PRIME WATERS
Fish populations have rebounded in southeastern NM, making it ideal for novice and seasoned anglers
Southeast New Mexico game warden and biologist Shawn Denny said white bass and catfish are plentiful at Brantley Lake State Park, between Carlsbad and Artesia. Denny said in spite of lower water levels in previous years, the fish population has “rebounded” over the past two years because of increased water levels from recent floods.
Anglers have been drawn to Brantley Lake — a strict catch-and-release area— because of that.
Avalon Lake, about 10 miles downstream from Brantley, offers the same species of fish, but its waters haven’t been as big a draw to fisherman.
Denny said fish populations fluctuate based on water levels and temperature in the Pecos River, which feeds both lakes.
Carlsbad has had a decent number of rainy days since the spring. And with increased water levels come increased numbers of fish.
Periodic stocking of the Pecos River with fish, including rainbow trout, is carried out by the New Mexico Department of Game and Fish.
But for the perfect catch of any species, there are certain methods and bait recommended by expert fishermen: jigs, spinnerbait, crawfish. Bait matters, 24-year-old Matthew Ramey said. Ramey first went fishing with his dad at a young age, and calls Brantley Lake and Sumner Lake his favorite spots to cast a line.
“I enjoy these two lakes the most because I grew up fishing, swimming and boating on them,” Ramey said. “They’re great places to start learning and get outdoors and relax as well.”
The Roswell native, who enjoys kayak fishing and has several tournament trophies, has plenty of advice for amateur fishermen.
“The first piece of advice I would give any angler is have a positive mental attitude when getting into it, because fishing doesn’t always reflect catching.”
Results aren’t always reflected in the number of fish caught. When you can end the day without losing a lure, snagging a line or losing a fish and still have fun, that’s progress, Ramey said.
Understanding how fish react to elements in their environment is one of the best ways to increase your chances of a “trophy” catch.
“Brantley and the Pecos have healthy population of white (and) black bass and catfish that make it a tough challenge because of their predatory behavior and a challenge at getting a fish to eat something that is not real,” Ramey said.
Ramey said he seeks black and white bass — and smallmouth bass in northern New Mexico waters — known for their aggressive behavior and fighting power.
Conservation efforts along the Pecos River and its reservoirs have also changed the landscape of fishing in the region.
“Brantley is great example of a resting period. When the mandatory catch-and-release was implemented, the populations of bass and catfish took off and has created an incredible fishery,” Ramey said.
In 1920, New Mexico built its first fish hatchery as a conservation effort. Now five hatcheries feed New Mexico waters, providing sport for fishermen and anglers statewide.
Along the Pecos River, which feeds Carlsbad Lake, Lower and Upper Tansill Lake and various other preferred fishing spots, restoration efforts are also underway to remove invasive species and promote a healthy ecosystem.