Tiger Muskie Action Heavy Even as Bluewater Lake Continues its Steady Decline Amid Drought and Fire Restrictions
BLUEWATER, N.M. – Anglers at Bluewater Lake finally had something to cheer about this week. After a long stretch of slow fishing and declining water levels, the tiger muskie bite roared to life—especially for those throwing topwater lures.
The biggest news came on August 16, when Veronica Schaerfl landed a near-record tiger muskie using a Whopper Plopper. A few days earlier, another
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angler fishing by boat pulled in a second trophy-sized muskie, further proving that the big ones are still out there and willing to strike—if you bring the right bait.
Fishing remained POOR, however, for those using small, light blue spinners, with few strikes reported. The topwater action appears to be where the excitement is for now.
Lake conditions continue to shift as we move deeper into the dry season. According to the U.S. Geological Survey, the water level fell sharply this week.
On August 16, Bluewater held 5,885 acre-feet of water, but by August 22, that number dropped again to 5,645 acre-feet. This ongoing drawdown is visible along the shoreline, where mudflats have widened and some coves have pulled back significantly. The lake’s surface acreage, last recorded on August 11, stood at 586 acres—down from over 1,000 in early spring.
Despite the decline, boating conditions remain EXCELLENT, and tiger muskie activity suggests there’s still plenty of reason to hit the water. The lake’s surface elevation now measures around 7,372.34 feet above sea level, and the main channel remains deep enough for safe navigation.
Visitors to Bluewater Lake State Park are reminded that Stage II Fire Restrictions remain in effect through September 30.
No open flames are allowed— including charcoal, coal, or wood-burning fires. Propane stoves are permitted, but only in areas cleared of weeds. Smoking is prohibited unless you're in an enclosed vehicle or in a barren space free of vegetation. These restrictions are part of a broader effort to reduce wildfire risk during peak fire season.
The park remains open from 6 a.m. to 9 p.m. daily. For campsite reservations, contact Reserve America at 877-6647787, and for general information, visitors can call 505-876-2391.
Riverwalk Park
Meanwhile, over at Grants Riverwalk Pond, there were no angler reports this week.
The pond was last stocked on July 31, and while the heat may have quieted fish activity, conditions could improve as temperatures begin to ease in the evenings.
Reminder to Anglers
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