Blue Stream Fly Fishing
Fly Fishing Report for:

Jemez River - Jemez - New Mexico

Hatch Chart - Best Access/Spots - Local Fish - About

Water Flow Chart

Using Water Flow Charts & Weather Reports: Begin with our water flow charts to grasp stream velocity and volume – look for stable or rising trends to pinpoint ideal fishing times. Learn to interpret sudden spikes or drops, which can indicate potential challenges. Next, consult our weather reports to understand ambient conditions. Pairing the two, you can anticipate fish behavior, choose the right gear, and select the best fishing spots. Use these tools together for a holistic approach to your next fishing adventure.

In-Depth Weather

Directions To Location

Hatch Chart

Month Hatch Time of Day Recommended Fly Sizes Popular Fly Patterns
January Midges Morning 18-24 Griffith's Gnats
BWO Afternoon 18-20 RS2, Baetis
February Midges Morning 18-24 Zebra midge
Stoneflies Afternoon 14-16 Pats Rubber Legs
March BWO Afternoon 18-20 RS2, Baetis
Stoneflies Afternoon 14-16 Pats Rubber Legs
April Caddis Afternoon 16-18 Elk Hair Caddis
Stoneflies All Day 14-16 Pats Rubber Legs
May Caddis All Day 16-18 Elk Hair Caddis
Mayflies Afternoon 14-18 Parachute Adams
June Yellow Sally All Day 14-16 Yellow Sally Nymph
Mayflies Morning 14-18 Parachute Adams
July Terrestrials All Day 14-18 Ants, Beetles, Hoppers
Yellow Sally All Day 14-16 Yellow Sally Nymph
August Terrestrials All Day 14-18 Hoppers, Beetles, Ants
Tricos Morning 20-24 Trico Spinner
September Terrestrials All Day 14-18 Ants, Beetles
Tricos Morning 20-24 Trico Spinner
October BWO Afternoon 18-20 RS2, Baetis
Midges Morning 18-24 Griffith's Gnats
November BWO Afternoon 18-20 RS2, Baetis
Midges Morning 18-24 Zebra midge
December Midges All Day 18-24 Zebra midge
BWO Afternoon 18-20 RS2, Baetis

While we strive to ensure the precision of our hatch charts, some reflect broader river region insights. Through ongoing partnerships with local guides and fly shops, we’re committed to refining our data. Should you notice any inconsistencies or have feedback, we welcome you to reach out. 

Best Fishing Spots

The Jemez River is a renowned hotspot for fly fishers, offering a blend of stunning natural beauty and rich fishing potential.
  • East Fork: It is the preferred spot for catching Rainbow Trout. Easy accessibility makes it a popular choice among beginners and experienced anglers alike.
  • San Antonio: This area is renowned for its vast population of brown trout. Fly fishers particularly enjoy the open space which allows for broad casting.
  • Fenton Lake: Featuring a diverse fish population of Cutthroat, Rainbow, and German Brown Trout, Fenton Lake gives a well-rounded fly fishing experience.
  • Battleship Rock: This river stretch is an excellent choice for those seeking solitude while fly-fishing. Its less crowded nature also keeps fish less wary and more bite-prone.
  • Jemez Canyon Dam: Known for its high fish counts, this stretch is a favorite among competitive fly fishers.

Best Access Points

One of New Mexico’s premier fly fishing locations is the Jemez River. Noteworthy access points to consider when planning a trip are:

  • La Cueva: Here you’ll find a nice stretch of water above and below the village.
  • Battleship Rock: A popular tourist point. The water upstream from Battleship is fly/lure only and has some beautiful places to fish.
  • Fenton Lake: This lake is stocked with rainbow trout, providing excellent chances for catching.
  • Jemez Falls: The stretch of water below Jemez Falls is a bit more rugged but makes for fantastic fly fishing.
  • East Fork: The East Fork offers several miles of excellent water. While it’s a bit more of a hike, the solitude and beauty are unbeatable.

Fishing permit is mandatory, so ensure you have one before setting up your fly rod.

Local Fish

  • Brown Trout: This species is abundant in the Jemez River and represents a challenging catch for fly fishers. Its diet mainly consists of bugs and smaller fish, making it reactive to various types of flies.
  • Rainbow Trout: Often stocked in the river, this fish species is a popular target for fly fishing enthusiasts due to its aggressive nature and beautiful coloration.
  • Brook Trout: Although less common, this fish species can also be found in the Jemez River. It is particularly loved by fly fishers for its vibrant colors and fight when hooked.
  • White Sucker: An excellent target for fly fishing, White Suckers put up quite a fight when hooked and are known to be bottom feeders.
  • Rio Grande Cutthroat Trout:Released into the Jemez river periodically, this fish species offers a thrilling catch with its elusive nature.
  • Gila Trout:Protected by law and limited to catch-and-release, these trout are quite a treat for the fly fisher looking for a challenge.
  • Yellow Perch: A resilient fish, yellow perch can be found in various habitats within the Jemez River. They promise a spirited fight making them an incredible sport for fly fishers.
  • Northern Pike: A popular sport fish, the Northern Pike is sought after in the Jemez River. With an aggressive nature and large size, they make for a challenging and exciting catch.

About The River

The Jemez River, originating from the Jemez Mountains of New Mexico, is a wonderful marvel to behold. Flowing over 50 miles before converging with the Rio Grande, it’s home to an array of natural beauty and wildlife. The River is a leisurely paradise, famous for its fishing and recreational activities like kayaking and floating. Historically, the Jemez River is sacred to the Puebloan people. Jemez, meaning ‘people of the sun’, are known to have inhabited the area since AD 1200. The river has been their life source, providing water for irrigation and serving as a hub for cultural activities. List of fascinating facts about the Jemez River:
  • The river exists because of the Valles Caldera, a 13-mile wide volcanic crater in the Jemez Mountains.
  • The river is home to several types of trout, making it a popular fishing spot.
  • In legal terms, the Jemez River is adjudicated, meaning water rights have been legally established.
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