Episodes

  • Fall Fishing on Lake Tahoe: Tackle the Trout, Carp, and Kokanee this Season

    Fall Fishing on Lake Tahoe: Tackle the Trout, Carp, and Kokanee this Season
    Nov 10 2024
    As of November 10th, the fishing scene around Lake Tahoe is transitioning into the fall season, and here’s what you need to know for a successful day on the water.

    ### Weather and Water Conditions
    The weather is crisp with overnight lows in the mid-40s and daytime highs in the mid-50s to low 60s. Water temperatures have dropped significantly, ranging from 52 to 55 degrees Fahrenheit, which is ideal for many of the fish species here. The water clarity remains excellent, making it a great time for both fly fishing and traditional angling.

    ### Sunrise and Sunset
    Sunrise today is at around 6:30 AM, and sunset will be at approximately 4:45 PM. These times are crucial for planning your fishing trips, as many fish are most active during these periods.

    ### Fish Activity
    Fish activity has been good, especially for those targeting trout. Mackinaw (Lake Trout), German Browns, Rainbow Trout, and Kokanee Salmon are the primary species you can expect to catch. Yesterday, anglers reported catching an average of 3-5 fish per rod, with most fish being found at depths of 50 to 75 feet.

    ### Best Lures and Bait
    For trolling, using wedding rings behind a Tahoe Trolling Flasher has been highly effective. These setups are particularly good for catching Kokanee and Mackinaw. If you're into fly fishing, patterns like the Cray Z Emma, Nemec Stone, and Jigged Pheasant Tail have been top producers. Smaller mayflies such as the French Nymph and black Perdigon are also working well.

    ### Hot Spots
    One of the hot spots right now is the deep waters of Lake Tahoe, especially around the areas where you can troll at depths of 200-400 feet. Another good spot is the Truckee River, which continues to fish well as the water flows stabilize. The Nevada side of the Truckee River has been particularly productive, with good fishing conditions and happy fish moving around due to the cooler overnight temperatures.

    ### Additional Tips
    Keep in mind that the streamer bite has been slow lately, likely due to the abundance of molting crayfish, but this is expected to change as water temperatures cool further. For those chasing carp downstream of town, the Squirmy Hybrid and Jigged Bugger have been effective flies.

    Overall, Lake Tahoe is offering some excellent fishing opportunities as we move into the fall season, so make sure to take advantage of the cooler weather and active fish.
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    3 mins
  • Fishing Frenzy at Lake Tahoe Amid Seasonal Changes

    Fishing Frenzy at Lake Tahoe Amid Seasonal Changes
    Nov 9 2024
    As of November 9, 2024, the fishing scene around Lake Tahoe is buzzing with activity, despite the impending seasonal changes.

    ### Weather and Conditions
    The weather is crisp, with temperatures ranging from the mid-40s to mid-50s, making it perfect for fall fishing. Sunrise today is at around 6:30 AM, and sunset will be at about 4:45 PM. There are no tidal reports for Lake Tahoe since it is a freshwater lake, but water levels are a concern, especially with Topaz Lake down about 8 feet from last year.

    ### Fish Activity
    Fish activity is robust, particularly for those targeting Kokanee, Mackinaw, German Browns, and Rainbow Trout. On Lake Tahoe, anglers have been successful in the southwest area, where Kokanee up to 16-18 inches have been common this year. Depths of 55-75 feet have been most productive[5].

    ### Recent Catches
    Yesterday saw a good number of catches, especially for Kokanee and Mackinaw. Anglers on charters were averaging 3-5 fish per rod, with some notable catches of larger fish. For example, the southwest area of Lake Tahoe has been yielding impressive Kokanee, while the north and west shores have seen sporadic but significant Mackinaw catches[5].

    ### Best Lures and Bait
    For Lake Tahoe, trolling small flashers with a half nightcrawler 12 inches behind the blades has been effective. Rapalas, especially in gold/black, perch, or hot steel patterns, are also highly recommended. When using Rapalas, it's advisable to use a small stainless snap swivel to enhance action and prevent line twisting[2].

    ### Hot Spots
    - **Southwest Area of Lake Tahoe**: This has been the most productive area for Kokanee, with depths of 55-75 feet yielding good results.
    - **Topaz Lake**: Despite the lake level being down, Topaz Lake has recently been planted with 6,400 pounds of trout by the Nevada Department of Wildlife. Trolling small flashers or using Rapalas on the west and north ends of the lake has been productive[2].

    ### Upcoming Regulations
    As a reminder, starting November 16, most California rivers and streams will convert to catch and release with artificial lures or flies with barbless hooks, and many lakes will close for the season. Make sure to check the latest regulations before heading out[2].

