Fishing Wild Horse Reservoir
AKA: Wildhorse Lake
Popular Fish Species Wild Horse Reservoir, NV
Rainbow Trout Fishing
Continuous stocking programs by the Nevada Department of Wildlife has helped to maintain a good population of rainbow trout for anglers at Wild Horse Reservoir. Fish for rainbow trout here with worms, salmon eggs, prepared baits, small spinners, spoons, jerkbaits and small crankbaits in vibrant colors to mimic their preferred prey. While fishing from a boat is preferred, plenty of trout are caught here by anglers fishing from the bank. Additionally, floating or sinking flies, such as nymphs, streamers, or dry flies, are popular choices for fly anglers targeting rainbow trout. Trolling with lures or flies behind a boat, casting near shoreline structures, or still fishing with bait can all yield success. Adjusting lure size, color, and retrieve speed can enhance chances of enticing these colorful and spirited fish. When the lake freezes over, try your luck at ice fishing.
Smallmouth Bass Fishing
Wild Horse Reservoir continues to sustain a robust smallmouth bass population. Many locals enjoy smallmouth fishing, as smallies are tough fighters and very exciting to catch. Smallmouth bass fishing is particularly good virtually anytime they are shallow. Use shallow spinnerbaits, buzzbaits, crankbaits, tube baits and jerkbaits around rip rap. Around grass, use worms, jigs, topwater and spinnerbaits. In winter, spend your time on deeper structure with drop-shot rigs, small worms, jigs and spoons. Rock piles and points are prime areas for smallmouth as these areas are also home to crawfish. When the lake freezes over, consider ice fishing for smallies.
Brown Trout Fishing
Currently, fishing for brown trout in Wild Horse Reservoir is delivering some nice catches. These hearty fighters migrate around the lake in search of baitfish and comfortable water temperatures, preferably in the 50 to 62 degree range. In spring brown trout, along with the baitfish, move to the shallows which warms first. As the days get warmer in summer they move deeper, again following schools of bait. As Fall and Winter arrive, browns tend to stay in deeper water. When these trout move deep, it is typically in the 20- to 45-foot range. Nightcrawlers are always a good bait for brown trout. In-line spinners, bait-colored crankbaits and small spoons are other options. Experiment with depth and retrieve speed. When the lake freezes over, enjoy ice fishing for trout.
Fish species to fish for...
Guide to fishing for smallmouth bass, channel catfish, rainbow trout, brown trout and yellow perch at Wildhorse Reservoir in Nevada.
Wild Horse Reservoir Fishing Video
Remote and scenic, Wild Horse Reservoir is a favorite of anglers that enjoy catching quality fish, without fighting crowds. Brown and rainbow trout are the primary draw here, but the lake also has populations of bass, catfish and perch.
Wild Horse Reservoir is a stunning freshwater lake located in the northeastern part of Nevada, near the town of Elko. The reservoir is nestled amidst picturesque landscapes, making it a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts seeking fishing and recreational opportunities.
Fishing at Wild Horse Reservoir is an exciting experience due to the variety of fish species that inhabit its waters. Anglers can look forward to catching smallmouth bass, known for their strong fights and acrobatic jumps when hooked. Channel catfish are another popular species in the lake, prized for their size and delicious taste.
Rainbow trout and brown trout are stocked regularly in the reservoir, offering ample opportunities for anglers to try their luck at catching these prized game fish. Their fighting spirit and beautiful colors make them a favorite among trout fishing enthusiasts.
Yellow perch can also be found in Wild Horse Reservoir, providing additional angling opportunities. These fish are known for their tasty flesh and are often targeted by both experienced and novice fishermen.
As with any fishing location, it is essential to be aware of and comply with local fishing regulations. Visitors should ensure they have the necessary licenses and permits before fishing at Wild Horse Reservoir and follow responsible fishing practices to help protect the lake's ecosystem and preserve its natural beauty for generations to come.
This year-round fishery is a 2,800-acre lake, with about 25 miles of shoreline, and is located in the north-central part of the state, 12 miles south of Mountain City. Ice fishing is popular once the ice is safe, yet the remoteness keeps the number of anglers to a minimum. Once the ice clears there is good fishing the rest of the year. There is plenty of accessible shoreline for fishing from the bank, around most of the lake. There is a concrete boat ramp at Wild Horse Reservoir State Recreation Area, plus numerous places around the lake with primitive options for boat launching. Canoes, kayaks, car toppers and small fishing boats can be portaged from all the same areas available for bank fishing. Bring everything you will need for your stay as the amenities are limited. Camping is available, but no hookups for RVs.
Primary fish species residing in Wild Horse Reservoir
Click images for fishing tips and details about each species.
Wildhorse Reservoir Amenities
Marina: NO
Boat Rental: NO
Boat Launch Ramp: YES
Campgrounds: YES
RV Hookups: NO
Lodging: NO
Convenience Store: NO
Bait & Tackle: NO
Restaurant: YES
Today's Weather & Forecast
Boating is a popular activity at Wild Horse Reservoir, with several boat ramps providing access to the water. Anglers can explore different areas of the lake from a boat, increasing their chances of finding the best fishing spots.
Public Boat Launch Ramps & Landings
Wild Horse Reservoir State Recreation Area Boat Ramp
Located mid lake, east side, off Gold Creek Road, this is a one-lane, concrete ramp with a dock and paved parking.
Fishing Guides On Wild Horse Reservoir
If you offer fishing guide services on this lake, please contact us for a free listing, to be posted here.
Fishing License
Click here for a Nevada Fishing License.
Camping facilities are available near the reservoir, providing a comfortable and scenic setting for visitors to relax and enjoy the beauty of the great outdoors. The surrounding landscape offers opportunities for hiking, wildlife watching, and stargazing, making Wild Horse Reservoir a destination that caters to both anglers and nature lovers alike.
Campgrounds & RV Parks Nearby
North Wild Horse Campground - 775 753-0200
Wild Horse State Recreation Area Campground - 775 385-5939
Wild Horse Reservoir NV Map - Fishing & Camping Areas
Contact Information
Wild Horse Reservoir
Wild Horse State Recreation Area
HC31 Box 265
Elko, NV 89801
775 385-5939
Fishing lakes in each state.
081424
Wild Horse Reservoir in Nevada.
NEVADA
Information about fishing lakes in Nevada
Fishing for bass, catfish, trout and perch in north-central NV.
