New Mexico · Fishing regulations

Fishing regulations in New Mexico.

New Mexico's San Juan River is a Top-10 American trout fishery — and native Gila and Rio Grande cutthroat conservation waters in the Gila and Pecos make NM a destination for native-trout anglers.

New Mexico Department of Game and Fish · License: Anglers age 16 and older generally need a valid fishing license to fish in New Mexico. Resident and non-resident licenses are sold online through the NMDGF and at most sporting goods retailers. Annual, multi-day, and lifetime licenses are typically available. Senior, military, and youth discounts apply in most cases. A habitat stamp is required in addition to the fishing license on most state waters. License costs and exact age thresholds change — verify with the NMDGF before purchase.

Freshwater

Trout (rainbow, brown, native Rio Grande cutthroat, Gila trout) in the high country plus largemouth and smallmouth bass, walleye, kokanee, and stripers in southern reservoirs. Year-round seasons on most waters.

Rivers

The San Juan River below Navajo Dam is a famous tailwater — quality waters with artificial-only and catch-and-release sections produce trophy rainbows and browns. The Pecos, Cimarron, and Rio Grande hold native cutthroats and browns. Gila trout streams have specific regulations protecting native populations.

Special

San Juan Quality Waters (CR/artificial-only) are some of the most heavily regulated trout water in the West. Native Gila trout and Rio Grande cutthroat have specific protection waters.

Popular species

Rainbow trout · Brown trout · Rio Grande cutthroat trout · Gila trout · Largemouth bass · Walleye · Kokanee salmon

State agency

New Mexico Department of Game and Fish

Agency site →

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