BLUEWATER LAKE, N.M. – Fishing quieted down a bit at Bluewater Lake this week, with few angler reports and no photos submitted.
Trout fishing was slow but overall ranked FAIR, with PowerBait producing only minimal bites. Despite the lull, the lake remains a peaceful getaway for those willing to wait it out.
As of July 28, the reservoir’s elevation measured 6,418 acre-feet, according to provisional data from the U.S. Geological Survey. That marks a continued decline in lake volume, following a brief mid-July bump likely caused by isolated rainfall over the watershed. The Zuni/Bluewater River Basin’s Rice Park SNOTEL station recorded virtually no remaining snowpack, consistent with seasonal expectations.
Stage II fire restrictions remain in effect at Bluewater Lake State Park, banning all campfires, charcoal, and wood stoves, even in developed areas. Visitors may use liquid fuel stoves only in areas cleared of vegetation. Smoking is also restricted to enclosed vehicles or buildings. These measures will remain in place through September 30 unless lifted earlier.
Boating conditions are still listed as EXCELLENT, with surface levels at 7,373.68 feet MSL, covering approximately 674 surface acres. The state park most recently updated those figures on July 14.
Grants Riverwalk Pond
There were no reports from Grants Riverwalk Pond.
Stocking Report
Between March and early May 2025, more than 11,000 rainbow trout were stocked at Bluewater Lake by the Red River and Lisboa Springs hatcheries.
These spring stockings— typically averaging 10 inches in length— helped sustain a strong trout season well into early summer, even as water levels declined. No new trout have been stocked since May, but many holdover fish continue to provide action.
Meanwhile, two channel catfish stockings were recorded at the Grants Riverwalk Pond, totaling 266 catfish, each averaging 18 inches and stocked in late May and late June from a private hatchery.
Reminder to Anglers
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