CIBOLA COUNTY, N.M. - The second week of May brought a mixed bag for local anglers – good muskie activity for those throwing spinners but slower trout reports.
Stage II fire restrictions still in effect at Bluewater Lake State Park, this is also the time of year when fishing trips come with an extra reminder to plan ahead and recreate responsibly.
Bluewater Lake
Fishing reports at Bluewater Lake have remained consistent, with all types of catches reported.
New Mexico State Parks reported tiger muskie fishing was FAIR to GOOD this week when using Blue Fox spinner lures.
Catfish fishing was reported SLOW to FAIR
when using raw bacon.
Trout fishing was SLOW when using PowerBait.
No wildlife sightings were reported this week, but the lake remains a consistent place to spend a morning on the water, especially for anglers targeting muskie with moving lures. For current conditions, visitors can check Bluewater Lake State Park’s webpage or call 505-876-2391.
Stage II Fire Restrictions remain in effect at Bluewater Lake State Park. That means no campfires or solid-fuel fires (including charcoal, coal, or wood stoves), and additional restrictions apply for fireworks, smoking, and certain equipment use. The park continues to emphasize basic safety, including wearing life jackets when in or around the water. Camping reservations are available through Reserve America at 877-664-7787.
Lake level readings continued their gradual spring decline. USGS provisional elevation data showed Bluewater at 7,367.07 feet on May 4 and 7,366.93 feet on May 11, a drop of 0.14 feet over the week. That is consistent with the slow step-down pattern seen throughout the spring reports.
Boating conditions have been rated as EXCELLENT.
Grants Riverwalk Pond Fishing reports were light at the Grants Riverwalk Pond this , but one report stood out: an angler reported catching an unidentified orange koilike or goldfish-type fish, which was released back into the pond.
While the Riverwalk is typically known for stocked trout when the state is running plants, spring also tends to bring a wider mix of “surprise catches,” especially as water warms and more people are spending time around the ponds.
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 with warmer weather on the horizon.
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