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Fly Fishing Pyramid Lake Nevada - The Ultimate Trout Fishing
Fly fishing Pyramid Lake, Nevada, is where a fly fisherman’s dream of landing a monstrous Lahontan Cutthroat Trout can come true. At Lacey’s Guide Service Pyramid Lake, we’re here to help you in your quest for that unforgettable “fish of a lifetime.”
Pyramid Lake Fly Fishing Guides
We are experienced Pyramid Lake fly fishing guides who operate from boats. Our goal is to provide anglers with an exceptional, turn-key experience. We offer top-of-the-line boats, fish-finding electronics, premium fishing tackle, fly rods and reels, and custom-made flies.
Pyramid Lake offers fly fishermen a rare chance to catch trout ranging from 5 to 25 pounds regularly. Best of all, it’s conveniently located in Reno, Nevada, so there’s no need to travel to distant destinations like Argentina for fish of this size.
Pyramid Lake Fly Fishing Guided Boat Charter by Lacey’s Guide Service
At Lacey’s Guide Service Pyramid Lake, we’ve spent years exploring every part of this incredible 27-mile-long, 11-mile-wide fishery. With over 71 miles of shoreline, we know where to find the best opportunities. Our fly fishing guide service operates from boats, providing greater access than shore fishing and increasing the chances of landing your trophy fish.
Lahontan Cutthroat Trout are Special
Fly fishing Pyramid Lake for giant Lahontan Cutthroat Trout is a bucket-list experience for trout anglers worldwide. Our guided boat trips offer the best access to these fish. As the largest native trout species in North America, catching one feels like a rite of passage. Their impressive size makes them formidable opponents, and the way they strike a fly is truly spectacular.
Pyramid Lake Fly Fishing Guides: United States Coast Guard Licensed Captain
All of Lacey’s Guide Service Pyramid Lake Fly Fishing Guides hold a Pyramid Lake Tribal Fishing Guide license and are U.S. Coast Guard Licensed Captains. We prioritize safety, compliance, and expertise. Our deep knowledge of the lake and fly fishing techniques ensures a responsible and unforgettable angling experience.
Pyramid Lake Guided Fly Fishing
We provide the boat, fly fishing tackle, rods, reels, and custom flies. If needed, we offer instruction and helpful tips. Our guides work tirelessly to change flies and fix tangled lines quickly, ensuring you stay on Lahontan Cutthroat Trout.
Lacey’s Guide Service fly fishing guides are on Pyramid Lake almost daily during the season. We know where fish are biting and the best tactics to catch them.
Pyramid Lake Fly Fishing Techniques
We use three primary fly fishing techniques to catch Lahontan Cutthroat Trout, depending on their location and depth in the lake.
- Indicator fly fishing with a 2 rig setup – with Chironomid (midges) and Balanced Leeches.
- Retrieve Strip fly fishing and sinking line – with Streamers and local favorites such as Popcorn Beetles or Boobies.
- The Dangle fly fishing style – similar to jigging with a fly rod coupled with a 2 rig setup – Flies include Minnows, Streamers, and/or Balanced Leeches.
Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a beginner, we tailor our Pyramid Lake guided fly fishing trips to your needs. We offer half-day, full-day, and multi-day trips, accommodating up to three anglers per boat.
We are one of the few Pyramid Lake guide services with two boats, allowing friends to fish together without alternating days.
Fly Fishing Pyramid Lake: Our Passion
Our passion for Pyramid Lake runs deep. We live by the lake during fishing season and spend our free time scouting for fish. Knowing the best spots and techniques helps us put you on trophy trout. The Pyramid Lake fly fishing experience is incredible, and we feel privileged to share it with you.
We provide top-quality fly rods, tackle, boats, and flies to help you land the fish of a lifetime. Don’t wait—contact us today to book your trip and reel in a world-class Lahontan Cutthroat Trout!
Boat Charter Pyramid Lake Fly Fishing Guide - The Key to Success
With our new 2021 24-foot SX241 Skeeter, we are the only Pyramid Lake fly fishing guide service offering three boats. Each boat features state-of-the-art electronics, fish finders, fly fishing tackle, and Spot-Lock for the best experience.
