New Mexico - Elephant Butte Reservoir
Located in the desert near Truth or Consequences, 40-mile-long Elephant Butte has two personalities. Its northern reaches are relatively shallow, and its southern section is deep; the two are connected by a 4-mile stretch called the Narrows. Despite sparse vegetation, there is a fair amount of flooded timber, making ideal bass habitat. You'll find more largemouths in the north, and more smallmouths and stripers (40 pounds or bigger) in the deeper southern sections. rio grande Guide Service, 505-894-3454; bassbustersguideservice.com

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Guide's Tips
Species: Striped Bass
Guide: Frank Vilorio; stripersnewmexico.com; 800-580-8992
Rig Specifics: 7-foot, medium-heavy rod using shad for bait.
Quick Tip: Suspend your bait 10 feet off the bottom.
Where to Fish: The north side is great in spring and early summer. Later in the summer, the best fishing moves to the south side.

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Photos From Elephant Butte Reservoir