Enjoy The Thrill Of Fishing For Salmon In New Mexico
Guide to fishing for coho salmon in NM.
New Mexico is not typically known for its salmon fishing opportunities, as it is a landlocked state without natural salmon runs. However, there are a few artificial salmon fisheries that provide unique angling experiences for residents and visitors alike. The purpose of this page is to share basic information about salmon fishing and identify popular salmon waters in the state.
The Navajo Lake, located in the northwestern part of the state, offers the opportunity to fish for kokanee salmon, a landlocked variation of sockeye salmon. Kokanee salmon are known for their brilliant red color and hard-fighting nature, providing an exciting challenge for anglers.
Navajo Lake is regularly stocked with kokanee salmon, and the fishing season for these fish usually runs from spring to fall. Anglers can target kokanee salmon by trolling with small spoons, dodgers, or hoochies behind downriggers or lead core lines. The depths at which kokanee salmon are found can vary depending on the time of year and water conditions. The scenic beauty of Navajo Lake, combined with the thrill of landing kokanee salmon, creates a unique fishing experience in New Mexico.
It's important to note that the salmon fishing in New Mexico is limited compared to other regions known for their salmon fisheries. However, for anglers looking for a different fishing adventure or the opportunity to catch landlocked salmon, Navajo Lake offers a chance to experience the excitement of salmon fishing within the state's borders.
Eagle Nest Lake, El Vado Lake, Navajo Lake and Heron Lake are the primary salmon waters in New Mexico.
Fishing for salmon in New Mexico
Coho salmon
World record: 33 lbs 7 oz
State Record: 4 lbs 6 oz
Kokanee salmon
World record: 9 lbs 10 oz
State Record: 4 lbs 0 oz
Click the images and links above for species details.
New Mexico State Record Salmon
The state record coho salmon was caught in El Vado Lake.
The record kokanee salmon was taken out of Navajo Lake
The preferred method for catching salmon is fly fishing. Depending on the activity level, salmon may be caught on wet or dry flies. For more details check here for articles about fly fishing.
Salmon Organizations
New Mexico Salmon Fishing
The preferred method for catching salmon is fly fishing. Depending on the activity level, salmon may be caught on wet or dry flies, as well as a variety of other lures and baits.
Salmon fishing waters and information, by state.
Learn the life cycle of salmon
The more you know about the life cycle and seasonal migration of salmon, the more likely you are to be looking in the right area next time you visit New Mexico salmon fishing waters. Visit the salmon fishing page for more information about the life cycle of the different species of salmon.
Contribute NM Salmon Fishing Knowledge
If you have information, articles or photos relating to salmon fishing in New Mexico, which you would like to see published here, please submit them for consideration.
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