Fly Fishing Pyramid Lake Boat Charter with Center Console Boats
Booking a fly fishing Pyramid Lake boat charter on our Center Console Boats gives you an advantage. Their open deck layout provides plenty of casting space in any direction, helping your fly reach its target effortlessly. With our Lowrance fish-finding equipment, you can also spot schooling fish for a more successful experience.
- Spacious fly fishing areas
- State-of-the-art electronics and Fish Finding Equipment
- Comfortable seating and numerous storage areas
- Music and Coolers
Great Stability and Ease of Access to Tight Spots
Center Console boats navigate shallow waters easily, reaching prime fishing spots. Their exceptional stability, even in choppy conditions, ensures precision casting for fly fishing.
Fly Fisherman-Friendly Storage Areas
Rod holders and storage compartments keep gear organized and accessible. Built for any weather, these boats enhance fly fishing, ensuring a more enjoyable and successful trip.
Our New Pyramid Lake Fly Fishing Boat – SX241 Skeeter
Our new 2021 SX241 Skeeter center console is 24 feet long, powered by a Yamaha 300 HP 4-stroke engine reaching 53 MPH. It features state-of-the-art fish-finding equipment and all the premium amenities expected in a professional fishing boat.
The SX241 Skeeter allows fishing both inshore and offshore, offering versatility. Its Gator C-Deck provides extra comfort, a softer surface, and a cooler deck on hot days.
Pyramid Lake Boat Charter: 24-Foot Bay Champ by Champion
The Bay Champ, perfect for a Pyramid Lake Boat Charter, features a Mercury 300 Verado, Lowrance electronics, a trolling motor, Spot-Lock, and soft-shell Gator Deck for added comfort.
Among 24-foot Center Console Boats, this vessel boasts one of the largest casting decks, spanning stern to bow with a 10’6″ beam. This design provides anglers with a spacious, comfortable platform for the best fishing experience on Pyramid Lake.
This center console design features a deep V-style hull, handling big swells with ease. It also sits shallow enough for easy access to prime fishing spots, ensuring great conditions at Pyramid Lake.
Boat Charter Pyramid Lake: 20-foot Hydro Sport Boat
This Center Console, perfect for Pyramid Lake charters, features a Mercury 150 and the latest electronics, including a trolling backup motor and Spot-Lock.
Equipped for all conditions, it includes U.S. Coast Guard-approved life vests, throwing cushions, a radio, and emergency tools, ensuring safety on every trip.
Pyramid Lake Boat Charter Fly Fishing Guide Advantage
Access to Untapped Waters
Pyramid Lake regulations limit shore and ladder fishing to the west side. As the saying goes, “Access is everything.” Our boats can reach over 80% of the lake, providing access to remote, productive fishing spots.
Comfort and Ease Fishing from a Boat
Our Center Console boats are comfortable, fast, and most importantly, keep you out of the water.
Key Advantages of Boat Fishing Over Ladder Fishing:
- Stay Dry and Warm: Ladder fishing means standing in the water, which gets extremely cold during winter and spring. Our boats keep you warm and dry.
- Increased Mobility: Boats allow access to more fishing areas, unlike ladder fishing, which is limited to certain parts of the lake.
- Enhanced Comfort: With ample space and seating, our boats provide a more enjoyable and less physically demanding fishing experience.
Mobility and Optimal Fishing Depths
Using fish-finding and sonar equipment, we navigate Pyramid Lake’s underwater topography, quickly adapting to changing conditions. Within minutes, you can fish from shallow shorelines to deeper waters, increasing your chances of landing a trophy Lahontan Cutthroat Trout.
Click the link below to learn more about our fishing guide services!
Pyramid Lake Lahontan Cutthroat Trout - Extinct to Thriving
The Pyramid Lake Lahontan Cutthroat Trout are North America’s largest native trout species. This stunning lake sits on the Paiute Indian Reservation, 40 miles northeast of Reno, Nevada.
A breathtaking desert oasis, Pyramid Lake is the last remnant of ancient Lake Lahontan, which formed during the Ice Age 2.5 million years ago. At its peak 12,700 years ago, Lake Lahontan covered over 8,500 square miles across Nevada, California, and Oregon.
