Chama River - Near Heron - New Mexico
Fly Fishing River Report & Conditions
Chama River – Near Heron - Water Flow Chart
Chama River – Near Heron - Weather report & radar
Chama River – Near Heron - General hatch chart
| Month | Hatch | Time of Day | Recommended Fly Sizes | Popular Fly Patterns |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| January | Midges | Afternoon | 18-24 | Zebra Midge, Griffith’s Gnat |
| Blue Winged Olive | Midday | 16-20 | Comparadun, Adams | |
| February | Midges | Afternoon | 18-24 | Zebra Midge, Griffith’s Gnat |
| Blue Winged Olive | Early Afternoon | 16-20 | Adams, Comparadun | |
| March | Blue Winged Olive | Midday | 16-20 | Adams, Comparadun |
| Midges | Afternoon | 18-24 | Zebra Midge, Griffith’s Gnat | |
| April | Caddis | Evening | 14-18 | Elk Hair Caddis, X-Caddis |
| May | Stone Flies | Evening | 6-10 | Yellow Sally, Stimulator |
| June | Pale Morning Dun | Mid-Morning to Afternoon | 14-18 | Parachute Adams, Comparadun |
| Stone Flies | Evening | 6-10 | Yellow Sally, Stimulator | |
| July | Terrestrials | All Day | 10-14 | Ant patterns, Grasshopper patterns |
| August | Terrestrials | All Day | 10-14 | Ant patterns, Grasshopper patterns |
| Blue Winged Olive | Midday | 16-20 | Adams, Comparadun | |
| September | Midges | Afternoon | 18-24 | Zebra Midge, Griffith’s Gnat |
| Blue Winged Olive | Early Afternoon | 16-20 | Adams, Comparadun | |
| October | Blue Winged Olive | Midday | 16-20 | Adams, Comparadun |
| Midges | Afternoon | 18-24 | Zebra Midge, Griffith’s Gnat | |
| November | Midges | Afternoon | 18-24 | Zebra Midge, Griffith’s Gnat |
| Blue Winged Olive | Midday | 16-20 | Adams, Comparadun | |
| December | Midges | Afternoon | 18-24 | Zebra Midge, Griffith’s Gnat |
| Blue Winged Olive | Midday | 16-20 | Adams, Comparadun |
Chama River – Near Heron Access Points
Fly fishing enthusiasts looking for the best access points on the Chama River near Heron will find the following locales ideal:
- Banco Bonito Day Use Area: The 10-mile stretch of well-known fishing grounds offers a wide variety of trout.
- Monastery Lake: Managed by New Mexico State Parks, this lake has excellent trout, accessible fishing docks and picnic areas.
- Heritage Trout Waters: A special stretch of river with a large population of Rio Grande cutthroat trout.
- The Chama River Bend Lodge: Offers private fishing waters for guests and boat ramps for river floaters.
- Cooper’s Chama River Ranch: Provides guided fly fishing trips on private water.
- El Vado Lake State Park: Offers boat ramps, camping amenities and excellent fishing opportunities.
Please adhere to local fishing regulations and have the proper licenses and permits before fishing these areas.
Chama River – Near Heron Fishing Spots
The Chama River, located near Heron, is a hot spot for avid fly fishermen due to its abundant and diverse aquatic life. Some of the best spots to fly fish on the Chama River include:
- El Vado Tailwater: Known for its big Brown and Rainbow trout, the waters here are consistent and the fish population is abundant. Regular stocking ensure this area continues to thrive.
- Chama Canyon: This spot is a bit remote but offers excellent catch opportunities for Rainbow and Brown trout. its isolation guarantees less fishing pressure.
- Below Abiquiu Dam: Teeming with large trout, this area has fast-moving, clear waters, an ideal location for year-round fly fishing.
- Rio Chama Wildlife and Fishing Area: Rustic and untouched, this area is home to large Brown trout and is a sanctuary of wonderful New Mexican wildlife.
Please note that different areas of the river have varying regulation and it is important to check before going.
Chama River – Near Heron Local Fish Species
- Brown Trout – One of the most targeted fish in the Chama River due to its sheer size and abundance.
- Rainbow Trout – Known for their beautiful colors, these fish offer a great fight for fly fishermen.
- Brook Trout – These fish are slightly smaller but are still a popular target for fishermen in the area.
- Cutthroat Trout – Native species of the river and the state fish of New Mexico.
- Rio Grande Sucker – A local fish species that provide a unique fly fishing experience.
- Northern Pike – A larger species that can offer a great challenge for fly fishermen.
- Bluegill – A smaller fish species but great for beginners or those who enjoy a fun and easy catch.
- Channel Catfish – While not the traditional target for fly fishing, they are still a popular catch in the Chama River.
About the Chama River – Near Heron
The Chama River, near Heron, has an enchanting history woven deeply into New Mexico’s tapestry of culture and ecology. It begins in the stunning Colorado San Juan Mountains, meandering through captivating New Mexico landscapes till it merges with the magnificent Rio Grande.
Famed for its trout fishing and white-water rafting, the Chama River has been attracting adventure seekers and nature lovers for decades. Its significance, though, stretches way back to ancient times when Native Americans, such as the Pueblo peoples, utilized the river for agriculture and creating rich cultural hubs.
- 1800s: The river served as an important resource during the westward expansion, used by settlers for irrigation and transportation.
- 1935: The Abiquiu Dam was built across the Chama River, helping control flood and store water for dry periods.
- 1980: A stretch of the Chama River was declared a National Wild and Scenic River, reflecting its natural beauty and ecological vitality.
Today, the rich history of Chama River continues to flow, shaping the landscape and nurturing life along its course.
Community Contributions
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