Fishing Season: Prime is September - early November. April depending on runoff

Rio Grande - NM

Fishing Outlook & Conditions

Water Temp:

52

Doc Thompson's Tip of the Week

This is pre-runoff time on the Rio Grande when fishing is anywhere from so so to ok to good. It is that time of year when fish action is unpredictable. Mostly fishing nymphs. Keep an eye out for some Baetis hatching and a few rising trout.

Directions open in app

Map of Rio Grande

Water Flow Data

Orvis-Endorsed guides nearby

Doc Thompson

5-Day Outlook as of 3/19/26

Flows on the Rio have dropped about 100 cfs the last couple days. Expect these kind of wings in flows this time of year during the pre-runoff. Should start seeing the caddis hatch here in a week or so.

Techniques & Tips as of 3/19/26

Fishing nymphs in the deep riffles and dry droppers in the pockets and shallower riffles.

Local Species Available Prime is September - early November. April depending on runoff

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    Trout

Doc Thompson's Recommended Fly Patterns

"Must-have" fly fishing patterns in descending order of importance:

Name: Colors: Size(s):
Hopper tan 10-12
Adams Parachute Dry Fly N/A 16-14
Troutmaster Nymph - Hare's Ear N/A 12-14
Tactical Peeping Caddis TH Jig N/A 12-14
Hoppers/Stoneflies N/A 10-12
Hot spot nymphs red or orange hot sp 16-18
Bead Head Rubber-Legged Orvis CJ N/A 12
Tactical TH Hot Spot Nymph N/A 14-16
Copper Johns red, olive, 16-18
Streamers balck, olive 10

Hopper

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Item #0414

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Doc Thompson's Recommended Gear

Description: About Rio Grande

Northern New Mexico-Taos Area

Nearest Airport:

Albuquerque International Sunport

Hatches:

Baetis. Should start seeing Caddis in a week or so.

Best Time to Fish:

morning-afternoon

Best Stretch:

Pilar area, John Dunn Bridge area, Rio Grande Wild and Scenic area

Best Access:

Pilar, John Dunn Bridge, hike in waters of Rio Grande Wild and Scenic area