www.fishthewest.com

Adventure Number 1,158 - Smith Creek and Surrounding Areas

2007-08-27T21:19:00.000-07:00

With summer winding down, and vacation days running short we decided to take yet another off-roading adventure to a place that we have never been: Smith Creek in Lander County.

And being the adventurous types, we decided to take, what I only admitted after our flat tire, could have been one of the most rugged roads that we have been on to this day. So when off-roading, always be prepared!!! Bring plenty of spare tires, lots of ice and of course plenty of frosty cold and canned beverages.

Smith Creek (including inlet and outlet streams in Lander County):
Season is open year around, any hour of the day or night. Limit is 5 trout.

If you have fished Desert Creek in Lyon County... the fishing is very similar. The water is extremely low and sage follows both sides of the banks making it pretty much impossible for casting.

What worked on those 5-8 inch trout: Simple Grasshoppers.

Smith Creek Reservoir
Working our way down the Creek, we were reminded that the Reservoir remains locked with NO FISHING signs clearly posted around the area. It seems that if you want to fish the reservoir, you will need to ask permission from the land owners, Reno Fly Shop or call NDOW for more information.

Fishing, Big Horn Sheep, Scouting, Opening Day Dove and More

2007-08-22T18:48:00.000-07:00

Ok, there are so many things to talk about since my last post 30 days ago... subjects such as a 27 inch brown caught near Truckee, a Big Horn Sheep that was simply strolling not but a few yards from the pavement off of Highway 50, Smith Creek and Smith Creek Reservoir, Wall Canyon, Deer Scouting and preparing for opening day of Dove Season.

I'll begin with an update from Wall Canyon Reservoir that came in from Jeff, who just recently took the wife for some Nevada style adventure.

"The wife and I went out to Wall Canyon Reservoir about 3 weeks ago and what a trip. It was 191 miles one way to the dam. We caught rainbows and smallmouth bass and had a great time.

We really went for the crayfish. We set about 4 traps and left them overnight but unfortunately only caught 4 crayfish. I was very disappointed since all I ever heard of Wall Canyon Reservoir was for how big the crayfish were and yet we caught nothing.

Word is that some guys took commercial traps and coolers and caught them all. All in all -- we had a great time."
Thanks Jeff - Carson City

Dove Season Opens September 1
To celebrate, I thought I would share a recipe that we've been using for years -- enjoy!

DOVE NUGGETS

10-14 Dove
1 Egg
1 Cup Bread Crumbs
Garlic Powder
Sea Salt
Cracked Pepper
Fresh Rosemary
3 tblsp. Olive Oil
2 tsp. Garlic

Split doves down the back and slice 1/4 inch thin strips from each of the bird's breast. Add all spice ingredients to the bread crumbs and then whisk the egg in a seperate bowl. Wet the meat in the egg wash and then lightly toss in the breadcrumb mixture. Put pieces to the side.

Add oil and garlic to a large saute pan on the stove. Get the pan really hot and then place the Dove pieces into the oiled pan. Brown on all sides which should take about 5 minutes. Remove and let rest for 3-5 minutes. They taste just like chicken nuggets so feel free to use your favorite condimant's or dipping sauce or simply eat alone.

Weekend Fishing Fun

2007-07-20T06:23:00.000-07:00

Here are a few photos that should get you motivated for Fishing this weekend...
Thanks Paul for these great photographs of the Browns you caught last week!

Fishing for Yellow Stone Native Cutthroat Trout

2007-07-03T08:26:00.000-07:00

Fishing Tales from Wayne and Robin in Idaho...
I always enjoy reading his stories and hope that you do as well...

"Hello again from south central Idaho."

Well we miss pyramid lake but here in this small town of Oakley we are surrounded by mountains with small streams and high moutain lakes you can only get to by horse back or hiking.

Our favorite stream is just 15 minutes to the trail head. This is a wild life management area for about two miles. (Big Cotton wood, BCWMA). THE STREAM IS LOADED WITH NATIVE YELLOW STONE CUTTHROAT TROUT.

Robin and I spent a night about 4 miles up surrouned by beaver ponds. This stream has plenty of caddis, mayfly and stone fly. The grass hoppers are coming on strong. The trout seem to like the smaller nymph patterns in size 16 and 18. Most fish are in the 10 to 12 inch range, but often we catch them in the 14 to 16 inch range (there are bigger ones). These fish fight hard. We use 7 and a half FT. 4 wt rods that add to the excitement.

BIG Cottonwood canyon has Elk, big horn sheep, couger, rattlesnake, wild turkey, chuker ect......The trout limit is two fish and suggested single barbless hook (good idea).

By the way, we had trout for supper and breakfast. We added currant berries and butter to the fish, very good -- you should try it. -- Wayne and Robin, Idaho

FREE Family Fishing Clinic

2007-06-28T11:39:00.000-07:00

The Nevada Department of Wildlife is sponsoring a FREE Family Fishing Clinic on Thursday, July 12 from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. This clinic is designed for children and is limited to the first 20 who enroll.

SIGNUP TODAY: 688-1559

After you sign up for some family fun, be sure to check out all of the other Fishing Clinics coming up: Fishing Carp, Fly Fishing Still Water, Fly Fishing Moving Water and much more...

More Information
Family fishing clinic is geared for entry level anglers. We will demonstrate basic hook and line setup.

