Fish the East Fork Jemez River
Valles Caldera National Preserve
A picturesque and meandering stream, wild rainbow trout and browns can be found in the headwaters of the East Fork of the Jemez River. Rio Grande suckers and Rio Grande chubs predominate elsewhere.
Before the backcountry vehicle route opens for the summer, antsy anglers with a valid New Mexico state fishing license may fish the park's premier frontcountry stream: the East Fork Jemez River. Brown trout and rainbow trout are the dominant species in the headwaters section of this stream whereas Rio Grande chub, Rio Grande suckers, and longnose dace predominate elsewhere. Beyond its seasonal accessibility, another benefit to fishing the East Fork is its proximity to the highway (NM-4) and Valles Caldera's main entrance. This allows anglers to enter the park on foot or by bicycle before the entrance gate opens to vehicles for the day. Vehicle gate hours in the winter season are 9:00 am - 5:00 pm, and summer hours are 8:00 am to 6:00 pm. Anglers may enjoy fishing the waters of the East Fork from dawn to dusk as long as their vehicle is parked at one of the designated pedestrian access gates.
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As of January 1, 2025, a park entrance fee is required to enter Valles Caldera National Preserve.
Yes
Spring, Summer, Fall
Day
The East Fork Jemez River is accessible where the park entrance road crosses the stream about 1 mile from NM-4. There are no established trails or roadways that follow the stream. Service animals are permitted.
No
No — Access to the front-country area of Valles Caldera National Preserve, which includes the East Fork Jemez River, does not require reservations.
East Fork Jemez River
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