New Mexico · Fishing
Fishing in Roswell, New Mexico
Roswell sits in the Pecos Valley at roughly 3,570 feet elevation, and while it's better known for extraterrestrial tourism, the fishing around town is quietly solid for anglers who know where to look.
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View on mapFishing · 10 spots
Roswell sits in the Pecos Valley at roughly 3,570 feet elevation, and while it's better known for extraterrestrial tourism, the fishing around town is quietly solid for anglers who know where to look. The options here are almost entirely still-water: a collection of lakes, reservoirs, tanks, and one creek stretch that together give you ten distinct spots to work. Bitter Lake, part of the Bitter Lake National Wildlife Refuge, draws attention for its unique high-desert wetland setting. Sand Lake, Curlew Lake, Wire Lake, and Adobe Lake round out the refuge-area waters. Away from the refuge, Coyote Reservoir, Johnson Lake, Joes Tank, and Broke Tank Lake offer more accessible alternatives, while Berrendo Creek provides the only moving-water option in the group. Species vary by water body, so it's worth checking current New Mexico Game and Fish stocking reports before you commit to a specific spot. Most of these waters are relatively small and fish well from the bank, making them approachable for beginners and a low-gear-haul option for experienced anglers who don't want to trailer a boat. Crowds are rarely an issue outside of stocked-fish weekends in spring and fall.
Frequently asked questions
What kinds of fish can I expect to catch around Roswell?
The lakes and tanks in the Roswell area are primarily warm-water fisheries, with largemouth bass, channel catfish, and sunfish species being the most common targets. Some of the smaller impoundments like Joes Tank and Broke Tank Lake are periodically stocked by New Mexico Game and Fish, so checking their online stocking report before your trip will tell you whether trout have been added recently, which happens mainly in cooler months.
Do I need a fishing license, and are there any special regulations for Bitter Lake or the refuge waters?
Yes, a valid New Mexico fishing license is required for all anglers 12 and older at every water on this list. The Bitter Lake National Wildlife Refuge waters, including Bitter Lake, Curlew Lake, and the other refuge impoundments, have their own access rules and may have seasonal closures tied to wildlife management. Contact the refuge directly or check the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service site for current access dates and any gear restrictions before you go.
What is the best time of year to fish around Roswell?
Spring and fall are the most productive seasons. Water temperatures in the high desert cool enough in fall to trigger feeding activity, and stocking programs typically run from October through March for put-and-take trout fisheries. Summer fishing is possible but the midday heat at 3,570 feet can push fish deep and make bank fishing uncomfortable; early morning and evening are your best windows if you're going in July or August.
Can I fish from the bank, or do I need a boat?
Bank fishing works at most of these spots. The smaller impoundments like Joes Tank, Broke Tank Lake, Adobe Lake, and Wire Lake are compact enough that you can cover the productive water on foot. Coyote Reservoir and Johnson Lake have more shoreline to cover, but neither requires a boat to fish effectively. A kayak or small inflatable can help you reach mid-lake structure, but it's not necessary.
Is Berrendo Creek worth fishing compared to the lakes?
Berrendo Creek is the only moving-water option in this group and fishes differently from the still-water spots. It's a low-gradient desert creek, so don't expect fast runs or deep pools. It can hold catfish and sunfish in the right conditions, but water levels fluctuate significantly depending on season and upstream conditions. If you're making a dedicated trip, the lakes are more reliable; Berrendo Creek is worth a look if you're already in the area and want to mix it up.
