Truckee River

River Information

Fish Species: Cutthroat Trout, Rainbow Trout, Brown Trout, Common Carp, Lahontan Cutthroat, Mountain Whitefish
The Truckee River, traversing Nevada from the California state line to Pyramid Lake, represents a seminal coldwater riverine ecosystem, supporting a globally recognized wild trout fishery. This substantial freestone system maintains robust populations of Rainbow Trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss), Brown Trout (Salmo trutta), and the ecologically critical native Lahontan Cutthroat Trout (Oncorhynchus clarkii henshawi), the latter subject to intensive restoration efforts by the Nevada Department of Wildlife (NDOW). The river's diverse hydrogeomorphology, encompassing swift riffles, deep runs, and complex pool structures, provides optimal habitat for large, acutely wary salmonids.

Angling methodologies are predominantly technical and demanding. Spin casting with substantial spoons or minnow-imitative crankbaits is efficacious in deeper, faster water, requiring precise presentations. Fly fishing is the preeminent technique. Nymphing with large, imitative patterns (e.g., stonefly, caddis, mayfly nymphs) is consistently effective subsurface, often necessitating advanced dead-drift or European nymphing strategies. Opportunistic dry fly presentations during prolific entomological hatches or terrestrial falls demand accurate, drag-free drifts. Streamer fishing with large baitfish imitations is frequently the most effective technique for eliciting strikes from trophy-sized specimens. Wading can be challenging due to swift currents and irregular substrate. Optimal fishing periods are perennially available, contingent upon regulated flows and seasonal metabolic activity. Access varies from highly developed urban parks to more remote stretches. Anglers are unequivocally mandated to consult current NDOW regulations, which frequently include artificial lures only and single, barbless hook restrictions, crucial for the sustained ecological integrity of this exceptional riverine resource.



Latest Photos

6-2-2025
3-28-2025
2-28-2025
2-28-2025

Truckee River Whoppers

Species Weight Date Report
Brown Trout 5 lbs. 5 oz. 5-15-2016 View Report


Latest Fish Reports

Date Report Author
6-14-2025 Very good fly fishing on the Truckee River
Very good fly fishing on the Truckee River.... more »
Matt Koles
6-13-2025 It’s hard to beat the fishing on the Truckee this time of year!
While it’s always hard to pinpoint it exactly,... more »
Trout Creek Outfitters
6-10-2025 The Truckee River is in prime shape
Current Water Conditions The Truckee River is in prime... more »
Mountain Hardware & Sports
6-6-2025 All time good on the Truckee River
All time good on the Truckee River.  Flows are... more »
Matt Koles
6-6-2025 The entire Truckee is fishing well
The entire Truckee river is fishing well right... more »
Trout Creek Outfitters

Detailed Map