The 10 Best Fishing Lakes in Nevada (And the Types of Fish to Expect!)

Lake fishing is a popular recreational activity in Nevada, attracting anglers from all over the country. With dozens of pristine lakes and reservoirs scattered throughout the state, Nevada offers some of the best opportunities for fishing in the West. In addition to the excellent fishing, these lakes also provide a beautiful backdrop for a variety of outdoor activities, including camping, hiking, and swimming.

In this article, we will list 10 of the best lakes for fishing in Nevada, providing a comprehensive guide for anyone looking to enjoy this amazing pastime in some of the most picturesque locations in the state.

1. Lake Tahoe

Fishing at Lake Tahoe in Nevada is a popular activity among both locals and visitors. The most common fish species found in Lake Tahoe are rainbow trout, brown trout, kokanee salmon, and mackinaw trout. Lake Tahoe in Nevada is known for its crystal-clear water that allows for visibility up to 70 feet deep in some areas. The lake’s water clarity is primarily due to the lack of nutrients and algae growth, as well as the filtering abilities of the surrounding forests. Visitors to Lake Tahoe can take advantage of the clear water by enjoying fishing in a way that many other lakes lack due to having murkier waters.

In addition to fishing, Lake Tahoe offers a wide range of recreational activities, including water sports such as kayaking, jet-skiing, and paddleboarding. Hiking is another popular activity, with numerous trails offering stunning views of the lake and surrounding mountains. Biking, scenic drives, and winter sports such as skiing and snowboarding are also popular in the area.

2. Pyramid Lake

Fishing at Pyramid Lake in Nevada is a popular activity among anglers, with the Lahontan Cutthroat Trout being the most sought-after species. Other fish species found in the lake include Tui Chub, Sacramento Perch, and Tahoe Sucker.

Aside from fishing, visitors can enjoy a variety of recreational activities at Pyramid Lake, such as kayaking, paddle boarding, hiking, and birdwatching. The lake is also a scenic spot for picnicking, swimming, and camping. Pyramid Lake remains an important site for the Pyramid Lake Paiute Tribe, and visitors can learn about the tribe’s culture and history through guided tours and educational programs.

3. Lake Mead

Fishing at Lake Mead in Nevada is a popular activity, with a variety of fish species available including rainbow trout, largemouth bass, striped bass, and catfish. The lake is also a great spot for boating and water sports, with rentals available for visitors. Other recreational activities at Lake Mead include hiking, camping, picnicking, and wildlife viewing. Visitors can explore the surrounding desert landscape on foot or by mountain bike.

There are also several historic sites in the area, including the Hoover Dam and the Boulder City Museum.

4. Ruby Lake

Fishing at Ruby Lake in Nevada is a popular activity, with a variety of fish species available including rainbow trout, Lahontan cutthroat trout, brook trout, and brown trout.

Along with fishing, the area also offers opportunities for wildlife viewing, bird watching, hiking, and camping. The refuge is home to a variety of bird species, including sandhill cranes, waterfowl, and songbirds, making it a popular destination for birders.

Also, the surrounding landscape offers scenic views of the Ruby Mountains, providing an ideal backdrop for outdoor activities and photography.

5. Wild Horse Reservoir

Fishing at Wild Horse Reservoir in Nevada is a popular activity, with a variety of fish species available including rainbow trout, German brown trout, smallmouth bass, and catfish.

Plus, visitors can enjoy a variety of recreational activities at the Wild Horse State Recreation Area, such as camping, hiking, and wildlife viewing. The park offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape, including the Ruby Mountains, and is a great spot for photography enthusiasts.

Additionally, visitors can explore the historic sites in the area, which include the Wild Horse Dam and the Spring Valley State Park.

6. Eagle Valley Reservoir

Fishing at Eagle Valley Reservoir in Nevada is a popular activity, with a variety of fish species available including rainbow trout, tiger trout, and German brown trout.

Visitors can also enjoy a variety of recreational activities at Spring Valley State Park, such as camping, hiking, and boating. The park offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape, including the Spring Valley and the nearby towns of Lund and Preston.

Plus, the park has historic sites such as the Old Overland Stage Route and the ruins of the Eagle Valley Mine.

7. South Fork Reservoir

Fishing at South Fork Reservoir in Nevada is a popular activity, with a variety of fish species available including rainbow trout, Brown Trout, Smallmouth Bass, and Channel Catfish.

In addition to fishing, visitors can enjoy a variety of recreational activities at the South Fork State Recreation Area, such as camping, hiking, and boating. The park offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape, including the Ruby Mountains range, and is a great spot for photography enthusiasts.

Also, visitors can explore the historic sites in the area, which include the site of the old Wildhorse Station.

8. Lahontan Reservoir

Fishing at Lahontan Reservoir in Nevada is a popular activity, with a variety of fish species available including Lahontan cutthroat trout, rainbow trout, channel catfish, walleye, and smallmouth bass. The reservoir is also a great spot for boating and water sports, with rentals available for visitors.

Other recreational activities at Lahontan Reservoir include camping, picnicking, and wildlife viewing. Visitors can explore the surrounding desert landscape on foot or by mountain bike. Also, there are several historic sites in the area, including the Carson River Aqueduct and Fort Churchill State Historic Park.

9. Wilson Reservoir

Wilson Reservoir Recreation Management Area offers the opportunity for ice fishing during the winter. Although it is unclear what types of fish are available at Wilson Reservoir, ice fishing typically targets species such as trout, panfish, and walleye.

In addition to ice fishing, the Recreation Management Area may offer other recreational activities such as hiking, camping, and wildlife viewing. As there seem to be few campgrounds in the area, visitors are encouraged to research their options carefully before visiting the site.

10. Topaz Lake

Topaz Lake is a popular fishing destination in Nevada, with a variety of fish species available, including rainbow trout, brown trout, smallmouth bass, larger-mouth bass, catfish, and northern pike. The lake is stocked annually with trout by the Nevada Department of Wildlife. Fishing can be done from both the shore and by boat, and visitors can bring their own boat or rent one at the Topaz Lodge and Resort.

Aside from fishing, visitors to Topaz Lake can enjoy a variety of recreational activities, including camping, hiking, boating, water skiing, jet skiing, and picnicking. The area is surrounded by scenic mountains and offers breathtaking views, making it a popular destination for photographers and nature lovers. The lake is also known for its abundant birdlife, offering great bird-watching opportunities. There are several campgrounds and RV parks in the Topaz Lake area for visitors who want to spend a night or more and enjoy the surroundings.

In Conclusion

Nevada is a state that offers a wide variety of lakes, both natural and man-made, for all types of fishing and outdoor enthusiasts. With many of these lakes being stocked, visitors can reel in a variety of fish species such as rainbow trout, brown trout, smallmouth and larger-mouth bass, catfish, walleye, and northern pike. These lakes also provide opportunities for boating, water sports, camping, and hiking. Whether you are a seasoned angler or just looking for a picturesque place to spend the day, Nevada’s vast and diverse bodies of water offer something for everyone.

Summary of the 10 Best Fishing Lakes in Nevada