Serving Clovis, Portales and the Surrounding Communities
Serving Clovis, Portales and the Surrounding Communities
Places to throw a line and fish might not seem common in eastern New Mexico, but there is fishing to be had in the region.
Fishing options range from Clovis’ lakes to the large Ute and Conchas reservoirs to our north.
Clovis City Manager Justin Howalt said fishing oversight of Ned Houk Park, Greene Acres and Dennis Chavez lakes is handled by the New Mexico Department of Game & Fish (NMGF).
Shawn Denny, NMGF Warmwater Fisheries Supervisor, confirmed the Clovis lakes are stocked by the department.
“Rainbow trout are produced at four different department owned hatcheries. We get catfish from private producers in Arkansas and distribute them to approximately 30 waters around the state,” Denny said.
Surprisingly, there is no direct cost to the city for fish, according to Denny.
“The city does provide all the facilities and maintenance on the lakes,” he said.
As for fishing in Portales, Denny says the closest fishing spot to Portales is Oasis Lake State Park in Roosevelt County. It’s on the same stocking programs as the Clovis lakes. In Clovis, rules other than fishing are enforced by Clovis Police.
Fishing rules aren’t enforced by Clovis or Roosevelt County at area lakes.
“All waters are subject to NMGF rules and regulations. Rules are typically enforced by the department’s conservation officers,” Denny said.
A fishing license is required for all anglers 12 and older. They are free for New Mexico resident anglers over 70, according to Denny. Licenses are $25 for state residents, $56 for non-residents.
