BLUEWATER LAKE, N.M. – The final fishing report of 2025 finds Bluewater Lake entering winter conditions after a year shaped by declining water levels, persistent drought, and steady fishing success across seasons.
The most recent angler report, received Dec. 18, indicated FAIR to GOOD fishing for both trout and tiger muskie using 6th Sense spinners, a pattern consistent with late-season reports throughout December.
Provisional data from the U.S. Geological Survey show Bluewater Lake continuing its gradual winter drawdown. Reservoir storage measured 4,504 acrefeet on the morning of Dec. 30, following a reading of 4,496 acre-feet on Dec. 27. These levels reflect a longterm decline observed throughout 2025, during which the lake steadily receded from spring highs amid limited inflow and ongoing drought conditions in the Zuni–Bluewater Basin.
Despite reduced storage, fishing activity at Bluewater remained viable throughout the year.
Spring brought consistent trout action along the shorelines, followed by several big tiger muskie catches during the summer months.
Fall trout stockings helped sustain fishing success into colder weather, and several winter outings demonstrated that trout and muskie remained active even as temperatures dropped and angler presence decreased.
Boating conditions remained rated EXCELLENT throughout the whole year, with approximately 455 surface acres reported in early December and an elevation of 7,368.89 feet above sea level.
Seasonal operating hours are now in effect at Bluewater Lake State Park, with daily access from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. through March 31. The park’s shower facility remains temporarily closed due to lack of heat and is expected to reopen in April. No other closures have been reported.
The standard restrictions remain in place, including prohibitions on fireworks, firewood gathering, and offhighway vehicle use within state park boundaries. Camping reservations continue to be handled through Reserve America at 877664-7787, and the park’s EV charging station remains available during operating hours.
In Grants, the Riverwalk Pond recorded no reported catches during the final week of December. While angler activity was limited late in the year, recent trout stockings and cooler temperatures position the pond for renewed fishing opportunities in early 2026.
Taken together, 2025 marked a year of transition for Bluewater Lake. While water levels declined steadily, fishing conditions remained resilient across species and seasons, supported by strategic stockings and consistent access. The year also saw increased community participation in local fishing reporting, with anglers regularly submitting updates, photos, and firsthand accounts that contributed to a more complete picture of fishing activity across Cibola County.
As winter continues and attention turns toward 2026, Bluewater Lake remains a key indicator of regional water conditions and an important recreational resource for the county.
Anglers are encouraged to continue sharing photos, reports, and fishing updates with the Cibola Citizen at editor@cibolacitizen.com, helping document fishing conditions across Cibola County in the year ahead.
Editor’s Note: Cibola, thank you for joining us on this journey of fishing throughout the year. We look forward to seeing you on the lake in 2026!