A Rural Texan’s Guide to Casting in the Land of Enchantment

Howdy, folks! Now, I may be a Texan through and through, but when it comes to chasing trout on the fly, there’s something magical about New Mexico that pulls me out of the Lone Star State. New Mexico may not be the first place that comes to mind when you think of world-class fly fishing, but this high-desert state is a hidden gem for anglers who love mountain streams, peaceful rivers, and a slower pace of life. So, saddle up, because I’m fixin’ to take you through some of the best fly fishing spots in New Mexico, along with the best times of year to cast a line, the charming little towns you’ll want to visit, and a few tips from a seasoned fly fisherman.

Why New Mexico for Fly Fishing?

Texas is a mighty fine place for a lot of things—barbecue, two-steppin’, and wide-open spaces. But when it comes to fly fishing for trout, our waters tend to run a little too warm. That’s where New Mexico comes in, with its crisp mountain air, cool streams, and an abundance of trout waiting to take your fly. Whether you’re chasing wild rainbows, browns, or the state’s native Rio Grande cutthroat, New Mexico offers some of the most peaceful and productive fly fishing in the Southwest. Plus, the scenery—towering pines, red rock cliffs, and snow-capped peaks—ain’t too bad either.

When to Go Fly Fishing in New Mexico

Let’s get this straight from the start: New Mexico ain’t a year-round fly fishing paradise like Montana or Colorado. Winter can be harsh in those high mountains, and unless you’re up for ice fishing or braving snow-fed rivers, you’ll want to plan your trip for spring, summer, or early fall.

• Spring (March-May): This is prime time for fly fishing in New Mexico. The snowmelt begins, swelling rivers and streams, and the trout are hungry after a long winter. Be ready for higher water levels, but the action can be great if you match the hatch. Stoneflies, caddis, and mayflies start popping off around this time.
• Summer (June-August): If you’re looking to escape the Texas heat, head to New Mexico in the summer. The rivers run clearer, and while it can get warm during the day, mornings and evenings offer some of the best fishing you’ll find. High-elevation streams are especially productive during these months, and dry fly fishing can be phenomenal. Hopper season is a blast, so don’t forget to bring along some big terrestrial patterns.
• Fall (September-November): For my money, fall is the best time to fish New Mexico. The crowds thin out, the aspens start to turn gold, and the trout are bulking up for winter. Cooler temperatures mean active fish, and you’ll find fewer anglers out on the water. It’s a great time for streamer fishing as the trout get more aggressive.
• Winter (December-February): Unless you’re hardcore or targeting tailwaters like the San Juan River, winter fly fishing in New Mexico can be tough. The fish slow down, and access to many streams is limited due to snow. However, if you’re up for a challenge, there’s something to be said for the solitude and serenity of casting in the snow.

The Best Fly Fishing Rivers and Streams in New Mexico

Now that we’ve got the when out of the way, let’s talk about the where. New Mexico is home to a variety of rivers, streams, and lakes, all offering something unique for fly fishers. Here are a few of my favorite spots:

1. The San Juan River

If you’re a fly fisherman, you’ve probably heard of the San Juan. It’s one of the most famous tailwaters in the world, and for good reason. Flowing out of Navajo Lake near the town of Farmington, the San Juan is known for its large population of trophy-sized trout. This river is a year-round fishery thanks to the cold water released from the dam, and it’s best fished with small midges and nymphs—size 22-26, if you can believe it. If you’ve got the patience for tiny flies, you can land fish over 20 inches regularly.

The “Quality Waters” section below the dam is a must-fish. It’s a catch-and-release area, and it stays busy, especially in the spring and fall. But the fishing is so good, it’s worth rubbing elbows with other anglers. If you want to avoid the crowds, head downstream to the lower sections, where the trout may be smaller, but you’ll have more water to yourself.

2. The Rio Grande

Stretching from Colorado down through New Mexico, the Rio Grande offers some excellent fly fishing opportunities. I like to fish the section near the Wild Rivers Recreation Area, where the river flows through the Rio Grande Gorge. This rugged canyon country is beautiful, and it’s home to wild brown trout and rainbows. The river can be a bit tricky to access, with steep hikes required to get down to the water, but the solitude and fishing are worth it.

Spring runoff can make the river tough to fish, but come late summer and fall, the water clears up and offers some great dry fly action. If you’re there in the fall, streamers can produce some monster browns. The little town of Taos is a good base for fishing the Rio Grande, and it’s a great place to grab a green chile cheeseburger after a day on the water.

3. The Pecos River

East of Santa Fe, the Pecos River is a scenic, mountain stream that’s popular with locals and out-of-towners alike. It’s stocked with rainbows, but you’ll also find wild brown trout in its waters. The Pecos is a great river for beginners, with easy access along State Highway 63 and lots of public land. But don’t let that fool you—it’s also a fantastic spot for experienced anglers who like fishing small dries and nymphs.

The best time to fish the Pecos is from May through September, but late spring and early summer are when the river really shines. The fish are active, the hatches are consistent, and the scenery is hard to beat. Just keep in mind that weekends can get crowded, especially closer to Santa Fe, so if you want to avoid the rush, try to fish during the week or head farther upstream toward the Pecos Wilderness.

4. The Red River

This little gem flows out of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains near the town of Red River, not far from Taos. The Red River is a cold, clear stream that’s stocked with rainbows but also holds some wild browns. It’s an excellent spot for fly fishing, especially if you like fishing pocket water and small pools.

One of the best things about the Red River is its accessibility. You can fish right in town or drive a few miles upstream for a more remote experience. In the summer, try throwing small dries like Parachute Adams or Elk Hair Caddis, and you’ll likely have success. The Red River can also be a good winter option if you’re itching to cast a fly during the colder months.

5. The Jemez River

If you’re looking for a peaceful stream to fish that’s not too far from Albuquerque, the Jemez River is a great option. This small, freestone river flows through the beautiful Jemez Mountains and is home to stocked rainbows, wild browns, and even some native Rio Grande cutthroat trout. The river isn’t very big, but it offers plenty of opportunities for dry fly fishing and nymphing.

The Jemez River is best fished from late spring through early fall, and like many New Mexico streams, it can get crowded on weekends. But if you’re willing to explore the smaller tributaries, like the East Fork or San Antonio Creek, you’ll find plenty of solitude and hungry trout.

Small Towns and Where to Stay

Fly fishing in New Mexico is about more than just the rivers—it’s also about the experience of visiting small mountain towns that have their own unique charm. Here are a few places you’ll want to check out:

• Taos: This artsy mountain town is a great base for fishing the Rio Grande, Red River, and nearby streams. There’s no shortage of good food, galleries, and gear shops to explore when you’re not on the water.
• Chama: Located near the Colorado border, Chama is a sleepy little town with access to the Rio Chama and some great high-elevation streams. It’s also a great place to hop on the historic Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad.
• Santa Fe: The capital city of New Mexico is just a stone’s throw from the Pecos River and offers a little more in terms of dining and lodging options. If you want a mix of fly fishing and culture, Santa Fe is hard to beat.
• Red River: This is a great spot for families, with plenty of fishing opportunities and a fun, laid-back mountain town vibe.

Tips for Fly Fishing in New Mexico

1. Match the Hatch: Like anywhere else, matching the local insect hatch is key to success in New Mexico. Bring a variety of flies, including caddis, stoneflies, mayflies, and terrestrials like hoppers and ants.
2. Check Water Levels: Spring runoff can make fishing tough, especially on rivers like the Rio Grande. Always check the current flow conditions before heading out.
3. Bring Layers: New Mexico weather can change dramatically.