The water clarity has improved, and water temps are reaching into the low 70’s

Wild Horse Reservoir - Owyhee, NV (Elko County)


by Nevada Department of Wildlife
8-25-2023
Website

NOTE:  A suspected Harmful Algal Bloom (HAB) has been reported at Wild Horse Reservoir near Elko. Exposure to HABs can lead to mild or potentially severe health issues for people and animals. The public should take proper precautions to protect themselves, their family, and animals. For more information and helpful tips about HABs, visit

The water clarity has improved, and water temps are reaching into the low 70’s. Trout fishing has improved and fish are being caught from shore and by boat in good abundance, with fish sizes ranging from 16”-23”. Anglers wishing to target trout in these conditions should focus on using lures such as rooster-tails, spoons, or Rapalas. Anglers fishing from a boat could do well trolling flashers, spoons, and Rapalas, in shallower depths. Anglers that are fly fishing may have success stripping woolly bugger or leech patterns, or fishing balance leeches and midge patterns under an indicator.

Perch fishing will remain slow due to the die off last year. Some anglers encountered limited numbers of Yellow Perch during the 2022-2023 ice fishing season.  Anglers wishing to target perch will have limited success jigging small lures and bait near the bottom in 20-25 feet of water.

Bass fishing is beginning to improve as water temperatures continue to warm. Anglers wishing to target bass will have the best luck fishing various soft plastics, drop shot set ups, and crankbaits around natural and artificial structures. Starting July 1st, anglers may keep one black bass 15 inches or longer.

CAUTIONARY ALERT: A potential Harmful Algal Bloom (HAB) has been identified at Wildhorse Reservoir. While not all algae is harmful, some algal blooms can become toxic. This particular algal bloom has not been tested yet for toxicity. See Nevada State Parks website and social media for most up to date information.

Check the stocking report for updates on trout, catfish and wiper stockings.







8-16-2023
            Check out the latest new water record!   Pedro Gonzales landed this 22lb. 5oz. Carp on August 13th, from the Humboldt River...... Read More