Tahoe City, CA Fishing: A Colorful Destination

Found straddling the California - Nevada border, Tahoe City is a town that is unincorporated in Placer County. The city is also part of the Sunnyside - Tahoe City census-designated place for statistical purposes. In 1863, the site was first surveyed and it got its name in 1949. The mountain town circled by majestic peaks appears blue as a topaz as it overlooks famous Lake Tahoe where it sits on its shore.

Having a heritage dating back to the Gold Rush, Tahoe City is part of where those hunting for fortune passed through on the way to mine for silver in the Comstock Lode. Celebrated author Mark Twain has expressed many praises about Tahoe City, comparing the air to angel’s breath and being smitten by the gorgeous views all around. The High Sierra gem is a great destination to visit any time of the year as each season offers multiple things to do. Unlike most areas in sunny California, the town gets snow in the winter and spring which benefits world-class alpine resorts found there. During the summer, water sports and activities have proven to be popular and sought-after. And the atmosphere and aesthetic provided by golden aspen leaves during the fall truly paints the town as a picturesque place. For those who are interested in art, culture and history, Tahoe City also has things to satisfy those who seek them as it is also home to museums, art galleries, and live events. Downtown is easily explored just on foot as well.

Tahoe City Fishing

Tahoe City, being a scenic lake-front town, is an ideal location for anglers looking to fish recreationally as well as do numerous other activities that are offered in the area. Sportfishing can also be done there with fishing charters easily accessible. Whether it’s inshore and offshore fishing, the city has it covered because of its superb location near and around bodies of water.

Tahoe City won’t live up to its name without Lake Tahoe which it surrounds. Avid freshwater fish anglers will find it the perfect place because of its cold and clear waters, vastness, beauty, and great fishing all-year round. The biggest alpine lake in the United States is home to mostly wild fish as most are descendants of plants from over a century ago. Popular species found in the lake include Mackinaw (lake) trout, rainbow trout, brown trout, brook trout, cutthroat trout, kokanee or sockeye salmon, largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, crappie, bluegill, whitefish, sculpin, catfish, and goldfish. Anglers who want to pursue their targets from the shore will find the eastside of the lake the best area to do so with fish like Mackinaw, rainbow and brown trout, bass and crappie as possible catches. Because of the lake’s immenseness, it’s recommended to book a fishing charter when anglers go out there for the first time. Experienced locals and guides will help anglers navigate the lake’s waters, find fish, know when the best time to fish is, and provide necessary gear as well. Angling by kayak is also a popular option in the lake where one can go after trout and kokanee by trolling or jigging. 

Flowing out to Lake Tahoe, Truckee River located by Fanny Bridge is famous for productive fly fishing, especially for trout where it separates from the lake. The river was originally the home of the endangered Lahontan cutthroat trout and cui-ui sucker but now hosts species such as rainbow trout, brown trout, cutthroat trout, mountain whitefish, and largemouth bass. The river is a great place for either experienced or beginner anglers as it is full of runs, riffles and deep pools where they can use flies, lures and bait. Fishing from the shore can be productive as there are many access spots as well as a bike path if anglers need to cover more ground. Using boats is also allowed as the river is a popular rafting attraction as well. The first and second sections of the river from Lake Tahoe to Trout Creek to Boca Reservoir provide the most productive angling because of the clear waters and lower mud sections. The other best points to access the river are at Farad, Mayberry Park, Floriston, Mogul, Verdi, and Crystal Peak Park. Spinning using small spinners has also been proven successful in the river to hook fish as well as using nymphs, streamers, and insects. 

Anglers wanting to do some surf casting can go to Commons Beach where anglers over 16 with a local state sport fishing license can have a chance to hook species from Lake Tahoe’s waters that gather near the shore like rainbow trout. Other great onshore fishing spots include Rubicon Point on the west shore of Lake Tahoe and Cave Rock found in the east. Both areas have a day use fee. Sawmill Pond is stocked with fish so children can also experience fishing by the lake’s south. Backcountry lakes are also great shore fishing spots as they support rainbow trout and golden trout.

Every year since 1994, Tahoe City has had one fishing tournament called the Jake’s Charity Fishing Derby where participants compete to reel in the largest Mackinaw, german brown and rainbow trout in a span of one morning by noon. The event, mostly always held in the first weekend in June, raises funds to donate to scholarships and children’s programs, but also offers prize money to the winners. 

Top 10 Fish Species in Tahoe City, CA

The top 10 fish species found in Tahoe City, California are Mackinaw trout, rainbow trout, brown trout, brook trout, cutthroat trout, kokanee, largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, crappie, and bluegill.

Seasonal Fishing

Tahoe City serves as a great year-round freshwater fishing destination because of its clear and cold waters and great north California climate. Mackinaw trout can be caught anytime of the year with drift fishing with live minnows or jigging with flashy lures the best way to hook them. From the shore, it’s best to target them during the dawn as they are less spooked while being in local clear waters. The best months to target rainbow trout are from September to November as well as in May. They are also frequently planted throughout the summer. For brown trout, it’s best to fish for them in the early summer just before dusk in the west end of Lake Tahoe, rocky bottoms and shallow areas along piers. Brook trout are also best targeted early in the summer. Spring and summer are the best time to fish for cutthroat trout while early spring and late summer provide the best fishing for kokanee. Bass like warm and shallow waters so catching them when they spawn in late spring and early summer is the best. Anglers are urged to check with local fishing regulations. 

Explore More of Tahoe City

Whichever season you visit, Tahoe City boasts a vibrant mix of recreation, lively culture, and natural beauty. 

1. Book a Fishing Charter

As it is perched on the shores of Lake Tahoe, fishing charters and local guides can easily be found and booked for anglers wanting to experience angling in the town’s vast waters. Boat rental services, as well as bait and tackle shops, can also be accessed.

2. Wander Through Downtown

Tahoe City’s downtown area is very walkable and easily explorable. In the summer, streets are lined with flower baskets tall as giraffes as people walk through the city with Lake Tahoe and scenic mountains on either side. Aside from shops, restaurants and hotels, there are art galleries and museums like the Gatekeeper’s Museum near Fanny Bridge and the historic Tahoe House where visitors can learn more about the area. 

3. A Winter Wonderland in Tahoe City

Tahoe City is a unique Californian destination as it also poses as a great place to travel to during the winter. It is home to some of the country’s top alpine resorts where people can go skiing, snowboarding, ice skating, zip lining, tube runs, gondola rides and more. The town also hosts an event called Snowfest during the season, which is like a version of Mardi Gras that offers parades, live music and snow activities.