Gila Trout

Body Type: New Mexico's state fish and one of the Southwest's rarest native salmonids. The body is golden-yellow to yellow-olive with fine black spotting evenly distributed across the body and fins. A distinctive feature is the strongly pinkish-gold lateral band. The fins often show a yellow-gold tint. One of the most visually striking trout in North America.

Preferred Water Temperature: 50°F–65°F. Adapted to the cool mountain streams of the Gila Wilderness in the Black and Mogollon ranges of New Mexico and Arizona.

Habitat: Pristine, isolated headwater streams in the Gila National Forest and Blue Range Primitive Area. Currently occupies less than 20 stream miles of native habitat — one of the rarest freshwater fish in North America. A federally threatened species with active recovery efforts.

Best Lures: Small inline spinners in gold produce consistent results. Tiny dry flies and nymphs are the traditional approach. Small floating lures work in deeper pools. Fishing access is highly regulated — obtain required permits.

Best Baits: Small nightcrawlers and red worms work well. Salmon eggs produce in streams. Always check specific regulations — many Gila Trout waters require catch-and-release with barbless hooks only.

Size & Weight: Typically 8–14 inches and 0.5–1.5 lbs in native stream habitat. Stocked restoration fish in Diamond Creek Wilderness reach 2–3 lbs.

Top 5 Places to Catch Gila Trout: 1. Main Diamond Creek, New Mexico — restoration stream, permit required 2. South Diamond Creek, New Mexico — excellent wild population 3. Iron Creek, New Mexico — trophy fish available with permit 4. Main Fork Gila River, New Mexico — limited access, wild fish 5. McKenna Creek, Arizona — Blue Range restoration population