Around 8,000 years ago, Pyramid Lake reached its current size—27 miles long, 11 miles wide, and 350 feet deep. It remains Nevada’s largest natural lake.
Pyramid Lake is part of the Lahontan Basin, which connects with Tahoe, Eagle, and Walker Lakes, along with the Truckee, Carson, Walker, Humboldt, and Susan Rivers.
Beyond its rich ecosystem and excellent fishing, Pyramid Lake holds deep cultural significance for the Paiute Indian Tribe, its home for 600 years.
Human remains found near the lake date back 4,000 years, highlighting its historical importance. Central to Paiute traditions and legends, the lake enriches both the ecological and cultural tapestry of the region.
The “Discovery” of Pyramid Lake
John Freemont “discovered Pyramid Lake back in 1848 and named it after the Lake’s pyramid-shaped tufa formations.
Upon his arrival at the local Indian settlement, it is said that he encountered extraordinary “Salmon Trout” ranging from two to four feet long.
Pyramid Lake is a Unique Ecosystem
Pyramid Lake is more than a fishing destination—it’s a unique ecosystem with stunning turquoise waters, a striking desert backdrop, and a 2,600-acre bird sanctuary. Home to diverse species like eagles, ospreys, and white pelicans, it offers breathtaking wildlife encounters.
True to its name, the lake features dramatic pyramid-shaped formations along its shores. These limestone tufa formations enhance the landscape’s mystique, making Pyramid Lake a truly unforgettable sight.
Pyramid Lake is home to five different fish species:
- Lahontan Cutthroat Trout
- Cui-ui
- Tui Chub
- Tahoe Sucker
- Sacramento Perch
Click here to learn more about Pyramid Lake fish species.
The Truckee Feeds Pyramid Lake
The Truckee River, primarily fed by Lake Tahoe, supplies Pyramid Lake with water. With no outflows, high evaporation increases its salinity to about one-sixth of ocean levels.
Breeding Ground for Bait Fish
Pyramid Lake hosts abundant baitfish, primarily Cui-ui and Tui Chub, which travel in massive “bait balls” for protection.
This abundance attracts predatory Lahontan Cutthroat Trout, which gorge on the baitfish. These ideal feeding conditions help them grow to enormous sizes, exceeding 25 pounds and reaching over three feet in length.
The Pyramid Lake Lahontan Cutthroat Trout Story
The Lahontan Cutthroat Trout’s story at Pyramid Lake is one of near extinction in the 1900s, followed by an incredible recovery through modern conservation and science.
In the late 1800s, commercial fishing fleets overfished Pyramid Lake to meet the growing demands of the American West.
To support Carson Valley agriculture, the Derby Dam was built in 1905, diverting water from the Truckee River and further impacting the lake’s ecosystem.
By 1938, the last Lahontan Cutthroat Trout spawned in the Truckee River, and by 1941, Pyramid Lake was void of them.
A hatchery program in the late 1940s reintroduced other Lahontan Cutthroat strains, but none produced the giants of the past.
In the 1970s, a strain from Summit Lake, Nevada, showed growth improvements, with sizes increasing from 3 to 15 pounds.
Fortunately, in 1975, a small creek in western Utah revealed a tiny cutthroat trout with unusual markings. It was later identified as having the lineage of Pyramid Lake’s original giant Lahontan Cutthroat Trout.
After years of DNA confirmation, the hatchery program expanded, introducing the Pilot Peak strain of Lahontan Cutthroat Trout to Pyramid Lake in 2006. It is this strain of Lahontan Cutthroat Trout that reach such gigantic sizes today.
Key Takeaways About Fly Fishing Pyramid Lake with Lacey’s Guide Service
- Experienced Pyramid Lake Fly Fishing Guides – All Certified USCG Captains
- Center Console Boats equipped with state-of-the-art Electronics and gear
- The only Pyramid Lake Fly Fishing Guide Service that has 3 Boats (group friendly)
- Boats allow more Mobility to Fish numerous spots all over the Lake
- Top of the line fly fishing rods, reels, tackle, and custom flies (ALL PROVDED)
- Prices: 1 to 2 Anglers $850 full day – $700 1/2 Day, 3 Anglers $1,000 Full Day.
