Lake Tahoe
California · Placer
Spans: CA, NV
- 122,975 acres mapped (USGS NHD)
- 156.6 km shoreline
- County: Placer
- Shoreline outline: USGS NHD
- California freshwater sport fishing (CDFW)
The pin marks the middle of the water, for directions. The shoreline on the map comes from USGS NHD.
Explore on map Find waters near you
Overview
Lake Tahoe straddles the California and Nevada line. Its very clear water favors light line, long casts and fishing deep.
Fishing
Mackinaw (lake trout) are caught year-round by deep trolling at 80 feet or more with large flashers, drifting live minnows or nightcrawlers, or jigging. Kokanee salmon are mostly in the southwest corner and are rarely caught from shore. Rainbow trout fish best in May and September through November. Brown trout hold along the west end, around piers and rocky bottom.
Regulations
Fishing is closed within 300 feet of tributaries for part of the year. Check current California and Nevada regulations.
Licensing
Anglers 16 and older need a valid California or Nevada sport fishing license to fish Lake Tahoe.
Access
From shore, try spots where the bottom drops off quickly, such as Rubicon Point on the west shore or Cave Rock on the east shore. Both charge a day use fee.
USDA Forest Service; Nevada Department of Wildlife
Home · All California waters · Search · Map