    Overall, it's a great time to be on the waters of Lake Tahoe, with plenty of fish to be caught and beautiful fall weather to enjoy.
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    3 mins
  • Fishing Lake Tahoe in November: Kokanee Salmon, Rainbow Trout, and Mackinaw Trout Abound

    Fishing Lake Tahoe in November: Kokanee Salmon, Rainbow Trout, and Mackinaw Trout Abound
    Nov 8 2024
    As of November 8, 2024, the fishing scene at Lake Tahoe is quite promising, despite the cooler autumn weather. Here’s what you need to know for a successful day on the water.

    ### Weather and Time
    The sunrise today is at 6:34 AM, and sunset will be at 4:49 PM. The weather is expected to be partly cloudy with a high of around 52°F and a low of 38°F, making it a crisp but manageable day for fishing.

    ### Fish Activity
    Fish activity has been steady, especially in the early and late parts of the day. The shift in seasons means that fish are more active during these cooler periods. Yesterday saw a good number of catches, particularly of Kokanee salmon, which have been unusually large this year, ranging from 16 to 18 inches. Mackinaw trout, though less consistent, are still being caught, especially around the north and west shores.

    ### Best Locations
    The southwest area of the lake has been particularly productive for Kokanee salmon at depths of 55-75 feet. For shore anglers, Cave Rock and Sand Harbor State Parks are hot spots, especially for smaller rainbow trout and larger rainbows and browns using top-line trolling in shallower waters.

    ### Lures and Bait
    For boaters targeting Kokanee and Mackinaw, deep-line trolling and jigging with live minnows are highly effective. Shore anglers have had success with smaller spinners for planted trout and larger spoons or diving plugs for larger rainbow and brown trout. Standard shore baits like nightcrawlers, Power Bait, salmon eggs, and minnows are also recommended. Lures such as Mepps, Panther Martins, Rapalas, and Dardevles have been catching active rainbow and brown trout.

    ### Tidal Report
    Lake Tahoe is a freshwater lake and does not have tides, so you don't need to worry about tidal changes affecting your fishing.

    In summary, today is a great day to hit Lake Tahoe, especially if you're targeting Kokanee salmon in the southwest area or rainbow and brown trout around Cave Rock and Sand Harbor State Parks. Make sure to fish during the cooler parts of the day and use the right lures and bait to increase your chances of a successful catch.
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    3 mins
  • Tahoe Tides Turning: Brown Trout Spawn, LCT on the Move in Cooler Conditions

    Tahoe Tides Turning: Brown Trout Spawn, LCT on the Move in Cooler Conditions
    Nov 7 2024
    As of November 7, 2024, the fishing scene around Lake Tahoe is looking promising, especially with the recent cooler weather and wind.

    ### Weather and Conditions
    The weather today is expected to be partly cloudy with a high of around 52°F and a low of 38°F. This cooler temperature has significantly improved the fishing conditions, especially in the Truckee River and Pyramid Lake.

    ### Sunrise and Sunset
    Sunrise is at 6:43 AM, and sunset is at 4:47 PM, giving you a good window for both morning and afternoon fishing.

    ### Fish Activity
    In the Truckee River, the brown trout have begun to spawn, and the rainbows are actively feeding, particularly during the middle part of the day. Nymphs in sizes #16-20, such as Micro Mayfly, split case Blue Winged Olive (BWO), and Ready Baetis, have been very effective. Dry fly fishing has also picked up, especially on overcast days or later in the afternoon when the sun leaves the water. Blue Winged Olive hatches have been active, and fish are looking up for these flies.

    At Pyramid Lake, the Lahontan Cutthroat Trout (LCT) are moving into shallower waters, making them more accessible. Fishing with balanced leeches, baitfish flies, and buggers under an indicator or on the retrieve has been productive. The fish are primarily found in 6-10 feet of water, and beaches with deeper drop-offs are hot spots.

    ### Best Lures and Bait
    For the Truckee River, use nymphs like Micro Mayfly, split case BWO, and Ready Baetis. Dry flies such as Parachute Adams and Pullover BWO are also effective. For Pyramid Lake, balanced leeches, baitfish flies, and buggers are the way to go.

    ### Hot Spots
    - **Truckee River**: Focus on areas where the brown trout are spawning, but be mindful to leave these fish undisturbed. The middle sections of the river are seeing a lot of activity.
    - **Pyramid Lake**: Look for beaches with deeper drop-offs where the LCT are moving into shallower waters. The retrieve technique starting deep and decreasing sink time has been successful.

    ### Fish Caught
    Yesterday saw a good number of brown trout and rainbows caught in the Truckee River, with some fish reaching up to 16 inches. At Pyramid Lake, anglers reported catching LCT in the 18-20 inch range.