WHEN:
Thursday July 12, 2007 from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.

WHERE:
Marilyn’s Pond, 18350 Mount Rose Highway

SIGN-UPS:
Registration is required. For more information call the Department of Wildlife at 688-1559.

BRING:
You will need your own fishing rod. If you do not have a fishing rod NDOW can provide one. The spinning rods are limited to the first requests. Children twelve and older are required to have a license.

SIGNUP TODAY: 688-1559

6.5 Pounds of Rainbow Trout: South Fork Reservoir

2007-06-26T08:24:00.000-07:00

We went fishing at South Fork Reservoir for the first time this weekend and within 15 minutes of trolling a Kastmaster ...my fiance's pole bent over and caught this beautiful 6.5 pound rainbow.

-- Randy H.

FREE Fly Fishing Clinic... Yes, I Said FREE

2007-06-21T07:27:00.000-07:00

I completely forgot to tell you how great the Fly Fishing Class was for the girls a few months back. The class was taught by Richard Dickerson, a local Nevadan, who wrote and published a book called NEVADA Angler's Guide -- Fish Tails in The Sagebrush. It was a great class taught by an even better instructor.

So if you missed out on that class, which you had to pay for by the way... be sure to take advantage of the next Fly Fishing Class offered by the Nevada Department of Wildife. It's a three day FREE... yes, I said FREE class that takes place in the beautiful city of Verdi.

CALL FOR MORE INFORMATION (775) 688-1559

NDOW sponsors Introduction to Fly Fishing Clinic
The Nevada Department of Wildlife is sponsoring a FREE three-day Introduction to Fly Fishing clinic, starting on Friday, July 6, from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. and continuing Saturday July 7, and Sunday, July 8, from 8:00 a.m. to noon each day. This clinic is designed for entry level anglers and is limited to the first 20 who enroll. Participants must attend all three days of this clinic.

WHAT: Class is geared for entry level fly anglers. We will demonstrate techniques for fishing moving water and still water.

WHEN:

Friday July 6, 2007, starting at 6:00 p.m. and ending at 8:00 p.m.
Saturday July 7, 2007, starting at 8:00 a.m. and ending at noon.
Sunday July 8, 2007, starting at 8:00 a.m. and ending at noon.

WHERE: Verdi at the Verdi Community Library and Wildlife Education Center,
270 Bridge Street. (Building is adjacent to the Verdi Elementary School grounds.)

SIGN-UPS: Pre-registration is required. For more information call the Department of Wildlife at (775) 688-1559.

AGES: Minimum 10 years of age.

BRING: Participants are requested to provide their own tackle. A limited number of rods are available for use by those who do not have their own fishing equipment. Note: A fishing license is required for those 12 years of age and older.

Fishing is Good at WildHorse Reservoir

2007-06-19T09:36:00.000-07:00

J.R., Thanks so much for the Fishing Report out of Wildhorse this last week!

"I fished Wildhorse north of Elko on 6/15/07. Caught my first Tiger Trout and several nice Rainbows including a 20" fatty!!! Also got a bucket full of White Bass and several perch."

"I was fishing from shore with gold Kastmaster and white mini jigs." -- J.R.D

Help Support Nevada's Fishing - Purchase a License

2007-06-18T08:54:00.000-07:00

I met with Nevada Department of Wildlife's Marketing Coordinator last week to talk about how Fish The West could partner with NDOW in helping to increase the visibility into what a great state Nevada is for its Fishing.

Of course, we said we would do anything we could to help spread the word... So, periodically FTW will begin to post angling press releases and angling information direct from the Nevada Department of Wildlife.

HOW TO FISH IN NEVADA

Something that every angler should have in his or her library is the FREE How to Fish in Nevada - An Experts Guide to Fishing in the Silver State Guide. This is one of the best all encompassing FREE Guides developed by the Nevada Department of Wildlife's Team of biologists and angler experts.

The content covers everything from:

Basic fishing knots with renderings
Stillwater angling techniques
Fishing by boat techniques
Fishing from shore techniques
Flowing water techniques
Equipment
Flies that work
Bait that works
Carp
Catfish
Bass
Tilapia
Trout
Walleye
Yellow Perch
Sunfish

Support NEVADA and purchase a Nevada Fishing License Today! Pick up your FREE Guide at the Nevada Deaprtment of Wildlife's offices or call (775) 688-1500 for more information.

FREE FISHING - SATURDAY, JUNE 9

2007-06-04T11:53:00.001-07:00

The Sparks Marina is the place to go this Saturday... Why, you ask?

Well, it's FREE FISHING ALL DAY FOR KIDS!

Saturday, June 9
Sparks Marina, Reno

When: Saturday June 9, starting at 7 a.m. and ending at 1 p.m. Lunch, drinks and coffee in the morning will be provided.

Where: Sparks Marina, South Shore 300 Howard Drive, Please call (775) 353-2385 for more information.

Signups: Register at Sparks Marina on the day of the event.

Ages: Children of all ages. Parent or guardian must accompany all children.

Bring: Participants are urged to bring their own rods and reels. Some equipment is available for loan to those without.

