tell me about fly fishing in new mexico

Question

FishGPT · Accepted Answer

**New Mexico is a trout hunter’s dream, especially for fly anglers.** The state offers a mix of high-desert tailwaters, mountain rivers, and classic spring creeks, with plenty of winter days that reward a warm hat, a good nymph, and patient casting. In late fall, NM can be a magical time to chase trout when daytime temps climb into the 50s and the crowds thin out. Here’s your practical, no-nonsense guide to get you catching.

- **Where to fish (hot spots for late fall):** 
  - *Pecos River*, especially around Santa Fe—clear water, rising trout, and scenic canyon sections. This is a reliable option when temps stay above freezing in the day. 
  - *Rio Grande, New Mexico* around Santa Fe and Bernalillo area—tailwaters and river runs hold steady flows and good hatches late in the season. 
  - The NM landscape is dotted with spring creeks and smaller streams; don’t overlook isolated pockets and side channels after a warm day.

- **What to expect in late fall:** *cooler water, clearer cues, and selective fish*
  - Water temps drop, so midges and Baetis (blue-winged olives) can become the dominant hatch. 
  - Flows can be variable after cool fronts; you’ll want to check local conditions and be prepared to adjust your depth. 
  - The best fishing often happens from late morning into the early afternoon when the sun warms the water a bit and insects become more active.

- **Tackling and tactics:**
  - Rod: a versatile 4–6 weight covers most NM trout situations, from small dries to nymph rigs.
  - Lines: a floating line with a light sink tip can cover midges and Baetis nymphing, while a short, polyleader setup helps get flies down in slower tailouts.
  - Flies: in late fall focus on small dries and nymphs. Midges (size 18–22) and Baetis nymphs are classic; add a attractor dry for easier presentation on brighter days. Tie on a small emerger or soft hackle for fussy fish.
  - Tippet: 5X–7X is common for NM trout, especially on tailwaters and clinics where fish are wary.
  - Presentation: keep a tight shoreline, use reach casts to place your dries on the seam, and consider indicator nymphing in slower pockets.

- **Practical tips:**
  - Dress in layers; mornings can be frosty, afternoons are mild. A good wind layer is worth its weight in gold. 
  - Look for sunlit runs—trout often hold in warmer pockets and feed on emergers during warm spells. 
  - Pack a small camera or phone in a dry bag; NM scenery is worth the extra shot between fish.
  - Respect seasonal closures and local regulations; some streams require special permits or have catch-and-release only zones.

- **Learning resources:** If you want a taste of NM fly fishing through the eyes of guides and anglers, check these clips (clear, real fishing, not games):
  - [Santa Fe, NM Outdoors | Fly Fishing the Pecos River with Bob King | Santa Fe Guiding Co.](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZgwSX60U2_w)
  - [Most underrated trout fishing in the United States | Fly Fishing New Mexico](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mJS_M4ww8uM)
  - [Fly Fishing New Mexico’s Rio Penasco (Full Movie)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tQSqyozu9lM)

- **Gear ideas you can snag to get started (fishing-related):**
  - [HALF CRESCEN Fishing Lures Kit for Diving Bass/Trout/Pike](https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0DJ2MRZTT?tag=tacklenet-20&linkCode=osi&th=1&psc=1)
  - [TRUSCEND Easy Catch Swimmax, Magic Noisy Turbulent Wiggling Swimbaits](https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07GP1DL4K?tag=tacklenet-20&linkCode=osi&th=1&psc=1)
  - [GOANDO Fishing Lures Kit for Freshwater Bait Tackle Kit](https://www.amazon.com/dp/B08DY9NGQV?tag=tacklenet-20&linkCode=osi&th=1&psc=1)

- End on a high note: NM is patient, scenic, and full of willing trout if you stay flexible with hatches and depth. Get a plan for late fall days—start with midges, keep your line tight, and enjoy the desert skies while the trout cooperate. Tight lines and may your casts land softly. 🎣🌄

🎣 Rio Grande, Santa Fe, New Mexico

Trout Questions

More Questions

Question is Most Poison Fish in Europe

Can you generate 3D models?

What is the best reel for a medium-heavy 9-foot Daiwa Emcast rod?

What are the best places to catch crappie in the USA?

Where is the best spot to fish for muskies on French Lake in Faribault, MN?

Does fishing after rain make it better or harder?

Is there bass fishing in Australia?

Bluegill