Largemouth Bass

While not necessarily a trophy bass destination, the waterways around Las Cruces, New Mexico, offer some surprisingly good largemouth bass fishing. The Rio Grande River and nearby reservoirs like Elephant Butte and Caballo Lake (a bit of a drive, but worth it) hold populations of largemouth. Spring and fall are prime times, as the bass are more active during these cooler periods. Look for bass near submerged structure, weed beds, and rocky points. Plastic worms, crankbaits, and spinnerbaits are all effective lures. For the Rio Grande itself, focus on areas with slower currents and cover. Be aware that water levels in the Rio Grande can fluctuate, so check conditions before heading out. A practical tip: many anglers find success fishing early in the morning or late in the evening, when the bass are more likely to be feeding. The largemouth bass in this region tend to be opportunistic feeders, so experiment with different presentations to see what works best on any given day.