- Beautiful Desert Lake environment with the some of the Biggest Trout in the USA
- Comfortable fishing experience (not freezing from wadding or on ladders in the water)
- All levels of fisherman welcome and fly fishing instruction where needed
- Catch Your Trophy Lahontan Cutthroat Trout
Two Subspecies of Pyramid Lake Lahontan Cutthroat Trout
Today, there are two major subspecies of Pyramid Lake Lahontan Cutthroat Trout, and both of them reign at the top of there class in the fresh water trout fishing world.
- Pilot Peak Strain – Represents the larger fish, ranging from 5 lbs to 25 lbs, with a silver/gray color and no adipose fin near the upper back by the tail.
- Summit Strain – These Trout range from 3 lbs to 15 lbs, and exhibit more coloration with a silver body and red markings near the gills, and have an adipose fin.
Lahontan Cutthroat Trout Pyramid Lake Nevada: A Real Life "Jurassic Park"
The Lahontan Cutthroat Trout in Pyramid Lake, Nevada, have overcome a remarkable journey—from near extinction to thriving by the thousands today.
Their resurgence began with a lucky discovery by a Utah farmer, followed by groundbreaking biological science and dedicated conservation efforts. This incredible achievement, driven by both private and public initiatives, has restored these prehistoric giants to their rightful home.
Watch the video below to see their amazing story: Lahontan Cutthroat Trout: A Prehistoric Legend Returns.
Common Questions for Your Pyramid Lake Fly Fishing Trip
How do you fly fish in Pyramid Lake Nevada?
There are two different ways to fly fish in Pyramid Lake Nevada:
- Off the shore using Ladders to suspend you above the cold water (wearing waders) and casting into an offshore self.
- Fly Fishing From a boat – This is the method we exclusively use for our anglers.
Where can I fish at Pyramid Lake?
Pyramid Lake is vast, spanning 27 miles long and 11 miles wide, making it challenging to find prime fly fishing spots.
Through years of experience, we’ve learned that Lahontan Cutthroat Trout school in specific areas depending on the season. Although these trout move frequently, their behavior follows predictable patterns, helping skilled anglers locate them throughout the year.
We fly fish exclusively from boats, giving us access to approximately 80% of Pyramid Lake, both deep and shallow waters. Unlike shore anglers, restricted to the west side’s shallows, we can follow schooling fish wherever they move.
Our state-of-the-art fish-finding electronics help us locate trout more effectively. Based on fish location and depth, we’ve developed several successful techniques to maximize catches.
Closed areas for fishing and boating at Pyramid Lake
- 1000 foot radius around the mouth of Marble Bluff Fish Way.
- 1000 foot radius around the mouth of the Sutcliffe Fishery spawning channel.
- 1000 feet from the shoreline of Needles from West Cove to Fox Bay.
- The Truckee River and Delta.
- Boats need to stay 250 feet from shoreline fishermen.
Here are some highlights from the Pyramid Lake Fishing Regulations:
- You can fish 1 Hour before Sunrise and 1 hour after Sunset.
- No fishing off of docks.
- Fishing in Pyramid Lake requires only a tribal fishing and/or boating permit, no State of Nevada Fishing License needed.
- Boats must be registered in their respective state as per the Tribe’s regulations.
- Only barbless hooks are allowed for fishing, with a limit of up to two single, double, or treble hooks per lure.
- The use of bait is strictly forbidden, including worms, eggs, scented PowerBait, or any organic materials on hooks
- A slot size limit is in place: only fish that are 17 to 20 inches or over 24 inches long can be kept.
- Fish not within the designated size range must be released back into the water.
- Anglers are permitted to keep either two fish within the smaller size range or one from each size category (small and large).
Click here to see all of the official Pyramid Lake Fishing Regulations.
Pyramid Lake Nevada Map
Best Place to fish in Pyramid Lake?
Of course, the answer to this question depends on the time of year, but, here are some areas that seem to work the best.
- The best shore fishing spot at Pyramid Lake is South Nets Beach, the largest beach on the lake.
