Howdy, y’all! Let me tell ya ’bout fly fishin’ in New Mexico – it’s a real treat for us Texans lookin’ to wet a line in some mighty fine waters.
Best Times to Visit
Now, ‘fore we get into the nitty-gritty, let’s talk timing. New Mexico’s got some darn good fishin’ year-round, but spring and fall are when things really heat up – or should I say cool down?Spring (March-May): This here’s prime time, folks. The snow’s meltin’, the bugs are hatchin’, and them trout are hungry after a long winter. You’ll see some mighty fine Blue-Winged Olive and Caddis hatches.Summer (June-August): It can get hotter’n a jalapeno out there, but don’t let that scare ya off. Head to the high country where the water’s cool and the fish are bitin’. Terrestrials like hoppers and ants are your best bet.Fall (September-November): Fall in New Mexico is prettier than a speckled pup. The aspens turn gold, the crowds thin out, and the brown trout get ornery ‘fore they spawn. Streamers and big nymphs are the ticket.Winter (December-February): Now, it ain’t for the faint of heart, but winter fishin’ can be downright productive if you know where to look. Tailwaters like the San Juan stay open and fish well all winter long.
Rivers Worth Your While
Alright, let’s mosey on down to some of the best rivers New Mexico’s got to offer:
San Juan River
The San Juan’s the crown jewel of New Mexico fly fishin’. This tailwater below Navajo Dam is chock-full of big rainbows and browns. We’re talkin’ 15,000 fish per mile, with plenty in the 16-20 inch range. The “Quality Waters” section is catch-and-release only, so bring your camera.Best time to fish: Year-round, but spring and fall are particularly good.Nearest town: Farmington
Rio Grande
The mighty Rio Grande ain’t just for crossin’ into Mexico, y’all. It’s got some fantastic fly fishin’, especially in the upper reaches. The section near Taos is known as the “Taos Box” and it’s wilder than a buckin’ bronco. You’ll find browns, rainbows, and even some native cutthroats if you’re lucky.Best time to fish: Late summer and early fall when the water levels drop.Nearest town: Taos
Pecos River
The Pecos is a real gem, especially if you like your fishin’ with a side of scenery. It starts up in the Sangre de Cristo Mountains and winds its way through some right pretty country. You’ll find rainbows, browns, and even some native Rio Grande cutthroat trout in the upper reaches.Best time to fish: Late spring through early fall.Nearest town: Pecos
Cimarron River
Now, the Cimarron might not be as famous as some of the others, but don’t you go sleepin’ on it. This tailwater below Eagle Nest Lake is full of feisty browns and rainbows. The canyon section is as pretty as a picture and fishes well to boot.Best time to fish: Spring and fall, but summer evenings can be mighty fine too.Nearest town: Cimarron
Chama River
The Chama’s another tailwater that’ll treat you right. Below El Vado Dam, you’ll find some big ol’ browns and rainbows. The section below Abiquiu Dam is more wild and scenic, with smaller but feistier fish.Best time to fish: Spring and fall, but summer can be good if you fish early or late.Nearest town: Chama
Flies That’ll Get ‘Em Bitin’
Now, what to tie on the end of your line? Here’s a few patterns that’ll serve you well:
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Parachute Adams (sizes 14-18)
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Elk Hair Caddis (sizes 14-18)
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Pheasant Tail Nymph (sizes 16-20)
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Woolly Bugger (sizes 6-10)
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Hopper patterns (sizes 8-12) for summer
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Blue-Winged Olive (sizes 18-22)
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San Juan Worm (sizes 12-14)
Towns Worth Stayin’ In
Taos: This here’s a right artsy town with plenty of charm. It’s close to the Rio Grande and makes a good base for explorin’ the northern part of the state. The Taos Inn is dog-friendly and has more character than a barn full of cats.Santa Fe: The state capital’s got more culture than a yogurt factory. It’s a bit fancier than some folks might like, but it’s centrally located for hittin’ different waters. The El Rey Court allows pups and has that old-school motor lodge feel.Chama: If you’re lookin’ for somethin’ more low-key, Chama’s your ticket. It’s right on the Chama River and close to the Colorado border. The Chama River Bend Lodge is pet-friendly and right on the water.Farmington: This is your best bet if you’re fishin’ the San Juan. It ain’t the prettiest town, but it’s got everything you need. The Region Inn allows dogs and won’t break the bank.
A Few Words of Wisdom
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Check them regulations: New Mexico’s got some special regulations on certain waters, so make sure you’re up to snuff before you wet a line.
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Mind the weather: It can change faster than a cat on a hot tin roof out there. Layer up and bring rain gear, even if the sky’s clear as a bell.
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Respect private property: A lot of good water runs through private land. Always ask permission or stick to public access points.
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Watch your step: The rocks can be slipperier than a greased pig. Felt soles are banned in New Mexico to prevent the spread of invasive species, so invest in some good rubber-soled wading boots.
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Hire a guide: If you’re new to the area or just want to up your odds, a good guide is worth their weight in gold. They’ll know where the fish are bitin’ and what they’re bitin’ on.
Well, there you have it, folks – a Texas-sized guide to fly fishin’ in New Mexico. It may not be the Lone Star State, but I reckon it’s the next best thing. So grab your rod, load up the truck, and head on out. The fish are waitin’, and the livin’ is easy. Just remember to pinch them barbs, handle them fish gently, and leave the river better than you found it. Tight lines, y’all!