In this episode we’re casting a line into one of our state’s favorite outdoor traditions, fishing. Whether you’re knee-deep in a mountain stream or casting from the shore of a warm desert lake, New Mexico offers year-round fishing opportunities for everyone.

We’ve got a fantastic lineup of guests to help you gear up for your next fishing adventure. First, we’ll talk to Melissa Garnett, Public Information Officer and mastermind behind our state’s popular fishing challenges. She’ll share how to get involved, what you can win, and a few fun facts about who’s participating. Then, we’ll hear from Taylor Booth, one of our Coldwater Fisheries Biologists, who’ll break down some of the best waters in Western New Mexico and offer pro tips for what bait works where. And finally, we’ll chat with Valente Mesa, the department’s web designer, about a new tool every angler should have the iFish App.

Whether you're a seasoned angler or just thinking about picking up a rod for the first time, this episode will help you plan your next trip, connect with the outdoors, and maybe even win a prize or two along the way.

In this special Father’s Day episode, I sit down with the two people who sparked my love for the outdoors, my mom and dad. Together, we share stories from my childhood, their approach to raising kids outside, and their advice for families who want to connect through nature. From early morning fishing trips to big life lessons in the wild, this conversation is all about family, memories, and the magic of growing up outdoors.

In this episode of the New Mexico Wildlife Podcast, we sit down with Caitlyn Ruhl, Habitat Restoration Coordinator for the New Mexico Wildlife Department, to explore the critical role of habitat conservation and restoration in sustaining our state’s diverse wildlife.

Caitlyn brings a wealth of experience and a deep love for the outdoors, describing herself as someone who was "born to be outdoors." Her passion shines through as she shares how science-based strategies and collaboration are key to restoring landscapes impacted by wildfire, drought, and human activity.

We talk about current habitat projects across New Mexico, how the department identifies areas of concern, and why thriving ecosystems are the foundation of successful wildlife management. Whether you're an outdoor enthusiast, conservationist, or curious learner, this episode is a must-listen for anyone who cares about the future of New Mexico’s wild places.

In this episode of the New Mexico Wildlife Podcast, we dive into the essentials of responsible boating and how you can help protect our waters from Aquatic Invasive Species (AIS). Join AIS Coordinator James Dominguez from the New Mexico Department of Wildlife and Scott Chambers from New Mexico State Parks as they share expert tips, safety reminders, and real-life examples of what every boater should know before hitting the water.

We talk about the importance of boat inspections, Clean-Drain-Dry practices, boater education, life jacket laws, and how AIS can impact the ecosystems, recreation, and the future of our lakes and rivers.

Whether you're a seasoned boater or just getting started, this episode is packed with vital info to keep your summer safe, legal, and environmentally friendly.

In this episode, we dive into the impactful world of hunter education with Stephanie Walton. The Hunter Education Program plays a vital role in teaching safety, ethics, and conservation to future generations. Discover how you can volunteer and contribute to shaping the next generation of responsible hunters. Join us as we discuss the program’s mission, the rewards of mentorship, and how to get involved.

https://wildlife.dgf.nm.gov/education/hunter-education/

If you’re planning to apply for a big game tag in New Mexico this year, this episode is for you. The draw process can be confusing, and we want to make sure you have all the information you need to apply successfully.

Joining me are two experts who work directly with hunters—Christina Salazar, executive secretary to the director at New Mexico Game and Fish, and Robin Quintana, the department’s Information Coordinator. They’ll help us break down key deadlines, common mistakes to avoid, how to research and select the right hunts, and answer some of the most frequently asked questions from both residents and non-residents.

Whether you’re new to the draw or have been applying for years, this episode will give you the tools to navigate the system with confidence.

New Mexico is an amazing place to enjoy your off-highway vehicle (OHV). The New Mexico Department of Game and Fish OHV program provides off-highway motor vehicle recreation that recognizes the importance of New Mexico’s cultural, historic and resource values while also ensuring public safety.

New Mexico has requirements for off-highway motor vehicles designed to protect the safety of all OHV users and ensure responsible and culturally sensitive OHV use. The law requires each OHV user to register or obtain a permit for their OHV if it is used on public land. Join us as we talk with the team behind the OHV Program, and learn what riding off road in New Mexico is all about!

https://ridenm.dgf.nm.gov/

The New Mexico Department of Game and Fish and the Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation have a long-standing partnership dedicated to preserving and enhancing elk populations in the Land of Enchantment. Together, they’ve spearheaded habitat restoration projects that ensure sustainable, high-quality elk herds across the state. Join us as we discuss the importance of elk conservation, habitat management, and the power of collaboration with Josh McDonald of the Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation and NMDGF’s elk biologist, Travis Zaffarano.

Operation Game Thief is a New Mexico Department of Game and Fish program, which pays rewards to citizens who turn in poachers. Begun in 1977 here in New Mexico, Operation Game Thief or a similar program has now been adopted by nearly every other state. In short, Operation Game Thief is crime-stoppers for wildlife. Join us as we talk with Colonel Tim Cimbal and Captain Jeremy Smith on all things OGT.

https://wildlife.dgf.nm.gov/enforcement/operation-game-thief-overview/

The New Mexico Department of Game and Fish has a long history of protecting our state's game species. But did you know they're also working tirelessly to conserve countless other creatures? From rare fish to elusive amphibians, the Department's efforts are crucial to maintaining New Mexico's incredible biodiversity.

Join us as we explore the "Saving Our Species" campaign and learn about the incredible work being done to ensure future generations can enjoy the same natural wonders we do. We'll hear from experts like Ginny Seamster, who will discuss Species of Greatest Conservation Need and the revision of the State Wildlife Action Plan. We'll also hear from Leland Peirce on Gila Monsters in New Mexico, Grant Beauprez on the Lesser Prairie Chicken in southeastern New Mexico, and John Bulger on the elusive Ptarmigan.

https://nmswap.org/