- Located nearby, the Pyramid Lake fish hatchery attracts many fish—and plenty of fly fishing anglers. Expect crowds in this area.
- For boat fly fishing, prime locations vary by season and fish movements. In October, Hells Kitchen on the northeast side is a top spot.
What is the Best Time of Year to Fish Pyramid Lake?
The season starts on October 1 and ends on June 30th. Because we fly fish from boats, we are able to locate the fish throughout the year as they move. So there is no best time of year to fish Pyramid Lake because our boat fly fishing is pretty good all year round (weather and wind permitting).
With that being said, it does appear that the first 3 weeks of October and the Month of June can be very active for Boat fly fishing when compared to other months. Check out our Blog, we have written several posts about how the fishing can change throughout the season.
Regarding shore fishermen, the fish typically don’t move into the shore area until November and start to school away from it by the end of March.
What size fly rod for Pyramid Lake?
We recommend the following size fly rod for Pyramid Lake boat fly fishing is 8wt – 9 foot fly rod or an 7wt -11 foot Switch rod, depending on the type of fly fishing technique we are using.
How big are the Trout in Pyramid Lake?
Pyramid Lake Nevada is arguably the best freshwater Lake fishery for catching Trophy sized Trout in the United States. The Lahontan Cutthroat Trout record in Pyramid Lake Nevada is 41 pounds, but, that was over 50 years ago. Nowadays, the Trout in Pyramid Lake are big ranging in size from 5 to 25 pounds.
Pyramid Lake Fishing Records: A Snapshot
- 1925: John Skimmerhorn’s Historic Catch
- Caught a 41-pound cutthroat trout using basic gear, setting a global record.
- Valentine’s Day 2021: Quinn Pauley’s Notable Catch
- Landed a 39-inch Lahontan cutthroat trout estimated at nearly 30 pounds. Fish was Released back into Pyramid Lake.
- Fly Fishing from a Ladder utilizing an intermediate sinking line with a shooting head; specific fly type remained undisclosed.
- Fish was Not weighted – experienced angler estimate – Length was measured.
- October 5, 2023: Klay Gustin’s Remarkable Achievement
- Caught a 31-pound, 4-ounce Lahontan cutthroat trout, possibly the largest in nearly a century.
- Using basic traditional fishing gear. Documented and released the trout back into Pyramid Lake.
- March 19, 2023: Kesley Gallagher’s World Record
- Set the IGFA Women’s 16-lb Tippet Class World Record with a 21-pound, 8-ounce cutthroat trout.
- Verified weight with a certified scale and released the fish.
Why are the Pyramid Lake trout so big?
- Pyramid Lake has high alkalinity, with salinity about one-sixth of the ocean, creating ideal conditions for abundant baitfish populations.
- As the saying goes, “Big fish eat smaller fish.” In fall, massive “bait balls” form, attracting Lahontan Cutthroat Trout.
- These trout grow enormous because of the lake’s plentiful baitfish, allowing them to feed and reach impressive sizes.
Best Pyramid Lake fly fishing Techniques?
We believe the following are the 3 best Pyramid Lake fly fishing techniques. Deploying these techniques is dependent upon the conditions and depth of the schooling Lahontan Cutthroat Trout.
- Traditional Indicator fly fishing with a 2 rig fly setup.
- The Retrieve Strip technique with a full sinking line.
- The “Dangle” technique for deep water fly fishing. Similar to “jigging”, with a 2 rig setup.
What is the Best fly Pattern for Pyramid Lake?
There is no “Best Fly Pattern for Pyramid Lake”, but without a doubt, there are some that work significantly better than others depending on the time of year.
- Indicator: We are using a nymph (chironomid) on top and either a steamer or balanced leech on the bottom.
- Retrieve or Strip: we use streamers, balanced leeches, and several local flies such as the Popcorn Beetle and a Boobie.
- Our “Dangle” technique: We use a 2 rig setup, with a minnow or nymph on top and a balanced leech or streamer on the bottom.
We use a variety of different flies depending on the technique that are using.
- October: Balanced Leeches
- November – April: Midges, Streamers (Midnight Cowboys), and Popcorn Beetles.
- May – June: Balanced Leeches We use different flies depending on the technique.
