Tips and Tricks for Fishing Lake Tahoe in the Summer Months

Believe it or not, Lake Tahoe can be a summer paradise for anglers. The warm weather, crystal-clear waters, and abundant fish make it an ideal destination for fishing enthusiasts. To help you make the most of your summer fishing trips, we’ve put together some tips and tricks, along with information on the types of fish available, the best spots on the lake, and recommended gear.

Types of Fish Available

During the summer months, Lake Tahoe is teeming with a variety of fish species, but at Tahoe Sportfishing, we primarily target Kokanee Salmon and Mackinaw Lake Trout.

• Lake Trout (Mackinaw): These are the most sought-after fish in Lake Tahoe, known for their size and fight. They are typically found in deeper waters.
• Kokanee Salmon: These landlocked salmon are plentiful in Lake Tahoe and can be found in schools near the surface.

Best Spots on the Lake

Lake Tahoe offers numerous excellent fishing spots. We’d tell you where our secret spots are… but they are a secret. 😉 Join us on a charter to get the full insight. Here are some of the top locations:

• Sand Harbor: Located on the Nevada side, this spot is known for its clear waters and variety of fish.
• Emerald Bay: A picturesque location that’s great for both fishing and sightseeing. It’s known for its rainbow and brown trout.
• Cave Rock: This area is popular for catching lake trout and kokanee salmon.
• Rubicon Point: Located on the west shore, it’s one of the deepest parts of the lake, making it ideal for catching large fish.
• Tahoe Keys: A network of canals and waterways that offer excellent bass fishing opportunities.
• Tahoe Trout Farm for Kids: For families with young anglers or those new to fishing, Tahoe Trout Farm is a perfect alternative. Located conveniently in South Lake Tahoe, this kid-friendly fishing spot offers a fun and easy introduction to fishing. 

Our Tips for Making the Most of Summer Fishing in Lake Tahoe

• Early Morning and Late Evening: Fish are more active during cooler parts of the day. Try fishing at dawn or dusk for the best results. Our morning charters tend to be most popular for this very reason.
• Depth Matters: During the summer, fish tend to stay in deeper, cooler waters. Use a fish finder to locate schools at different depths. We have top-notch, up-to-date technologies to ensure that we can find where the fish are biting.
• Trolling: This technique is highly effective in Lake Tahoe, especially for Lake Trout and Kokanee Salmon. Use downriggers to control the depth of your bait.
• Use the Right Bait: Minnows, worms, and artificial lures work well for most fish species in Lake Tahoe. Our primary bait in the summertime is canned corn for the Salmon and live bait for the Mackinaw.
• Stay Mobile: Don’t stay in one spot for too long if you’re not getting bites. Move around to find where the fish are active.
• Check Local Regulations: Make sure to familiarize yourself with local fishing regulations, including catch limits and permitted fishing areas.

Recommended Gear

Having the right gear can make a big difference in your fishing success. Here are some recommendations:

• Rod and Reel: Medium to heavy-action rods are ideal for the larger fish species in Lake Tahoe. Paired with a high-quality spinning or baitcasting reel, you’ll be well-equipped to handle big catches.
• Tackle: Stock up on a variety of hooks, sinkers, and swivels. Having a range of lures, including spoons, plugs, and soft baits, will give you versatility.
• Fish Finder: A good fish finder will help you locate schools of fish at different depths, increasing your chances of a successful catch.
• Downriggers: These are essential for trolling at controlled depths, especially for lake trout and kokanee salmon.
• Cooler: Keep your catch fresh by storing it in a cooler with plenty of ice.

Fishing in Lake Tahoe during the summer months can be an unforgettable experience but can be difficult if going out on your own. This is why we recommend booking a charter for yourself. Whether you are a novice fisherman or highly experienced, these charters are great for people of all skill levels.