The Navajo Lake kokanee salmon season runs from October 1 to December 31. It's no secret that anglers from across the world visit Navajo Lake State Park every year for the world-class fly-fishing found along the San Juan River at the base of Navajo Dam. But did you know that outdoorsman flock to Navajo Lake every fall for the special kokanee salmon snagging season?
Navajo Lake State Park Navajo Dam, NM 87419
505-632-2278
Salmon snagging season is October 1 to December 31 at Navajo Lake, and because of the generous bag limit, salmon lovers rarely miss a season. Kokanee are land-locked sockeye salmon. While not native to the Southwest, kokanee salmon thrive in deep and cold lakes like Navajo Lake. Each fall large schools of adult kokanee gather to spawn along the shoreline of Navajo Lake. The bag limit is 12 kokanee per day, with 24 in possession. Snagging at Navajo Lake is only permitted during the special kokanee salmon snagging season. Visit the New Mexico Game and Fish for more information and state licensing.
Salmon snagging is permitted at Navajo Lake, excluding buoyed no-wake areas and shoreline within the no-wake areas at the Pine River Boat Ramp and Simms Boat Ramp. At times, New Mexico State Parks will close specific areas on the lake, to fishing and salmon snagging during the month of October (October 1 to November 7) so that the New Mexico Department of Game and Fish may harvest salmon eggs. These closed areas are typically open to anglers early in November. Remember that fishing is not allowed within 150 feet of boat ramps, walkways, or any other infrastructure at any time.
If you would like an updated report on the kokanee salmon conditions at Navajo Lake, contact the friendly staff at Navajo Lake Marina (505) 632-3245 or 800-582-5687.
Plan Your Fishing Trip
Fishing in the Farmington area is epic, all year long! When you visit to catch your fill of salmon, be sure to schedule time for these additional watering holes and outdoor adventures:
- Fishing, boating, and hiking at Navajo Lake State Park
- Fish Lake Farmington for rainbow trout, largemouth bass, catfish, and pike
- World-class fly fishing on the San Juan River Quality Waters
- Majestic Enchantment offers fly fishing on private sections of the San Juan River
- Fishing, hiking, and wildlife watching at Jackson Lake
- Let Arcom Outfitter and Guide get you started
- Enjoy a riverfront lodge and guides at Soaring Eagle Lodge
- Plan time out of the water for epic hiking in unique scenery
- Catch live performances, museum exhibits and local events