Gila Trout Waters Open for Limited Angling

Since 1966, it's been illegal to fish for gila trout due to their threatened status on the Federal Endangered List. These trout are so rare that you'll only find them in a few streams in Arizona and New Mexico.

Efforts have been made over the last several years to increase the number of gila trout, and finally those efforts are paying off!

As of July 1st, you'll be able to fish for gila trout in select waters in southwestern New Mexico, but restrictions do still apply.

• Limited angling will be allowed for Gila trout in Black Canyon Creek from July 1 through September 30 as a Special Trout Water. Fishing will be catch-and-release only with artificial flies or lures and a single barbless hook.
  
• Iron Creek will be open for year-round angling as a Special Trout Water with a two-fish daily limit. Fishing will be with artificial flies or lures and a single barbless hook.
• Regular trout water rules will apply to McKenna Creek and Sacaton Creek, with no tackle or bait restrictions and a bag limit of five fish per day and no more than 10 in possession.
• Everyone who fishes in Black Canyon and Iron Creek must have a Gila Trout Permit along with a valid New Mexico fishing license. Permits are free and will be available June 1 on the "Buy licenses online" feature of the Department website.

Update: In February 2008, Gila trout fishing opportunities were expanded.