Rio Chama

The Rio Chama below El Vado Lake Dam in north-central New Mexico carries a Special Trout Water designation (Red chile) for the reach from the USGS gaging station 1.3 miles below the dam downstream approximately 3 miles to the Rio Nutrias. The river supports Rio Grande cutthroat trout, rainbow trout, and brown trout and is strictly catch-and-release; only artificial fly or lure with a single barbless hook is permitted. A valid New Mexico fishing license is required. Managed by the BLM Rio Chama National Wild and Scenic River and the New Mexico Department of Game and Fish. Photography is permitted.