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 Mesilla. Right now in February, activity is Slow.
Seasonal Activity Chart
Channel Catfish
Looking for some whisker-twitching action near Mesilla, New Mexico? Channel catfish offer a fun and accessible angling experience in the southern part of the state. While the Rio Grande flows nearby, smaller irrigation canals and reservoirs like the Leasburg Diversion Dam area hold surprising numbers of channel cats. Spring and early summer, particularly after the irrigation season starts and water levels stabilize, are prime times. Bait fishing is king here. Try stink baits, chicken liver, or nightcrawlers fished on the bottom. Access can be tricky; many canals are on private land, so respect postings. The Rio Grande offers more public access, but be prepared for potentially swift currents. A local tip: Catfish tend to congregate near any structure or current breaks, so focus your efforts there.
How to Catch Channel Catfish
Detailed fishing techniques coming soon for Channel Catfish in Mesilla.
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 the best bait to use for channel catfish in Mesilla?
Channel catfish in Mesilla respond well to a variety of baits. Popular choices include nightcrawlers, chicken liver, and commercially prepared catfish baits. Experiment to see what's working best on any given day.
Are there any restrictions on catching channel catfish in New Mexico?
You can fish for channel catfish year-round in New Mexico. The bag limit is 5 per day, and there is no size limit, so you can keep what you catch within the limit.
Do I need a fishing license to target channel catfish in Mesilla?
Yes, a valid New Mexico fishing license is required to fish for channel catfish and all other fish species in the state's public waters. Make sure your license is current before heading out.
Where are some good spots near Mesilla to fish for channel catfish?
The Rio Grande near Mesilla is a popular spot for channel catfish. Also, check out local reservoirs and ponds in the area, as they often hold good populations of catfish.
More Channel Catfish Fishing in New Mexico
Other Species to Fish in Mesilla
Ready to Catch Channel Catfish in Mesilla?
Book a trip with an expert guide who knows the best local spots and techniques.