Changes Eyed for Pyramid Lake Fishing: RGJ

2007-06-01T07:01:00.000-07:00

"The Pyramid Lake Indian Tribe is proposing wide ranging fishing regulation changes that will significantly impact angler participation at Pyramid in the years to come." - RGJ

Here are just a few regulation changes that they are currently in talks about:

Single Barbless Hooks
Prohibited Use of Downriggers
March 16 - May 15 Closed to Fishing
$99.00 Annual Fishing and Boating Permits

To read more information about this proposal or to leave comments - please click here for the full article from the RGJ.

One of the Best Memorial Day Weekends Ever

2007-05-29T20:53:00.000-07:00

Fishing at Squaw Creek Reservoir was by far plentiful this Memorial Day Weekend, and if you weren't there, you might have been the only one. For such a small desert reservoir, our traditional Memorial Day Weekend trip turned out to be one of the busiest we've ever seen in the past 7 years.

We all arrived Friday afternoon, only to find more than 40 campers and trailers pre-parked to join in the festivities of the three day holiday weekend..and what a weekend it was.

Friday evening, Saturday morning and Saturday late afternoon turned into some of the Best Fishing that this reservoir has ever produced for us. Smooth waters, warm temperatures, and out of the four of us that fished from a tube, we all caught an accumulative total of 85 fish -- and yes, all but 7 tasty morsels were caught and released.

Sinking line was the line of choice and the number one fly that caught the most fish in a row, was nothing more than a simple Bead Head Prince Nymph.

For more information on Squaw Creek Reservoir -- click here.

For more photographs of this last weekend -- click here.

We hope everyone had a safe and enjoyable Memorial Day Weekend!
Kristy and Andy

Who Says There's No Fishing in Nevada

2007-05-25T08:05:00.000-07:00

Groves Lake and Kingston Creek, Nevada

Regulations:
Open year around, any time of the day or night. Limit is 5 trout.

Biologist Forecast for 2007:
Fishing should be good for stocked and carry over rainbow trout, and the occasional brown trout that drifts down from the stream. The lake and the stream lie in a narrow, beautiful canyon. For more photos, Click Here.

Stay tuned for more information about Groves Lake and Kingston Creek.... Have a Great Memorial Weekend -- we're outta here!

2007 Big Game Quotas

2007-05-22T12:44:00.000-07:00

I know this is a BLOG about fishing and I should be talking about where to go fishing for Memorial Weekend but I just ran across this interesting information from the Nevada Department of Wildlife's website that I thought all Big Game Hunters would be interested in....

"The following is a summary of the 2007 Big Game Quotas set at the Board of Wildlife Commissioners meeting, May 11-12, 2007 in Reno, Nevada." -- NDOW.org

Total tag allocations across all hunts increased 11% from 2006.
Resident Mule Deer Buck Rifle tags are up 11 % from 9,229 tags in 2006 to 10,290 tags in 2007.
Resident Antlerless Mule Deer Rifle tags increased from 65 in 2006 to 440 in 2007. Amounts to 577% increase.
Resident Bull Elk Rifle tags are up 4 % from 751 in 2006 to 778 in 2007.
Resident Cow Elk Rifle Tags are up 73% from 840 in 2006 to 1,454 in 2007.
Resident Bighorn Sheep (Desert, California and Rocky Mountain) tags are up 11% from 175 in 2006 to 195 in 2007.
Resident Antelope Rifle Buck tags are up 6% from 1,644 in 2006 to 1,743 in 2007.

Flying Over Pyramid, Fishing Oregon and Idaho

2007-05-16T10:01:00.000-07:00

We're still here... we've just not had an opportunity to get out and get some fishing in; luckily some of my fellow fisherman and friends have had the opportunity to enjoy some adventures... such as flying over Pyramid Lake for the first time, or catching some amazing fish in Idaho and Oregon... All I can say is that we are looking forward to Memorial Weekend to finally get some fishing in!

One more thing...NDOW has stocked several bodies of Water in Northern Nevada -- so check them all out!

Flight Over Pyramid
If you've been to Pyramid Lake from the ground -- there's nothing more exciting than seeing it from the air. These photographs were taken just last week... AMAZING! More Photos

Flying Over Pyramid Lake, Nevada -- Thanks Andy

Fishing in Oregon is Stupendous
These pictures are all from the Deschutes river in central Oregon. The Deschutes River and its tributaries historically supported a wide variety of native resident and anadromous fish. Summer steelhead, spring chinook, fall Chinook, bull trout, redband trout, Pacific lamprey and sockeye salmon are among the fish that historically spawned in the Deschutes Basin.
-- Thanks Isaac

Fishing in Idaho has been stupendous as well.
-- Thanks Wayne!

SMACK! Fishing at Pyramid gets a Little Too Close for Some of Us

2007-04-12T09:54:00.000-07:00

I had to send everyone this photograph of a local area fisherman who takes a little more affection towards his Catch of the Day than most of us would. Thanks Brian for this great photo of you and your prize possesion from Pyramid Lake.

Sorry Guys... It's All About The Ladies

2007-03-29T11:59:00.000-07:00

This is a special posting for all the ladies in the Reno/Sparks and surrounding areas.

All ladies 18 years and older can take advantage of a 2 Day Fly Fishing Class that is designed especially for us females. The class will review tackle, casting and on-the-water presentations for the first day. The second day will consist of actual fishing and putting your learned fishing skills to work.

You must have a Nevada Fishing License. I've called to reserve my spot since there's always something new to learn... you should too!

