Photo: John Haddock, NDOW Angler Education Volunteer Instructor, landed this beautiful fish on the South Fork of the Humboldt River below the dam. Fly anglers are having luck with small leech patterns.
Eastern Region
The ice fishing season was short lived at most waters this year. Most waters are seeing ice deterioration and the beginning of the ice-off, if not already with open water. At this time, ice anglers have about a week or two left of suitable ice fishing conditions at Wildhorse Reservoir before the ice off begins. Ice is measuring about 12″ with the edges of the reservoir just beginning to soften.
Open water anglers are enjoying consistent trout action at South Fork Reservoir, as well as the river both below and above the reservoir. The Collection Ditch at Ruby Lake NWR is also producing nice catches. Check out the hot spot reports below for more detailed information on all eastern region waters.
As we begin to thaw out into spring, be mindful of accessibility to certain waters. Mud season is upon us, and what was an easy drive in the morning might be an invitation to get stuck in the afternoon.
REports for fishing hot spots
For the fishing reports of individual Eastern Region Hot Spots head to our new fishing report database below.
WesterN Region
Spring is here and fishing in the Western region is on fire. Nearly all of our community ponds are loaded with stocked trout and most of our rivers have yet to fill up with snow runoff. The Truckee and East Walker River are prime and fishing very well but you expect that to change with a little spring heat and the snow melt. Many of our winter hatches are beginning to slow but the summer bugs should be right on their heels. Flows and temperatures are prime for trout and the bass fishing should start to heat up with the warmer weather.
View all Western Region hot spots
For the fishing reports of all Western Region Hot Spots head to our new fishing report database below.
SOUTHERN Region
LAKE MEAD — Shore anglers are finding slow fishing for striped bass in shallow water. Boaters are locating striped bass at depths ranging from 40 to 80 feet. According to reports, the best action is taking place early and late in the day. Various swimbait patterns are enticing black bass throughout Boulder Basin and toward Temple Bar. Some anglers are generating bites with soft plastics and swimbaits fished just off the bottom.
LAKE MOHAVE /WILLOW BEACH — Anglers fishing for rainbow trout at Willow Beach are using mice tails and PowerBait. Spinners, such as and Rooster Tails and Mepp’s are also getting bites. The striped bass bite is sluggish, but boaters and kayakers are trolling the waters between Willow and Cottonwood Cove in the hope of catching a double-digit fish.
LAUGHLIN — The river is producing striped bass catches just south of Casino Row. Swimbaits and glide baits are enticing stripers to bite. Anglers are also reporting success with a variety topwater lures in the afternoon. Rainbow trout stockings continue weekly. Trout are averaging 10 to 12 inches and are showing a preference for worms and spinners in red or yellow.
LAS VEGAS COMMUNITY PONDS – Stocked rainbow trout have been taking a variety of baits and small lures, such as rainbow-colored PowerBait, night crawlers, salmon eggs and mini-marshmallows. Spinning lures and spoons, such as Rooster Tails, Mepp’s, Super Dupers and Kastmasters, also have been drawing strikes. Some anglers have caught catfish with night crawlers and chicken livers.
KIRCH WILDLIFE MANAGEMENT AREA – Due to recent storm activity, ice conditions are questionable. Roads may be muddy and thin ice will form around the shorelines in the mornings. The Nevada Department of Wildlife encourages visitors to use caution while on the management area.
EAGLE VALLEY RESERVOIR – Sunny afternoons are preventing the reservoir from freezing over. There is potential to cast from the dam to bring in a few trout, but anglers may have to contest with sharp ice edges.
ECHO CANYON RESERVOIR – Thin ice is forming along the shorelines, but there are still opportunities for anglers to pursue rainbow trout throughout the day and bass or crappie in the afternoon. Small jigs work to entice crappie and bass. Trout will look for nightcrawlers and glitter PowerBait.
All other fishing hot spots
For the fishing reports of all Southern Region Hot Spots head to our new fishing report database below.
events
Join Nevada Department of Wildlife instructors for a free fishing class! All ages and experience levels are welcome! For more information and registration visit https://www.register-ed.com/programs/nevada/210-angler-education. Fishing licenses can be purchased online at www.ndowlicensing.com.