Fishing has entered its quietest phase of the summer at Bluewater Lake, as trout activity slowed once again this week.
Anglers using Power-Bait reported little success, and shoreline action overall was subdued. Still, moments of beauty continue to break through the heat and haze—some anglers in the final days of August were able to land catches using worms as bait.
Officially, the bite at Bluewater Lake was SLOW, but the draw for anglers and boaters, with wide open surface acres and excellent launch conditions for boating, remains a draw for anglers.
According to the U.S. Geological Survey, the lake is now holding 6,230 acre-feet of water, as of August 5. That’s less than two-thirds of its springtime volume, but still plenty to support boating, fishing, and kayaking across the main basin and eastern fingers. The lake elevation currently stands at 7,372.76 feet above sea level, covering about 626 surface acres, with water access rated EXCELLENT by state park officials.
Visitors should be aware that Stage II Fire Restrictions remain in effect through the end of September. That means all open flames are prohibited— including campfires, charcoal grills, and wood stoves—even in developed campsites. Propane stoves are allowed, but only in cleared areas free of vegetation within a three-foot radius. Smoking is also restricted to enclosed vehicles or barren areas.
Other long-standing rules remain in place at the lake as well: fireworks are permanently banned, wood gathering is not permitted within park boundaries, and motorized recreation—like OHVs and dirt bikes—is not allowed inside the park. Those looking for offroad options are encouraged to explore trails in nearby Cibola National Forest.
Bluewater Lake also offers an EV charging station, and park officials continue to urge all visitors to wear life jackets when in or around water.
The park is open from 6 a.m. to 9 p.m. daily through October 30, after which winter hours will resume. To make campsite reservations, visitors can call Reserve America at 877-664-7787 or check the New Mexico State Parks website for the latest updates.
Grants Riverwalk Park
Across the county, at the Grants Riverwalk Pond, the week remained quiet as well—no angler reports were submitted.
But just beneath the still surface, opportunity is swimming.
On July 31, the pond was stocked with 110 channel catfish, each averaging 18 inches and weighing in at a total of 183 pounds. The stocking was carried out by a private hatchery.
Those hoping to land one of the newly stocked catfish are encouraged to fish early in the morning or around dusk. Stink bait, chicken liver, and worms are all proven options this year—and even if the fish aren’t biting, the shaded walking paths and open space make Riverwalk a worthwhile stop for an afternoon break.
Reminder to Anglers
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