CIBOLA COUNTY, N.M. – As we close out May, the Cibola Fishing Report hits an important milestone: we now have roughly six months of weekly notes and local observations on the water, from winter ice at Bluewater to spring stocking and the start of fire restrictions.
Looking back from January to now, the story has been a steady seasonal turn – Bluewater reopening after ice, trout stocking helping carry the spring bite, tiger muskie remaining the lake’s “one-castaway” wild card, and the Riverwalk Pond continuing to be the reliable intown option for families and youth anglers.
Bluewater Lake
At Bluewater Lake State Park, the most recent fishing report was received May 21. At that time, trout fishing was slow using corn and PowerBait, and catfish fishing was also slow when using hot dogs. For current conditions, anglers can visit Bluewater Lake State Park’s webpage or call 505-876--2391.
On lake conditions, New Mexico State Parks’ latest posted update (last updated May 18, 2026) listed boating conditions as excellent, with the reservoir at 7,366.750 feet (MSL) and an estimated volume of 3,738 acre-feet. USGS provisional elevation readings show 7,366.57 feet on May 26 and 7,366.39 feet on June 2, a drop of 0.18 feet over that stretch. In plain terms, that continues the gradual step-down pattern we’ve seen since early spring while the lake remains open and active for recreation. (USGS values are provisional and timestamped, while State Parks postings reflect conditions at the time of their updates.)
Visitors should also remember that Stage II fire restrictions remain in effect at Bluewater Lake State Park. These restrictions limit campfires and solid-fuel fires and place additional limits on fireworks, smoking, and certain equipment use. With more people visiting as summer approaches, following the restrictions is part of protecting access for everyone and keeping the park safe.
For reservations, visitors can reach Reserve America at 877-6647787. Grants Riverwalk Pond
At the Grants Riverwalk Pond, the most recent report this week described bluegill fishing as good when using PowerBait. The Riverwalk continues to be a strong “quick trip” option in town—especially as school lets out and more families are looking for an easy, lowtravel place to fish.
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