I’m a native of San Diego, California, but my heart belongs to Mora, New Mexico. Every summer, I’d spend time with my aunt Nina and uncle Steve Sanchez at their home on the Cross 7 Ranch, nestled in the peaceful valley of this small town. It was there that I learned some of life’s most valuable lessons—about family, friendship, and appreciating the simple things. My dad taught me how to fish the Mora River and other cold-water streams like Tres Ritos, fed by the Sangre de Cristo Mountains. Northern New Mexico will always feel like home.

After high school, I gave up a journalism scholarship from San Diego State University and moved to Mora with my son and my parents, who, unfortunately, parted ways. I became an instant cowgirl, working alongside my dad on the ranch, riding on cattle drives, and irrigating the acequias. Though the ranch life was fulfilling in many ways, I wanted more for myself and my son.

I later attended New Mexico Highlands University, where I earned my bachelor’s and MBA, and my career took some unexpected twists. After working in media and marketing, I transitioned into education, earning an MA in Special Education, a MAT in Instructional Leadership, and eventually becoming a nationally board-certified teacher. I’ve been a special education teacher for over 20 years and work as a part-time faculty supervisor at the University of New Mexico.

I was honored when Pete Tyjas, editor of Fly Culture Magazine, asked me to share my fly fishing stories and photos in several of their UK-based quarterly journals. I also had the privilege of learning from some incredible people while working at Los Pinos Fly Shop in Albuquerque. Cindy, Mark, and TJ are some of the best folks I know.

In addition to my personal journey in fly fishing, I started the New Mexico Lady Anglers, program affiliated within our local TU Chapter. This initiative supports women across the state by providing a non-invasive space to learn from and collaborate with other like-minded women. We encourage educational opportunities in casting clinics, fly tying sessions, meetings, fishing trips, and guest speakers, all designed to empower and encourage women to embrace the sport in a supportive and welcoming environment.

I am actively involved in conservation and community work, serving on the board for Bosque Chapter Trout Unlimited and volunteering for Trout in the Classroom. If you’ve seen a billboard promoting New Mexico’s fishing scene back in 2018, there’s a good chance I’m the face behind it—one of my proudest moments! In fact, I’ve been told there’s still a faded one near mile marker 327 on I-40.

I love hanging out with family, my Scottie, Noah, road-tripping, spending time in the mountains somewhere on the water casting late into the evening.

Life’s always better when I’m lost.

~Trisha