Rock Smith

Experience world-class trout fishing in Navajo Dam, New Mexico, home to the legendary Red Chile Water, one of the most productive and scenic trout fisheries in the Southwest. This renowned stretch offers clear, cold flows from Navajo Dam, rich aquatic life, and outstanding year-round opportunities to catch Rainbow Trout and Brown Trout. Anglers of all skill levels travel here to enjoy consistent action, beautiful landscapes, and some of the strongest tailwater trout found anywhere. The Red Chile Water is known for its diverse structure—smooth glides, deep pools, and riffles that keep trout actively feeding throughout the day. Whether you’re drifting nymphs, presenting dry flies during a hatch, or working streamers along the banks, this river provides steady opportunities to target healthy, hard-fighting fish. Its combination of stable flows and abundant insect life creates ideal conditions for successful trout fishing in every season. A variety of fishing experiences are available, offering choices for anglers who want a quick outing, a full day on the water, extended fishing time, secluded private access, or the excitement of fishing after dark. Each option is crafted to highlight the natural beauty and exceptional trout habitat that make Navajo Dam such a sought-after destination. Knowledgeable local guides help anglers maximize their success with personalized instruction, strategic insights, and techniques tailored to the behavior of Rainbow and Brown Trout in this unique tailwater environment. Whether learning the basics or refining advanced skills, guests benefit from expert guidance that enhances both confidence and enjoyment on the river. For those who want to stay longer, lodging options near the river allow anglers to enjoy a peaceful, immersive experience. Wake up close to the water, enjoy relaxing breaks between fishing sessions, and take in the quiet beauty of northern New Mexico. The region offers a refreshing escape where the sound of flowing water and the thrill of hooking into strong, vibrant trout create an unforgettable atmosphere. From sunrise to the final cast of the day, the Red Chile Water showcases why Navajo Dam is considered one of the top trout-fishing destinations in the country. With stunning scenery, thriving trout populations, and consistently productive water, this area offers an exceptional fishing experience that leaves anglers eager to return.

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Rainbow trout caught while fishing in New Mexico

Make your next San Juan River fly fishing adventure unforgettable with Ichthys Guide Service—book your guided trout trip today and experience the river like never before. Ready for family-friendly fishing, expert instruction, and steady action on trophy trout? Reserve your spot now and start planning your perfect day on the water.

Spend a day on the San Juan River with a family-friendly fly fishing trip designed for all experience levels. Your guide brings years of local knowledge, helping you target Rainbow and Brown Trout in some of the most productive stretches of this world-class tailwater. Guests learn casting basics, how to read the river, and the best ways to present a fly in changing conditions. Kids nine and up are welcome, making this a great option for families looking to share time outdoors and learn something new together. Book your trip today and enjoy a relaxed, informative day on the water with a guide who knows the San Juan River inside and out.

Captain Rock Smith’s love for fly fishing started more than a decade ago, long before he ever guided his first guest. After discovering the peace and focus that fly fishing brought him, he spent years learning the river, perfecting his presentation, and sharing the sport with friends and family. His journey became more personal when he joined a Fishing Ministry and began helping others find the same sense of calm on the water. As a retired veteran, Rock understands how important time outdoors can be, and his relatable, patient nature is one of the reasons so many guests trust him as their San Juan River fishing guide. With years of hands-on experience fishing and guiding the San Juan River, Rock is known for his calm instruction, commitment to safety, and deep understanding of trout behavior in this world-class tailwater. He guides from a place of awareness and preparation, showing guests how to read water, adjust their drift, and make the most of each stretch of productive river. Ichthys Guide Service has become one of the standout family-friendly fishing charters in the area because Rock focuses on education, comfort, and giving each guest a memorable day. Whether you’re brand new to fly fishing or already seasoned, he adapts his teaching so everyone feels confident and supported. Rock’s work goes beyond guiding. He is part of Project Healing Waters, a national organization that helps veterans with PTSD through the therapeutic power of fly fishing. His community involvement, faith-driven service, and dedication to helping veterans make him much more than just another fishing guide in New Mexico. Guests often remark on how much they learn, how welcomed they feel, and how Rock’s commitment to others shines through during every trip. His combination of technical skill, patience, and service-minded leadership sets him apart on the San Juan River. When you fish with Ichthys Guide Service, you’ll spend the day aboard Rock’s 16-foot Hyde low-profile drift boat. This boat is designed specifically for tailwater fly fishing, offering stability, smooth rowing, and a comfortable layout for two guests. With clean storage, organized gear, and room to cast from both positions, the boat keeps the focus on fishing and instruction. It’s man-powered, quiet, and perfect for navigating the San Juan River’s quality waters at a relaxed pace. From the moment you step aboard, you’ll see how every detail supports a safe, enjoyable, and productive day on the water.

