Great Trout Fishing Locations In New Mexico
Guide to fishing for rainbow, cutthroat, brook, brown and lake trout in local lakes and streams.
New Mexico is a paradise for trout fishing, offering a wealth of lakes and rivers teeming with various trout species. Rainbow trout, brown trout, and cutthroat trout are among the most sought-after species in the state. Anglers can find these trout species in both still waters and flowing rivers, providing a diverse and exciting fishing experience. The purpose of this page is to share basic information about trout fishing and identify trout fishing waters in the state.
Fishing For Rainbow Trout
Rainbow trout are one of the most fished for trout species in the state, and can be found in numerous New Mexico lakes and rivers. Known for its tasty pink flesh, rainbows are a favorite among the vast majority of trout anglers in the state. It also appeals to the fly fisherman as it can be caught on flies as well as other small baits and lures. It feeds on small insects, minnows, crustaceans and worms. It is ideal for both sport and dining pleasure. More...
Fishing For Cutthroat Trout
Cutthroat trout call the Pacific northwest home, however they are also stocked in many lakes. Cutthroat trout fishing holds a cherished place among anglers. While fly fishing reigns supreme as the preferred method, these prized fish are also susceptible to various artificial lures mimicking minnows or grubs, as well as live bait presentations. Cutthroat trout fishing is renowned for the spectacular battles while landing. More...
Fishing For Brook Trout
Brook trout, with their stunning colors and willingness to bite, can be found in remote mountain streams and creeks across the state. These small but feisty fish can provide an exciting fishing experience for those willing to explore New Mexico's more secluded and scenic locations. The primary food source of brookies is small insects, mollusks, crustaceans and other small fishes. In lakes where brook trout are stocked, shade over shallow cover is a great place to start. More...
Fishing For Brown Trout
Brown trout, another prized trout species, can be found in select New Mexico lakes and rivers. Many of these fisheries are attracting anglers from near and far. These elusive and wary fish offer a challenge to anglers, requiring stealthy presentations and precise casting to entice a bite. Brown trout feed on worms, minnows, insects and crustaceans. Larger browns can be taken on jerkbaits, small crankbaits and spinners. More...
Fishing For Lake Trout
Lake trout are by far the largest of the trouts. They live in deep, cold lakes and feeds on virtually all forms of flesh which exist in its home waters. It's rich flaky flesh makes it a tasty table favorite. During early spring, lake trout can often be found in the shallows of lakes, readily taking dry flies, wet flies, and other slow-moving presentations. As surface temperatures rise, these trout typically migrate to deeper waters, prompting anglers to employ trolling with heavier tackle as the primary technique using spoons and baitfish-imitating lures. More...
The renowned San Juan River is a prime destination for trout fishing in New Mexico. Known for its trophy-sized rainbow and brown trout, this famous tailwater fishery draws anglers from all over the country. Fly fishing is especially popular on the San Juan River, with its crystal-clear waters and abundant insect hatches that provide ideal conditions for catching trout.
Another notable trout fishing destination in New Mexico is the Pecos River. Flowing through picturesque canyons and valleys, the Pecos River offers excellent opportunities to catch wild brown trout and rainbow trout. The river's remote stretches provide a serene angling experience, while the nearby Pecos Wilderness offers a chance to combine trout fishing with hiking and camping.
New Mexico's high mountain lakes are also prized locations for trout fishing. Heron Lake, Eagle Nest Lake, and Fenton Lake are just a few examples of the picturesque mountain lakes that are stocked with trout and provide exceptional fishing experiences. These alpine waters offer anglers the chance to catch rainbow trout, brown trout, and sometimes even brook trout in a stunning natural setting.
When it comes to state records, New Mexico boasts some impressive catches. The state record for rainbow trout stands at over 31 pounds, while the record for brown trout exceeds 20 pounds. These records highlight the potential for landing trophy-sized trout in New Mexico's waters.
Whether casting dry flies on a mountain stream, drifting nymphs on a tailwater, or trolling lures in a serene lake, trout fishing in New Mexico provides a wealth of opportunities for anglers of all skill levels. The state's diverse trout species, coupled with its stunning landscapes, make it a destination that promises memorable fishing experiences and the chance to reel in impressive trout.
Trout Waters
Abiquiu Reservoir, Caballo Lake, Eagle Nest Lake, El Vado Lake, Heron Lake, Navajo Lake, Springer Lake, and Stone Lake are some of the larger lakes in the state with a population of trout. In addition, some smaller lakes and rivers may also contain trout. Several lakes in the state offer ice fishing for trout.
Trout Species In The State
Rainbow trout
World record: 42 lbs 2 oz
State Record: 31 lbs 12.5 oz
Cutthroat trout
World record: 41 lbs 0 oz
State Record: 10 lbs 2 oz
Brook trout
World record: 14 lbs 8 oz
State Record: 5 lbs 0 oz
Brown trout
World record: 40 lbs 4 oz
State Record: 20 lbs 4 oz
Lake trout
World record: 72 lbs 0 oz
State Record: 31 lbs 6 oz
Click the images and links above for species details.
Select the best trout lures and baits
Trout spinners, crankbaits and jerkbaits work well for shallow, reasonably active fish. Salmon eggs, worms and prepared baits will work at virtually all depths.
New Mexico State Record Trout
The state record rainbow trout was caught from Santa Cruz Lake.
The state record cutthroat trout was taken out of Latir Lakes.
The state record brook trout was taken out of Hidden Lake.
The state record brown trout came from the Chama River.
The state record lake trout was caught in Heron Lake.
Visit the New Mexico Game & Fish website for information regarding trout stocking in New Mexico.
Watch trout fishing videos to see trout anglers in action.
Additional trout information
The 5 primary trouts are the rainbow, brook, brown, cutthroat and lake trout. Browns are considered the most difficult to catch and brookies are the easiest. Pure cold water is key to survival of the trouts.
Trout locations and info, by state.
The habits of trout.
Trout are considered some of the most difficult fish to fool. Once you locate New Mexico waters with a population of trout, the challenge becomes identifying trout flies and lures that will trigger strikes. Visit the trout fishing page to learn more about the habitat each of the trouts prefer.
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