One of the most beautiful lakes straddling the states of California and Nevada, Lake Tahoe has over 190 square miles of exquisite fishing space within the Sierra Nevada Mountains. A popular vacation spot on a national scale for its abundance of fish, you can find dozens of charters available in every direction. Many are drawn to the cold, deep blue waters all year round Lake Tahoe for outdoor recreation in addition to a thriving fishery. The most sought-after species include varieties of salmon and trout, bass, catfish, bluegill, sculpin, and more. 

Typically, fish only swim in about 10% of the lake’s water. Thus, it is helpful to find the most lively areas of Lake Tahoe with a fishing charter and professional captain who knows the water well.  Here is a glimpse of the best fishing charters around Lake Tahoe and the quality services provided by them for your dream catch. Or, perhaps even a trophy trout or salmon?  

1. Lake Tahoe Fishing – South Lake Tahoe, CA

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Lake Tahoe Fishing specializes in taking small and private groups for all-inclusive sports fishing. Captain Kombiz and Captain Geoff Hanlon have over 30 years of experience and are experts in targeting lake trout. With a lifetime of Lake Tahoe fishing between the captains, charter guests will be taken to all the local hot spots onboard the 22-foot Starcraft Islander or 23-foot Crestliner. Each boat is equipped with a cuddy cabin and portable toilet, along with light tackle gear for jigging and downriggers for trolling. As for charter prices; it is based on a per-person basis, starting at $200.

2. Tahoe Sport Fishing – South Lake Tahoe, CA

This charter offers you an unforgettable experience on either a morning or afternoon fishing trip on beautiful Lake Tahoe. With all-inclusive trips starting at $180 per person, the only thing you need is a fishing license in California or Nevada. Don’t have a fishing license, don’t worry. A California day license or annual fishing license is available for your convenience. Family-owned and operated since 1953, Tahoe Sport Fishing has grown its fleet to seven boats ranging from 30 to 45 feet in length. As for capacity, public charters are available for groups of up to five. Any group that is larger will have to boat a private charter. 

3. Mile High Charters – South Lake Tahoe, CA

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Mile High Charters offers private Lake Tahoe Fishing Charters with Captain Joby Cefalu. A Lake Tahoe native, Captain Joby has a lifetime of fishing experience spent on Lake Tahoe. Half-day morning charters last for four to five hours, and afternoon charters last for four hours. Guided tours are available year-round onboard a 30-foot Kingfisher with a heated cabin. As for fishing packages; the public half-day trip starts at $225 per person. Whereas, the full-day trip runs $400 per person. Although pricey, you will have a rod in your hands for the entire charter.

4. Nor-Cal Charters – Zephyr Cove, NV

If you’re looking to plan a charter for more than a party of six, then Nor-Cal Charters is for you. One of the few vessels on Lake Tahoe permitted to carry up to 12 guests, Nor-Cal is licensed for excursions on the California and Nevada sides. It’s the perfect choice for birthday parties, bachelor parties, or a family activity while vacationing in the area. Ride onboard the 35-foot Professor and experience its 700 HP motors. Furthermore, the boat is installed with downriggers for trolling, a bathroom, and a heated cabin. As for charter prices; a trip on the Professor will run you about $1,000 for a five-hour journey. However, in the summer months, there are smaller boats available in the fleet, such as the UpSide.

5. Sierra Fin Addicts – Incline Village, NV

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Based out of northeast Lake Tahoe, Sierra Fin Addicts is the right choice for those who may have flown in or are staying in a nearby hotel. The primary pick-up point is the Hyatt Regency Lake Tahoe Dock, which also offers Cave Rock as an additional pick-up location. Sierra Fins Addicts is the vision of Gerald Scholl along with guides Brad Bugica and Phillip Catalano. Operating with two vessels in the fleet, guests can ride on the 2006 22-foot Design Concept Delta Angler, which can accommodate up to four. Or, the 2012 24-foot River Wild Offshore Outboard, which is large enough for a party of six. Sierra Fins Addicts offers a variety of trips and prices to cater to all party sizes. A half-day fishing charter for a party of four will run about $600.

In Closing

Nevertheless, being on the border of California and Nevada shouldn’t confuse you when buying your fishing license. Anglers age 16 and older can purchase either a California or Nevada fishing license – both are valid, regardless of where you fish on the lake. Just don’t forget it on the day of your scheduled charter, or you may not disembark for your day out. It’s important to note that these charters are just a few of the many charters available all around Lake Tahoe. That being said, there are many talented and experienced captains even beyond this list.