Washoe Lake - Washoe City, NV

Photo Credit: ©Chad Woods (May 23, 2017)
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 DateSpeciesSourceTotal Pounds
8-23-2018White BassNDOW 
8-02-2018White CrappieNDOW 
7-09-2018White BassNDOW 


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

ABOUT US

SportfishingReport.com™ Built by Avid Sportsman for Avid Sportsman! We understand what fisherman need to be successful in the pursuit of target species across the United States.

Never again will you need to search countless resorces to find accurate information on the fishing grounds. SportfishingReport.com™ has brought the west coast Fishing Reports to you in one easy to use site. Now you can vew the latest catch reports, conditions, trip schedules and book your trip all in one website.


   
Established in 2000
SportfishingReport.comTM © 2000 - 2017 Sportfishingreport.com. All Rights Reserved.