What You'll Find at Kettle Top

Kettle Top Reservoir is a small, high-elevation impoundment in the Gila National Forest near Silver City, New Mexico. The lake sits at roughly 7,500 feet and holds walleye and northern pike as its primary gamefish, with some rainbow trout. It's a backcountry destination — not a developed recreation area with boat ramps and facilities — so access requires a hike or four-wheel-drive road, and the fishing pressure stays light year-round.

The reservoir is narrow and rocky, with steep banks in places and shallow, weedy coves in others. Water clarity varies by season; spring runoff can cloud it, while late summer and fall often bring clearer conditions. The setting is ponderosa pine and mixed conifer forest, and the weather can shift quickly at that elevation. Most anglers fish here in summer and early fall when the high country is accessible and temperatures are reasonable.

Key Takeaways

  • Kettle Top holds walleye and northern pike, with walleye being the more consistent target and pike offering occasional larger fish.
  • Access is by foot or high-clearance vehicle on forest roads; there are no developed facilities, boat ramps, or maintained parking areas.
  • The best fishing typically runs from June through October, when snow has cleared and the road is passable.
  • New Mexico fishing licenses and regulations apply; check current rules for species-specific bag limits and seasonal closures before you go.
  • Bring your own water, food, and emergency gear — the nearest services are in Silver City, roughly 30 miles away.

How to Reach Kettle Top

Kettle Top lies in the Gila National Forest northwest of Silver City. The most common route starts from Silver City: head north on US 180 toward Glenwood, then turn onto Forest Road 141 (also called the Mogollon Road). This is a rough, narrow forest road that climbs into the high country. The drive takes roughly 45 minutes to an hour from Silver City, depending on road conditions and your vehicle.

The road can be muddy or rutted after rain and may be impassable in winter or during heavy snow. High-clearance vehicles are strongly recommended; standard sedans risk damage. Once you reach the reservoir area, parking is informal — pull off the road where you can. From there, you may hike a short distance to the water, or you may be able to drive closer depending on current road conditions and Forest Service maintenance.

Before heading out, check with the Gila National Forest office in Silver City or call ahead to confirm the road is open. Winter closures are common, and summer monsoons can wash out sections. There is no cell service in this area, so plan your trip and let someone know where you're going.

Walleye and Pike Fishing

Walleye are the bread-and-butter fish at Kettle Top. They respond well to live bait — shiners, small minnows, or crawfish — fished on the bottom in deeper water. Early morning and evening are prime times, especially in summer when the sun is intense. Jigging with small spoons or soft plastics also works, particularly in spring and fall. Walleye here tend to run small to medium, with fish in the 12- to 16-inch range common and occasional fish pushing 18 inches or better.

Northern pike are present but less predictable. They prefer weedier areas and shallower structure, and they'll hit larger lures — spinnerbaits, crankbaits, and swimbaits — more readily than walleye. Pike fishing can be slow, but when it turns on, the fish can be substantial. The pike population appears to fluctuate, so some seasons are better than others. Ask locally in Silver City if you're targeting pike specifically; anglers who fish regularly will know the current bite.

Rainbow trout are stocked periodically and provide a secondary option, especially in spring. They respond to small spinners, flies, and PowerBait. Trout fishing is usually best in the first few weeks after stocking and in early morning.

Seasons and Weather

Summer (June through August) is the most popular season. Days are warm, nights cool, and the road is usually passable. Afternoon thunderstorms are common in July and August — they can be intense and dangerous at elevation, so plan to be off the water by mid-afternoon. Early morning fishing is not only more productive but safer.

Fall (September and October) often brings the clearest water and most stable weather. Temperatures drop, but days remain pleasant. The road is still open, and fishing can be excellent. By late October, snow becomes possible, and the road may close.

Spring (April and May) can be muddy and unpredictable. Runoff clouds the water, and the road may be impassable. Winter (November through March) typically closes the road entirely due to snow.

What to Bring and What to Know

Pack more than you think you'll need. There are no services at Kettle Top — no water, no food, no restrooms, no ranger station. Bring at least two liters of water per person, all your food, and a first-aid kit. A headlamp or flashlight is essential if you plan to fish early or late. Sunscreen and insect repellent are worth their weight.

Weather can change fast at 7,500 feet. Bring a rain jacket and a fleece or warm layer even in summer. The sun is intense at elevation, and reflection off the water adds to the burn risk. A hat is not optional.

You'll need a current New Mexico fishing license. Licenses are available online through the New Mexico Department of Game and Fish website, at sporting goods stores in Silver City, or by phone. Check the current regulations for walleye and pike bag limits, which can vary by year. Some years there are seasonal closures or special restrictions — the regulations change, so verify before you go.

Fishing Regulations and Licensing

New Mexico requires a valid fishing license for anyone 12 and older. A one-day license is available, as are annual resident and non-resident licenses. The cost varies; check the Game and Fish website for current pricing.

Bag limits and size restrictions for walleye and pike are set annually and can change. As of recent years, walleye often have a bag limit of 10 fish with no size restriction, but this varies. Pike limits are typically lower. Trout regulations also vary by water and season. The only reliable source is the current New Mexico Fishing Rules and Information guide, published each year by the Department of Game and Fish.

Some waters have special restrictions — catch-and-release only, slot limits, or seasonal closures. Kettle Top has not historically had special restrictions, but it's worth confirming with the Gila National Forest office or the Game and Fish before you fish.

Nearby Alternatives and Resources

If Kettle Top is closed or you want other options, the Gila National Forest has several other small reservoirs and streams. Mogollon Creek, which runs near the Mogollon Road, holds trout and is accessible by foot. Lake Roberts, a larger developed reservoir south of Silver City, has boat ramps, facilities, and easier access — it holds walleye, pike, and trout.

The Gila National Forest office in Silver City is your best resource for current road conditions, fire restrictions, and fishing information. They can tell you which waters are open, which roads are passable, and whether any closures are in effect. The New Mexico Department of Game and Fish website has current regulations, license information, and stocking reports.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I launch a boat at Kettle Top?

No. There is no boat ramp, and the road access is rough and informal. Kettle Top is a shore-fishing destination. If you want to fish from a boat in the area, Lake Roberts, south of Silver City, has a developed ramp and is easier to reach.

What's the best time of year to fish Kettle Top?

September and October typically offer the clearest water, most stable weather, and good fishing for both walleye and pike. June through August is also productive but warmer and prone to afternoon storms. Spring runoff clouds the water, and winter snow usually closes the road.

Do I need a four-wheel-drive vehicle?

High-clearance is strongly recommended. The Mogollon Road is rough and narrow, with ruts and rocks. A standard sedan risks damage. After rain, the road can be impassable even for high-clearance vehicles. Call the Gila National Forest office to check conditions before you go.

Is there cell service at Kettle Top?

No. Plan your trip, tell someone where you're going, and bring a map or GPS device. Emergencies require a long hike or drive to reach help, so be prepared to self-rescue or wait for a scheduled check-in.

What size fish can I expect?

Walleye typically run 12 to 16 inches, with occasional fish to 18 inches or slightly larger. Pike are less predictable but can be substantial when they bite. Trout are usually 10 to 14 inches. The population fluctuates, so current size and numbers vary by year.