This fishing report has been generated from the best information available from officers and anglers. Conditions encountered after the report is compiled may differ, however, as stream, lake and weather conditions alter fish and angler activities.

Cochas Lake

Fishing picked up this past week as anglers reported fair-to-good bass fishing for largemouth and smallmouth bass. Best baits were deep running crank baits, tubes and jigs. A few walleye were taken by anglers using bottom bouncer/night crawler rigs and crank baits. We had no reports on other species. Water surface temps over the weekend ranged from 45 to 49 degrees.

Ute Lake

Fishing picked up considerably this past week. Several limits of walleye were taken by anglers using bottom bouncer/night crawler rigs. A few walleye were also taken on spoons and deep running crank baits. Fishing for largemouth and smallmouth bass was good for anglers using tubes, jigs, grubs, deep running crank baits and spinner baits. Most of the bass were taken in less than 10 feet of water. The best reports came from anglers fishing up the Ute Creek arm. Fishing for white bass was fair for anglers using grubs, spoons and crank baits. We had no reports on other species. 

Catches of the week

Ute Lake: On March 12, Harold Westfall of Logan, caught a 6-pound, 8-ounce largemouth bass. He was using a 3-inch grub and fishing for white bass. 

Conchas Lake: On March 15, Rod Lambirth of Kenna, caught a 4-pound and a 4.5-pound smallmouth bass. He was using a Strike King shad trap in 8 to 10 feet of water. 

If you have a catch of the week story, send it to us at fishforfun2@hotmail.com. Include date, location, type of fish, length and bait used to catch the fish.

This report was compiled by the New Mexico Department of Game and Fish.