COST: $72 / $60 Resident Discount

DATES:
April 28 and April 29
9:00 AM - 4:00 PM

June 2 and June 3
9:00 AM - 4:00 PM

Call 353-2385 or email recinfo@cityofsparks.us for more information.

Mercury Levels Rise in 6 Nevada Waters

2007-03-27T07:11:00.000-07:00

Be Aware
Fish species from Six Northern Nevada waters have been identified to have potential higher levels of mercury and should be consumed on a limited basis.

This doesn't mean that you shouldn't enjoy fishing at these Six Northern Nevada waters, it simply means to be smart.

The following information was posted on the Nevada Department of Wildlife's website and states -- "The health advisories recommend no consumption of fish from Lahontan Reservoir and the Carson River from Dayton downstream to the reservoir; no consumption of white bass from Little and Big Washoe Lake; no consumption of wipers and walleye and no more than one eight-ounce meal per week of any other fish from Rye Patch Reservoir; no consumption of walleye from Chimney Dam Reservoir; and no consumption of large mouth bass or northern pike from Comins Lake."

For more frequently asked questions about Mercury and helpful links, please visit Nevada Department of Wildlife's website.

13th Annual Model Dairy Charity Fishing Derby Results

2007-03-22T08:19:00.000-07:00

2007 Model Dairy Charity Fishing Derby - Results

The 13th Annual Model Dairy Charity Fishing Derby turned out to be a HUGE success this year at Pyramid Lake. The Derby took place on March 17 and 18 which turned out to be the warmest two days that Northern Nevada has seen this year. The sun was out, the wind stayed down and the temperatures soared in the 70's.

The First place fish was a catch and release Winner which weighed in at 11.88 lbs while the second place fish wasn't too far behind ... weighing in at 11.1 lbs. Third place went to the next Cutthroat in line with a weight of 10.81 lbs. WOW!

1st Place: $2,000
2nd Place: $1,000
3rd Place: $500

To read more information about this years 2007 13th Annual Model Dairy Charity Fishing Derby - Click Here!

Fish the West in Print for 2007

2007-03-19T18:54:00.000-07:00

We want to thank everyone again for their stories, photos and inquiries that we receive every day, every week and every month - they truly make Fish the West a leader in Nevada area fishing information.

We have big plans for Fish the West in 2007...
beginning with a redesign that is scheduled to launch this Fall, a NEW BLOG scheduled to launch at the same time and we are truly excited about our New Advertising that will be going out in the next Fishing the California Alps 2007 Guide To Angling Brochure.

Take a look, tell your friends and be sure to stay tuned for the upcoming months spring and summer adventures.

Sincerely,
Kristy

Winter Time Fishing at Echo Canyon, Nevada

2007-03-12T09:57:00.000-07:00

What a better time to spend your winter days than to spend it fishing at Echo Canyon, Nevada. Here's a photo from Chris with his wife and daughter catching trout at Echo Canyon. They were using marshmello trout bait and a worm. - Thanks Chris

MORE INFORMATION
ECHO CANYON, NEVADA

Echo Canyon State Park offers a 65-acre reservoir with a campground, picnic area, group use facilities and boat launch. The park is popular for camping, fishing, hiking and enjoying the beautiful scenery of eastern Nevada. Abundant wildlife, a wide variety of native plants and unique rock formations make exploration a favorite activity. Echo Canyon is located 12 miles east of Pioche via State Routes 322 and 323. The park's elevation is 5,200' and although it is open year-round, visitors should be aware of occasional snow during winter months.
(Nevada Division of State Parks)

What's Hot in the Winter Time? Squaw Creek Reservoir

2007-02-22T11:30:00.000-08:00

If you're looking for a little winter time fishing and camping adventure, Squaw Creek Reservoir seems to be HOT HOT HOT! Many thanks to you Danny for taking these photographs and really pushing the point that we should all play hard rather than work hard!

Regulations : General regulations apply. Season is open year around, any hour of the day or night. Limit is 5 trout and 15 warmwater game fish of which not more than 5 may be black bass.

Boating Regulations: No special regulations apply.

Fish Species

Rainbow Trout
Brown Trout
Largemouth Bass
Spotted Bass
Bullhead Catfish
Green Sunfish

Camping: Camping is available around the reservoir, but be aware there are no bathrooms or trash cans so please be sure to take out what you bring into the reservoir.

For more information about Squaw Creek Reservoir click here and for more photos of Squaw Creek Reservoir click here.

2006 Nevada Harvest Hunt Statistics

2007-02-15T08:02:00.000-08:00

Finally the 2006 Nevada Harvest Hunt Statistics are available for Mule Deer, Bighorn Sheep, Mountain Goat, Elk and Pronghorn Antelope.

The following information includes hunt and draw odd statistics for each hunt, with harvest statistics and average age/points by hunt unit.

What a Beauty This One Is

2007-02-01T06:36:00.000-08:00

One of the Pyramid Lake Rangers gave Debbie a tip to go to Anderson Bay and Pyramid Lake two weeks ago. She told everyone she knows last week that she was going to catch the biggest fish at Anderson Bay.

So she and her dog set out to Anderson Bay on Sunday early morning at 5:00 am. Arriving there at 7:30 am and fishing until 12:55 when she told Dakota, "If we do not get a bite by 1:00, we are out of here."

