Everything Jemez
Fenton Lake reopened with a bang Saturday, July 30th. Most anglers reported catching limits of nice sized Rainbow and Cutthroat Trout. Some up to eighteen inches.
Most baits were working Saturday and Sunday but worms and Salmon/Peach Powerbait seemed to be the hottest.
The new Spence Hot Springs parking lot and access trail were opened today (Sat July 30th) in conjunction with the reopening of the Santa Fe National Forest. The parking area has been improved, paved and striped for seven parking spots. This renovation has greatly reduced the parking capacity of this popular area and according to the forest service, will greatly reduce the use and overuse of the Spence Hot Springs. It is also designed to reduce the threat of flooding and trail erosion.
Just in time for the forest reopening tomorrow (Sat July 30th) we are receiving more beneficial rain. Slow, steady and widespread rain has been falling for at least two hours. The best part is that the west side of the Jemez is getting soaked today, which has not really been the case so far during this monsoon season.
According to sources, a decision was made yesterday (Wed Jul 27) to reopen the Santa Fe National Forest effective Saturday, July 30th.
The forest will revert to stage I fire resrtictions. All campgrounds will be opened, all forest roads will be opened, all picnic areas and fishing access areas will be opened. Stage 1 fire restrictions will be in place, which means campfires will be allowed only in designated campgrounds and picnic areas. Gas and propane stoves, and grills are allowed throughout the forest.