While many people consider New Mexico a dry and arid state, there are many places where you can fish for trout. Even if trout is one of the most elusive of all fish species to lure, one can still catch big trout here.
But where will you catch the biggest ones? Today, I will share the best trout fishing spots in New Mexico. I will also provide some information to help you decide if the place is right for you.
1. Ute Lake
Ute Lake is located in Logan. It is one of the longest lakes in the state, and the water comes from the Canadian River and Ute Creek. Once there, you will be amazed at the number of coves and inlets. Ute Lake is not just a top destination for trout but also some fish species.
Below are some examples:
- Walleye
- Bluegill
- Crappie
- Channel catfish
- Smallmouth bass
The beauty of this lake is that you can fish any day of the year. They even put up some paved ramps on some areas where you can launch your lines.
Ute Lake is also a premier destination for watersport enthusiasts. The lake covers 8,200 acres, and it has 45 miles of shoreline. The only thing that you should be concerned about is that there is a limitation as far as fishing from the bank is concerned.
2. Bluewater Lake
Located in Prewitt, this is a state park where you can find elusive species like the tiger muskie. But, of course, trout is one of the best catches in the area.
The most common trout here are:
- Rainbow trout
- Cutthroat trout
- Native trout
There are also many catfish. The beauty of the place is that you can reach it by car. There is no need to rent boats just to get to the sweet spots.
During the winter, you can also do ice fishing. Although there are no marinas in the area, there are paved ramps that can give you access to boats.
There are also many catfish. The beauty of the place is that you can reach it by car. There is no need to rent boats just to get to the sweet spots. During the winter, you can also do ice fishing. Although there are no marinas in the area, there are paved ramps that can give you access to boats.Bluewater lake has a massive stock of trout and catfish. Make sure you take the right lure to get the fish you want. With proper preparation and planning, you may surpass the heaviest trout caught here, which was nine pounds.
3. Conchas Lake
Located in Conchas Dam, the water here is breathtaking. The greenish blue water gives you a new view of what nature can look like.
People think of this lake as an excellent spot for walleye and smallmouth bass. However, you can also find trout in the lake. The body of water is 25 miles long.
Here are the other types of fish you can find here:
- Bass
- Crappie
- Bluegill
To make the best of your experience, I suggest you do night fishing. Just beware of shallow waters. You can access the two modern marinas and cast your line from there if you want. There is also a store nearby the marinas, in case you ever run out of bait.
Conchas Lake is an ideal place to fish any time of the year. The state park is open for fishing, with a lot of fish stock the government puts there.
The water is warm, and the lake covers 9,600 acres. The shoreline is about 60 miles, giving you massive coverage if you have the time. Shoreline fishing is also an excellent option.
In total, there are eight ramps where you can launch a boat. You can also rent canoes and kayaks in the area.
4. Pecos River
This river crosses the Sangre de Cristo Mountain Range. It is a long river which flows for 926 miles. The river eventually connects to the Rio Grande. Because of its size, the river is home to many species.
Here are some of the types of fish you can catch:
- Wild brown trout
- Rainbow trout
- Cutthroat trout
There is an area of access for the public, which is the Dalton-Day-Use area. Before you fish, it would be a good idea to stop by and buy the things you need. For example, you can drop by at the Tererro General Store. If you miss this, you will not find another store.
5. San Juan River
This river is world-famous because it is a fishery that is just below the Navajo Dam. Do not fish in June as the heat can be overbearing, especially if you wade.
The best thing to do is to get on a boat. I also suggest that you get a guide so as not to get lost. The guide will also take you to the spots where you can find trout.
As a world-renowned fishing spot, the area is accessible 365 days a year. Fly fishing is one of the best things you can do here. You can also enjoy a wide variety of brown and rainbow trout.
6. Upper Rio Grande River
The Upper Rio Grande River is just around the town of Taos. It is an excellent trout fishing spot in summer.
Please be aware that it is one of the busiest fishing spots in the state, especially for trout. The river is long, and there are some spots best for beginners, such as the Hondo and the Pueblo areas of the river.
Freshwater Trout Fishing Spots in New Mexico
For freshwater fishing, the best spots are:
- San Juan river
- Upper Rio Grande
- Pecos River
These spots have excellent community support for fly and trout fishing activities. They also provide a wide range of trout species.
Saltwater Trout Fishing Spots in New Mexico
Saltwater fishing is not a possibility in the state, as it is inland, sandwiched between Mexico and other states of the US. The closest to saltwater fishing you can do is if you go to the coasts of California or Mexico itself.
Summary
The best thing to do is to book a fishing tour from a qualified guide. There are many of them in New Mexico. Make sure you time your fishing trip during the summer. At that time, you also need a boat to keep your body above the water.