Fishing Charters in New Mexico
Browse fishing charters in New Mexico that can help you catch largemouth bass.
Salmón Salvaje
Santa Fe, New Mexico
Resolution Guide Services
LePlatt Lodge
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Taos Raft and Kayak Rentals LLC
Flatt out fishing
Fly fishing guide service and flies for the San Juan river.
Born N' Raised Guide Service on the San Juan River
Guiding the San Juan's anglers since 1986. The best way to learn the ropes of fly fishing on the San Juan. Each of our guides know the river like the back of their hand and are familiar with every fly fishers skill level.
ZiaFly Guide Service
Escape to the Southern Rockies with Zia Fly, your premier fly fishing guide. Private spots, expert guides, and tailored trips for all. Book now!"
Angler Management on the San Juan
Chris loves to teach, and offers fly fishing guide services for all skill levels, experts, beginners, women, men and children alike. Come out with Chris Gallegos and learn to fish the San Juan!
Ichthys Guide Service
Join us on updates and fishing reports, water levels and much more.
Elite Fly Fishing
Dave's fishing guide services Elephant butte lake
Land of Enchantment Fishing & Hunting Adventures
If you are looking a guided fishing trips in Elephant Butte our expert fishing guide can guarantee a satisfying experience for you and your family.
Best Time to Catch Largemouth Bass
Largemouth Bass can be caught year-round in Ruidoso Downs. Right now in February, activity is Fair.
Seasonal Activity Chart
Largemouth Bass
While Ruidoso Downs might be famous for its horse racing, the surrounding area offers some surprisingly good Largemouth Bass fishing. Grindstone Lake, just a short drive away, is a popular choice. This lake benefits from regular stocking, providing a consistent bass population. Spring and fall are generally the best times to target largemouth here, as the water temperatures are more favorable for active feeding. Try working the submerged timber and weed lines with Texas-rigged worms or crankbaits. A local tip is to pay attention to water clarity; if it's clear, switch to more natural-colored baits. The bass in Grindstone aren't generally huge, but you can reliably catch good numbers of fish in the 1-3 pound range. Early mornings and late evenings are your friend for escaping angling pressure and increasing your chances of success.
How to Catch Largemouth Bass
Detailed fishing techniques coming soon for Largemouth Bass in Ruidoso Downs.
Largemouth Bass Fishing Regulations in New Mexico
Open Season
Year-round
Daily Bag Limit
5 per day
Size Limit
12-inch minimum
License Required
Fishing license
Check specific water body regulations for exceptions to statewide rules.
⚠️ Always verify current regulations with the New Mexico state wildlife agency before fishing.
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the best time of year to fish for Largemouth Bass in the Ruidoso Downs area?
Spring and fall are generally considered the best times to target Largemouth Bass, as they are more active when water temperatures are moderate. Early morning and late evening can also be productive.
What is the Largemouth Bass limit and size restriction near Ruidoso Downs?
The bag limit for Largemouth Bass is 5 per day, and there is a minimum size limit of 12 inches. Any bass smaller than 12 inches must be released.
What are some good lures for Largemouth Bass in the Ruidoso Downs area?
Popular lure choices include plastic worms, crankbaits, spinnerbaits, and topwater lures. Experiment to see what the bass are hitting on that day.
Do I need a fishing license to fish for Largemouth Bass in New Mexico?
Yes, you need a valid New Mexico fishing license to fish for Largemouth Bass and other fish species in the state.
More Largemouth Bass Fishing in New Mexico
Other Species to Fish in Ruidoso Downs
Ready to Catch Largemouth Bass in Ruidoso Downs?
Book a trip with an expert guide who knows the best local spots and techniques.