Fishing Charters in New Mexico
Browse fishing charters in New Mexico that can help you catch flathead 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 Flathead Catfish
Flathead Catfish can be caught year-round in Bernalillo. Right now in February, activity is Fair.
Seasonal Activity Chart
Flathead Catfish
Targeting flathead catfish near Bernalillo, New Mexico, requires patience and a bit of local knowledge. The Rio Grande River is the primary location for these whiskered giants, though they can be challenging to find. Look for deep holes, especially those near submerged logs, rock piles, or other structure. Flatheads are ambush predators, so they prefer areas where they can hide and wait for prey. Live bait, such as sunfish or bullheads, is the most effective way to target them. The best time to fish for flatheads is during the warmer months, from late spring through early fall, with the peak season being summer. Night fishing is crucial, as flatheads are most active after dark. Access to the river can be found at various points along US 550, but be prepared for some walking to reach the prime fishing spots. Flatheads in this stretch of the Rio Grande can grow to impressive sizes, offering a true trophy fishing experience.
How to Catch Flathead Catfish
Detailed fishing techniques coming soon for Flathead Catfish in Bernalillo.
Flathead 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 bag limit for flathead catfish near Bernalillo, NM?
The daily bag limit for flathead catfish in New Mexico is 5 per day. Make sure to have a way to accurately count your catch.
What's the best bait for flathead catfish in the Bernalillo area?
Flathead catfish are predators, so live bait is often the most effective choice. Try using live sunfish or goldfish if allowed, or large cut bait.
Are there any size restrictions for flathead catfish in New Mexico?
No, there are no size restrictions for flathead catfish in New Mexico. You can keep any size you catch, as long as you stay within the bag limit.
Do I need a fishing license to target flathead catfish near Bernalillo?
Yes, you need a valid New Mexico fishing license to fish for flathead catfish, or any other species, in the state's public waters.
More Flathead Catfish Fishing in New Mexico
Other Species to Fish in Bernalillo
Ready to Catch Flathead Catfish in Bernalillo?
Book a trip with an expert guide who knows the best local spots and techniques.