She brought in her line with a trout spin lure and casted it out again. A large cutthroat trout followed her lure up to 12 feet into shore. She played with it a while and finally a tug. She pulled with all her might and she hooked it. The line began to go out and she did not have the strength to bring it in. Finally, she tightened her line and used her whole body to essentially drag the fish in. She was so excited she began to cry. Dakota her dog would not let anyone near his fish. He has been waiting a long time for this one.

Debbie Anderson fishes almost every weekend with her dog, Dakota and has not gotten a keeper fish for over a month now. As you can see from the photo she is very proud when she brought it home and a photo was taken.

--- Great Story and What a Great Fish!

Help Promote The Nevada Wildfire Rehabilitation Fund

2007-01-29T09:29:00.000-08:00

I'm so glad to hear that a Wildfire Rehabilitation Fund has been established to to try and help efforts to bring back some of the scorched winter ranges in Elko county. Thanks to the Reno Chapter of Nevada Bighorns Unlimited (NBU), in cooperation with The Coalition for Nevada's Wildlife and the Nevada Department of Wildlife (NDOW) for setting up such a fund.

If you can contribute to the fund that's very much appreciated and if you cannot contribute to the fund, you can still help by simply spreading the word to your friends, your neighbors and your local businesses.

Donations can be directed to:
"NBU - Nevada Wildfire Disaster Fund"
Acct #: 3030003481
Heritage Bank of Nevada
47 Damonte Ranch Pkwy.
Reno, NV 89521

Donations may be made in person at any Heritage Bank of Nevada branch, or checks can be mailed in.

Angler 1 Sportfishing Adventures

2007-01-18T15:02:00.000-08:00

If you didn't know you could catch fish in Vegas now you do... and now you know you can with Angler 1 Sportfishing Adventures in Las Vegas, Nevada!

No fishing in Las Vegas? Ha!

Angler 1 Sportfishing Adventures is less than 20 minutes from the largest man made lake in America! Lake Mead offers FANTASTIC fishing for Largemouth Bass, Striped Bass, Catfish, Bluegill and Trout. Or, you can travel back in time aboard a classic old-tyme steamboat, the Desert Princess, as well as enjoying water sports up the kazoo!

Be sure to check them out if your down South or check out their website!

Waterfowl Season Coming to a Close

2007-01-16T09:03:00.000-08:00

Just a quick note to all of you Nevada hunters and huntresses, Waterfowl Season is coming to a close January 27th and Chukar Season ends soon after that, January 31st.

So with the end of another great year of Nevada Hunting upon all of us, there's just no reason why we can't get back in the spirit and geared up for next season with these 2 NEW Outdoor Adventure Videos (DVD): RUNNIN TRAFFIC and CLUCKIN CRAZY. Be sure to order a copy today...

FREE How to Fish in Nevada Guide

2007-01-04T18:28:00.000-08:00

The Nevada Department of Wildlife (NDOW) wants you to go fishing and to help get you started, NDOW has just released a “How to Fish in Nevada” guide. The guide covers everything from how to fish specifically for all the fish species found in the Silver State to the basic fishing equipment needed and techniques for fishing in still or flowing water.

The How to Fish Book was the brainchild of Mark Warren, NDOW staff fisheries biologist. Warren says, “ Nevada is chock-full of numerous streams and lakes that are the perfect place to wet your line. The different bodies of waters found around the state not only offer individuals places to fish, they also offer anglers the opportunity to catch different varieties of fish species,” Warren added.

Funding for the color relief maps was provided from a federal Sportfish Restoration grant. Both the books and maps are available free of charge at all NDOW offices." -- Courtesy of the Nevada Department of Wildlife

Call (775) 688-1500 to find out where you can pick up a FREE How to Fish in Nevada Guide.

Swans, Ducks and Dinner

2007-01-04T11:49:00.000-08:00

I'm still a little bewildered to the fact that so many hunters love to go out and hunt waterfowl in cold, wet and mostly freezing conditions. The photo above was taken New Year's weekend at Stillwater where most, if not all, of the ponds were pretty much frozen over. This made it difficult to fill our swan tag since not too much of anything could land without skiddin' directly off the water and landing in the sagebrush.

Allthough, we had not a lot of time and not a whole lot of luck filling our swan tag, our friend was a little more on the lucky side. This mature male swan flew directly over top and made for an easy kill and tasty meal.

BBQ'd Bacon Wrapped KaBobs

Marinate venison, antelope, duck, swan, chukar in milk for 1-2 days.
Wash milk off and then marinate in Italian Dressing for 1-2 more days.
After marinating add a few tablespoons of a dry packet of McMormick Marinade Seasoning: Zesty Herb is my favorite.
Cut meat into bite size pieces and wrap a small piece of bacon around each one.
Place meat on a wooden or metal skewer and place on BBQ.
Be sure to watch your meat since you don't want it overdone.
Approximately 5-7 minutes on each side.

You'll impress your friends and family and I have no doubt you'll impress your friends who would never have thought that 'Wild Game' could taste so good.

2007 Ely Rotary Club Ice Fishing Derby

2007-01-02T18:34:00.000-08:00

You Could WIN $10,000

JANUARY 27th, 2007
CAVE LAKE, ELY NEVADA

Call Today for more information (702) 496-9350 or click here to learn more about the Derby on Angler1.com.