How much does it cost to fish at Pyramid Lake Nevada?
Pyramid Lake Fishing License Fees:
Daily Fishing $24.00
3 Day Fishing $62.00
Second Rod – Daily $24.00
Second Rod 3 Day $62.00
Click the following link to Buy Your Tribal Fishing License.
Lacey’s Guide Service Prices:
1 to 2 Anglers:
1/2 Day Trip: $700
Full Day Trip: $850
3 Anglers:
$1,000 Full Day
Occasionally we are able to accommodate 4 Anglers on a Boat – call for availability and pricing.
Pyramid Lake Guide List
It can be very expensive to be a guide at Pyramid Lake. It costs $7,500 to guide the shoreline and $7,500 to guide from a Boat. Additionally, Pyramid Lake Boat Charter fishing guides must be Certified United States Coast Guard Captains. Click the following link to see the approved Pyramid Lake Fishing Guide list.
“It’s a crisp morning, you are on a amazing center console boat, and you’ve cast your fly into the azure waters of Pyramid Lake. The anticipation builds as your line slightly moves, you set the hook, and then… BAM! Your reel screams, and you know you’re in for the fight of your life”.
Preserve the Pyramid Lake Trout Population: Catch and Release, Barbless Hooks, and Rubber Mesh Nets
- To help preserve Lahontan Cutthroat Trout populations, we promote Catch and Release fishing using barbless hooks for minimal harm.
- When you catch a fish with us, we handle it carefully to protect its slime coat, using tangle-free rubber mesh nets.
- We also take great care during and after the weighing process, ensuring each fish swims away as healthy as it arrived.
Preparing for Your Pyramid Lake Boat Charter Fly Fishing Adventure
Flight Information: Reno International Airport
The good news is Reno has an international airport with accessible flights from most major airlines. Check with your airline for details.
Southwest Airlines offers affordable flights, and JSX Airlines provides semi-private flights from Orange County.
Rental Car information. Most major rental car companies are located at the Airport. AAA Members, use your travel service to get great deals on your rental cars.
Here’s your checklist:
- Proper Clothing and Sun Screen: Layer up. The desert can get chilly in the mornings and scorching hot in the afternoons. Bring a rain jacket as well and Sun Screen.
- Fishing Licenses: Don’t forget your fishing license. We want everything to be above board. Click the link at the bottom of this page for details.
- Snacks, Lunch and Refreshments: A day on the water can be tiring. We do not provide lunch, if you want lunch, we will provide it for a fee of $20. We do provide water, energy/soft drinks, and snacks. However, you might want to bring a thermos of coffee to keep your energy up.
If you should have any other questions, including Lodging and Dining options, click the following link for other Frequently Asked Questions.
The Pyramid Lake Experience Beyond Fishing
Pyramid Lake isn’t just about fishing; it’s a complete outdoor experience with plenty opportunities to explore.
Here are some things you can do:
- Scenic Beauty: Take in the breathtaking views and snap some pictures. Pyramid Lake is a photographer’s dream.
- Hiking: Explore nearby hiking trails and immerse yourself in the beauty of the high desert landscape.
- Cultural and Historical Sites: Learn about the Native American tribes that have called this area home for centuries and visit cultural and historical sites.
Lacey's Guide Service - Owner
Hans Grotewold is the owner of Lacey’s Guide Service. Hans has been a professional Fly Fishing Guide since 2017 specializing in the Eastern Sierra (Mammoth Lakes) and the Pyramid Lake areas. Hans is a United States Certified Coast Guard Boat Captain and resides in Pyramid Lake/Reno Nevada.
“You’ve reeled in a Lahontan Cutthroat that’s the stuff of legends, and your heart is pounding with exhilaration. This is the magic of Pyramid Lake”.
Testimonials
Book Your Pyramid Lake Fly Fishing Charter Today!
Pyramid Lake is waiting, and we’re ready to guide you on this incredible fishing adventure.
Whether you’re a seasoned fly angler or a beginner, Pyramid Lake offers something truly special.
Don’t wait—book your Pyramid Lake fishing charter today and experience the thrill of catching massive Lahontan Cutthroat Trout.
The adventure of a lifetime awaits. Tight lines!