Your San Juan River Fly Fishing Guide

Book your stay-and-fish adventure at The Trout House. 15-hour river access for browns and rainbows.

Trout House Trip

Top-Rated Trout House Fishing Stay at Navajo Dam

Book guided fly fishing on the San Juan River with Ichthys Guide Service and target Rainbow and Brown Trout with an experienced local guide.

Fly Fishing

San Juan River Guided Fly Fishing Trips

Expert guided evening trout fishing at Texas Hole, Navajo Dam. Target browns and rainbows. Book now.

Night Trout Glow

Night Trout Fishing at Texas Hole, Navajo Dam

Learn how to get a New Mexico fishing license before your San Juan River trip with Ichthys Guide Service. Find easy steps, prices, and where to buy your permit.

Fishing License

New Mexico Fishing License

Explore top things to do near the San Juan River with Ichthys Guide Service, featuring parks, scenic views, historic sites, and family-friendly attractions.

Things To Do

Things To Do in New Mexico

Six-hour guided winter fly fishing trip targeting Rainbow and Brown Trout on San Juan River. Book now.

Winter Casts

Winter Fly Fishing on San Juan River

Add an extra hour to your Red Chile trip. Target more Rainbow and Brown Trout with expert guidance.

Extra River Hour

Extended San Juan River Fly Fishing Adventure

<h3>Common Questions:</h3><h3>What’s included in an Ichthys Guide Service fly fishing trip on the San Juan River?</h3>Every guided trip includes all fly fishing gear, rods, reels, flies, tippet, and on-water instruction for up to two guests. Your guide also provides cold water and keeps the drift boat set up for a comfortable day on the river. Guests only need to bring a valid New Mexico fishing license and their own lunch. <h3>How much does a full-day San Juan River guided fishing trip cost?</h3>A full-day Red Chile Water float with Ichthys Guide Service is $575 for two guests or $500 for one guest. This trip covers eight hours on productive stretches of the San Juan River and includes all required gear. <h3>What is the best time of year to fish the San Juan River?</h3>The San Juan River fishes well year-round, but the peak season runs from mid-July through mid-November when water clarity, insect hatches, and trout activity line up for consistent action. Winter trips are available and offer quiet conditions for anglers who prefer cooler weather. <h3>Do I need to bring my own fly fishing gear for my San Juan River trip?</h3>No. Ichthys Guide Service provides all fly fishing gear needed for the trip, including flies selected for current conditions on the San Juan River. Guests may bring their own equipment if preferred, but it is not required. <h3>What should I bring on a guided fly fishing trip with Ichthys Guide Service?</h3>Guests should bring a valid state fishing license, lunch for full-day trips, sunscreen, weather-appropriate clothing, and any personal items they want during the float. Waders are not required for boat-based trips unless you choose to wade during certain sections. <h3>Can families book a San Juan River fly fishing trip with Ichthys Guide Service?</h3>Yes. All trips are family-friendly, and Rock welcomes guests ages nine and up. Instruction is tailored to each person’s skill level, making it easy for beginners to learn and enjoy the day. <h3>What types of fly fishing trips does Ichthys Guide Service offer on the San Juan River?</h3>The lineup includes full-day Red Chile Water floats, half-day floats, a Mid-River Add-On, a private Lower River float, evening trips at the Texas Hole, winter trips, and the Trout House stay-and-fish package. All trips target Rainbow and Brown Trout. <h3>Is the Mid River Add-On offered as a standalone trip?</h3>No. The Mid River Add-On is only available as an extension to a full-day Red Chile Water trip. It adds one extra hour of fishing for guests who want more time on productive water. <h3>When is the best time to book a winter fly fishing trip on the San Juan River?</h3>Winter trips run from mid-November through mid-April, offering quiet water and steady fishing for Rainbow and Brown Trout. Ichthys Guide Service offers one winter trip option for guests who prefer low-pressure days without crowds. <h3>Where is the meeting location for Ichthys Guide Service trips?</h3>All trips meet at the Texas Hole parking lot near Navajo Dam, where Rock keeps his 31-foot fifth-wheel RV. Guests can easily park, meet the guide, and board the drift boat for their planned float.

Best Boat

Great For Novices

Great For Top Anglers

Great Guide

Good with Kids

Best Spots

Silhouette of angler fishing with rod at sunset over calm water

Silhouettes of anglers fishing from rocky shoreline during sunset over calm water

Majestic snow-capped mountain peaks rising behind dense evergreen forest with calm reflective water in foreground during golden hour lighting

Mountain peaks with orange alpenglow reflected in calm water surrounded by evergreen forest

Angler holding freshly caught black drum fish on boat with ocean backdrop

Angler holding large black drum fish on boat with ocean and blue sky in background

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