Serving Clovis, Portales and the Surrounding Communities
Serving Clovis, Portales and the Surrounding Communities
• Location: In Newkirk N.M., which is 34 miles northwest of Tucumcari via N.M. 104. It is a 116-mile drive from Clovis and 125 miles from Portales.
• What do they offer: They have boating, fishing, water-skiing, RV camping, and golf course close by. Anglers can fish for channel catfish, bluegill, largemouth bass, bullhead, croppy, white bass and sunfish year round. They have a restaurant and bar inside the park, but it is not run by the park staff.
• When is the best time to go fishing? The reviews are mixed from anglers about when is the best time to go fishing, either early in the morning or in the evening.
• What is the record for fish caught at the lake? Right now, no current records for fish caught at the lake other than the survey New Mexico Department of Game and Fish does before they stock the lake. They have caught channel catfish weighing 25 pounds and walleye about 14 pounds.
• Where is the best places to catch fish: For channel cat the best place to fish in near Big Island at the northern top of the lake where the Canadian River flows into the lake. Usually walleye swim near Spring Canyon on the lake. Large and small bass are near the south part of the lake around Rattlesnake Island. Also, white bass have been known to be around that area.
• Park fees: Per vehicle $5, Bicycle, walk-in free, bus is $15.
• Camping fees: Primitive site $8; Developed site $10; Water and electrical hook-up $14.
• Where can you get a fishing license: At the gas station in the park.
• Information: 686-2270 or go to www.nmparks.com
