Guided Fly Fishing in Northern New Mexico

Santa Fe - Taos - Chama

Welcome! We are a dedicated group of professional fishing guides who would love to show you our home waters of New Mexico and southern Colorado and take you out on the many gorgeous rivers and lakes in the region. We welcome all walks of life and are excited to share our passion for fly fishing with you!

We try to make it as easy as possible for you to get out on the water. We will organize all the trip logistics and make a plan for you. All equipment is provided! Beginners are Welcome.

Testimonals

Outstanding guide. I have fly fished with over a dozen guides and Jake was by far the best. In addition to finding some outstanding waters to fish. What really set Jake apart is his teaching ability. I am an experienced intermediate ability fly fisherman, and learned more in 2 days from Jake, than all other guides combined in terms of improved skills in fishing technique, reading the water conditions and fly selection technique based on local habitat. He is very personable and flexible in both his guiding and teaching style and will adjust to your needs and desires. Highly recommend

Dave S

Artful Angler and Jake was a terrific choice for a guided day last spring. Jake scoped out the best conditions, got us into fish and local beauty. His knowledge of local geography and biology add a valued dimension. A whole hearted endorsement!

-Peter F

Had a really good time. My buddies and I booked him for the weekend and we got on the fish quick. Provided drinks and lunch which was nice. Didn’t stay in one spot too long and got to see a lot of the river. Very knowledgeable and instructive. Definitely would recommend using.

- Zack B

Had a great time with Jake! He's super knowledgeable and a great teacher. We caught a lot of fish and learned a ton!

-Tyler M

 “Jake is a fantastic guide. I’ve fished all over the US with some very knowledgeable (and famous) anglers and he ranks up there with the best. He is extremely knowledgeable about reading water and a great tactician. He also taught me some new skills that helped me improve a lot. I highly recommend him.”

Larry M.

"My experience with Artful Angler was excellent! The guide selected a gorgeous stretch of river that was perfect for my first time fly fishing. The guide's instructions were clear and easy to follow and his love of the sport was evident in everything he did. From local context to an understanding of the local biology, my day of fly-fishing far exceeded my expectations! I highly recommend you sign up with Artful Angler for fly fishing expeditions in NM, Colorado and beyond."

- Russell B, Santa Fe, NM

I have fished with Jake Clemens numerous times.  He is not only a gifted guide and a pleasure to spend the day with, he also goes out of his way to make sure his clients have a complete and enjoyable experience.  The fishing is great- and we have had many successful days- however Jake also excels at providing great food, great conversation, and an overall great time. I recommend Jake highly!!!

Chris C.

My wife and I have been using Jake as a guide the last few years and have fished with him on various waters of New Mexico and the Conejos river in Colorado. His patience and instruction have helped to make my wife and I a lot more experienced in fly fishing and understanding trout habitat.

Jake’s knowledge and experience is what makes a good guide and makes his customers have a fun day of fishing. We like the fact that Jake is very cautious of how the caught fish are handled so that they can be released and continue to grow bigger and bigger in the river. We can’t wait until the next season of fishing to have more experiences on the water with Jake.

- James P.

Thanks, Jake, for a grand day on the water. I loved that we caught some very nice trout—that big one was the largest I’ve caught on a fly in over 20 years of fly fishing—but it wasn’t just the fish....the whole day was great fun. I appreciate that you didn’t hold back on coaching an ‘old guy’ on casting and hook setting. Most of all, I enjoyed our time together, both on the ride up from Santa Fe and out on the river. I will tell my western fishing friends to be sure to go out with you when they get in your neighborhood. And count on me to hook up with you again the next time I get back to Santa Fe.

—Best, Tom (Rochester MN)

 
 

  • Half day, full day, and multiple day fishing trips

  • Float fishing trips

  • Hike and fish

    This website is full of information so feel free to browse around. Call us with any questions, our contact info is on the bottom of every page. You can always book a trip by clicking the link on the top right of each page.

    We can teach you any type of fly fishing technique commonly used for targeting trout. Dry flies, nymphing with suspension rigs,

    modern tight line or euro nymphing, streamers, trout spey and single handed spey are all part of our repertoire.

