Located 64 km (40 mi) northeast of Reno Pyramid Lake is an endorheic water basin fed by the Truckee River. It is known as the remnant of ancient Lake Lahontan that covered much of Nevada territory during Ice Age. Also, Pyramid Lake became famous after its photo was used for Ipad wallpaper. But most people flock to Pyramid Lake because it's a premium fishery, home of the world record Lohanton Cutthroat Trout and the only place in the world where one can still find rare Cui-ui fish, endemic to the lake.
Lahontan cutthroat trout season runs from October to June, while the peak time is from November through March. According to experienced anglers, March is the best time to catch big fish as the water gets warmer and fish is especially active. All anglers must obtain a Tribal fishing permit which can be purchased at the Pyramid Lake Store on the Pyramid Lake highway, Nixon Store, or the I-80 Smoke-shop. Also, permits are available at the Ranger's Station at the Sutcliffe Marina or Crosby's Lodge. Also, learn about catch and release rules for boat and shore anglers.
The 18-kg (40-pound) world record Lohanton cutthroat trout was caught in Pyramid Lake. In the 1930s the Lahontan cutthroat trout was nearly extinct in Pyramid Lake due to dam construction. However in 1970s thanks to the efforts of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service's Lahontan National Fish Hatchery in Gardnerville, Nevada, the population was restored.
Practical info
When is the best time for fishing at Pyramid Lake?
Anglers can catch Lahontan cutthroat trout at Pyramid Lake from October through June. During this time, November through March is considered the peak period to catch more fish than any other month. Warmer waters in March make it the preferred month for anglers to catch larger fish, thanks to their higher levels of activity. Show more
Where can I purchase a Tribal fishing permit for Pyramid Lake?
Tribal fishing permits for Pyramid Lake can be purchased from several outlets: the Pyramid Lake Store located on the Pyramid Lake highway, Nixon Store, the I-80 Smoke-shop, the Ranger's Station at the Sutcliffe Marina, or Crosby's Lodge. Show more
What is the peak time for catching Lahontan cutthroat trout in Pyramid Lake?
The peak time to catch Lahontan cutthroat trout at Pyramid Lake is between November and March. Due to the favourable weather conditions in these months, fish in the lake are known to be more active and hence easier to catch. Anglers consider March as the best time to catch large fish as they tend to be more on the move when the water is warmer. Show more
When did the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service's Lahontan National Fish Hatchery restore the population of Lahontan cutthroat trout in Pyramid Lake?
Restoration of the Lahontan cutthroat trout population was initiated in Pyramid Lake in the 1970s by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service's Lahontan National Fish Hatchery situated in Gardnerville, Nevada. This was done following dwindling populations due to construction activities in the 1930s that nearly pushed the fish to extinction. Since then, the restored population has stood the test of time and continues to be a popular spot for fishing enthusiasts. Show more
What is the world record weight for Lahontan cutthroat trout caught in Pyramid Lake?
The largest Lahontan cutthroat trout caught in Pyramid Lake weighed a whopping 18 kg (40 pounds), setting the world record. This feat highlights the fishery's exceptional potential and popularity among anglers. Even though the record was set several years ago, fishing enthusiasts still flock to the lake annually in search of their own record-breaking fish. Show more
