Best Places To Fish In Ruidoso

From pristine high-mountain lakes and streams to sparkling reservoirs and meandering rivers and a year-round season for most waters, discover the best places to cast a line in Ruidoso, New Mexico.

One of the nicest things about fishing in Ruidoso, New Mexico is the year-round season for most waters.

Grindstone Lake:

Only minutes from Ruidoso, Grindstone Lake is a favorite destination for anglers flocking to the mountains to trout fish. The lake is regularly stocked with rainbow trout and on occasion, catfish and smallmouth bass.

The Dam House at Grindstone Lake rents kayaks, canoes, and stand-up paddle boards. You can also get your New Mexico fish and game license as well as all your fish, tackle, and live bait needs.

Alto Lake:

The lake is regularly stocked with rainbow trout and, on occasion, catfish and smallmouth bass. Anglers love Alto Lake due to the fact that it is one of two public waters in the area, along with Grindstone Lake, in which you can put a non-motorized boat.

Rio Ruidoso:

Fishermen will find a variety of fish, including rainbow trout and others, here. Whether you’re spinning, bait-casting, or fly fishing, your chances of getting a bite here are good. So grab your favorite fly fishing rod and reel, and head out to Rio Ruidoso.

Seeping Springs Trout Lakes:

Seeping Springs Trout Lakes is the place to go where you are guaranteed to catch at least one trout, or your visit is free.

Inn Of The Mountain Gods Resort & Casino:

Inn of the Mountain Gods Resort & Casino sits on the shores of beautiful Lake Mescalero. Stocked with nearly 20,000 trout annually, the lake provides guests of the Inn with a unique dawn ’till dusk, New Mexico fishing experience. Fishing is open year round to everyone.

Carrizo Creek:

This creek runs from the Mescalero Lake dam into the Rio Ruidoso near the Chamber of Commerce building. Carrizo Creek is Ruidoso’s hatchery and nursery for Brown Trout. If you pursue fishing this tributary, please use barbless hooks and handle all fish caught with extreme care while practicing catch and release.

Please note a valid New Mexico Fishing License is required for persons 12 years and older, with the exception of tribal lands and private Class-A lakes.

Learn more about New Mexico fishing license requirements & fees and lake use regulations.