Fishing in Nevada

Nevada offers a diverse range of fishing opportunities, from high-desert reservoirs to alpine lakes. This guide provides an overview of popular fishing spots, necessary permits, and best practices for anglers visiting the Silver State.

Regulations and Licenses

Before casting a line, ensure you are compliant with all Nevada Department of Wildlife (NDOW) regulations.

Licensing Requirements

All anglers 12 years of age and older must possess a valid Nevada fishing license. Licenses can be purchased online, at NDOW offices, or at many sporting goods stores.

License Type	Duration	Cost
Annual Resident	1 Year
Annual Non-Resident	1 Year
1-Day Permit	1 Day
Youth Fishing License	1 Year (Ages 12-17)

Note: Be sure to check the current Fee Schedule before planning your trip: File

Seasons and Limits

Fishing seasons and daily limits vary significantly by location and species. Always consult the NDOW Fishing Regulations before fishing in a new area.

Popular Fishing Locations

Nevada is home to several renowned fishing spots, offering opportunities to catch trout, bass, and other species.

Southern Nevada

Southern Nevada is characterized by large reservoirs and warm-water fisheries.

Lake Mead National Recreation Area

Home to one of the largest man-made lakes in the world, Lake Mead offers excellent fishing for Striped Bass, Largemouth Bass, Channel Catfish, and Crappie.

• Primary Species: Striped Bass, Largemouth Bass, Channel Catfish
• Best Time to Fish: Spring and Fall

Lake Mohave

Located downstream from Lake Mead, Lake Mohave is known for its Black Bass and the occasional trophy Striped Bass. It's also one of the few places to catch federally threatened Razorback Suckers (strictly catch-and-release).

• Primary Species: Largemouth Bass, Smallmouth Bass, Striped Bass

Western Nevada

Western Nevada is influenced by the Sierra Nevada mountains, offering cold-water trout fishing.

Lake Tahoe

This iconic alpine lake, shared with California, is renowned for its large Lake Trout (Mackinaw) and Lahontan Cutthroat Trout.

• Primary Species: Lake Trout (Mackinaw), Lahontan Cutthroat Trout
• Regulations: Special bi-state regulations apply; consult both NDOW and California Department of Fish and Wildlife.

Truckee River

A blue-ribbon trout stream flowing from Lake Tahoe, the Truckee River is an excellent spot for fly fishing, targeting Brown and Rainbow Trout.

• Access Point Suggestion: The river section offers reliable access.

Central and Eastern Nevada

This region features smaller reservoirs and remote streams, providing a more solitary fishing experience.

Ruby Lake National Wildlife Refuge

A key location for spawning fish and excellent bird watching, Ruby Lake is known for its abundant Largemouth Bass and diverse waterfowl.