Fishing Lake Lahontan

AKA: Lahontan Reservoir

Most Popular Fish
Lake Lahontan Fishing Video
Available Fish Species
Amenities
Today's Weather & Forecast
Boat Launch Ramps
Local Fishing Guides
Fishing License
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Lake Lahontan, NV

Popular Fish Species Lake Lahontan, NV

Walleye Fishing

Thanks to a significant baitfish and sunfish population, walleye are thriving in the fertile waters of Lake Lahontan this year. Spring and Fall tend to be the best time for weekend anglers to catch them. During this time they tend to move shallower, closer to shore and begin spawning. Rock and gravel are preferred areas for the spawn. Other times of the year they are more likely to roam around in deeper water. As always, stay around schools of baitfish. They are eager to feed throughout the lake, but tend to concentrate around structure on points, flats and ledges off the river channels. Walleye have excellent, low-light vision which helps them find food in deep or murky water. Make an effort to be on the water during low light conditions. A proven method for catching walleye here is trolling with spinners tipped with live bait, or trolling with long-billed, deep diving crankbaits. However casting live bait, jigs, worms and spoons also works well at times.

Lake Lahontan Popular Fish - Hybrid Striped Bass

Hybrid Striped Bass Fishing

Live bait, spoons and jigs are very very effective here, and these hungry fish can be caught year round. Hybrid striped bass, also known as wipers, are a favorite of many locals at Lake Lahontan, as they are plentiful and grow to bragging size. As a hybrid of striped bass and white bass, they have great potential for spawning massive numbers and growing to large sizes. Fishing for hybrid stripers is a matter of locating schools of bait, and schools of hybrid striped bass are likely to be in the area. Mornings, during Fall, hybrids can be caught on topwater or shallow running lures, as they are feeding on baitfish at the surface. When they move deeper, fish finders improve your odds of locating both bait and schools of wipers.

White Bass Fishing

After several very successful spawn years, white bass are flourishing in Lake Lahontan and anglers should expect some great fishing this year. White bass are aggressive, hard-fighting and just plain fun to catch. When fishing for white bass, the average fish is typically in the one- to two-pound range. These schooling fish tend to roam around the lake looking for ideal water conditions and baitfish. Look for them to generally be in 15 to 35 feet of water, whether they are hovering around the bottom or swimming in open water. Fish finders are the best way to locate big schools of white bass. Fish near the bottom at night with live bait. In spring, once the water temperature rises into the mid sixties, they move shallow into the backs of coves and creek channels to spawn. When white bass chase schools of bait near the surface, spinners, spoons and small crank baits work well. At this time anglers can fish from shore and often do quite well. Use lures that imitate baitfish, including small crankbaits, small jerkbaits, jigs and spoons.

Fish species to fish for...

Guide to fishing for largemouth bass, spotted bass, channel catfish, white catfish, black crappie, white crappie, walleye, rainbow trout, white bass, yellow perch and hybrid striped bass at Lake Lahontan in Nevada.

Lake Lahontan Fishing Video

Known for its fluctuating water levels, Lake Lahontan is a 10,000-acre lake with 69 miles of shoreline when full. This reservoir on the Carson River affords fishing enthusiasts the opportunity to pursue various fish species.

Lake Lahontan is located in the northwest section of Nevada and offers excellent fishing opportunities for both locals and visitors alike. This reservoir is a popular destination for anglers due to its diverse fish population and beautiful surroundings, making it an ideal spot for both fishing and recreational activities.

Among the popular fish species found in Lake Lahontan are largemouth bass and smallmouth bass. Anglers often target these bass species for their strong fighting abilities and exciting catch potential. Additionally, rainbow trout is another sought-after species in the lake, especially during colder months when the trout are more active.

Hybrid striped bass is another prominent fish species in Lake Lahontan, and these hard-fighting fish can provide an exciting challenge for anglers. Moreover, anglers can find channel catfish and white catfish, which are both prized for their excellent taste and can be caught using various bait and tackle setups.

For those interested in panfish, Lake Lahontan has black crappie, white crappie, and sunfish. These fish are commonly targeted by youth anglers and beginners, providing a great opportunity for families to bond and introduce children to the joys of fishing.

Walleye, yellow perch, and white bass are other species present in the lake, offering a diverse range of fishing opportunities for anglers of all skill levels. Whether fishing from the shore or in a boat, visitors to Lake Lahontan can enjoy a day of fishing while also taking in the picturesque views and enjoying other water-based activities. With camping facilities nearby, anglers have the option to extend their stay and fully immerse themselves in the beauty and fishing experiences that Lake Lahontan has to offer.

The lake is situated in the western part of the state, at Silver Springs. Amenities are extremely limited, so bring everything with you. If you plan to camp, there are primitive camping areas near the lake, with no facilities. Particularly in summer, the fishing tends to be best in the cleaner water, in the large basin near the dam. There is a boat launch ramp at Lahontan State Recreation Area. Many areas around the lake provide access for portage of canoes, kayaks and small boats.

Primary fish species residing in Lake Lahontan

Click images for fishing tips and details about each species.

Lahontan Reservoir Amenities

Marina: NO
Boat Rental: NO
Boat Launch Ramp: YES
Campgrounds: YES
RV Hookups: NO
Lodging: NEARBY
Convenience Store: YES
Bait & Tackle: NEARBY
Restaurant: YES

Today's Weather & Forecast

Public Boat Launch Ramps & Landings

Lake Lahontan Boat Launch Ramp
Located mid lake, west side, off S Beach Road, this is a four-lane, concrete ramp with docks and paved parking.

North Shore Marina Boat Launch Ramp
Located in the northeast section of the lake, off Lincoln Highway, this is a two-lane, concrete ramp with a dock and paved parking.