Everything you need to fish for the day will be provided for you

  • All Equipment Provided

  • Hand Tied Flies and Tackle Provided

  • Snacks, Lunch and Drinks Provided

Personalized Fly Fishing Adventures

Upper Rio Chama


Artful Angler specializes in environmental education based fly fishing trips. Whether you are a first time angler getting your feet wet in the sport or a hardcore trout bum looking for big fish, Artful Angler can arrange a personalized experience for you. Depending on experience level, some of the day will focus on the fundamentals of tackle, rigging, casting, and presentation of the fly. However, there will always be time to discuss the fascinating riparian (river) or lacustrine (lake) ecosystem we will be immersed in. Entomology (bugs) is integral to the fly fishing experience and you will come away with a basic understand of the life cycles and habits of the various aquatic invertebrates that live in the water we fish.  We are active conservationists and if you are interested we can inform you of conservation efforts that protect our fisheries and ways you can help. Artful Angler aims to not only catch fish but also educate. This is a 99% catch and release only operation. We strongly believe that minimizing impact by proper handling of fish and leaving fish in the river is the one of the best ways we can conserve our fisheries.

Artful Angler operates out of Santa Fe, NM and runs trips out of Santa Fe, Taos, Chama, and Navajo Dam (San Juan River). We offer both walk and wade trips and float trips from a drift boat. We also offer fully customizable trips at no extra charge for people wanting to experience more than just fishing. Here are a few ideas -

  • Stop by a local winery or brewery

  • Grab a bite from a classic old burger joint

  • Take the High Road to Taos Scenic Byway and learn about the rich cultural history of the area

  • Stop at an authentic, high quality New Mexican food restaurant

I was born in New Mexico and I grew up tromping around the area. I understand that fishing is as much about the overall experience as it is about simply catching fish.

Fly Fishing Guides Santa Fe
““The great charm of fly-fishing is that we are always learning””
— Theodor Gordon
Fly Fishing Guides Santa Fe

Fly Fishing New Mexico



When people think of New Mexico, sometimes they think of it as Arizona’s unkempt little brother. Their preconceptions lump Santa Fe and Albuquerque in with desert southwest cities like Tuscon and Phoenix. When you mention fly fishing New Mexico, especially for trout, they often look at you in disbelief. Although there is some truth to this notion and the southern part of the state is part of the Chihuahan desert, the northern part of the state looks up at snow capped 13,000 foot peaks of the Sangre de Cristo mountains, the southernmost extent of the contiguous Rockies. Two other large mountain ranges dominate the landscape trapping water from passing storms and helping nourish the arid lands below - the Jemez mountains and massive San Juan mountains. Local anglers don’t mind these common misconceptions because they keep the thousands of miles of cold water rivers and streams suitable for trout uncrowded. Fly fishing New Mexico will undoubtedly send you into stunning country and you are likely to find the quality of the fishing is on par with more well know areas in the west. Fly fishing New Mexico has its own unique intricacies and knowing what river to fish at what time of year as well as having an understanding of the basic ecology of each river system is very important for success.

The major rivers for fly fishing New Mexico are the Rio Grande, Rio Chama, and San Juan River. Each river has numerous smaller tributary streams with its own distinct character. From high alpine lakes, to backcountry creeks, down to lower elevation rivers, fly fishing New Mexico has a tremendous amount of diversity and offers something for all types of anglers.

 

Fly Fishing Taos NM

Fishing in rivers around Taos

If you are interested in fly fishing in larger rivers where the fish are also larger, the famous Rio Grande offers over 70 miles of public water fly fishing paradise through a magnificent canyon. Most of that river is hard to reach except by the most athletic of fishermen, but there's easier access near the little town of Pilar, just south of Taos. The Rio Grande is a notoriously challenging river for trout fishermen. If the flows are off, or water temperatures are too hot, or too cold, even one of the more prolific rivers out there can get the best of a fisherman.

You can book Taos fly fishing guide services like Artful Angler locally to ferry you in and out of the canyon, and help unlock the secrets of that mystic river!

Casting in the streams near Taos

When you are selecting a spot in Taos where fly fishing is great, it is important to consider fish behavior. Streams whose flow is regulated by dams, such as the Costilla and the Cimarron, are generally pretty good in the spring, no matter how that snow melts. The steady flows from the dams keep the fish in a good mood and anglers can always look to these “tailwaters” as a reliable safe bet.Close seconds from where the fishing is good in Taos are streams that come out of the lower elevation mountains’ snow-runoff basins, such as the Rio Pueblo above Peñasco. They will begin to clear earlier in the year. Small creeks to the south and east of Taos (e.g., Rio Chiquito, Rito de La Olla, and Rio Grande del Rancho) will also be fishable earlier than high elevation snow field-fed streams. Rivers like the Rio Hondo and the Red River are born in the Wheeler Peak Wilderness, over 13,000 feet up. They’ll be the last to fall and clear, as the snow is slower to melt that high up, and there is more of it!

