Recreation News

NMDGF Recreation News

The latest recreation news and press releases from New Mexico Game and Fish. Department-wide news can be found under Home → NMDGF News.

The Department reminds recreationists it is their responsibility to be aware of closures and contact land managers for properties of interest when restrictions are lifted.

Outdoor recreationists should consult their local government’s website for information regarding specific city and town lake and recreation area access.

Bureau of Land Management (BLM): www.blm.gov/new-mexico
U.S. Forest Service (USFS): www.fs.usda.gov/about-agency/covid19-updates
New Mexico State Lands: www.nmstatelands.org/resources/recreational-access/
New Mexico State Parks: www.emnrd.state.nm.us/SPD/
New Mexico Open Gate Properties: www.wildlife.state.nm.us/hunting/maps/open-gate-program/
New Mexico Wildlife Mgmt Areas: www.wildlife.state.nm.us/conservation/state-game-commission-lands/

Free Fishing Weekend is June 7-8

SANTA FE – Anglers can fish for free in New Mexico on Saturday, June 7, and Sunday, June 8, as the state observes National Boating and Fishing Week. Anyone can fish for free in public fishing waters throughout the state on both days, but everyone must observe bag limits and all other rules and regulations. For more information, please visit the New Mexico Department of Game and Fish's website. "Free Fishing Weekend is a great opportunity for families to come together and take part in an activity that they can enjoy for a lifetime," Department director Mike Sloane said. The Department is excited to take part in several events across the state as part of Free Fishing Weekend, with staff and Department volunteers helping to introduce New Mexico youth to fishing. The Fifth Annual Outdoor Adventure Day, co-hosted by the Department and Corrales Parks and Recreation, will take place [...]

Upland game bird rule topic of public meeting

SANTA FE – The New Mexico Department of Game and Fish has scheduled two public meetings regarding proposed revisions to the Upland Game Bird Rule. Members of the public are invited to attend either public meeting in order to provide comments. May 21, 2025, Albuquerque, 6 p.m. Attend in person at 7816 Alamo Rd. NW, Albuquerque, NM Register in advance to attend virtually May 28, 2025, Las Cruces, 6 p.m. Attend in person at 2715 Northrise Drive, Las Cruces, NM Register in advance to attend virtually The proposed changes to the rule, along with information about how to attend and participate virtually, will be available on the Department web page. Comments on the proposed changes can be provided by mail: New Mexico Department of Game and Fish, Attn: Upland Game Rule Development, 1 Wildlife Way, Santa Fe, NM 87507; by email at DGF-Gamebird@dgf.nm.gov; or in person at the meetings listed above. [...]

Upland game bird rule topic of public meeting

ALBUQUERQUE – The New Mexico Department of Game and Fish has scheduled a public meeting regarding proposed revisions to the Upland Game Rule. Members of the public are invited to attend this hybrid public meeting in order to provide comments. May 21, 2025, Albuquerque, 6:00 p.m. Attend in person at 7816 Alamo Rd. NW, Albuquerque, NM Register in advance to attend virtually The proposed changes to the rule, along with information about how to attend and participate in the virtual component of this meeting, will be available on the Department web page. Comments on the proposed changes can be provided by mail: New Mexico Department of Game and Fish, Attn: Upland Game Rule Development, 1 Wildlife Way, Santa Fe, NM 87507; by email at DGF-Gamebird@dgf.nm.gov; or in person at the meeting listed above.

Monastery Lake Closed

SANTA FE – Monastery Lake, near Pecos, has been closed to fishing until further notice due to unsafe ice conditions. Ice fishing is not allowed at the Benedictine Monastery lake that is leased through the Department's Open Gate program. A layer of ice has formed on the lake, prompting the closure. The lake will reopen when there are sufficient open areas of water available to allow fishing from the bank. Anglers can find good winter trout fishing in the Albuquerque area drains, at Tingley Beach and at other fishing waters throughout the state. Visit our website for more information on trout species, the weekly fishing report, a list of convenient fishing locations and fish stocking reports.

Public asked to keep distance from northern New Mexico moose

TAOS – The Department is monitoring a female moose that recently appeared in northern New Mexico. Residents are reminded that moose can be dangerous and should not be approached for any reason. If a moose charges you or otherwise shows signs of aggression, run as fast as you can and try to put a boulder, car, tree or other large object between you and it. An aggressive moose can show signs such as having its ears laid back, licking its snout or having hairs raised on its neck. The moose is presently safe and appears healthy. The Department will continue to monitor its movements and will take appropriate actions to ensure public safety. Moose are a protected game animal in the state of New Mexico. New Mexico does not have an open hunting season for moose, and it is unlawful to harvest or harass them in the state. [...]

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