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 Cloudcroft. Right now in February, activity is Poor.
Seasonal Activity Chart
Channel Catfish
Channel catfish in the Cloudcroft area require a bit of travel, as the immediate mountain streams aren't ideal habitat. Head down to the lower elevations and look to larger reservoirs such as Bonney Canyon Reservoir for your best chance at hooking into some whiskerfish. Summer evenings and nights are the classic times to target channel cats, as they become more active in the cooler hours. Use the classic catfish baits: stink baits, chicken liver, or nightcrawlers fished on the bottom. A three-way swivel rig with a sliding sinker is effective in these waters. Be aware that access to some areas may require a high-clearance vehicle. The catfish in these reservoirs aren't known for trophy size, but you can find some good eating-size fish.
How to Catch Channel Catfish
Detailed fishing techniques coming soon for Channel Catfish in Cloudcroft.
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's a good bait to use for channel catfish in Cloudcroft?
Channel catfish in Cloudcroft are opportunistic feeders and can be caught using a variety of baits. Popular choices include stink baits, nightcrawlers, chicken liver, and prepared catfish dough baits. Experiment to see what works best on a given day.
Is there a size restriction for keeping channel catfish in New Mexico?
No, there is no minimum size limit for channel catfish in New Mexico. You can keep any channel catfish you catch, provided you have a valid fishing license and stay within the bag limit.
What is the daily bag limit for channel catfish in New Mexico?
You can keep up to 5 channel catfish per day in New Mexico. This regulation applies to most public waters around Cloudcroft.
Do I need a fishing license to fish for channel catfish in Cloudcroft?
Yes, a valid New Mexico fishing license is required to fish for channel catfish in Cloudcroft. Be sure to have your license with you while fishing and familiarize yourself with all applicable regulations.
More Channel Catfish Fishing in New Mexico
Other Species to Fish in Cloudcroft
Ready to Catch Channel Catfish in Cloudcroft?
Book a trip with an expert guide who knows the best local spots and techniques.