Limited to the first 500 anglers, the derby has a five fish limit with 10 tagged fish each worth $100. One of those tagged fish will be worth $10,000.

SEASON'S GREETINGS AND HAPPY NEW YEAR NEVADA

2006-12-27T12:10:00.000-08:00

After looking through 365 days worth of photographs and editorials, 2006 had to be one of the Best Ever Year's for Nevada Fishing, Hunting and all around Adventure.

We would like to thank everyone who contributed stories, photographs and shared some of their personal adventures with us and wish all of you a safe and Happy New Year!

Months 1 Through 3
(January, February and March)

The first quarter of 2006 turned out to be a couple of busy months... especially fishing at Pyramid Lake, Walker Lake, Squaw Creek Reservoir, chukar hunting coming to a close, finding a new found friend underneathe our deck, having Fish The West website be nominated and win an Addy Award, a trip to Boise, Idaho and much much more.

January 2006
February 2006
March 2006

Months 4 Through 6
(April, May and June)

The second quarter of 2006 had it's moments but Adventure # 1,010: Great Basin National Park, Lehman Caves, Comins Lake, Cave Lake, Elko and Unionville had to be the ultimate Nevada style adventure trip.

April 2006
May 2006
June 2006

Months 7 Through 9
(July, August and September)
July, August and September seemed to turn into three months of preparation for the 2006 Deer/Chukar/Elk Hunt; however, we did manage to find time to get some fishing in at Sqauw Creek Reservoir, the Truckee River, Inlcine Lake and a few other choice areas.

July 2006
August 2006
September 2006

Months 10 Through 12
(October, November and December)

Aaaa....how the time seems to fly by these days. October is always the best month of the year especially since Pyramid Lake opens back up to it's fisherman, Chukar season opens and Rifle Hunters who were lucky enough to draw a tag, get to go after and chase down their Grand Prize. Lucky for us, we were able to end the 2006 year with new friends, new stories and unforgetable memories.
October 2006
November 2006
December 2006

Successful Swan Hunt with a Bonus

2006-12-07T12:13:00.000-08:00

Thanks goes out to our 'good friend' for sending us some funny photographs from this last weekends Swan Hunt. This was one photo that we thought everyone might enjoy incase you were thinking about getting a new pet for Christmas...

Me and My Barn Owl

For those that don't know or are unfamiliar with...there are federal regulations that state the following statutes which are enforced by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service which regulate the taking, possession, transportation, sale, purchase, barter, exportation, and importation of wildlife...Barn Owls being one of them. So remember...

Don't take it
Don't transport it
Don't sell it
Don't get it stuffed
Don't pose with it
Don't eat it
and Don't play with it...Hahahhaa

160 Class Ram Taken in the Sheldon

2006-11-10T08:24:00.000-08:00

October 13, 2006

Nevada RAM taken in the Sheldon National Wildlife Refuge

Nevada Department of Wildlife scored him at 160 3/8th net. There hasn’t been a 160 class ram taken there in 3 or 4 years. What a great hunt and good time. - Ken T.

For more information on the 2005 Nevada Wildlife Record Book: Click Here

By the way, there are still a few First Come First Serve Swan tags available. Too view remaining tag information: Click Here

Photographs Available on iStock

2006-11-07T12:22:00.000-08:00

Fish the West Photographs from our adventures and articles are now available on iStockphoto. Bookmark this page or continue to stop by to see new photographs as we upload them. - Thanks to everyone for your positive feedback!

Trout Fishing on Carson River is Better than Good

2006-11-07T11:50:00.000-08:00

Twenty Five trout and counting...

November 4, 2006
"We threw at least 15+ trout back and only kept the really big ones. For a couple hours or so we were getting a bite on every other cast! It was one of the most fantastick fishing days ever! We were at the Carson River in Dayton - we just drove around and looked for a spot to stop and fish.

We were using rooster tails and blue fox lures - they were pretty much biteing any type of lure!
Wow! Crazy fishin'! "

- Thanks Nicki for the photo's and tips for fishing the Carson river...

Close of Season Pays Off

2006-10-31T11:57:00.000-08:00

After scouting for months, awakening to weeks of freezing morning temperatures and chilled to the bone nights, it finally paid off a few days before the close of season.

"You have to be a Billy Goat" to climb to the top of some of Nevada's mountains to find large Mule Deer, but just like fishing, if you wait and cast out enough you just might get lucky and run across a Big One.

Solid 4x4 Mule Deer

Solid 2x2 Mule Deer

Again, I thought I would throw in a great photograph of our 'Wanna Be' Bird Dogs: Beddie Lou and Forrest!

Great Fishing at Illipah Reservoir, Nevada

2006-10-19T16:47:00.000-07:00

Thanks to Daniel for his recent comments about Fishing at Illipah Reservoir, White Pine County (White Pine Range)...19" inch Rainbows and More...

"I fished Illipah Reservoir last weekend (October 13, 14), and took home my limit of some beautiful rainbows. One measured 19 inches, 3 measured 16 inches, and the remaining 6 were in the 12-14 inch range. Sherbert power bait off the bottom was the bait used." - Daniel

Illiaph Reservoir
At capacity, Illipah covers 70 surface acres to a maximum depth of 50 feet. Rainbow trout, stocked twice annually, and a self-sustaining population of brown trout currently inhabit the reservoir. The 2004 catch rates were 1.41 fish per angler and 0.43 fish per hour, with rainbow trout ranging between 9.1 and 15.1 inches and brown trout averaged 15.5 inches. Good fishing can be found year around, but peaks in the spring and fall. Mid-winter ice fishing (December through February) can also be good. A boat is not essential as many fish are captured from shore.

