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 Red River. Right now in May, activity is Excellent.
Seasonal Activity Chart

Flathead Catfish
Targeting flathead catfish in the Red River of New Mexico is highly unlikely, as the river's cold, fast-flowing waters and high elevation are not conducive to their habitat preferences. Flatheads prefer warmer, slower-moving rivers and lakes with plenty of cover. You'd be better off focusing on other species more suited to this environment, such as trout. Flathead catfish are typically found in larger, warmer river systems at lower elevations.
Plan a Trip to Red River
See what's biting in Red River, find top-rated guides, and estimate charter costs.
How to Catch Flathead Catfish
Detailed fishing techniques coming soon for Flathead Catfish in Red River.
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 best bait for flathead catfish in the Red River area?
Flathead catfish are predators and respond well to live bait. Bluegill, sunfish, and bullheads are excellent choices. Cut bait can also be effective.
Is there a size limit for flathead catfish in New Mexico?
No, there is no size limit for flathead catfish in New Mexico. You can keep any size you catch, as long as you stay within the bag limit.
How many flathead catfish can I keep per day in New Mexico?
The daily bag limit for flathead catfish in New Mexico is 5 per day. This applies to all public fishing waters in the state.
Do I need a fishing license to target flathead catfish in Red River?
Yes, a valid New Mexico fishing license is required to fish for flathead catfish in Red River and throughout the state. Make sure to have it with you while fishing.
More Flathead Catfish Fishing in New Mexico
Other Species to Fish in Red River
Ready to Catch Flathead Catfish in Red River?
Book a trip with an expert guide who knows the best local spots and techniques.
