The Pecos River originates high up in the Pecos Wilderness Area of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains just north of Santa Fe, NM. A handful of tiny streams loaded with small browns, cut-bows and cutthroats flow into the Pecos above Cowles. Below Cowles the stream becomes a small-medium river ranging between 10-25 feet wide as it tumbles into the Pecos Box, one of two canyons stretches.
Many opportunities exist in this rather large watershed. Portions of the Pecos River proper are fairly wide, varying from 10 to 40 feet, with rainbows the predominant fish. An occasional brown trout is caught and on rare occasion a brook trout has been landed.
Leaving the town of Pecos traveling upstream for about 12 miles to the community of Tererro, the Pecos River follows NM63 and is heavily fished near the campground. But, if you can find an open spot on the river, fish it! The Pecos River cuts through private property in many places along the way.
There is finally some open water above the town of Pecos! While it is still cold up there, fish are being caught on small nymphs in the deep pools. Villanueva is always a good bet if it has been stocked recently.
Pecos River New Mexico Fly Fishing
Water flow: 34 CFS
Visibility: 36 inches
Water temperature at mid-day: 36 Degrees F
Water condition: Clear
Best time of day to fish: Mid-day through late afternoon
Best stretch: Lower canyon, Villanueva
Best access point: Plenty of access throughout the river. Public fishing starts at Dalton Day use area.
Fly fishing hatches in order of importance: Stoneflies, Worms, Caddis, Baetis, Eggs hares ear
Fish species: Brown Trout, Rainbow Trout, Rio Grande Cutthroat
Fishing season: Year Round
