Fly fishing is an excellent activity for getting away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Surrounded by nature, it can be done in solitary, providing tranquility to your thoughts and peace of mind to your soul. Or, it can be a fun activity to do with loved ones, friends, and family! Fly fishing in Santa Fe is not only beautiful and atmospheric, it’s easy to do. If you want to get out into the breathtaking terrain and cast a few lines, here’s some great spots to try fly fishing in Santa Fe.
Whether you’re looking for popular spots to go fly fishing in Santa Fe or want to explore other activities, take a look at our complimentary Vacation Guide! We know that planning a vacation can be challenging, so we created this list of local, handpicked recommendations to save you from hours of research. This free guide has helped countless visitors plan the getaway of a lifetime, so get your copy today!
3 of the Best Spots to Experience Fly Fishing in Santa Fe
Chama River
The Chama River, also known as the Rio Chama, is the closest river to Santa Fe and offers plenty of fly fishing. Thanks to its highly diverse population of fish, you’re in for a new experience every time you go. Here, you’ll most likely reel in brown and rainbow trout. You’re also guaranteed some quiet and relaxation, since the Chama is fairly remote. If you want to truly get out in the untamed wild for your fly fishing experience, you can’t do better than the Chama River. We recommend going on a guided fly fishing tour to let an expert give you the full experience! You can choose either for a full day or a half day.
Vallecitos River
This small, remote stream is located northwest of Santa Fe in the Carson National Forest. Like the Chama, the Vallecitos is relatively remote and fairly un-fished. The lower levels have plenty of brown trout while the upper levels of the stream have more rainbow and brook trout. This river may not be as well known as the Chama or the Rio Grande, but it is definitely a hidden gem of northern New Mexico. It’s a must-visit spot for diehard fishermen!
Rio Grande
Of course, no fly fishing in Santa Fe list would be complete without New Mexico’s most famous river. The Rio Grande is expansive with plenty of areas to cast your line. If you’re traveling from Santa Fe, the best place to access the Rio Grande is north of Espanola, a short drive from the city. Because some of the Rio flows through a gorge, it can be difficult to access, so keep in mind that fishing here is on the more challenging side. The best time to cast a line here is in the early spring, before the snow melting from nearby Colorado causes the water levels to rise and become more turbulent. You can check out local fishing reports for river and weather conditions.
Stay at El Farolito During Your Fly Fishing Expedition
If you’re going to be in the area for fly fishing in Santa Fe, stay with us at El Farolito! During your stay, you’ll be fully immersed in our unique culture. Our rooms feature authentic decor from the area such as Kiva fireplaces, adobe walls, and more! Start your planning by browsing through our cozy accommodations. We look forward to hosting you in the gorgeous city of Santa Fe!
