Fishing and Hunting Information

FISHING: For the avid angler, local streams and lakes are stocked at different times of the year with rainbow trout.

A variety of fishing opportunities exists in the beautiful Ruidoso area. State and Federal fishing waters include Alto Lake, Bonito Lake, Carrizo Creek, Eagle Creek, Grindstone Lake, Rio Ruidoso, and Tularosa Creek.

The Mescalero Reservation Fishing Waters include Mescalero Lake, Eagle Lake, Rio Ruidoso, and Silver Lake. Permits are available at these locations.

For more information on fishing regulations and licenses, visit Western Auto at 400 Mechem in Ruidoso, or Bonito Hollow RV Park located at the turnoff to Bonito Lake. Some of our favorite fishing holes include:

Seeping Springs Trout Lakes: No license is required for the whole family to enjoy fishing at Seeping Springs. Located just 4 miles east of the Racetrack. Poles & bait are furnished. Campgrounds and paddle boats are available. Open year ‘round. Call 575-378-4216.

Bonito Lake: This gorgeous lake is located north of Ruidoso off of Highway 37. It features great fishing, camping and hiking. See the Ruidoso map on page 36 for directions.

Grindstone Lake: Fishing is great at Grindstone Lake. The state annually stocks this lake with trout. Located just minutes from midtown Ruidoso, Grindstone Lake is open year round for Fishing and Boating. Non Motorized boats ONLY, are allowed from April 1 – October 31 with a boat permit. Maximum length of boat is 16 ft. HOURS FOR FISHING: From Boats: Sunrise to Sunset. From Shore: Sunrise – 10:00pm. Boat permits may be purchased at the Parks & Recreation Office at 801 Resort Dr., Monday- Friday (8am –5pm). Permits are $35/season, $10/3 consecutive days or $5.00 for one day. For weekend purchases please call 257-5030 to make arrangements to purchase your permit. Permits are also for sale at the Public Swimming Pool (at Schoolhouse Park) during the summer. A New Mexico Fishing License is required to fish at Grindstone Lake, as well as, all NM fishing and boating regulations are to be followed.

HUNTING: The Lincoln National Forest which surrounds Ruidoso offers more than one million acres of enjoyment. Big game hunting opportunities abound. Deer, elk, bear and turkey are the most sought after game. A New Mexico State game license/wildlife stamp is required. Hunting seasons vary with type of game, fowl and weapon (ie. bow, muzzle loader, etc.). Licenses can be purchased locally at Walmart and Western Auto.

For guided hunts:

ELITE OUTFITTERS: Offers backcountry trail rides and pack-in camping opportunities in the White Mountain Wilderness. Also, world-class big-game hunting for elk, mule deer & antelope in the White Mountain Wilderness & surrounding private land. For more information call 575-354-1299.

S-S OUTFITTERS:  Looking for the hunting experience of a lifetime? Join S-S Outfitters, a small family-run company. This is our family's walk in life and we would like to share our lifetime of experience in hunting, fishing or just provide you with a family vacation. For more information call 575-653-4249.

Mescalero Apache Reservation offers Mescalero Big Game Hunts. For more information call 575-464-9770 or 575-464-7448.

At Pancho Peaks Ranch, just 45 minutes from Ruidoso, 11,000 acres of controlled hunting is offered. Call 575-653-4575 or 575-748-3666.