A New Mexico Gem

The Chama River meanders through the heart of northern New Mexico, carving its way through steep canyon walls, lush meadows, and towering pines. It’s a river that speaks to the soul of the Southwest, inviting anglers from all walks of life to try their hand at catching its wild and stocked trout. Fly fishing the Chama is an experience like no other—one where time seems to slow down, and nature’s beauty surrounds you from all sides. Whether you’re new to the sport or a seasoned angler, the Chama River offers a chance to connect with the rhythms of the land, the water, and the fish that call it home.

The Chama River’s Path

The Chama River is fed by snowmelt from the southern Rocky Mountains and stretches for about 130 miles. It begins near the Colorado border and flows through New Mexico, winding its way down to the larger Rio Grande. Along its course, the river traverses diverse landscapes—from the high desert plateaus dotted with juniper and sage to the lush riparian zones lined with cottonwoods and willows.

One of the best stretches for fly fishing is the portion that flows out of El Vado Lake and continues downstream past Abiquiú Reservoir. The stretch between El Vado and Abiquiú, in particular, is renowned for its excellent fishing opportunities and dramatic beauty. But no matter where you cast your line along the river’s length, the Chama offers something for everyone, from picturesque views to that satisfying tug on the end of your rod.

Best Time of Year

Timing is everything when it comes to fly fishing the Chama River. Spring runoff can swell the river, making fishing difficult. The snowmelt usually starts in March and can last through May, so if you’re planning a springtime visit, be prepared for high water and fast currents. Some anglers prefer this time, targeting larger fish that may move into slower eddies and backwaters.

By late May into June, the river typically calms down, with flows becoming more manageable. Summer fishing can be fantastic, especially early in the morning or later in the evening when the heat isn’t as oppressive. Fish become more active during these cooler periods, and you’ll often find them rising for hatches.

Fall, though, is perhaps the most magical time to fish the Chama. With cooler temperatures and the leaves changing to golden hues, the river is transformed into a serene and colorful landscape. The brown trout begin their spawning season in late September through November, making this a prime time to catch larger, aggressive fish. As winter approaches, the river quiets down, and though fishing can still be productive, the colder weather and shorter days make it a more rugged experience.

The Lure of the Fly: What to Use

The Chama River is known for its diversity of trout species. Wild brown trout, rainbow trout, and the occasional cutthroat can all be found swimming through its waters. Knowing what to throw into the river can make all the difference in hooking these beautiful fish.

Spring and Early Summer: During this time of year, nymphs are your best bet. The snowmelt means higher, colder water, and fish tend to stay lower in the river. Weighted nymphs like the Pheasant Tail, Prince Nymph, and Hare’s Ear are great go-tos. Drift them under an indicator in the deeper pools and runs, and you’re likely to find some willing takers. Bead-head patterns can also work well during this time.

As the water warms and clears in the early summer, dry flies start to become more effective. Terrestrial patterns like grasshoppers and ants come into play, as well as mayfly patterns such as the Adams or Parachute Hopper. When the hatch is on, these flies can bring some spectacular surface action.

Late Summer into Fall: By August and into September, the water levels have dropped, and the fish are more aggressive, especially with the browns preparing for their spawning season. Streamers such as the Woolly Bugger and Muddler Minnow can work wonders. Stripping these flies through deeper pools or around structure can provoke vicious strikes from territorial trout.

During the fall, be on the lookout for caddisfly hatches, especially in the late afternoon. Caddis patterns like the Elk Hair Caddis or Sparkle Pupa are highly effective. For the bigger browns, try using larger nymphs like the Stonefly or bigger streamers during the spawning run.

Winter: Winter fishing on the Chama can be slower, but persistent anglers will find success with small midges and nymphs. Fish tend to stay in deeper water during the colder months, so getting your flies down low is critical. Patterns like Zebra Midges and small emergers can be productive if you’re willing to brave the elements.

Towns to Base Your Adventure

Fly fishing the Chama River isn’t just about casting a line—it’s about immersing yourself in the rhythm of the rural Southwest. The small towns scattered along the river’s path provide excellent places to base your fishing adventure, each with its own unique charm.

Chama: Nestled in the shadow of the San Juan Mountains, the town of Chama is a small but welcoming community. Known for its scenic Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad, this town feels like a step back in time. For anglers, Chama offers easy access to the upper stretches of the river near the Colorado border. It’s a perfect spot to gear up and enjoy a day on the water, followed by a hearty meal at a local diner.

Abiquiú: This tiny village is famous for its connection to artist Georgia O’Keeffe, but for fly anglers, it’s the proximity to the Chama River and Abiquiú Reservoir that makes it a prime location. Abiquiú’s high desert beauty, with its red rock cliffs and sweeping vistas, adds to the allure of fishing the Chama here. After a day on the river, be sure to explore the nearby Ghost Ranch for a taste of New Mexico’s artistic and geological history.

Tierra Amarilla: Just a short drive from Chama, Tierra Amarilla is another quiet rural town perfect for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of larger cities. It’s an ideal launching point for fishing the El Vado Lake area and the stretches of the Chama River below the dam.

Santa Fe and Española: For anglers looking for a bit more of a city vibe, Santa Fe and Española are larger towns offering easy access to the lower stretches of the Chama River near Abiquiú. Both towns have a rich cultural history and offer plenty of options for dining, lodging, and exploring. From here, it’s an easy drive to several of the prime fishing locations along the river.

The Experience of Fly Fishing the Chama

Fishing the Chama River is about more than just the fish—it’s about being part of the landscape. The sound of the river rushing past, the sight of eagles soaring overhead, the smell of piñon and juniper on the breeze—it’s an immersive experience that goes beyond the fly rod. The fish here, while sometimes elusive, are worth the patience. They are wild and strong, reflective of the rugged environment they inhabit.

For me, it’s the moments spent standing waist-deep in the Chama’s cool waters, casting out and waiting, that are the most rewarding. There’s a rhythm to it, a peace that settles in as you tune into the world around you. When that line finally tightens, and you feel the weight of a trout on the other end, it’s a connection that runs deeper than just the surface of the water.

A Final Thought

The Chama River is a testament to the natural beauty and quiet solitude of the Southwest. It’s a place where the land feels timeless, where the only sounds you hear are the wind, the water, and the occasional splash of a rising fish. Whether you’re a seasoned fly fisher or just getting started, the Chama invites you to slow down, cast a line, and become part of its flow.

In the end, the fish you catch are just a bonus. It’s the river itself—the journey it takes you on—that makes fly fishing the Chama River a truly unforgettable experience. So grab your gear, pick up a few of your favorite flies, and hit the road for northern New Mexico. The river’s waiting, and with it, a slice of Southwestern paradise.