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Fishing in Nevada
Nevada Fishing at a Glance
From high alpine lakes to desert creeks, the fishing possibilities in Nevada are endless.
Its 543 fishable waters hold 34 different sports fish species that are kept well stocked for the avid fisherman or woman, and all against a backdrop of stunning mountains, blue skies and forests.
There are a few things you need to know before you set out fishing in Nevada. Fishing regulations are set by the Nevada Department of Wildlife (NDOW). In general, you’ll need a valid fishing license if you’re 16 years of age or older. You can get a one-day, short-term, or annual fishing license (See links to state resources below).
There are many great options for fishing in Nevada but some of our favorite public places include the Truckee River, Lake Tahoe, Ruby Lake National Wildlife Refuge, and Pyramid Lake. When choosing a spot to fish, make sure to check the regulations as some spots may have special restrictions.
Nevada ranks #43 in the U.S. for fishing licenses per capita and has a good number of local fishing enhtusiasts with over 4.52% of the population having fishing licenses.
Key Insights
- Nevada offers diverse fishing opportunities in high alpine lakes, desert creeks, and more
- There are 34 different sports fish species in Nevada’s 543 fishable waters
- A valid fishing license is needed for anyone 16 years of age or older
- Check fishing regulations as some spots may have special restrictions
- Public fishing spots include the Truckee River, Lake Tahoe, Ruby Lake National Wildlife Refuge, and Pyramid Lake
- Nevada ranks #43 in the U.S. for fishing licenses per capita
Table of Contents
Estimated Fishing Enthusiasts
| Population: | 3,104,614 |
|---|---|
| Fishing Enthusiasts | 140,340 |
| Fishing License % | 4.52% |
| Hunters Rank | 43 |
Land Types (Acres)
| Acres | % | Rank | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Total | 70,275,800 | ||
| Public | 56,972,280 | 81.07% | 2 |
| Private | 12,151,520 | 17.29% | 49 |
| Tribal | 1,152,000 | 1.64% | 9 |
Nevada Fishing Licenses & Requirements
For the most accurate and updated information on fishing licenses and requirements, it’s always a good idea to check the Nevada DNR. We’ve provided their contact information and other helpful information for your convenience here.
Nevada DNR
6980 Sierra Center Pkwy #120
Reno, NV 89511
- (775) 688-1500
Helpful Links
All across Nevada, fishing enthusiasts seek out their favorite species: brown trout, rainbow trout, cutthroat trout, mountain whitefish or kokanee salmon. With each changing season comes a differed selection of fish that vary in availability depending on the location. The ever-elusive brown trout is preferred by many during the spring and early summer months, while rainbow trout are favored when the season shifts towards fall. Similarly, although cutthroat trout can be caught all year long, they are particularly active in the spring. If you’re an adventurer looking for a true challenge you may want to travel to the high elevation lakes and streams in pursuit of mountain whitefish.
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Fishing private land in Nevada
Fishing on private land in Nevada has some real advantages over public lakes, rivers, streams, and ponds *if you can get access. For instance, there’s nothing like having a quiet lake all to yourself and oftentimes there are simply more fish available to catch, because they haven’t been fished out. There are generally more processes for access private land for hunting than fishing, though some similar methods exist. For instance, you can sometimes join a fishing club in Nevada or if you have the money, it may be possible to rent some private land for fishing. Another option is to knock on doors or work your contacts in an area to see if a landowner would let you fish for the day or possibly be open to a longer term arrangement.
Fortunately Wing It is simplifying land access for fishing, hunting, camping, and more. We’re adding new land every day and if we have some in your area, you’ll see some great options below.
1. Walker River
2. Truckee River
3. East Fork of the Carson River
4. Pyramid Lake
5. Lahontan Reservoir
Fishing private land in Nevada
Fishing on private land in Nevada has some real advantages over public lakes, rivers, streams, and ponds *if you can get access. For instance, there’s nothing like having a quiet lake all to yourself and oftentimes there are simply more fish available to catch, because they haven’t been fished out. There are generally more processes for access private land for hunting than fishing, though some similar methods exist. For instance, you can sometimes join a fishing club in Nevada or if you have the money, it may be possible to rent some private land for fishing. Another option is to knock on doors or work your contacts in an area to see if a landowner would let you fish for the day or possibly be open to a longer term arrangement.
Fortunately Wing It is simplifying land access for fishing, hunting, camping, and more. We’re adding new land every day and if we have some in your area, you’ll see some great options below.