El Paso, Texas, might not be the first place that comes to mind when thinking of fishing, but there are still some good spots in and around the area where anglers can enjoy fishing. Here are some of the best places to fish near El Paso:

1. Ascarate Lake

• Location: Within El Paso city limits, in Ascarate Park.
• Species: Largemouth bass, channel catfish, rainbow trout (seasonal), and sunfish.
• Description: Ascarate Lake is a popular urban fishing spot located in Ascarate Park. The lake is stocked regularly with catfish and, during the winter months, with rainbow trout by the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department. It’s a great spot for family-friendly fishing, with ample shore access, picnic areas, and playgrounds.

2. Rio Grande River

• Location: Runs along the U.S.-Mexico border, accessible from various points in El Paso.
• Species: Catfish, bass, and sunfish.
• Description: The Rio Grande River provides a unique fishing experience right in the heart of El Paso. While the flow of the river can be variable depending on the season and water releases from upstream dams, anglers can find catfish, bass, and other species in certain stretches of the river. Look for deeper pools or slower-moving sections of the river for the best fishing spots.

3. Elephant Butte Lake

• Location: About 120 miles north of El Paso, in New Mexico.
• Species: Largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, striped bass, catfish, crappie, and walleye.
• Description: Although a bit of a drive from El Paso, Elephant Butte Lake in New Mexico is one of the largest reservoirs in the region and offers excellent fishing opportunities. The lake is known for its variety of bass species, as well as catfish and crappie. It’s a great spot for boat fishing, with plenty of coves, points, and submerged structures to explore.

4. Caballo Lake

• Location: About 110 miles north of El Paso, near Elephant Butte Lake in New Mexico.
• Species: Largemouth bass, white bass, catfish, and walleye.
• Description: Caballo Lake is another great fishing destination located just downstream from Elephant Butte Lake. It’s less crowded than its larger neighbor and offers good fishing for bass, catfish, and walleye. The lake is accessible for both shore and boat fishing.

5. Percha Dam State Park

• Location: Near Caballo Lake, about 110 miles north of El Paso in New Mexico.
• Species: Catfish, bass, walleye, and sunfish.
• Description: Percha Dam State Park is located along the Rio Grande River, just downstream from Caballo Lake. This spot is known for its catfish and bass fishing, and it’s a quiet, less crowded alternative to larger lakes. The park provides easy access to the river for shore fishing.

6. McKelligon Canyon

• Location: Northeast El Paso, in the Franklin Mountains State Park.
• Species: Trout (seasonal).
• Description: McKelligon Canyon is primarily known for its scenic beauty and hiking trails, but it’s also stocked with rainbow trout during the winter months as part of Texas Parks and Wildlife’s stocking program. This small, seasonal fishery offers a unique opportunity to catch trout in a mountainous desert environment.

7. Lake Balmorhea

• Location: About 200 miles east of El Paso, near Balmorhea State Park.
• Species: Largemouth bass, catfish, and sunfish.
• Description: Although a bit farther away, Lake Balmorhea offers a peaceful fishing experience in West Texas. The lake is stocked with bass and catfish, and it’s a good spot for anglers looking to escape the city and enjoy some quiet time on the water.

8. Hueco Tanks State Park

• Location: About 30 miles east of El Paso.
• Species: N/A (Note: Hueco Tanks is primarily a historical and natural site and not a fishing destination).
• Description: While Hueco Tanks is a popular spot for rock climbing, hiking, and exploring ancient rock art, it’s not a fishing destination. However, it’s a great place to visit if you’re interested in other outdoor activities.

These spots provide a range of fishing experiences, from urban lakes within El Paso to larger reservoirs in nearby New Mexico. Whether you’re looking for a quick fishing trip or a weekend getaway, there are options within a reasonable distance from El Paso.

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Get Out and Fish El Paso, Texas