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Executive Angler

Trip brief · Rio Grande — Taos Box

How to go fish the Rio Grande — Taos Box

The months we list for the Rio Grande — Taos Box are April, May, September, October, November. You are inside that window now, so this brief is written for October.

October

No USGS gauge is mapped to this river.

Flies to tie — October

  • Blue-winged Olive#18-22

    Parachute BWO

  • Midges#20-24

    WD-40

Access

  • Orilla Verde Recreation Area (Pilar)

    36.280, -105.740parking

  • John Dun Bridge

    36.380, -105.710parking

  • La Junta Trailhead

    36.480, -105.690parking

  • Taos Junction Bridge

    36.220, -105.760parking

Regs — check current rules before you go

From Colorado state line to Taos Junction Bridge: catch-and-release only, artificial lures and flies only, 6-inch minimum size. New Mexico fishing license required. Rio Grande del Norte National Monument regulations apply in the gorge. Check NMDGF for current year-round vs. seasonal designations. Flash flood risk in canyon — monitor weather.

Pack list

  • A current state fishing licence
  • Waders and boots you have already leak-tested
  • Net, nippers, forceps
  • Floatant and desiccant
  • Tippet in the sizes the chart asks for
  • Water, sun cover, polarised glasses

Generic gear. Anything specific to this water is above.

Full hatch chart, access map and live gauge on the Rio Grande — Taos Box page →