Skip to content 
October holds a special place in my heart. It represents a new beginning for the Pyramid Lake Fishing Season. I will explore why October stands out as one of the best months for fly fishing at Pyramid Lake, and specifically from a boat. From the fall colors to the strategic advantages presented by the lake’s dynamics, let’s dive into the reasons that make October a must for anglers seeking the thrill of catching Lahontan cutthroat trout.
The Symphony of Fall - A Visual Feast on Pyramid Lake
Fall Colors and Cooling Waters
October ushers in the beauty of fall at Pyramid Lake. The landscape transforms into a vibrant canvas of autumn hues, setting the stage for a visually enchanting fishing experience. Moreover, the cooling waters signal to the fish that winter is approaching, igniting a feeding frenzy as they prepare to gorge themselves on baitfish. This time of year, the fish have not come into the shore yet, so the fishing is all about boats and float tubes or the similar.
The Grand Reopening - Pyramid Lake Fishing Season Begins
October 1: The Gateway to Trophy-Sized Catches
After being closed to trout fishing during the hot summer months, Pyramid Lake reopens its doors on October 1. This signals the beginning of a season marked by the pursuit of truly huge Lahontan cutthroat trout. Anglers flock to the lake, eager for the opportunity to reel in these magnificent creatures. It is not unusual to see over 100 boats fighting for a launching position at the Pelican Beach Boat Ramps. In other words, we get the Launch Ramp very EARLY.
Depths, Temperature, and Bait Dynamics
Anglers navigate the water, targeting depths ranging down to 60 feet. The surface temperature fluctuates between 68 and 72 degrees throughout the day, with a warm layer extending down to the 50-foot level. The annual temperature cycle sees the lake cooling to the middle 50s in November, prompting the migration of trout and baitfish into the shallows.
October Strategies - Tactics for Successful Fly Fishing
Baitfish Bonanza – The Key to Success
The foundation for Pyramid Lake’s large trout lies in its food chain, mainly Tui Chub minnows. Screenshots from fish finders reveal massive bait balls below the surface, attracting feeding cutthroats. Successful days on the water hinge on finding these bait schools and fishing close to them.
Techniques for Success
While some anglers vertically jig next to schools of minnows, others opt for trolling using spoons, flies, and plugs on down riggers. The preferred approach for our guides involves heavily weighted fly lines, allowing them to reach the desired depth and retrieve streamer flies and balanced leeches vertically through the water column.
Navigating Challenges - Safety First on Pyramid Lake
Windy Realities and Safety Concerns
The east side of the lake, known as “Hell’s Kitchen” or “The Wall,” boasts depths of 60 to 80 feet just off shore—a hotspot for fishing. However, crossing the nearly 8 miles of lake to reach this area poses challenges, especially considering Pyramid Lake’s notorious winds. Safety is our top priority as boat captains, and we take precautions to ensure a secure fishing experience.
The Opening Week Extravaganza - Anticipation and Epic Conditions
Lahontan Cutthroat Trout Await
As Pyramid Lake reopens for Lahontan cutthroat trout on October 1, anglers are met with big, hungry fish that have enjoyed three months of respite. These creatures, having feasted on Tui Chub bait balls, are ready to test the tackle of anglers seeking trophy catches.
Electronics, Bait Balls, and October Fishing Dynamics
Our guides rely on electronics to locate bait balls, adhering to the mantra: find the bait, find the fish. In October, the trout tend to stay just off shore in 40 to 100 feet of water. Boating to areas like Hell’s Kitchen or Anderson Bay with custom-made flies proves successful, putting the flies right in the fish’s face for optimal bites.
Tackle Tips for October Fishing at Pyramid Lake
Gear Essentials for Success
For fly fishing, 9-foot rods in 7- to 10-weight with large arbor reels are recommended. Lines should be full sink type 7, with leaders made of straight 15- to 20-pound Seagar Yellow Label fluorocarbon. A variety of baitfish patterns in olive and white, including balanced baitfish in Tui Chub pattern, Wooly Buggers, Deceivers, Clousers, Articulated Streamers, and game changers, are go-to choices.
Depth Matters More Than Color
Focus on the depth of your offering over color, looking for beaches and locations with deep drops nearby. Warrior Point is a perennial favorite in October, and observing the boats in the area is a good indicator of the right fishing spot.
The Finale - Savoring the October Fishing Experience
Glowing Turquoise Waters and Trophy Pursuits
The ideal conditions of warm days and calm waters create a natural phenomenon on Pyramid Lake. Baitfish ball up in massive sizes, herded by the largest cutthroat trout, providing a rare spectacle for anglers. As the first cold snap approaches, the fishing becomes tougher, dispersing baitfish to deep lake depths.
From 10+ to 20+ Pounders
Reflecting on years past, the pursuit of a 10+ pounder has shifted to seeking 20+ pound Lahontan cutthroat trout. The glowing turquoise water, the captivating scenery, and the joy of scoring big catches make October an unforgettable month for anglers at Pyramid Lake.
Conclusion - October's Triumph: A Boat Angler's Paradise on Pyramid Lake
In conclusion, October is more than just a month; it’s a triumph for boat anglers at Pyramid Lake. From the mesmerizing fall colors to the strategic advantages presented by the lake’s dynamics, every element aligns to create a fishing paradise. As boat captains, safety remains our top concern, ensuring that anglers experience the thrill of catching Lahontan cutthroat trout in a secure environment. Book your October adventure, and join us on the tranquil waters of Pyramid Lake for a fishing experience like no other.
As we start our journey into our next Month, November, the fish start moving into shallower waters and towards the West side of the Lake. We change things up when this occurs, click the following link to discover how we fly fish Pyramid Lake in November.
October Fly Fishing Pyramid Lake, Nevada
Hans is a United States Coast Guard Boat Captain and is now in his 3rd 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.
