DIFFICULTY LEVEL: BEGINNER
San Juan River. The state stocks the area below Cottonwood campground with rainbow trout, making it accessible to anyone regardless of skill level.
DIFFICULTY LEVEL: INTERMEDIATE
Río Chama. Anglers separate the Río Chama into three parts, but big fish can be found in any section. The river below El Vado and Abiquiú dams are subject to releases from the dams, while the river north of Chama is a classic free-flowing western native trout stream that involves some hiking. The section about two miles below the town of Chama is popular.
DIFFICULTY LEVEL: INTERMEDIATE
Río Grande. Fishing the Río Grande for more than one species of fish on the same day can require multiple rods, specialized lures or flies, and a change in tactics. A summer day trip to the river near Taos starts with trout fishing in the morning and may transition to smallmouth bass as the day gets hotter. In the winter, anglers can pursue trout and northern pike on the same day.
DIFFICULTY LEVEL: EXPERT
San Juan River. The renowned stretch near Bloomfield and Farmington can require the use of tiny flies on light lines and special knowledge of the river. Below Navajo Dam, the state imposes certain tackle and catch-and-release rules and bag limits.