Carp

If you're looking for a carp challenge in eastern New Mexico, Melrose offers some interesting, albeit less-known, opportunities. The region's network of irrigation canals and small reservoirs, often overlooked, can hold surprisingly large carp. Spring and early summer, when the canals are flowing and the carp are actively spawning, are prime times. Corn and dough baits are standard fare, but experiment with locally sourced ingredients like prickly pear fruit for a unique twist. Access can be tricky; many canals are on private land, so be sure to get permission. The carp here tend to be wary, likely due to fishing pressure, so stealth is key. Try pre-baiting a few spots for a couple of days before you fish to increase your chances of success. Expect hard-fighting fish in the 5-15 pound range, with the potential for larger specimens.