Fishing Charters in New Mexico
Browse fishing charters in New Mexico that can help you catch channel 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 Channel Catfish
Channel Catfish can be caught year-round in Belen. Right now in February, activity is Slow.
Seasonal Activity Chart
Channel Catfish
If you're after channel catfish in Belen, New Mexico, the Rio Grande is your primary target. This stretch of the river offers a diverse habitat that supports a healthy catfish population. Look for deeper holes, submerged structure, and areas where the river bends, as these are prime catfish holding spots. The best time to fish for channel cats here is during the warmer months, from late spring through early fall, with the peak season being summer. Night fishing is particularly productive. Use traditional catfish baits like chicken liver, nightcrawlers, or commercially prepared stink baits. Access to the river can be found at several points along Highway 304. Be aware of fluctuating water levels due to irrigation releases. The channel catfish in this area are known for their aggressive strikes, making for exciting fishing.
How to Catch Channel Catfish
Detailed fishing techniques coming soon for Channel Catfish in Belen.
Channel 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
⚠️ Always verify current regulations with the New Mexico state wildlife agency before fishing.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the daily bag limit for channel catfish in Belen, NM?
The daily bag limit for channel catfish in New Mexico is 5 per day. This applies to fishing locations near Belen as well.
What's a good bait to use for channel catfish around Belen?
Channel catfish are known for their diverse diet. Try using chicken liver, nightcrawlers, or commercially prepared catfish bait. Local anglers often have their own secret recipes too!
Are there any size restrictions on keeping channel catfish in New Mexico?
No, there is no minimum or maximum size limit for channel catfish in New Mexico. You can keep any size you catch, as long as you adhere to the bag limit.
Do I need a license to fish for Channel Catfish near Belen?
Yes, a valid New Mexico fishing license is required to fish for channel catfish and any other fish species in the state's public waters.
More Channel Catfish Fishing in New Mexico
Other Species to Fish in Belen
Ready to Catch Channel Catfish in Belen?
Book a trip with an expert guide who knows the best local spots and techniques.