Fish On! Your Guide to Fishing in Reno Tahoe

Who doesn’t want to catch one of the world’s largest freshwater trout or test their fishing skills against battle-hardened wild trout? If these sound like bucket-list-worthy items, you’re in the right place! The rivers and lakes here offer Reno fishing experiences that rival any other destination.

Fishing In Reno Tahoe – Where and When to Go

Truckee River | Open year-round

The Truckee River, a picturesque mountain river, gives you an opportunity to fish for wild trout. The assemblage of large, wary brown trout and feisty, colorful rainbow trout that inhabit the Truckee are worthy of your efforts.  However, these fish do not come easily to the net; every angler who fishes this river has an archive of stories (some of the tall tale variety, perhaps) of the big ones that got away. If this sounds intimidating, don’t worry! There are numerous guides, including Reno Fly Shop in downtown Reno, and online fishing reports that can offer you invaluable knowledge and assistance to help you catch that fish of a lifetime.

While fall is an ideal time to fish the Truckee River, plan ahead, practice good fish handling and check regulations before heading to the river. Catch and release is an unwritten rule by almost all local fishermen who wish to protect the quality of the angling experience. A valid California or Nevada fishing license is necessary to fish the Truckee River. A few access points on the Truckee River in California and Nevada include Floriston, Farad, Mogul and Mayberry Park.

Pyramid Lake | Open for fishing beginning October 1

Pyramid Lake has become a Mecca for anglers because of the possibility to catch legendary Lahontan cutthroat trout. Pyramid Lake attracts all types of fishermen, from the weekend warriors, destination fishermen and the ragtag group of passionate, obsessive anglers who spend every spare moment of the fishing season in pursuit of the Lahontan cutthroat trout.

Pyramid Lake truly is a special place, and Lahontan cutthroat trout are a thrilling fish to chase due to their aggressive grabs and willingness to take your fly or lure. A 20+ fish day on the lake is not uncommon.  Pyramid Lake can be fished from the shore or from a boat with fly fishing gear or conventional gear. A Pyramid Lake fishing permit is required. A few of the go-to “spots” include North and South Nets, Blockhouse, Popcorn and Warrior Point.

Cover photo credit: Paul Moinester

Can’t get enough? Check out our guide to Lake Tahoe fishing.