    Overall, the cooler weather and changing seasons have made this an excellent time to fish in the Lake Tahoe area. Make sure to adjust your depths and techniques according to the time of day and water conditions.
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    3 mins
  • Fall Fishing at Lake Tahoe Offers Trout and Salmon Opportunities Amidst Changing Regulations

    Fall Fishing at Lake Tahoe Offers Trout and Salmon Opportunities Amidst Changing Regulations
    Nov 3 2024
    As of November 3, 2024, the fishing scene at Lake Tahoe is looking promising, despite the cooler fall weather. Here’s what you need to know for a successful day on the water.

    ### Weather and Conditions
    The weather today is expected to be partly cloudy with a high of around 58 degrees Fahrenheit and a low of 38 degrees. Sunrise was at 6:34 AM, and sunset will be at 4:53 PM. The water temperatures are perfect for fall fishing, with clear and calm conditions prevailing.

    ### Fish Activity
    Yesterday saw a good amount of fish activity, particularly in the deeper waters of Lake Tahoe. Anglers were successful in catching Mackinaw trout and Kokanee salmon. In the Truckee River and its tributaries, wild rainbows, browns, and Lahontan cutthroats were active.

    ### Catch Reports
    On Lake Tahoe, fishing charters reported catching an average of 3-5 fish per rod, with a focus on Mackinaw and Kokanee. These fish were found at depths of 50 to 75 feet. In the Truckee River, the bigger fish were caught in the fastest water sections and on the seams next to them.

    ### Best Lures and Bait
    For Lake Tahoe, using wedding rings behind a Tahoe Trolling Flasher has been highly effective for catching Mackinaw and Kokanee. On the Truckee River, Euro nymphing techniques with flies such as crayfish, stoneflies, and small streamers have been producing well. For the smaller fish, flies like tan and olive caddis, mahogany duns, baetis, and midges are recommended.

    ### Hot Spots
    - **Dollar Point**: This spot has been good for rainbow trout, especially for those using pier fishing techniques.
    - **Truckee River**: The section below Boca, through the canyon to Nevada, has been particularly good for catching bigger fish. The confluence of the Boca and Little Truckee rivers is also a hotspot.
    - **Caples Lake**: Although the EID boat ramp is closing for the season, the shoreline is still good for catching big browns using inflated nightcrawlers or Rapalas.

    ### Additional Tips
    Be mindful of the upcoming regulation changes on November 16, where many California rivers and streams will convert to catch and release with artificial lures or flies with barbless hooks. Always check the local fishing regulations before heading out.

    With the right gear and knowledge, you should have a great day fishing at Lake Tahoe. Good luck and tight lines
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    3 mins
  • Lake Tahoe's Fall Fishing Hotspots: Trout, Mackinaw, and Kokanee Salmon Abundance

    Lake Tahoe's Fall Fishing Hotspots: Trout, Mackinaw, and Kokanee Salmon Abundance
    Nov 2 2024
    As of November 2, 2024, Lake Tahoe is offering some excellent fishing opportunities despite the transitioning seasons. Here’s what you need to know for a successful day on the water.

    ### Weather and Conditions
    The weather is mild, with temperatures ranging from the mid-40s to mid-50s Fahrenheit, making it a comfortable day for fishing. Sunrise is at around 6:30 AM, and sunset will be at about 4:45 PM. There are no significant tidal changes to worry about on Lake Tahoe, as it is a freshwater lake.

    ### Fish Activity
    Fishing has been productive, especially in the early and late hours of the day. The recent warming trend has shifted the fish activity to these times. For trout, particularly rainbow and brown trout, shore anglers are having success using smaller spinners and larger spoons diving plugs. Toplining in shallower waters (less than 50 feet deep) has also been effective.

    ### Types and Amounts of Fish
    Yesterday saw a good catch of rainbow and brown trout, with some anglers reporting catches of up to 10-14 inches. Mackinaw trout, though less consistent, are still being caught, especially in the north and west shores of the lake. Kokanee salmon, which have been impressive this year with sizes up to 16-18 inches, are being found at depths of 55-75 feet in the southwest area of the lake.

    ### Best Lures and Bait
    For trout, lures such as Mepps, Panther Martins, and Rapalas are highly effective. Deep-line trolling, jigging, and using live minnows are the best methods for catching Mackinaw trout. For shore anglers, nightcrawlers, Power Bait, salmon eggs, and minnows are standard and successful baits.

    ### Hot Spots
    - **Cave Rock and Sand Harbor State Parks**: These areas are known for producing the best catches for small rainbow trout, as they are stocked from these locations.
    - **Southwest Area of the Lake**: This region has been most productive for Kokanee salmon at depths of 55-75 feet.
    - **North and West Shores**: These areas are currently the most productive for catching Mackinaw trout.

