Fishing Overview

Our program offers each angler 1 - 1.5 miles of stream to fish alone or with up to three guests for the day. This quality approach offers anglers a sense of solitude; a unique experience on public lands in New Mexico today. In addition to a challenging fishing opportunity, we strive to provide a satisfying and memorable experience. Your morning begins with an informative 45 minute drive through the heart of the caldera. Along the way you may have the opportunity to see wildlife and enjoy the scenery of the Preserve. The Preserve is a working ranch, so visitors may see a variety of ranch activities such as cowboys moving cattle on horseback as they have for over a 100 years.

Long term, the Trust will seek to develop:

Diverse fishing opportunities including the possible creation of ponds accessible to children and physically challenged people along with more physically demanding and adventurous wild stream fishing; and
Opportunities for wild fish and potential native trout angling.

The Trust uses a lottery to allow an equitable and fair opportunity for the majority of the general public. Visit the Planning Your Trip section to learn how to participate.

As most New Mexicans, I’ve long hoped for the opportunity to have access to the Valles Caldera, even for a day. Thus, being able to see this national treasure and to fish pristine waters where few have had such an opportunity was a thrill beyond measure.

The fly fishing was fantastic. When I tell fly fishing friends of the numbers of fish I caught and released, they are incredulous. The scenery at the Valles Caldera was breathtaking; the wildlife was abundant and the Preserve’s staff incredibly helpful.

I estimated seeing close to 1,000 elk during the drive to the assigned beat. A flock of wild turkeys crossed the road ahead of our van. The driver reported having seen a sow bear and a cub the week before. While fishing, I saw a small herd of deer and saw a coyote apparently stalking a rabbit for dinner. It was simply incredible.
Anonymous, Albuquerque 2004