Located near the Colorado border in north central New Mexico

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Located near the Colorado border in north central New Mexico

0 out of 5 Customer Rating
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Kelley Ruppert, NM

Orvis-Endorsed Fly Fishing Guide


Phone icon575-776-4758 Email iconkelley@mayflyflyfishing.com Link iconmayflyflyfishing.com
Chama, NM

Item #3NXM0000

The Story

Mayfly Fly Fishing is an independent guide service founded by Kelley, with the goal of sharing her knowledge of the outdoors and a deep passion for fly fishing.

We’re committed to providing a welcoming, inclusive experience for all anglers and actively encourage diversity on the water.

Kelley is dedicated to protecting our river resources and remains actively involved in local conservation initiatives that support a responsible, sustainable fly fishing community.

Whether it’s building confidence in fly selection, achieving a drag-free drift, or landing the trout of your dreams, we believe success comes in all sizes.

Highlights

  • Rainbow, brown & cutthroat trout
  • Fish the Rio Chama, Rio Brazos, Conejos (private) & local small streams
  • Each day is tailored to your goals with an emphasis on conservation & education
  • Rates start at $300 for a half-day trip for one angler
  • Season typically runs May–November

Orvis is pleased to offer our travel customers access to two valuable services: Global Rescue travel membership and IMG Signature Travel Insurance℠.

Learn More

The village of Chama offers a wide range of lodging options, from roadside motels and hotels overlooking the historic Cumbres and Toltec rail yard to cozy vacation rentals and upscale lodges.

We offer walk-and-wade trips tailored for anglers of all experience levels, from beginners who’ve never held a rod to seasoned anglers looking to refine their skills. On all trips, Orvis rods and reels, leaders, tippet, and flies are provided. You’re also welcome to bring your own favorite setup.

On full- and half-day guided trips, water and assorted drinks are provided. Feel free to bring a refillable water bottle and your own snacks.

Trip fees do not include fishing licenses, private water rod fees, Rio Arriba County gross receipts tax (6.625%), or gratuities.

Private water access includes an additional $60–$125 per angler (depending on venue), plus applicable full- or half-day guide rates.

Extras

  • Waders & boots are available to rent
  • Picnic lunches may be purchased upon request for full-day trips

Fly fishing in northern New Mexico is always exciting and challenging. You’ll experience a taste of the Old West, where influences of Indigenous, Basque, and cowboy culture are still very much alive.

On any given day, anglers may find rainbow, brown, native cutthroat, brook, lake, and tiger trout, along with carp, at the end of their lines. The Chama area is also home to a wide variety of birdlife, including kingfishers, hummingbirds, herons, ospreys, and the majestic bald eagle.

Fishing in the Chama area ranges in elevation from approximately 7,800 feet to over 10,000 feet.

Half Day (4 hours)

  • 1 person: $300
  • 2 people: $375
  • 3 people (1 guide)*: $500
  • 3 people (2 guides): $675
  • 4 people (2 guides): $750

Full Day (approximately 8 hours)

  • 1 person: $375
  • 2 people: $450
  • 3 people (1 guide)*: $575
  • 3 people (2 guides): $775
  • 4 people (2 guides): $900

*For experienced groups, at Mayfly Fly Fishing’s discretion.


Private Water

Private water access includes an additional $60–$125 per angler (depending on venue), plus applicable half-day or full-day guide rates.


Extras

  • Wader & boot rentals: $25 per person, per day
  • Picnic lunch: $25 per person, available upon request for full-day trips

(Please inform us of any food allergies at the time of booking.)

For more info on rates, visit mayflyflyfishing.com.

What size rod should I bring?

A 9' 5-weight rod with a 4X leader will do the trick for most of the fishing we do. You may be casting dry-dropper setups, nymphing, or fishing streamers. You could land an 8" fish or a 28" fish, and a 9' 5-weight can handle just about all situations.


What time will we meet?

Meeting times typically fall between 7 and 8 AM, depending on the time of year, temperatures, and weather conditions. We’ll allow time to travel to the river and get set up, so exact meeting times may vary.


What else is there to do in and around Chama, NM?

  • Chama is home to the Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad, consistently voted the #1 scenic train ride in the country
  • Chama is about 45 minutes from Pagosa Hot Springs
  • Chama is one hour north of Ghost Ranch & the stunning landscapes made famous by Georgia O'Keeffe
  • Elk hunting (September–December)
  • Hiking trails, such as the CDT, Red Lake Trail & others surround the Chama area