Fishing Charters in New Mexico
Browse fishing charters in New Mexico that can help you catch blue catfish.
Salmón Salvaje
Santa Fe, New Mexico
Resolution Guide Services
LePlatt Lodge
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Taos Raft and Kayak Rentals LLC
Flatt out fishing
Fly fishing guide service and flies for the San Juan river.
Born N' Raised Guide Service on the San Juan River
Guiding the San Juan's anglers since 1986. The best way to learn the ropes of fly fishing on the San Juan. Each of our guides know the river like the back of their hand and are familiar with every fly fishers skill level.
ZiaFly Guide Service
Escape to the Southern Rockies with Zia Fly, your premier fly fishing guide. Private spots, expert guides, and tailored trips for all. Book now!"
Angler Management on the San Juan
Chris loves to teach, and offers fly fishing guide services for all skill levels, experts, beginners, women, men and children alike. Come out with Chris Gallegos and learn to fish the San Juan!
Ichthys Guide Service
Join us on updates and fishing reports, water levels and much more.
Elite Fly Fishing
Dave's fishing guide services Elephant butte lake
Land of Enchantment Fishing & Hunting Adventures
If you are looking a guided fishing trips in Elephant Butte our expert fishing guide can guarantee a satisfying experience for you and your family.
Best Time to Catch Blue Catfish
Blue Catfish can be caught year-round in Chama. Right now in February, activity is Slow.
Seasonal Activity Chart
Blue Catfish
While Chama, New Mexico isn't the first place that springs to mind for Blue Catfish, the Rio Chama and nearby El Vado Lake do offer a unique, high-altitude environment to target these whiskered giants. This is a relatively undeveloped fishery, meaning you might have the water mostly to yourself. Focus your efforts in the warmer months, from late spring through early fall, when the water temperatures are more conducive to catfish activity. Look for deeper holes and submerged structure, especially around bends in the river or near the dam at El Vado. A key local tip: be prepared for rapidly changing weather conditions, even in summer. Pack layers and check the forecast before heading out. Access to the Rio Chama can be found along Highway 64/84, but be mindful of private property. El Vado Lake has boat ramps available. The Blue Catfish population here isn't huge, so practice catch and release to help maintain this unique fishery.
How to Catch Blue Catfish
Detailed fishing techniques coming soon for Blue Catfish in Chama.
Blue Catfish Fishing Regulations in New Mexico
Open Season
Year-round
Daily Bag Limit
5 per day
Size Limit
No size limit
License Required
Fishing license
In waters where catfish limits are in place, only one may be over 30 inches.
⚠️ Always verify current regulations with the New Mexico state wildlife agency before fishing.
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the best time of year to target Blue Catfish in Chama, NM?
You can fish for Blue Catfish year-round in New Mexico, but many anglers find the warmer months, from late spring to early fall, to be the most productive.
What's the daily limit for Blue Catfish in New Mexico?
In New Mexico, you're allowed to keep 5 Blue Catfish per day. There are no size restrictions, so any size you catch can be kept as long as you don't exceed the bag limit.
Do I need a fishing license to catch Blue Catfish in Chama, NM?
Yes, a valid New Mexico fishing license is required to fish for Blue Catfish in Chama and throughout the state.
Any tips for catching bigger Blue Catfish near Chama?
Look for deeper holes and areas with structure. Popular bait choices include cut bait, live bait like shad or sunfish, and prepared catfish baits. Patience is key!
More Blue Catfish Fishing in New Mexico
Other Species to Fish in Chama
Ready to Catch Blue Catfish in Chama?
Book a trip with an expert guide who knows the best local spots and techniques.