Fish the Headwaters of San Antonio Creek

Flyfishing on Upper San Antonio Creek.

NPS/Lauren Ray

Running across the park’s northern extent, San Antonio Creek is famous throughout New Mexico for wild brown trout and beautiful scenery. Considered easier to fish than Jaramillo Creek, stealthy anglers fishing hopper and beetle patterns in summer months will be rewarded with gorgeous wild brown trout. You will probably catch more fish here than Jaramillo, but they are usually smaller in size.

Vehicular access to San Antonio Creek requires a backcountry vehicle pass, available seasonally from May 15 - November 15. Passes can be reserved up to 3 months in advance on Recreation.gov. 

Details

Activity

Fly Fishing

Pets Allowed

No

Activity Fee

Yes

As of January 1, 2025, a park entrance fee is required to enter Valles Caldera National Preserve.

Location

San Antonio Headwaters

The headwaters of San Antonio Creek can be accessed from the eastern terminus of Valles Caldera's backcountry vehicle route in Valle Toledo.

Reservations

Yes

Vehicular access to San Antonio's headwaters requires a backcountry vehicle pass. Passes are available seasonally from May 15 - November 15 and can be reserved on Recreation.gov.

Season

Spring, Summer, Fall

The backcountry vehicle route that leads to San Antonio's headwaters is closed from November 15 - May 15 each year.

Time of Day

Day

Vehicular access is limited to 9:00 am to 5:00 pm during the off-season and 8:00 am to 6:00 pm in the summer season.

Accessibility Information

The backcountry vehicle route is a driveable gravel road that leads to San Antonio Creek. Access to the stream from the roadway involves walking along steep, loose gravel slopes and through tall grass.