The New Mexico Trout Challenge is run by the New Mexico Department of Wildlife. You can find the official rules and requirements here:
https://wildlife.dgf.nm.gov/fishing/fishing-challenges/nmtc/
But why should you consider undertaking this challenge?
I took on the New Mexico Trout Challenge a few years ago and found that it rejuvenated my interest in exploring our state—particularly the Gila Wilderness. Below are a few reasons why I think it’s worth doing.
Getting anglers to explore the whole state
New Mexico has far more trout water than most people realize—high-desert streams, alpine lakes, tailwaters, and tiny creeks. The challenge nudges anglers to get off their “usual spot” and discover new rivers, regions, and public lands.
Celebrating trout diversity (not just catching big fish)
To complete the challenge, anglers must catch different trout species found in New Mexico—rainbow, brown, cutthroat subspecies, brook trout, and others. It shifts the focus from size or numbers to knowledge, variety, and appreciation of native fish, especially cutthroat trout.
Conservation through engagement
This is the quiet but important part. When people:
- learn to identify species
- seek out native trout waters
- understand where fish come from
they’re far more likely to support habitat restoration, stream protection, and science-based fisheries management. The challenge helps build anglers who care—not just anglers who catch.
Why anglers actually do it (the human reason)
- It gives structure and motivation to a fishing season
- It’s a fun, low-pressure goal
- It turns fishing into a statewide scavenger hunt
- And yes, the certificate and bragging rights don’t hurt
Trout that count toward the New Mexico Trout Challenge
To complete the New Mexico Trout Challenge, anglers must catch five different trout species recognized by the New Mexico Department of Game & Fish. Under the current rules, these are the trout that count:
Rio Grande cutthroat trout
- Native to New Mexico and a major conservation priority
- Found in cold, high-elevation streams and a few lakes, including the Rio Costilla in the Valle Vidal, the Upper Pecos River Wilderness, Rio Hondo tributaries, and Cabresto Creek
- Must be released immediately in most waters
Gila trout
- Federally threatened and extremely rare
- Found only in a handful of streams in southwest New Mexico, including Mineral Creek and the forks of the Gila River, as well as stocked lakes such as Quemado Lake, Snow Lake, and Lake Roberts
- Catch-and-release only; special rules apply
Rainbow trout
- The most common trout in the state
- Widely stocked, with wild populations in some waters
Brown trout
- Not native, but well established
- Found in rivers such as the San Juan, Chama, Cimarron, Pecos, and San Antonio in the Valles Caldera
Brook trout
- Technically a char, but it counts
- Often found in small, cold streams, including Cabresto Creek near Questa, Tecolote Creek near Las Vegas, the Upper Red River, Comanche Creek, and Goose Lake
Important notes
- Photo documentation is required (clear side view plus location information)
- All fishing regulations still apply, especially for Gila trout and cutthroat trout
- Some waters require special permits or have seasonal closures
Nick Tsapatsaris, M.D.
Conservation Chair
Truchas Chapter, Trout Unlimited
