Date: 12/5/07
Contact: C. Doug Nielsen
Phone: (702) 486-5127, ext. 3500

URBAN PONDS A CLOSE ALTERNATIVE FOR LOCAL ANGLERS

Local anglers should be getting excited for this season’s trout plants at their local urban ponds. Anglers can expect to find rainbow trout in three ponds right here in the Las Vegas Valley, as well as in ponds in Boulder City and Mesquite. The Nevada Department of Wildlife started its annual stocking program in early November and that program will continue throughout the winter months.

Because gas prices are keeping some traveling anglers at home, urban ponds provide an opportunity to fish without breaking the bank. In the northwest part of town anglers can find trout in the ponds at Floyd Lamb City Park but expect to pay a minimal parking fee. Fish can also be found in the ponds at Lorenzi Park near Washington and Rancho, or Sunset Park across from McCarran International Airport near the corner of Sunset Road and Eastern Avenue.

One of the newest urban fishing ponds can be found at Veterans Memorial Park in Boulder City and another at Hafen Park in Mesquite.

“A lot of trout anglers put their rods away for the winter, or head to the Eastern Sierras during the winter, but with these ponds they don’t have to,” said Doug Nielsen, Conservation Education Supervisor for NDOW. “Fishing these ponds isn’t quite like fishing a high mountain lake, but it beats staying at home. I wouldn’t put my rod away just yet.”
Fish being stocked into the ponds average seven to 10 inches in length with a few pushing 12 inches or more. These fish aren’t the trophies anglers go after in more remote places yet they are just as rewarding to catch. They can also provide a fun opportunity for a son or daughter who is hoping to catch their first fish.

The Nevada Department of Wildlife (NDOW) protects, restores and manages fish and wildlife, and promotes fishing, hunting, and boating safety. NDOW’s wildlife and habitat conservation efforts are primarily funded by sportsmen’s license and conservation fees and a federal surcharge on hunting and fishing gear. Support wildlife and habitat conservation in Nevada by purchasing a hunting, fishing, or combination license. For more information, visit www.ndow.org.