BLUEWATER LAKE, N.M. – This week’s fishing report is less about the bite and more about conditions around the lake. Bluewater Lake and the nearby Las Tusas community reported flash flooding over the weekend, and campers near the water reported significant flooding that disrupted both camping and fishing activity. It is a reminder that summer recreation in Cibola County can change quickly, especially when thunderstorms move through the area.
Bluewater Lake
At Bluewater Lake State Park, fishing for catfish was FAIR to GOOD when using hot dogs. No new stocking was reported this week. For current fishing and park conditions, visitors can check Bluewater Lake State Park’s webpage or call 505-876-2391.
The main update from Bluewater this week was weather-related. Campers reported flooding near the water, and the community of Las Tusas, located just behind the lake, also reported flash flooding. Anglers and campers should use caution after heavy rain, especially around low-lying areas, muddy roads and shoreline campsites. Even when the lake itself remains open, access and camping conditions can be affected quickly by storm runoff.
New Mexico State Parks’ most recent posted lake conditions, last updated June 29, 2026, listed boating conditions as EXCELLENT, with the reservoir at 7,365.440 feet (MSL), a surface area of 337 acres and an estimated volume of 3,376 acre-feet. USGS provisional elevation readings show Bluewater at 7,365.23 feet on July 14 and 7,365.29 feet on July 21, a slight rise of 0.06 feet over the week. After several weeks of gradual decline, that small increase likely reflects recent moisture and runoff, though the overall summer water level remains low compared with higher-water years.
Stage II fire restrictions remain in effect at Bluewater Lake State Park. Under those restrictions, visitors may not build or use fires, campfires, charcoal, coal or wood stoves, including in developed campgrounds or picnic areas. Restrictions also apply to fire works, smoking, certain equipment use, openflame work and off-road vehicle use. Wood gathering is prohibited within state park boundaries, and OHVs, ATVs and dirt bikes are not allowed in the park.
State Parks continue to remind visitors to wear life jackets when in or around the water. Summer hours are in effect – through Oct. 30, the park’s open hours are 6 a.m. to 9 p.m. Reservations are available through Reserve America at 877-664-7787.
Grants Riverwalk Pond
There were no re ported catches at the Grants Riverwalk Pond during the July 15–21 reporting period.
Share Your Fishing Story
Community members can strengthen these reports and help build a running record of fishing at Bluewater Lake and the Riverwalk Pond, especially as summer fishing patterns settle in. As your community newspaper, the Cibola Citizen looks forward to receiving and publishing local photos and stories from the lake and pond.Send your catches, conditions updates and fishing stories to editor@cibolacitizen.com
Flooding Impacts Bluewater Lake, Catfish Fishing Good