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. 🎣🌄

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