Canadian River Basin

The Canadian River Basin in northeast New Mexico is home to the Cimarron River, a productive tailwater below Eagle Nest Dam. Flowing through the Colin Neblett Wildlife Management Area, the Cimarron offers quality trout fishing in a scenic mountain valley setting with special regulations that help maintain a healthy fishery.

Key Fisheries

• Cimarron River (Below Eagle Nest Dam): A small tailwater with cold, clear releases supporting brown and rainbow trout. The WMA section offers good public access with special regulations.
• Cimarron River (Near Cimarron): Lower sections that transition to warmer water but still hold trout in spring and fall.

Iconic Hatches

The Cimarron's tailwater section supports midge hatches year-round, with BWO hatches in spring and fall. Caddis emergences occur through summer and provide good dry fly opportunities.