If you’re looking for a great time fishing Lake Tahoe, here is a guide for everything you need to know. Learn what kind of fish you can catch, how to book a Lake Tahoe fishing charter, the best times of the year to fish Tahoe, and more. Lake Tahoe is where the California state record Mackinaw was caught, weighing in at a whopping 37 pounds! From catch n’ release to catch n’ eat, shallow and deep water sport fishing in Lake Tahoe and the surrounding lakes & streams will provide endless fish to catch and even more memories to bring back long after you leave.
What Kinds of Fish Are in Lake Tahoe?
Lake Tahoe’s deep, crystal-clear waters are home to a variety of iconic game fish, attracting anglers of all levels. Some of the most sought-after Lake Tahoe fish species include rainbow trout, brown trout, lake trout (also known as Mackinaw), and the vibrant kokanee salmon, a landlocked form of sockeye salmon. These fish not only put up a fun fight but also vary widely in size and the types of water they prefer, making every fishing trip a new adventure.
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Species
Average Size
Preferred Water Depth/Type
Lake Trout (Mackinaw)
5–20 lbs
Deep, cold waters (100–200 ft+)
Rainbow Trout
2–6 lbs (can reach 10+ lbs)
Shallow to mid-depth, nearshore and stream inlets
Brown Trout
3–7 lbs
Cooler, deeper nearshore waters
Kokanee Salmon
1–3 lbs
Mid-depth to deep water, especially near spawning season
Lake Tahoe Fishing Charters & Guides
Several fishing charters and guides, steeped in fish stories and some secret spots that will almost guarantee success, are available to make this a true Lake Tahoe fishing adventure. Teeming nearby streams and rivers will get your heart — and your line — jumping while several local restaurants will gladly turn your trophy into dinner prepared to your liking. And with the waters of big blue never freezing, you can book a charter ANY time of year. Fishing is one of the best and most rewarding water sports in Lake Tahoe!
Tahoe fishing offers a range of unforgettable fishing experiences, whether you’re casting from the shore or heading out into the deep water. For a quiet day along the banks, fishing in the shallow waters of Lake Tahoe’s South Shore is perfect for catching trout near inlets and coves. Adventurers can paddle out in a kayak to troll for bass and other fish, or level up with a sport fishing charter that takes you deep into the lake’s cold, clear depths. No matter your style, Tahoe fishing delivers year-round thrills for anglers of all kinds.
Are you allowed to fish in Lake Tahoe, and do you need a fishing license? Yes, but there are a few important fishing regulations to know before you cast off. Anyone 16 or older needs a valid fishing license, and because Lake Tahoe spans both California and Nevada, you’ll need either a Nevada fishing license or a California fishing license, depending on which side of the lake you’re fishing on. Even if you’re going charter fishing, you’re still responsible for securing your own license. Following these simple rules keeps your Lake Tahoe adventure fun, legal, and stress-free.
One of the best things about fishing in Lake Tahoe is that you can do it year-round because the lake never freezes, even in winter. While each season offers something special, many anglers find the best time to fish is early morning, just after sunrise or late afternoon before sunset, when fish are most active. Whether you’re chasing trophy lake trout in the colder months or kokanee salmon in late summer, there’s always a chance to reel in something remarkable in these crystal-clear waters.
