Located closer to more top-flight trout waters than Santa Fe and cheaper to visit, Taos is a perfect home base. Nestled in the Sangre de Cristo Mountains of northern New Mexico, where high desert meets alpine, the town's mix of centuries-old cultures is evident in the art, architecture, and people.

Fisheries:
Nearby are major trout fisheries like the Rio Grande, Cimarron River, Valle Vidal, Red River, and Eagle Nest Lake. The Rio Grande is the centerpiece here, a huge, powerful river crossing the Colorado border before entering a deep, rugged gorge. The big browns might not be as abundant or as large as the old days, but this fishery ranks with any in the southern Rockies, holding browns, rainbows, and cutthroats. The Cimarron River shouldn't be overlooked, especially since a 29-inch, 9-pound brown trout was caught in its rich quality waters section a couple of years ago.

Digs:
My wife and I always enjoy our stay at the Willows Inn Bed and Breakfast, an historic inn with huge willows standing guard over the courtyard garden. And the owner is a trout fishing guide, too. (800-525-TAOS).

Eateries:
In Taos, we favor the low-key local fare at Michael's Kitchen. Fred's Place is a funky, fun, and popular eatery and a hip local favorite. We like the enchiladas and atmosphere. If you make it over to Eagle Nest, stop in at the Pepper Sauce Camp Restaurant and let the smiling man with the well-coifed moustache (goes by Frank) feed you some top-rate breakfast.