Trout Fishing In Nevada
Guide to fishing for rainbow, cutthroat, brook, brown, golden and lake trout in local lakes and streams.
Nevada's trout fishing opportunities are diverse, with several trout species available for anglers to target. The purpose of this page is to share basic information about trout fishing and identify trout fishing waters in the state. The most common trout species found in Nevada's lakes and rivers include rainbow trout, brown trout, and cutthroat trout. These trout species thrive in various water conditions, making them accessible to both seasoned anglers and beginners.
Lakes such as Lake Tahoe, Pyramid Lake, and Wild Horse Reservoir are known for their abundant trout populations and provide excellent fishing opportunities. These lakes offer both shore and boat fishing options, allowing anglers to choose their preferred method of fishing.
Nevada's rivers, such as the Truckee River and the Humboldt River, also provide excellent trout fishing opportunities. These rivers are popular among fly anglers due to the challenging and rewarding experience they offer.
In terms of state records, Nevada has seen some impressive trout catches over the years. The state records for rainbow trout, brown trout, and cutthroat trout attest to the trophy-sized fish that can be found in Nevada's waters.
For anglers seeking an adventure in trout fishing, Nevada's lakes and rivers offer a wealth of opportunities. Whether it's the thrill of catching a trophy-sized fish or the peaceful serenity of fly fishing in a remote river, Nevada has something to offer to every trout angler.
Trout Fishing Waters
You can find trout in many of the waters in Nevada. Some lakes in the northern part of the state offer good ice fishing for trout in winter. The major lakes with healthy populations of trout include Lake Lahontan, Lake Mead, Lake Mohave, Lake Tahoe, Pyramid Lake, Ruby Lake, Topaz Lake and Wild Horse Reservoir. Trout can also be found in many rivers and streams in the northern sector of the state.
Trout Species In The State
Rainbow trout
World record: 42 lbs 2 oz
State Record: 16 lbs 8 oz
Cutthroat trout
World record: 41 lbs 0 oz
State Record: 24 lbs 12 oz
Brook trout
World record: 14 lbs 8 oz
State Record: 5 lbs 10 oz
Brown trout
World record: 40 lbs 4 oz
State Record: 27 lbs 5 oz
Lake trout (Mackinaw)
World record: 72 lbs 0 oz
State Record: 37 lbs 6 oz
Golden trout
World record: 11 lbs 4 oz
State Record: 0 lbs 15 oz
Click the images and links above for species details.
Select the best trout lures and baits
Trout spinners, crankbaits and jerkbaits work well for shallow, reasonably active fish. Salmon eggs, worms and prepared baits will work at virtually all depths.
Nevada State Record Trout
The state record rainbow trout was caught from Ruby Lake.
The state record cutthroat trout was taken out of Pyramid Lake.
The state record brook trout was taken out of Bull Run Reservoir.
The state record brown trout came from Cave Lake.
The state record lake (Mackinaw) trout was caught in Lake Tahoe.
The state record bull trout was caught in the Jarbridge River.
The state record golden trout was caught in Hidden Lakes.
The state record hybrid trout was caught in Pyramid Lake.
The state record tiger trout was caught in Ruby Lake.
Visit the Nevada Department of Wildlife website for information about regional trout stocking in Nevada.
Watch trout fishing videos to see trout anglers in action.
The 5 primary trouts are the rainbow, brook, brown, cutthroat and lake trout. Browns are considered the most difficult to catch and brookies are the easiest. Pure cold water is key to survival of the trouts.
Additional trout information
Trout Conservation
Trout Unlimited
Trout locations and info, by state.
The habits of trout.
Trout are considered some of the most difficult fish to fool. Once you locate Nevada waters with a population of trout, the challenge becomes identifying trout flies and lures that will trigger strikes. Visit the trout fishing page to learn more about the habitat each of the trouts prefer.