The Conchas Lake Walleye Tournament draws anglers every spring to compete for walleye on one of New Mexico's most reliable walleye fisheries

The Conchas Lake Walleye Tournament is an annual spring event held on Conchas Lake, a 25-mile-long reservoir in northeastern New Mexico near the town of Conchas Dam. The tournament typically runs for two or three days in April or May, though the exact dates shift year to year. Anglers fish from dawn to dusk, competing individually or in teams to catch the heaviest walleye. The lake sits at about 4,100 feet elevation and holds a strong walleye population, making it one of the better walleye tournaments in the state.

The event is organized by the New Mexico Department of Game and Fish in partnership with local fishing clubs and the Conchas Lake Marina. Entry fees vary but typically range from $50 to $100 per angler, with a portion of proceeds going toward walleye stocking and lake management. Winners are announced based on total weight of their catch, with separate categories for individuals and teams. The tournament is open to anyone with a valid New Mexico fishing license.

Key Takeaways

  • The tournament runs for two to three days in spring (usually April or May) on Conchas Lake, a 25-mile reservoir in northeastern New Mexico.
  • Entry fees are typically $50 to $100 per angler, and you must have a current New Mexico fishing license to compete.
  • Walleye are most active at dawn and dusk, so plan to fish early morning and evening hours for the best chance at a heavy catch.
  • The Conchas Lake Marina provides boat rentals, fuel, and tackle supplies, and is the main staging area for the tournament.
  • Check the New Mexico Department of Game and Fish website or call the Conchas Lake Marina for exact dates, registration details, and current lake conditions before you go.

When the tournament happens and how to enter

The Conchas Lake Walleye Tournament is held once each year, typically in late April or early May when water temperatures warm and walleye move into shallower feeding zones. The exact dates are announced by the New Mexico Department of Game and Fish several months in advance, usually by January or February. You can find the current year's dates on the department's website or by calling the Conchas Lake Marina directly.

To enter, you need a valid New Mexico fishing license (resident or non-resident) and must register before the tournament begins. Registration usually happens the day before the tournament starts at the Conchas Lake Marina, though some years allow pre-registration online. Bring your license and entry fee in cash or check—call ahead to confirm what payment methods the organizers accept. Teams can range from two to four anglers per boat, and individual anglers can fish alone or pair up with another competitor.

What walleye fishing looks like on Conchas Lake

Conchas Lake is a long, narrow reservoir with rocky points, drop-offs, and shallow flats—all prime walleye habitat. The lake runs roughly north to south and is deepest in the middle, with depths reaching 90 feet in some spots. Walleye here feed most actively at dawn and dusk, so tournament competitors typically fish hard from first light until about 9 a.m., then again from late afternoon through dark. Midday fishing can be productive on cloudy days or in deeper water, but most anglers focus their effort on the low-light hours.

Live bait (shiners, shad, or crawfish) and jigs tipped with minnows are the most reliable methods. Casting crankbaits and spinners along rocky shorelines and points also produces walleye, especially in spring when they're moving shallow. The lake's rocky bottom means you'll lose some tackle to snags, so bring extra jigs and lures. Water temperature in late April and May typically ranges from 55 to 65 degrees Fahrenheit, which is ideal for walleye activity.

Boats, lodging, and what to bring

The Conchas Lake Marina rents boats by the day or half-day, with options ranging from small aluminum boats to larger cabin cruisers. Rental rates vary but typically start around $100 to $150 per day for a basic boat with motor. You can also launch your own boat at the marina's public ramp for a small fee (usually $5 to $10). Fuel is available at the marina, and it's a good idea to fill up before you head out, since the lake is large and fuel prices can be higher than in town.

Lodging options near Conchas Lake include the Conchas Lake Resort (which has cabins and RV sites), several private campgrounds, and motels in the nearby town of Tucumcari, about 40 miles away. Many tournament anglers camp at or near the lake to be ready for early morning fishing. Bring layers—spring weather in northeastern New Mexico can be cool in the morning and warm by afternoon, and wind can pick up quickly on the water. Pack sunscreen, a hat, polarized sunglasses, and rain gear. Bring plenty of water and snacks; there are no concessions on the water.

