a good approach for bass holding in deep water. Vary your retrieve speed and action to find what the bass like today!

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Smallmouth Bass Fishing In New Mexico

While smallmouth bass don't grow as large as their cousin the largemouth, they make up the difference with tenacious fights. Known for long battles and spectacular jumps, smallies grow fat and strong but rarely exceed ten pounds. Their range and locations are often with or nearby the largemouths. The state record smallmouth bass is over 7 pounds.

Another popular bass species in New Mexico is the smallmouth bass. These feisty fish are known for their tenacity and remarkable strength. Anglers can target smallmouth bass in rivers, lakes, and reservoirs, particularly in areas with rocky structures, submerged logs, or deep pools. Techniques such as casting with jigs, tubes, or crayfish imitations can yield excellent results when angling for smallmouth bass. The breathtaking canyons and river systems of New Mexico provide a picturesque backdrop for these exciting fishing adventures.

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Spotted Bass Fishing In New Mexico

In addition to largemouth and smallmouth bass, New Mexico also boasts populations of spotted bass. Although not as prevalent as their largemouth and smallmouth counterparts, spotted bass can still be found in certain lakes and reservoirs throughout the state. They exhibit similar characteristics to largemouth and smallmouth bass, making them a welcomed catch for bass enthusiasts looking to diversify their fishing experience. Anglers can target spotted bass using similar techniques as for largemouth and smallmouth bass, focusing on areas with submerged structures and rocky shorelines.

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Best Bass Fishing Lakes In New Mexico

The major lakes in New Mexico with healthy populations of bass include Abiquiu Reservoir, Brantley Lake, Caballo Lake, Clayton Lake, Conchas Lake, El Vado Lake, Elephant Butte Lake, Navajo Lake, Red Bluff Reservoir, Santa Rosa Lake, Sumner Lake and Ute Lake.

Whether anglers are seeking the thrill of catching trophy-sized largemouth bass, the tenacious fight of smallmouth bass, or the opportunity to land a rare spotted bass, New Mexico offers an array of bass fishing experiences. With its picturesque landscapes and diverse waterways, the state provides ample opportunities for anglers to pursue their passion and create lasting memories on the water.

Click the images and links above for species details.

Top 5 bass fishing lures for New Mexico this year

When bass are shallow, spinnerbaits, crankbaits and top water lures are the most productive. As they move deeper, worms and jigs are among the top producers.

New Mexico State Record Bass

The state record largemouth bass was caught from Bill Evans Lake.

The state record smallmouth bass came from Navajo Lake.

The state record spotted bass came out of Cochiti Lake.

Bass are one of the most sought after of all the game fish. Its appeal spans cultures, age groups and genders to tap on the heart strings of anglers everywhere. Join us in our endeavor to offer information about bass fishing on your favorite bass lake in New Mexico.

Understanding the primary seasonal movements of smallmouth bass and largemouth bass is key to locating them on local lakes in the Land of Enchantment.

Catch big bass!

Bass fishing information by state.

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