New Mexico Department of Game and Fish is proposing new rules. Some of the changes are:
- Modifications to the Special Trout Water (STW) program including increasing designated waters by 52 miles, reducing the number of Special Trout Water classifications from over eleven to four, and removing some waters that no longer meet the STW designation.
- Lifting catch-and-release only designation at Brantley Lake
- Adding Alumni Pond, Corona Pond, Estancia Pond, Perch Lake, Rancho Grande Ponds, Roswell Kids Ponds, and Rio Grande below Elephant Butte as winter trout waters
Another feature of the proposed plan is to rename the categories of Special Trout Water. In true New Mexico fashion, catch and release waters will be known as “Red Chile” waters. Waters with a two fish limit and restricted tackle will be known as “Green Chile” waters. Waters with a two fish limit, open to any legal tackle will be known as “X-mas” waters. More information on the changes and process for public comment is at http://www.wildlife.state.nm.us/commission/
The next public meeting will be held Thursday, November 16, 2017, beginning at 9:00 a.m., at the Elephant Butte Inn.