Regulations and Tips
Photo Gallery

Still Haven't Found What We're Looking For...

2006-10-16T10:42:00.000-07:00

As the U2 song lyrics go..."We Still Haven't Found What We're Looking For"and not because we're not trying. I think we counted up another 20 some doe we spotted with 2 or 3 small little forkies...again nothing worth writing home about.

Although our main objective of the trip was unsuccesful this weekend, it quickly turned into a successful Chukar Hunt weekend. We've never seen chukar as big as the one's we were seeing and of course not as big as the ones we ended up bringing back with us in our cooler.

The search is still on...

As a side note: There's somthing to be said about being in the middle of no where, thinking you're alone when out of the blue...a six wheel off-road vehicle drives up with Girls, Guns and a lotta Ammo.

You just gotta love Nevada.

Pyramid Lake Fishing is Staying HOT HOT HOT

2006-10-10T13:46:00.000-07:00

With just a couple of hours to spare and no work day in sight, these two friends of ours were able to limit out from Pyramid's shoreline early Monday morning.

The Cutthroat's ranged in sizes from 16 inches to 22 inches in length. - See Photos. A 7/8 oz. treble hook Tui Chub, pronounced (too-ee chub), seemed to be the Lure of choice for the Lahontan Cutthroat's.

Find out more about the Tui chub on Wikipedia.

Rain, Wind and Freezing Conditions

2006-10-09T08:23:00.000-07:00

Rain, wind and freezing conditions...what more would you expect on opening weekend of deer season for rifle hunters?

Well maybe a BIG BIG BUCK!

Sure enough, we didn't find that big buck this weekend but we weren't skunked either. We came across at least 29 deer in two days, which out of those 29 deer, at least 1/3 were bucks but nothing as big as we had seen scouting in the earlier months.

Two tags to fill and three more weekends to fill them! Stay tuned...

Upland Game Bird Season Begins October 14

2006-10-06T08:57:00.000-07:00

Just sending out a quick reminder that although the Rifle Deer Season is opening this weekend, the upland game bird season does not open until October 14. The season will run from October 14, 2006 until January 31, 2007.

"An upland game bird stamp is required to hunt upland game birds, except turkey and crow, for anyone age 12 or older. Funds from the stamp sales are used to support guzzler maintenance and habitat work that benefits upland game bird species." - NDOW

The Nevada Department of Wildlife would like to remind everyone who will be using off-road vehicles to please be careful in fire-damaged areas or any off-road area.

Recent Salmon Fishing from MySpace

2006-10-03T14:27:00.000-07:00

Just wanted to send these 'Monster Salmon' pictures out that we received from one of our 'Friends' on MySpace...Scott Caldwell

If you're interested in catching some salmon this big if not bigger, check out his SC Guide Service MySpace page.

Successful Opening Day at Pyramid Lake

2006-10-02T12:23:00.000-07:00

Got One. Got Two. Got another one on...

The only thing better than a bad day of fishing is a really terrific day of fishing and that's exactly what opening day was out at Pyramid Lake this Sunday. The weather was picture perfect, the water was warm and the fish were nothing smaller than 18 - 22 inches long.

If you were fishing from a boat, the hour wait to drop your boat in the water made it all worthwhile. Even the shore fisherman were hitting their limits in record time. One right after the other seemed to be the theme for yesterday's opening season of Cutthroat Trout.

New 2006/2007 Fees
Please note than if you're planning on fishing, camping or boating that all Fees have been raised.

- Season Fishing: $74.00
- Season Boating: $74.00
- 10 Day Camping: $74.00
- Day Use: $6.00
- Fishing Day Use: $9.00
- Boating Day Use: $9.00
- Camping: $9.00

Also a quick thanks goes out to Richard for his pictures that he sent in yesterday. They landed a couple of nice sized Cutthroat's ranging from 21inches to 22 inches. Great job guys!

Pyramid Lake Opening Day: October 1, 2006

2006-09-27T08:40:00.000-07:00

It's that time again...time to get your gear out of hiding and get out to Pyramid Lake this Sunday for Opening Day.

At Least Someone's Catching Fish

2006-09-26T15:21:00.000-07:00

Thanks goes out to another fellow Nevadan out there catching some good looking Rainbows on the Carson River.

September 9, 2006
"These pictures are of myself and my friend Gene, fishing the East fork of the Carson River near the Nevada/California border. I caught two Rainbows on spinning lures (the one below was 11 inches). Gene had a great time with his Fly setup, but no luck that day (couple of bites though). "

Cheers - Jeff

Another Successful Evening Dove Hunt

2006-09-13T08:49:00.000-07:00

We figured before the weather turned cold and all of the Dove decided to leave town that we would hit up one of our favorite spots for another successful evening dove hunt...and successful it was.

