About 23 miles east of Taos and 152 miles northeast of Albuquerque, Angel Fire is a village with a population of a little over 1,000 set in a high alpine valley in Colfax County, New Mexico. The high mountain setting of Angel Fire and the surrounding area provides some of the best fishing to be found in the state. From lakes, to canyon rivers, to mountains streams and ponds, you'll find the perfect spot to drop your line in a pristine outdoor setting.
Monte Verde Lake
Monte Verde Lake is located in the Angel Fire Resort. This fishing destination is the perfect place for some summertime recreation. You're practically guaranteed success at this well-stocked lake. You don't even need to come to Monte Verde Lake with your fishing equipment because it's all available for purchase or rental. However, the lake is only available for fishing during the summer months on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays from 7:00 a.m. until 7:00 p.m.
Eagle Nest Lake
Eagle Nest Lake is perhaps the most famous body of water in New Mexico. This 2,200-acre lake is known for its crystal clear water and the abundance of fish. You can not only fish but you can also go out on the water in rented rowboats and paddle boats. Also near the water are picnic tables and BBQ grills, so you can catch your dinner and eat it on the spot.
Carson National Forest
Carson National Forest is home to many mountain streams and lakes that add up to over 400 miles of water. The Valle Vidal unit, set in a wildlife reserve, has two campgrounds and, besides the trout streams in the area, has several fishing ponds, including a special fishing pond reserved for children only. Motorized travel is restricted and there is no potable water but stock water is available. Other popular fishing areas include Canjilon Lakes near Lower and Middle Canjilon Lakes campgrounds; Rio Pueblo near the Agua Piedra campground; and the Red River with the Junebug, Elephant Rock and Columbine campgrounds nearby.
Cimarron Canyon State Park
Cimarron Canyon is a great place for fly-fishing because it is well-stocked with rainbow and brown trout. Because of its classification as "Special Trout Water," it is requested that you use only artificial lures and bait and practice catch-and-release. Because the water from the dam is turned off to save for the next year's irrigation, fishing is not available in the winter. There are several state-operated campgrounds with access to the river. Cimarron Canyon State Park is part of the 33,116-acre Colin Neblett Wildlife Area, the largest in the state. Besides fishing, there are many trails throughout the area perfect for hiking and viewing wildlife.
Fishing Trips and Clinics
In Angel Fire, East Nest Marina offers guided fishing trips and pontoon boat fishing, as does High Country Fishing Tours. Sundance Flyfishing Co. guides and outfits expeditions and offers free fly-fishing clinics.
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