Fishing is one of the greatest attractions to Ruidoso. There are many locations in and around the Ruidoso area to choose from that will be sure to meet all of your fishing needs. Many of these locations are stocked throughout the year with catfish as well as several types of trout.
Alto Lake presents a spectacular scenic view. The lake is stocked with catfish throughout the year. Fishing is permitted from dawn to dusk year-round. A New Mexico fishing license is a requirement for those 12 years of age and older. In addition, Alto Lake is one of two fishing locations in and around Ruidoso which […]
Bonito Creek runs from the Bonito Lake Dam to Fort Stanton and Hondo. Fishing includes Rainbow and Brook Trout in the upper part of Bonito Creek. Please practice catch and release in this creek.
Bonito Lake is an alpine reservoir located high in the Sierra Blanca mountains northwest of Ruidoso, New Mexico. It is a popular fishing and camping destination, and although it is surrounded by the Lincoln National Forest, it is not a part of the national forest. It is currently owned by the city of Alamogordo, New […]
Carrizo Creek runs from Mescalero Lake Dam to Rio Ruidoso near the Chamber of Commerce. Fishing includes native brown trout. Please practice catch and release in this creek.
Eagle creek runs between Eagle Lake and past Alto Reservoir. Fishing includes some Brook and Rainbow trout.
The Eagle Lakes are located on the Mescalero reservation. They can be accessed from Highway 532, which is also referred to as Ski Run Road. The two lakes are stocked and open from late May through mid-September. Daily permits are a requirement in order to fish. The permits are available for purchase at the entrance. […]
Grindstone Reservoir is one of two lakes in the area that allow non-motorized boats for fishing. Fishing includes rainbow trout and occasionally catfish and smallmouth bass.
The Mescalero Lake is located on the Mescalero reservation at the Inn of the Mountain God’s Resort. The lake is stocked with fish and open daily. In order to fish or boat on this lake, it is a requirement that you purchase a daily fishing permit at the hotel’s front desk. They allow you to […]
The Ruidoso River runs from the Sacramento Mountains through Ruidoso and Ruidoso Downs into the Hondo River. The river is stocked year-round with Rainbow trout, and Brown trout can also be found here as well. In addition, there is a daily limit of three fish per license. A New Mexico fishing license is a requirement […]
Seeping Springs Trout Lake is a private lake four miles east of the Ruidoso Down racetrack. This location is stocked with trout. Especially relevant is this location is geared towards beginning anglers and young children. A fishing license is not a requirement. However, there is a price-per-inch fishing fee. The fee includes all necessary bait, […]
This area is beautifully shaded by large fruit trees, poplars, and cottonwoods. Several of the sites back the duck pond making them very appealing to kids. There are public rest rooms and showers in the office that are open during office hours. There is also plenty to do in the park, in town, and in […]
Silver Lake is located on the Mescalero reservation off of Highway 244. The lake is stocked with trout. This fishing location is open from May through September. A permit is a requirement. You can purchase a permit at the Silver Lake office.