    Overall, Lake Tahoe is offering a great fishing experience this time of year, with a variety of fish species active and accessible. Make sure to check the local fishing reports for any updates and to plan your day accordingly.
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    3 mins
  • Exploring the Bounty of Lake Tahoe's Autumn Fishing Opportunities

    Exploring the Bounty of Lake Tahoe's Autumn Fishing Opportunities
    Nov 1 2024
    As of November 1st, 2024, Lake Tahoe is offering some excellent fishing opportunities despite the transitioning seasons. Here’s what you need to know for a successful day on the water.

    ### Weather and Time
    The weather is expected to be partly cloudy with temperatures ranging from the mid-40s to mid-50s Fahrenheit, making it a comfortable day for fishing. Sunrise is at around 7:30 AM, and sunset will be at approximately 5:00 PM. There are no significant tidal changes to worry about on Lake Tahoe, as it is a freshwater lake.

    ### Fish Activity
    Fishing has been productive, especially during the early and late hours of the day. With the overall warming trend, fish are becoming more active in shallower waters, particularly less than 50 feet deep. Yesterday, anglers reported catching a good number of rainbow trout, brown trout, and even some larger mackinaw (lake trout).

    ### Types and Amounts of Fish
    Rainbow trout are averaging between 10 to 14 inches, with some larger ones caught in the southwest area of the lake. Brown trout have also been active, and there have been reports of catching browns up to 10 pounds. Mackinaw, the most popular species, are generally ranging between 16 and 25 inches.

    ### Best Lures and Bait
    For shore anglers, smaller spinners and larger spoons or diving plugs are working well for rainbow and brown trout. Toplining for rainbow and brown trout in shallower waters has been very productive. For those targeting mackinaw, deep-line trolling, jigging, and using live minnows are the most effective methods. Standard shore baits such as nightcrawlers, Power Bait, salmon eggs, and minnows are also recommended.

    ### Hot Spots
    Cave Rock and Sand Harbor State Parks are excellent spots for catching small rainbow trout, as these areas are regularly stocked. The southwest area of the lake has been particularly productive for both rainbow and brown trout, especially at depths of 55-75 feet.

    In summary, Lake Tahoe is offering great fishing conditions, especially in the early morning and late afternoon. Using the right lures and bait, and targeting the right spots, you should have a successful and enjoyable day on the water.
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    3 mins
  • Autumn Fishing at Lake Tahoe: Kokanee, Mackinaw, and More in the Crisp Fall Weather

    Autumn Fishing at Lake Tahoe: Kokanee, Mackinaw, and More in the Crisp Fall Weather
    Oct 31 2024
    As of October 31, 2024, Lake Tahoe is offering some fantastic fishing opportunities, despite the autumn chill setting in. Here’s what you need to know for a successful day on the water.

    ### Weather and Sunrise/Sunset
    Today, expect a crisp autumn morning with temperatures in the mid-40s Fahrenheit, rising to the mid-50s by afternoon. Sunrise is at 7:24 AM, and sunset will be at 5:01 PM. The weather is forecasted to be mostly sunny, making it an ideal day for fishing.

    ### Fish Activity
    The fish activity has been robust, especially in the southwest area of the lake. Yesterday, anglers were targeting Kokanee Salmon and Mackinaw (Lake Trout) with great success. Kokanee Salmon, typically ranging from 14 to 18 inches this year, were abundant at depths of 55-75 feet. Mackinaw fishing, though sporadic, yielded catches in the north and west shores.

    ### Types and Amounts of Fish Caught
    Anglers reported catching 3-5 fish per rod, with a mix of Kokanee Salmon and Mackinaw. The Kokanee Salmon were particularly active, with many reaching up to 16-18 inches in length. Mackinaw catches were less frequent but still rewarding, with fish averaging around 4 pounds.

    ### Best Lures and Bait
    For Kokanee Salmon, using wedding rings behind a Tahoe Trolling Flasher has been highly effective. For Mackinaw, deep-line trolling, jigging, and fishing with live minnows are the most productive methods. Shore anglers have found success with smaller spinners for planted trout and larger spoons or diving plugs for larger rainbows and browns.

    ### Hot Spots
    The southwest area of the lake has been the most productive for Kokanee Salmon, while the north and west shores are better for Mackinaw. Additionally, Cave Rock and Sand Harbor State Parks are excellent spots for catching small rainbow trout, as they are regularly stocked from these locations.

    ### Tidal Report
    Lake Tahoe, being a freshwater lake, does not have tides. However, water levels can fluctuate slightly due to changes in the Truckee River outlet, but this does not significantly impact fishing conditions.

    Overall, Lake Tahoe is in great shape for fishing this time of year. With the right lures and knowledge of the hot spots, you’re set for a memorable fishing trip. Enjoy your day on the water
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    3 mins