At the southern end of the Moreno Valley lies Black Lake, New Mexico, a quiet natural lake where Paulette and I watched for elk, waterfowl, wild turkeys and black bears. It also became Montana for portions of the classic Lonesome Dove miniseries.

I headed north with an old chainsaw for my son and cameras for myself. What followed was a rainy September journey through the Rio Grande Gorge, Taos Canyon and Angel Fire, where autumn aspens and a remarkably calm flock of wild turkeys turned an ordinary errand into a very special day.

Explore Cimarron Canyon State Park near Eagle Nest, New Mexico, with a longtime local’s guide to Cimarron River trout fishing, hiking, camping, wildlife, photography and mountain weather.

Explore Eagle Nest Lake State Park in New Mexico with a longtime Moreno Valley resident’s guide to trout fishing, hiking, camping, canoeing, wildlife, photography and the Enchanted Circle.

Explore the Rio Grande Gorge near Taos, New Mexico, from the ground and by drone, including the Rio Grande Gorge Bridge, river, geology, recreation, drone safety, privacy and responsible aerial photography.

Explore Rio Chama Private Water Trout Fly Fishing at Rancho del Oso Pardo near Chama, NM, with wild brown and rainbow trout, fly fishing tactics, tackle, seasons, wildlife, access and catch-and-release tips.

Discover Rio Chama Basin Trout Fishing Public Access near Chama, New Mexico, including Sargent Wildlife Management Area, Chama Basin Trailhead, trout species, tackle, flies, lures, camping and seasonal fishing tips.

How to Catch Trout on Navajo Lake New Mexico

How to Catch Walleye on Navajo Lake New Mexico

How to Catch Smallmouth Bass on Navajo Lake New Mexico