Washoe Lake - Washoe City, NV

Photo Credit: ©Chad Woods (May 23, 2017)
All Rights Reserved
All Rights Reserved
Lake Information
Fish Species: | Channel Catfish, Black Crappie, White Crappie, Brown Bullhead, Wiper, White Bass, Sacramento Perch |
Washoe Lake, a shallow, expansive basin situated between the Carson and Virginia Ranges, presents a dynamic yet often challenging lacustrine environment for anglers. Its hydrology is significantly influenced by prevailing winds, frequently leading to increased turbidity and impacting fish behavior. Despite these environmental variables, the lake supports a diverse ichthyofauna, most notably Lahontan Cutthroat Trout (Oncorhynchus clarkii henshawi), Common Carp (Cyprinus carpio), and Sacramento Perch (Archoplites interruptus). The Nevada Department of Wildlife (NDOW) actively manages the Lahontan Cutthroat population through routine stocking programs, providing a viable native trout fishery.
Targeting Lahontan Cutthroat Trout typically involves conventional bait presentations or controlled trolling of small-profile lures, particularly during periods of reduced turbidity and cooler water temperatures. Carp anglers successfully employ European bottom-fishing tactics utilizing hair rigs and specialized boilies, capitalizing on the species' prolific presence and formidable fighting characteristics. Fly fishing for carp offers a distinct challenge for sight-fishing enthusiasts. Angling success is inextricably linked to prevailing wind conditions; calm periods, especially during crepuscular hours, are empirically more productive. Accessibility is facilitated by Washoe Lake State Park infrastructure, offering multiple boat launches and extensive shore access. Anglers are strictly mandated to consult current NDOW regulations concerning bag limits and species-specific restrictions. Washoe Lake, while demanding, offers a unique opportunity to engage a variety of species within a readily accessible, albeit environmentally dynamic, freshwater system.
Latest Fish Plants
Plant Date | Species | Source | Total Pounds |
8-23-2018 | White Bass | NDOW | |
8-02-2018 | White Crappie | NDOW | |
7-09-2018 | White Bass | NDOW |
Latest Fish Reports
Date | Report | Author |
2-20-2025 | Fishing will slow considerably at Washoe and Little Washoe with the winter and ice Fishing will slow considerably at Washoe and Little... more » |
Nevada Department of Wildlife |
11-22-2023 | Fishing will slow considerably at Washoe and Little Washoe with the winter and ice Fishing will slow considerably at Washoe and Little... more » |
Nevada Department of Wildlife |
6-29-2023 | Potential Harmful Algal Bloom identified in Washoe Lake OR IMMEDIATE RELEASE CONTACT: Jenny Jackson, j.jackson@parks.nv.gov Potential Harmful Algal... more » |
Nevada State Parks |
6-8-2022 | Expect slow fishing with some areas being more productive than others with low water Stocking of several thousand channel catfish and white... more » |
Nevada Department of Wildlife |
10-15-2021 | Washoe Lake Fishing Report Low water will making fishing tough in Washoe... more » |
Nevada Department of Wildlife |
Detailed Map
