Guided trips include rod, reel, waders, and boots for each client. Terminal tackle such as flies, leader/tippet and other accessories will be provided for each trip free of charge. Lunch is provided on Pyramid Lake guided trips. Additionally, transportation to Pyramid Lake can be provided upon request.

Gear Recommendation: A 9’ 7-8wt single hand rods and 11’ 6-7wt two hand rods are a great choice for a Pyramid Lake rod. The single-hand rods fish the sinking line rig best but can double as an indicator rod when lined with a floating line. The two-hand rods are best when fishing nymphs and balanced leeches, with or without an indicator.

Reels: A reel to match the rod/line weight is ideal for Pyramid Lake. On the single-hand rig, this is typically an 8wt sized reel (size IV). The switch rod setup is a bit trickier with the large size of modern Skagit-style lines. We recommend upsizing the reel on the two-hand rod to accommodate the increased volume of the switch line. Typically, we will match the switch rod/line combo with a 7-9wt reel (size V).

Fly Lines: Shooting-head-style lines work best for the sinking setup. A 25-30’ dense fast sinking head integrated with an intermediate running line will work best. Full sink lines will also work at Pyramid Lake. For the switch rod setup, a Skagit style integrated floating line is best. Following the head, we will connect a floating tip and then a leader and indicator.

Flies: For the sinking line setup, flies such as Boobie Fly or beetles will catch fish. Additionally, streamer and bugger patterns, Midnight Cowboy and Jan’s Tui Chub produce on a consistent basis. For the Indicator setup, balanced leeches and chironomid patterns get the job done.

Leader/Tippet: For the sinking line setup, we use a 6’ leader tapering down into 2x (10#) leader material. On the indicator setup, we use longer tapered leaders in a 9-12’ 2x size. We carry tippet to match leader sizes.

Species:

Lahontan cutthroat trout are the target species at Pyramid Lake. These fish grow to enormous proportions and outweigh most other trout in the United States. Rainbow and Brown Trout are the species we target in the Truckee River. These wild fish grow quickly because of abundant food sources throughout the river. Additionally, the native mountain whitefish are present and catchable throughout the Truckee River. It is possible to catch the Nevada Slam on the same day year-round on the Truckee River.

Region:

The Reno/Tahoe area is positioned on the Eastern Sierras and is host to the Truckee River Watershed. The Truckee River drains Lake Tahoe, running over 100 miles in length and terminates into Pyramid Lake on the Pyramid Lake Paiute Tribe Reservation. The diverse watershed includes many fishable waters for a number of different game species. Pyramid Lake is located less than one hour Northeast of Reno in a high desert basin. Click the link to view our Pyramid Lake Beach Map: https://renoflyshop.com/map-1/

On the Truckee:

The Truckee River flows through California and continues into Nevada. The geographic diversity along the Truckee is incredible. The California side consists of forested areas and deep canyons; while the Nevada side flows through rolling hills, downtown Reno, and eventually the high desert. The Reno Fly Shop is located less than 1,000 feet away from the Truckee River in downtown Reno. Stop by the Reno Fly Shop and walk down to fish the Truckee River.

Rates starting from $350 for a half-day. Clink the link below to view Reno Fly Shop Guided Trip rates: https://renoflyshop.com/guided-fishing/

Why choose the Reno Fly Shop for your guided experience?

We offer high desert angling experiences unlike many in the United States. Pyramid Lake is steeped in human history and boasts the best fishing for large cutthroat trout anywhere in the world. It is possible to catch a giant Lahontan Cutthroat Trout during the day and gourmet dinner at a local restaurant the same evening. Our guides and shop staff work hard to make sure your experience is positive and valuable.

Are Reno Fly Shop guided trips walk and wade?

All Reno Fly Shop guided trips are walk-and-wade trips. Neither Pyramid Lake nor the Truckee River require a boat. In most cases, walk-and-wade angling is the most productive approach given fish behavior and conditions. At Pyramid Lake, Lahontan cutthroat trout cruise the shallows and are caught within 50 feet of the shoreline. The Truckee River is best approached from the bank given the gradient and type of water.

Is lunch provided on guided trips?

Pyramid Lake guided trips include lunch for each angler. Truckee River half-day trips do not include lunch. Reno has endless food options and can be found easily throughout town for your evening enjoyment.

Where should I stay on my trip?

Reno Fly Shop has built relationships with local hotels and may be able to provide lodging discounts for guided-trip clients. Please call the shop for more details.

Where/when will I meet my guide?

Following payment and booking of a guided trip, clients will receive a confirmation email from the Reno Fly Shop summarizing details. The evening before the trip, clients will receive a phone call from their guide to communicate meeting time and location for the next day. We can accommodate time constraints and other special requirements with notice provided at the time of booking.

What is the fishing season?

Pyramid Lake is open to fishing from October 1–June 30. Our guiding operations begin in October and end in May. Fish are catchable throughout the entire season with peak season being January–April. Peak season fills up quickly, so please schedule a trip with advanced notice.

Truckee River guided trips are available year-round. This fishery boasts quality trout and good fishing every month of the year. Early summer is our peak season on the Truckee River, so please schedule a trip with advanced notice. Winter fishing should not be overlooked, and is a great option when looking to mix up a Pyramid Lake trip. These two fisheries can be booked on consecutive days.

What weather can I expect?

Our guided trips at Pyramid Lake occur throughout the fall, winter, and spring. While fall and spring provide more moderate conditions, winter at Pyramid Lake can be cold and wet. Wind is a common condition in the winter, and when paired with precipitation and cold temperatures, can create a challenge. Proper layering is essential when fishing Pyramid Lake. Waders, warm layers, and waterproof jackets are must-haves when fishing here. Additionally, gloves and warm hats can make the day more comfortable.

Our guided trips on the Truckee River occur year-round. As such, weather conditions vary greatly. During the warmer months (May–September), daytime temperatures can get hot, so clients are encouraged to bring breathable clothing and sun protection. In the fall, winter, and spring, weather conditions vary greatly. Clients are encouraged to layer appropriately and adjust as conditions change.