Potential Record Muskie Caught and Released — Monsters Await in the Depths of Bluewater Lake
CIBOLA COUNTY, N.M. - On Sept. 30, angler Jeremy Pitts landed a monster tiger muskie using a chartreuse spinnerbait— measuring an incredible 46.5 inches in length. Pitts, recognizing the potential record-class size, released the fish back into the lake after carefully marking its length on the boat and confirming the measurement later. “When I hooked this, I knew this was potentially a record,” Pitts told the Citizen. “But I wanted it to live. It was over 30 pounds, as I had to wrestle with it. I’m glad it’s still swimming around.”
His catch now rivals the current state-record tiger muskie, also caught at Bluewater Lake, which was landed in 2012 by Justin Easley and officially measured 46 inches and 31 pounds, 14 ounces.
Although Pitts' catch was a highlight, the New Mexico Department of Game and Fish has listed muskie activity as SLOW this week when using chartreuse spinnerbaits. Even so, this kind of report shows that persistence— and a little luck—can still reward anglers with the catch of a lifetime.
According to the U.S. Geological Survey, the volume of Bluewater Lake measured 4,886 acre-feet as of October 3, continuing the seasonal drawdown seen throughout the summer.
Boating conditions remain EXCELLENT, with a surface area of 491 acres and an elevation of 7,369.80 feet MSL.
October marks the final month of extended hours at Bluewater Lake State Park, with gates open daily from 6 a.m. to 9 p.m. Starting November 1, hours will shorten to 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. Visitors are reminded to always wear life jackets, follow posted regulations, and check for seasonal changes to park access.
Visit Bluewater Lake State Park’s webpage or call 505-876-2391 for more information before your next trip.
Grants Riverwalk Pond
No catches were reported this week from Grants Riverwalk Pond.
No new stocking has been reported at Bluewater Lake or Grants Riverwalk Pond during this period.
Share Your Fishing Story As fall approaches, we’ll continue to track updates from both bodies of water and report any new stocking plans or fishing activity. Until then, anglers are encouraged to send in photos, reports, or fishing stories to editor@cibolacitizen.com.
Whether you're landing a muskie or just spending a quiet morning at the lake, your experience helps us reflect the rhythm of the season here in Cibola County.