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Hunting, Fishing and Shooting

Hunting and Fishing on the Santa Fe National Forest is a world-class experience.

Lake and Pond Fishing

River and Stream Fishing

With nearly 1000 miles of streams and nearly 20 fish-bearing lakes, the Santa Fe National Forest offers a variety of fishing experiences. You can try backpack fly fishing in the wilderness or a family experience at established fishing areas.

You will find waters that provide warm and cold-water fish habitat. The New Mexico State Fish, Rio Grande cutthroat trout, can be found in some remote areas. Whatever type of experience you are looking for, you will likely find it on or near the Santa Fe National Forest. So, get your fishing license, clean your tackle and head for the waters of your national forests. 

A weekly fishing report is available from New Mexico Dept of Game and Fish.  

Hunting

Santa Fe National Forest is home to some of the best big game trophies in the country.  One of the only places in New Mexico to hunt Rocky Mountain Bighorn Sheep, the Pecos Wilderness sustains one of the only transplant populations of this diminishing species.

 A very popular activity on the forest both for locals and hunters from all over the world, hunting occurs only at specific times of the year. The New Mexico Dept. of Game and Fish provides information on permits, species and hunt dates.

Search for Hunting, Fishing and Shooting Opportunities

Showing: 11 - 20 of 34 results

Dark Canyon Fishing Site

Site Open
Hunting, Fishing and Shooting
This fishing site provides access to the San Antonio River in San Diego Canyon. A restroom is available at this site. The parking area also accomodates overflow parking for Spence Hot Spring.Uses:…

E.V. Long Campground

Site Closed
Picnicking Hunting, Fishing and Shooting
Situated next to Gallinas Creek among big Ponderosa Pines and mixed conifers, E.V. Long Campground provides a rustic-type camping experience.  Uses: tent and RV camping, picnicking,…

El Porvenir Campground

Site Closed
Hunting, Fishing and Shooting Picnicking Hiking
Beautifully situated in a mixed conifer forest next to Beaver Creek near the base of Hermit's Peak.Some suggested uses: tent and RV camping, picnicking, fishing, hiking.Facilities: 13 camping units…

Field Tract Campground

Site Closed
Picnicking Hunting, Fishing and Shooting
Situated on the Pecos River, Field Tract Campground provides an inviting forested setting. The Sangre De Cristo Mountains surround the Pecos Canyon and provide magnificent opportunities for wildlife…

Holy Ghost Campground

Site Open
Picnicking Hiking Hunting, Fishing and Shooting
This 23 site Campground is situated in a beautiful steep canyon right along Holy Ghost Creek, 16 miles north of Pecos on NM 63 and FR 122. Holy Ghost Trail #283 is accessible from the…

Holy Ghost Group Campground

Site Closed
Hiking Hunting, Fishing and Shooting
The group campground is situated on the upper portion of the Holy Ghost Canyon, a beautiful steep canyon consisting of mixed conifer forest. Uses: camping, fishing, hiking and group…

Jemez Falls Campground

Site Closed
Hunting, Fishing and Shooting
The campground is located in a stunning Ponderosa Pine and forest meadow environment in proximity to the East Fork Jemez River. Come prepared for warm summer days and cooler nights. Jemez Falls,…

La Junta Fishing Site

Site Open
Hunting, Fishing and Shooting
 The La Junta Fishing Site offers parking and access to the Lower Jemez River. Located on NM HWY 4 approximately nine miles south of Jemez Springs.Uses: FishingFacilities: Paved parking, vault…

Las Casitas Fishing Site

Site Open
Hunting, Fishing and Shooting
The Las Casitas Fishing Site offers parking and access to the Lower Jemez River.  Located on NM HWY 4 approximately eight miles south of Jemez Springs.Uses:  FishingFacilities: Paved parking,…

Las Conchas Day Use Site

Site Open
Hunting, Fishing and Shooting Picnicking
Located adjacent to the East Fork Jemez River the Las Conchas Day Use Site offers fishing access and picnic facilities.  The picnic area is in an alpine meadow with the river meandering along side…

Last updated March 27th, 2025