Pyramid Lake, located in Nevada, is world-renowned for its massive Lahontan cutthroat trout. Anglers from all over the country travel to this unique fishery to try their luck at landing a trophy trout. While fly fishing at Pyramid Lake can be rewarding year-round, November stands out as one of the best months to visit. In this article, we’ll explore why November is a prime time for fly fishing, why hiring a guide and fishing from a boat can maximize your success, and why Lacey’s Guide Service is the top choice for an unforgettable experience.
The Best Way to Catch Trophy Lahontan Cutthroat Trout
Prime Fishing Conditions
November marks the beginning of the true trophy trout season at Pyramid Lake. As the water temperature drops, large Lahontan cutthroat trout move into the shallower waters to feed aggressively. This makes them more accessible to fly anglers compared to the warmer months when they stay in deeper waters. And this November 2024 was really good, we got several 20 lbs, Lahontan Cutthroat Trout.
During November, the fish are actively searching for food, making them more responsive to well-presented flies. The cooler water also allows the trout to fight harder and longer, giving anglers thrilling battles with these giant fish.
Fewer Crowds, More Opportunities
One of the biggest advantages of fishing Pyramid Lake in November is the reduced number of anglers on the water. Unlike the peak months of March and April, when the beaches are packed with fly fishers, November offers a quieter, more peaceful experience. With fewer people competing for the best spots, you’ll have a better chance of landing a true monster cutthroat trout.
Early Season Trophy Potential
The early part of the season is when many of the biggest fish are caught. These trout have had the entire summer and early fall to feed and grow, and they are now at their peak weight. It’s not uncommon to catch fish in the 10- to 20-pound range in November, making it an ideal month for serious anglers looking for their next personal best.
Why Hiring a Fly Fishing Guide with a Boat is the Best Option
Access to the Best Fishing Spots
While many anglers fish from shore at Pyramid Lake, hiring a guide and fishing from a boat gives you access to some of the best fishing areas that simply aren’t reachable from the beach. Guides have in-depth knowledge of where the fish are congregating based on seasonal movements, water temperature, and food sources.
Adapting to Changing Conditions
Fishing conditions at Pyramid Lake can change rapidly. Wind, water temperature, and fish behavior all play a role in success. An experienced guide knows how to adjust strategies, techniques, and locations in real-time to maximize your chances of landing a trophy trout.
Better Fly Fishing Experience
Fishing from a boat allows for better mobility and positioning. Instead of being restricted to a single spot, you can move around to follow the fish, target deeper water when needed, and avoid crowded shorelines. This flexibility often leads to higher catch rates and bigger fish.
Why Lacey’s Guide Service is the Best Choice
Expert Knowledge and Years of Experience
Lacey’s Guide Service is the premier fly fishing guide service at Pyramid Lake. With years of experience and intimate knowledge of the lake, Lacey’s guides know exactly where to go and what techniques to use to put you on fish. Their expertise ensures that anglers of all skill levels have the best possible chance of catching a trophy Lahontan cutthroat trout.
Top-of-the-Line Equipment and Boats
When you book a trip with Lacey’s Guide Service, you’re not just getting a guide—you’re getting access to top-quality gear and state-of-the-art boats. Their boats are fully equipped to handle the unique conditions of Pyramid Lake, offering a comfortable and efficient fishing experience.
Personalized and Professional Service
Lacey’s Guide Service caters to all anglers, from beginners to seasoned fly fishers. They provide one-on-one instruction, ensuring you have the best chance of success. Whether you need help with casting techniques, fly selection, or reading the water, their professional guides are there to assist you every step of the way.
Best Fly Fishing Techniques for Pyramid Lake in November
Indicator Fishing
One of the most effective methods for catching Lahontan cutthroat trout in November is indicator fishing. This involves using a floating indicator (similar to a bobber) with a nymph or balanced leech suspended beneath it. The fish tend to hold in deeper water, and this technique allows you to present your fly at the perfect depth.
Recommended flies for indicator fishing in November:
- Balanced leeches in black, olive, or white
- Maholo nymphs in red or black
- Chironomids in various colors
Stripping Streamers
For anglers who prefer a more active approach, stripping streamers can be highly effective. This method involves casting out large flies that imitate baitfish and retrieving them with a series of strips to create a lifelike swimming motion. This technique often triggers aggressive strikes from big trout.
Best streamers for November:
- Midnight Cowboy (black and gold)
- Olive Woolly Bugger
- Balanced Leech
- Pop Corn Bettle
Using Sink-Tip or Full Sink Lines
When targeting deeper fish, using a sink-tip or full sink fly line can be crucial. This allows your fly to reach the desired depth quickly and stay in the strike zone longer. This technique works well when fish are holding 10-20 feet below the surface.
The Dangle Technique
A highly effective technique used at Pyramid Lake is the Dangle Technique. This involves using a long leader and letting the fly swing in the current up to depths of 50 feet and allowing it to remain motionless for a few moments before slowly reeling it in. This technique mimics a baitfish or leech pausing in the water column, enticing aggressive strikes from hungry Lahontan cutthroat trout.
Conclusion
November is one of the best times to fly fish at Pyramid Lake, offering trophy trout opportunities, fewer crowds, and active fish. While shore fishing can be effective, hiring a guide and fishing from a boat significantly improves your chances of landing a monster cutthroat trout. Lacey’s Guide Service stands out as the best option for guided fly fishing, providing expert knowledge, top-notch equipment, and a first-class experience.
We can’t wait to see what December brings – granted it can be really cold and you need to dress accordingly, however, we have caught some huge fish in the past Decembers and believe we will get some big ones as well next month. Whether you’re a seasoned angler or new to fly fishing, booking a trip with Lacey’s Guide Service ensures you’ll have an unforgettable time chasing the legendary Lahontan cutthroat trout at Pyramid Lake. Don’t miss out on the chance to fish during one of the most productive months of the season!
He is a United States Coast Guard Boat Captain and is now in his 4th year of fly fish guiding from a boat at Pyramid Lake.
Hans has learned throughout the years of guiding that the best way to navigate through the water to ensure every day on the lake is something to remember! “If you love what you do, you’ll never work a day in your life.” This is the core foundation of his company, Lacey’s Guide Service.