About us

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What is Ichthys? It is the Greek word for fish, (no, I am not Greek) it is pronounced ick-thee-us. The sign of the fish was used by Christians during the Roman empire to detect if the person they were talking to was also a Christian. By drawing one half of the Ichthys (fish) on the ground, the other person (if a Christian) would draw the other half confirming their faith. During this time in history Christians were greatly persecuted and killed by Nero, the emperor of Rome. The Ichthys is still considered a Christian symbol identifying our faith today.

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We have been in business since 2021, but I have been guiding since 2012. I started fishing the San Juan in 2000 when I moved to New Mexico from the Seattle area and before that, Alaska. I don’t mind telling you that my first few trips wading the quality water were less than successful. It takes a keen eye, proper technique and quick reflexes to master these tricky fish. I have fly fished in many beautiful places between Alaska and New Mexico, but the San Juan has captured my heart. The beautiful mesas and plentiful wildlife, (not to mention the large rainbow and brown trout) are captivating. After living and fishing the many waters of New Mexico for 25 years I now consider myself a native New Mexican. I am a Navy veteran and served from 1973 to 1977. We appreciate our Veterans and active duty military, so please let us know about your service.

We are a woman owned business. My wife, Janet, keeps things straight with our lodging and is making sure I don’t over-book. We strive to give you a personal fishing experience. If you are a beginner or a seasoned fisherman, we will endeavor to help you become acquainted with the proper techniques and strategies to catch these picky eaters.

We look forward to getting to know you and hearing about your fishing and life experiences. Half the fun of fishing is the company you can share these memories with.

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What we Provide

Our experienced guide will meet you at the lodge or the Texas Hole parking lot at 7:45am to get you started on the trip you have booked. (Meeting at the lodge saves you a $5 parking fee)

We provide fishingonlinesales.wildlife.state.nm.ushttps://onlinesales.wildlife.state.nm.us/ poles, flies, and all tackle

Flotation device

Complimentary water and soda

Cooler for your lunch or personal drinks

Transportation back to your vehicle

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What you provide

New Mexico Fishing license, (Resident and non-resident licenses may be obtained at NM fish and game on line. One day licenses are available https://www.wildlife.dgf.nm.gov.  There are also a couple of local vendors where a license may be purchased.

Sunscreen, bug spray, polarized sun glasses (you will want to be able to see all of the fish!)

Lunch (we can provide a guide lunch at an additional cost)

Camera, Waders and boots (waders not needed on float trips but you can still bring them if you want)

Rain gear, Hat, Layer your clothing

If you have a favorite rod you would like to use that is fine, however be sure your tapered leader is Fluorocarbon. (leaders not provided on personal rods)

There is limited room in the boat so minimal is best

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Thank you for considering Ichthys Guide service.