Fly- fishing lakes around Taos

Area Lakes at Taos - are prime lakes for fly fishing, lure fishing and bait fishing. Eagle Nest Lake is home for trout that makes fly fishing legends.

Final Thoughts

With so many places to fly fish in Taos that are good, from rivers, to streams, from creeks to lakes, Taos has some of the best fishing around for an unforgettable, fun and entertaining time fishing.

For some of the latest fishing conditions and reports and to ensure you’re headed down the right path, locals and visitors alike call the pros at Artful Angler. To Book a professional fly-fishing guide give us a call today at 505-603-2119 to click here to Book today!

 

Fly Fishing Santa Fe

Santa Fe, New Mexico, nestled in the Sangre de Cristo Mountains, offers a diverse array of fly-fishing opportunities within a 50-mile radius. From alpine streams to serene lakes, anglers can find a variety of settings to pursue trout and enjoy the region's natural beauty. Below is an overview of notable fishing locations near Santa Fe:​

Fly Fishing Pecos River

The Pecos River is a renowned fly-fishing destination, flowing through the Pecos Wilderness and offering accessible waters just east of Santa Fe. Anglers can target brown, rainbow, and Rio Grande cutthroat trout along stretches like the Dalton Day Use Area and the Terrero to Cowles section. The river provides both roadside access and opportunities for backcountry fishing in more secluded areas. ​

Fly Fishing Mora River

Originating in the Sangre de Cristo Mountains, the Mora River meanders through scenic landscapes before joining the Pecos River. Accessible via State Road 63, the river offers summer and fall fishing for brown and rainbow trout. The Mora River Campground serves as a convenient base for anglers exploring this tranquil stream. ​

Fly Fishing Little Tesuque Creek

Located just north of Santa Fe, Little Tesuque Creek is a small, spring-fed stream that provides a peaceful setting for fly fishing. Accessible via hiking trails, the creek is home to wild trout and is best suited for anglers seeking a quiet, intimate fishing experience close to the city.​

Fly Fishing Santa Cruz Lake

Approximately 45 minutes north of Santa Fe, Santa Cruz Lake is a reservoir nestled at the base of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains. The lake is stocked with rainbows, brown, and cutthroat trout, offering anglers a chance to fish from the shore or by boat. The picturesque setting and diverse fish population make it a popular spot for both novice and experienced anglers. ​

Additional Nearby Waters

Winsor Creek: A tributary of the Pecos River, Winsor Creek offers fly fishing opportunities in a serene mountain setting. Accessible via hiking trails provides a chance to catch wild trout in a less crowded environment.​

Cow Creek: Located east of Santa Fe, Cow Creek is known for its clear waters and healthy trout population. Anglers can enjoy fishing in a picturesque canyon setting, with opportunities to catch brown and rainbow trout.​

Gallinas River: Flowing through the town of Las Vegas, the Gallinas River offers accessible fishing spots for brown and rainbow trout. The river's proximity to urban areas makes it a convenient option for local anglers. ​

Storrie Lake: Situated near Las Vegas, Storrie Lake is a popular fishing destination stocked with rainbow trout and catfish. The lake's calm waters and surrounding amenities make it suitable for family outings and casual fishing trips. ​

Santa Cruz River: Flowing through northern New Mexico, the Santa Cruz River provides seasonal fishing opportunities for trout. Anglers should check local regulations and water conditions before planning a trip.​

Summing Up Fly Fishing Santa Fe

Santa Fe's proximity to diverse fishing waters makes it an excellent base for anglers seeking both convenience and variety. Whether you're casting in mountain streams or tranquil lakes, the region offers a rich fly-fishing experience amidst stunning Southwestern landscapes. Now, if you’re, say, in the marketplace to fly fish near Santa Fe you’ve come to the right place, the Artful Angler. Book a Santa Fe fly fishing professionally guided trip now with one of our professional Santa Fe Fly Fishing guides or call 505-603-2119.

Permitted and Insured -

Artful Angler operates under permit on the Santa Fe National Forest, Carson National Forest, Bureau of Land Management, New Mexico State Parks, and the state of Colorado. At a minimum we are trained in First Aid / CPR and are fully insured. This institution is an equal opportunity provider.