Rules, catch limits, and what happens to your fish

New Mexico's standard walleye regulations apply during the tournament: a daily limit of four walleye per angler, with a 15-inch minimum length. All fish must be kept alive in a livewell or cooler with water until weigh-in. The tournament typically has a single weigh-in period at the end of each day (usually around 4 or 5 p.m.), held at the marina. Bring your fish in a cooler or livewell, and tournament officials will measure and weigh them on the spot.

After weigh-in, most tournaments return the fish to the lake alive if they are in good condition. Some anglers keep their catch to eat, which is legal—walleye from Conchas Lake are considered safe to eat in normal amounts. Ask the tournament organizers about their specific catch-and-release or keep policy before the event. Cheating (culling fish, adding weight, or misreporting catch) results in disqualification and possible bans from future tournaments.

Getting there and what the lake looks like

Conchas Lake is located about 60 miles northeast of Tucumcari, New Mexico, in San Miguel County. From Tucumcari, take US-54 north toward the town of Conchas Dam, then follow signs to the lake. The drive from Tucumcari takes roughly 90 minutes. From Albuquerque, the drive is about 3.5 to 4 hours via I-40 east and US-54 north. The lake sits in high desert country with sparse vegetation, so there's little shade on the water—sun protection is essential.

The lake is surrounded by public land managed by the New Mexico Department of Game and Fish, so you can fish from shore at several access points if you don't have a boat. However, tournament competitors almost always fish from boats to cover more water and reach deeper structure. The lake can be windy, especially in spring, so check the forecast before you go and be prepared for rough water conditions.

Preparing your gear and tackle

Before the tournament, make sure your boat is in good working order: check the motor, battery, bilge pump, and navigation lights. Bring a spare propeller and basic tools. Your fishing rod and reel should be in good condition—walleye have soft mouths, so a smooth drag and sharp hooks are important. Medium-action spinning rods (6 to 6.5 feet) paired with 6- to 8-pound-test line work well for walleye on Conchas Lake.

Stock your tackle box with a mix of jigs (1/8 to 1/2 ounce), crankbaits in natural colors (shad, perch, crawfish patterns), and spinners. Bring extra hooks, swivels, and line. If you plan to use live bait, arrange to pick up shiners or shad from a local bait shop in Tucumcari the day before the tournament—don't count on finding bait at the lake. A good livewell or aerator is essential for keeping bait and caught fish alive. Bring a net, stringer, and cooler with ice for your catch.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need my own boat to fish the tournament?

No. You can rent a boat from the Conchas Lake Marina by the day, or you can fish from shore at public access points around the lake. However, most tournament competitors use boats because they can reach deeper water and cover more ground during the competition.

What if I've never fished for walleye before?

Walleye respond well to live bait and jigs, which are beginner-friendly methods. Fish early morning and late evening, stay near rocky points and drop-offs, and keep your bait moving slowly. Talk to other anglers at the marina—most are happy to share tips, and local knowledge about where fish are biting can make a big difference.

Can I fish the tournament if I'm visiting from out of state?

Yes. You'll need a non-resident New Mexico fishing license, which you can purchase online from the New Mexico Department of Game and Fish or at the marina. A three-day license is usually the best value for a tournament trip.

What's the water temperature like in April and May?

Water temperature typically ranges from 55 to 65 degrees Fahrenheit during the tournament season. Walleye are very active in this range. Wear a wetsuit or water-resistant jacket if you're sensitive to cold, and bring layers for the air temperature, which can vary 30 degrees between morning and afternoon.

Where can I find out the exact tournament dates for this year?

Contact the New Mexico Department of Game and Fish or call the Conchas Lake Marina directly. Dates are usually announced by January or February for the spring tournament. You can also check the department's website for a calendar of fishing events across the state.