Gone Trout Fishin'

Gone Trout Fishin’

W

e’ve had a winter full of snow in northern New Mexico, which means two things. First, this spring brings with it a particularly strong strain of cabin fever. Second, our often-dry rivers and streambeds are rushing and gushing with the full force of snow pack melting in the equinox sunshine. Why not alleviate that cabin fever by getting out and trout fishing? From rainbow, cutthroat, brook, brown and lake trout, New Mexico’s lakes and streams are bountiful and ready for you to cast.

Trout are traditionally a cold-water fish, so you’ll want to seek lakes and streams full of ice-cold run-off. Fenton Lake, Eagle Nest Lake and El Vado Lake are good places to start. Rivers, streams and smaller lakes also contain trout. Don’t forget the drains and ponds closer to home that get stocked in the late winter and early

summer. For the urban fisherman, there are lots of local options that don’t require you to trek to the mountains.

Trout are considered some of the more difficult fish to fool. Since insects make up a large percentage of a trout’s diet – particularly for small to medium size trout – the most common artificial lures are flies and spinner-type lures. Larger, more aggressive trout are more inclined to chase a lure imitating a minnow or other small fish. Choosing the right fly or lure is dependent on where exactly you decide to fish. For example, if there is a recent insect hatch, your success will be determined by how well you match the activity on the water.

As for varieties, trout come in as many shades and sizes as the day is long, but a few general classifications help give fishermen a better idea of how and where to cast.

Rainbow trout is a common favorite. It particularly appeals to fly fishermen, as rainbow trout can be tempted to go after properly presented flies as well as other baits and lures. It feeds on small insects, minnows, crustaceans and worms.

Cutthroat trout can be found in fast-moving waters.

Fly fishing is the preferred method but they can be caught on any number of minnow or grub-imitating lures, as well as live bait.

Fishing for Brook trout is the easiest of all if you can find them. Look for gravel bottom streams with a moderate current and plenty of waterfalls, or ponds with rocks and cover. Overhanging trees offer additional shade, attract insects and offer protection from preying birds.

The Brown trout can tolerate slightly warmer waters than the brook trout. When fishing for brown trout, look for quiet water with lots of cover. Under-cuts in the bank, rock shelves, overhanging trees and brush are some of the brown trout’s favorite hiding places.

In early spring, the lake tout can be lured in shallows on dry and wet flies. Once surface waters warm, the lake trout retreats to deep water where trolling with heavy tackle is the preferred method.

Whether you’re new to trout fishing or a seasoned pro, there’s no time like this spring to ring out the cabin fever and bring home the dinner.