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Brown Trout

Brown Trout

Brown Trout are a non-native European species introduced to New Mexico in the late 1800s and early 1900s that have established self-sustaining populations throughout many coldwater mountain streams.

They're found in numerous wild populations throughout the state and are more adaptable to varying conditions than other trout species.

Scientific Name: Salmo trutta

Physical Characteristics:
  • These fish are olive to brown on their upper regions with yellowish-white bellies, featuring large dark spots on their heads and bodies with smaller red spots encircled by white halos along their midlines.
  • During spawning period, male browns develop the classic hooked jaw (kype) and bright spawning colors.

What to know

Habitat Distribution

  • In New Mexico, brown trout occupy deeper, slower-moving, and warmer waters than other trout species, making them more adaptable to varying conditions.
  • They're found throughout many coldwater mountain streams.

Key Locations

  • Rio Grande Gorge, Pecos River, San Juan River, Rio Guadalupe in the Jemez, and Cimarron River below Eagle Nest Dam.
  • The San Juan River below Navajo Dam offers world-class brown trout fishing year-round.
  • In larger rivers like the Rio Grande, Rio Chama, and San Juan, browns can exceed 20 inches.

Specific Spots

  • Target deeper pools, undercut banks, and areas with overhead cover.

Brown Trout FAQ

Answers from onWater's species guide.

What flies work for Brown Trout in New Mexico?

Size 18-26 nymph patterns are most effective, particularly WD-40s, Pheasant Tail Nymphs, and small midges. Size 20-26 midges on the San Juan River. Streamers work exceptionally well for bigger browns, especially Woolly Buggers, Sculpin patterns, and minnow imitations.

When is the best time to fish for Brown Trout in New Mexico?

Brown trout fishing in New Mexico peaks during fall (September through November) when they become aggressive during pre-spawn. Stonefly hatches typically start around Mother's Day through June. Winter fishing can be productive on tailwaters like the San Juan using small midges and nymphs.

How do you catch Brown Trout in New Mexico?

Nymphing is most effective. Dead-drift nymphing under indicators, swinging wet flies, and aggressive streamer fishing during fall. Strip streamers through deeper pools and around structure during fall spawning runs. Focus on deeper water where fish hold during colder months in winter.

What do Brown Trout eat?

Brown trout undergo an ontogenetic diet shift from invertebrates when young to becoming increasingly piscivorous as they mature, feeding on bottom-dwelling aquatic invertebrates and small fish once they reach about 9.8 inches.

Where do Brown Trout live in New Mexico?

In New Mexico, brown trout occupy deeper, slower-moving, and warmer waters than other trout species, making them more adaptable to varying conditions. They're found throughout many coldwater mountain streams.

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