Hunting, Fishing and Shooting
Hunting and fishing are popular Gila pastimes.
If you plan to hire a professional outfitter or guide for hunting or fishing, they must be permitted by the Gila National Forest to operate on forest land. Contact the Gila National Forest Supervisor's Office at 575-388-8201 for a list of authorized outfitters and guides.
Lake and Pond Fishing
Fishing opportunities can be found at man-made lakes.
River and Stream Fishing
Although the Gila is relatively dry, fishing opportunities can be found in many miles of perennial creeks and rivers. Some of the more common sport fish found in these waters include rainbow and brown trout, large and small mouth bass as well as channel and flathead catfish. Many native fish are also found in the streams on the Gila, several of these, such as the Gila Trout are considered threatened or endangered. Recovery efforts are underway to help establish fishable populations of the Gila Trout.
Hunting
Hunting is a popular activity on the Gila National Forest, and occurs only at specific times of the year. The New Mexico Department of Game and Fish provides information on licenses, permits, species and hunt dates.
Search for Hunting, Fishing and Shooting Opportunities
Mesa Campground
Mogollon Box Day Use Area
Piñon Campground
Quemado Lake Boat Launch
Snow Lake Boat Launch
South Fork Campground
Upper End Campground
West Fork #151A Trailhead
Willow Creek Campground