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.
Coho Salmon
Another species of salmon found in New Mexico is the coho salmon. These coho's can are often more available to be caught during the fall when they migrate closer to the shoreline. These acrobatic fish put up a fierce fight and are highly prized by anglers. Trolling with spoons, plugs, or flies is a popular method for targeting coho salmon.
Coho Salmon are smaller in size compared to other salmon but still provide a thrilling fight when hooked. Coho salmon, also called silver salmon, are another prized species targeted by anglers in New Mexico. These fish are known for their aggressive nature and aerial displays when hooked. Coho salmon offer thrilling battles, often leaping out of the water and making blistering runs. They can be caught by trolling or casting near shore areas during their migratory periods. Use small spinners, or bait on a bobber setup. Good bait options include wax worms, minnows, shrimp, and nightcrawlers.
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.
090724*
NEW MEXICO
