New Mexico, the Land of Enchantment, is a haven for anglers seeking adventure and trophy catches. From the sparkling streams of the Rio Grande to the secluded mountain lakes of the Sangre de Cristo, the state offers a diverse array of fishing opportunities. However, before you can cast your line and immerse yourself in the thrill of the catch, it’s essential to understand the fishing license requirements for both residents and non-residents.
Fishing License Requirements for Non-Residents
If you’re a non-resident angler aged 12 or older, you’ll need a valid New Mexico fishing license to fish in the state’s waters. Annual licenses are valid from April 1, 2024, through March 31, 2025. Non-residents can purchase licenses online, by phone, or at authorized license vendors and New Mexico Department of Game & Fish (NMDGF) offices.
It’s important to note that free fishing licenses are not available to non-residents. However, non-residents can still enjoy the state’s fishing opportunities by purchasing the appropriate licenses and permits.
Exceptions to the Fishing License Requirement
While most anglers aged 12 and older require a fishing license, there are a few exceptions to the rule:
- Anglers 11 years of age or younger, both residents and non-residents, do not need a fishing license.
- Fishing on tribal reservations and Class-A lakes does not require a New Mexico fishing license.
- New Mexico residents over the age of 70 can obtain a free fishing license online, by phone, or at NMDGF offices and authorized vendors.
- Disabled veterans who are New Mexico residents with a 100% disability can apply for a free Lifetime Game-hunting & Fishing License through the NMDGF Headquarters in Santa Fe.
Additionally, New Mexico offers Free Fishing Days throughout the year, where everyone can fish without a license. These special days provide an excellent opportunity for non-residents to experience the state’s fishing without the need for a permit.
Additional Requirements and Validations
In addition to a fishing license, anglers may need to purchase additional stamps and validations, depending on their fishing plans:
- Habitat Stamp: Required for anglers 12 years of age and older to fish on U.S. Forest Service and Bureau of Land Management lands in New Mexico. This stamp is not required for anglers 11 years of age or younger or in conjunction with any free fishing license.
- Habitat Management & Access Validation (HMAV): Anglers 18 years of age and older must purchase this validation once each license year (April 1–March 31). The HMAV is not required for anglers 17 years of age or younger or in conjunction with any free fishing license.
- Second Rod Validation: Anglers 12 years of age and older who wish to fish with two rods must purchase this validation. It is not required in conjunction with any free fishing license.
- Gila Trout Fishing Permit: A free permit is required to fish in specific waters, including Black Canyon, Gilita Creek, Mineral Creek, Mogollon Creek, Sapillo Creek, West Fork Gila River (headwaters to East Fork confluence), Whitewater Creek, and Willow Creek (including tributaries). This permit is available online, by phone, and at all license vendors and NMDGF offices.
Non-residents should familiarize themselves with these additional requirements to ensure they are in compliance with New Mexico’s fishing regulations.
Residency Requirements
To qualify for New Mexico resident fees and licenses, an individual must meet one of the following criteria:
- A United States citizen who has been domiciled in New Mexico for a period of not less than 90 days immediately preceding the date of application for a license and who does not claim residency elsewhere for any purpose.
- A citizen of another country who is legally in the United States and can verify residence in New Mexico for 90 days immediately preceding their license application.
- A student who has attended an educational institution in New Mexico while residing in the state for at least one full term preceding the application for a license.
- A member of the U.S. Armed Forces who is assigned permanently to a military installation located within New Mexico and presents a certificate or letter signed by their commanding officer.
Non-residents who do not meet these criteria will need to purchase non-resident fishing licenses and permits.
Purchasing Fishing Licenses and Permits
Non-residents can purchase fishing licenses and permits through the following methods:
- Online: Visit the NMDGF website to purchase licenses and permits electronically.
- By phone: Call the toll-free number 1-888-248-6866 to purchase licenses and permits over the phone.
- In person: Visit any NMDGF office or authorized license vendor to purchase licenses and permits.
Non-residents can also print their fishing licenses from their NMDGF account or request a copy by phone, email, or in person at any license vendor (with a $1 fee).
By understanding the fishing license requirements and purchasing the appropriate permits, non-residents can fully enjoy the incredible fishing opportunities that New Mexico has to offer. Whether you’re chasing elusive Rainbow Trout in cool mountain streams or battling feisty Bass in sun-drenched reservoirs, New Mexico is a fishing destination that will leave you with unforgettable memories.