DOVE NUGGETS
10-14 Dove
1 Egg
1 Cup Bread Crumbs
Garlic Powder
Sea Salt
Cracked Pepper
Fresh Rosemary
3 tbls. Olive Oil
2 tsp. Garlic

Split doves down the back and slice 1/4 inch thin strips from each of the bird's breast. Add all spice ingredients to the bread crumbs and then whisk the egg in a seperate bowl. Wet the meat in the egg wash and then lightly toss in the breadcrumb mixture. Put pieces to the side.

Add oil and garlic to a large saute pan on the stove. Get the pan really hot and then place the Dove pieces into the oiled pan. Brown on all sides which should take about 5 minutes. Remove and let rest for 3-5 minutes. They taste just like chicken nuggets so feel free to use your favorite condimant's or dipping sauce or simply eat alone.

I just thought this lizard looked cool so I threw it into this email.

What's for Dinner...Did You Say RattleSnake?

2006-09-12T13:07:00.000-07:00

SNAKE WARNING: Venomous Snakes Highly Active in Nevada.

This lovely little gem of a creature was one of four RattleSnakes that just so happened to be in the very same 'DOVE' hunting spot that we had been frequenting this season. Unlucky for the snake, he or she has now become a personal pet as well as a scheduled meal to one of our Crazy Insane Friends who finds enjoyment in playing, handling and then eating the venomous creatures.

Here's a quick peak at the other Larger RattleSnake we found a year or so back near Pyramid Lake as well as some favorite recipe's if you too ever want to cook your new found pet rattler.

TOP 12 RattleSnake Recipe's

HOW TO BUTCHER RATTLESNAKES - Cut head off about 4 inches behind head. Hang by tail just below rattles so that snake may bleed well. Using a sharp knife, on belly side and ...
RATTLESNAKE CHILI
BAKED RATTLESNAKE
DRESSING RATTLESNAKES
Baked Western Diamondback Rattlesnake
Bar-B-Q'd Rattler
Fried Rattlesnake with Ham Gravy
ROASTED RATTLESNAKE
Rattlesnake Kabobs
RATTLESNAKE CAKE
COWBOY (SNAKE) CAKES MMMM GOOD
Rattlesnake Lupinaci

If you have any other recipe's or recommendations for cooking RattleSnake, please feel free to send them to info@fishthewest.com.

Bye Bye Birdie's

2006-09-05T09:34:00.000-07:00

FRIDAY: September 1
Evening Hunt
Opening day we started out with nothing but a few sightings of dove, but easily found ourselves running out of daylight without having had too many shots. We didn't really mind since we still had 29 days left and and a weather forecast that looked to remain above the freezing mark.

SATURDAY: September 2
Evening Hunt
Limited out in a matter of what seemed to be minutes and had a couple of surprise encounters with two young Rattle Snakes. Just like the Dove, one got away and the other ...well let's just say he came a little to close for my comfort and easily found himself to be a gonner.

Thanks for the "Good Eats".

SUNDAY: September 3
Morning Hunt
Sunday morning was a good day for getting back into the birds but wasn't nearly as bountiful as the day prior.

Dove Hunting Begins in Less Than 24 Hours

2006-08-31T12:55:00.000-07:00

It's already that time again...
It's DOVE SEASON: September 1 - September 30

We Made It To Idaho!

2006-08-29T09:45:00.000-07:00

I have to say that I have always enjoyed receiving fishing stories and photos from a couple of fellow outdoor enthusiasts, Wayne and Robin. If you don't remember Wayne, he's the one who caught the monster 35 1/2 inch 13 lb 9oz Cutthroat Trout using a chartreuse estaz body with black hackle back in April 2005.

Well they made it to Idaho!

"These are pictures taken in the White Cloud Mountains near Stanley, Idaho. We came upon a sow bear and 3 cubs. Try to zoom in on the bears if you can. I was with my brothers working (if that is what you can call it) spraying weeds and generally having a good time. The mountains were gorgeous!

I did fish the Salmon River and had a 30+ inch salmon on my Sage 5 weight and could not bring it to shore after fighting with it for a good 15 minutes. The goal was rainbows, but this guy caught me by suprise. "

Thanks Wayne...we look forward to more fishing tales from Idaho...

You Can Never Go Wrong With Premature Scouting

2006-08-22T07:18:00.000-07:00

It may seem a bit premature to begin scouting for deer when we still have 47 days left till opening weekend, but any excuse to get off road every weekend and see some of Nevada's wildlife works for us. With two and a half days to scout, the trip planned out and three areas plotted on the maps, we were off and running and loving every minute of it.

Lucky for us we did come across a few bachelor herds with some rather decent looking 3 and 4 point bucks, but there was nothing that would break any of the current Nevada State Records. All I know is that none of us minded not seeing a HUGE Mule Deer especially since that might take away from all of the excitement that we have left to look forward too in the next 47 days till opening season.

Trying to get through to check out a one more spot. - More Photos

Two Burrow Owls out on the hunt. - More Photos

Trout Fishing on the Little Truckee

2006-08-18T08:40:00.000-07:00

Thanks David for sharing your pictures with us...and Congrats to you on your win.

"Here's a trout for you, fresh from the Little Truckee River yesterday where I celebrated my Primary election win (and yes, it was released.)"

Volunteer and Participate in Preservation

2006-08-14T14:28:00.000-07:00

Are you interested in getting close up and personal with Nevada's Wildlife or are you simply interested in some adventures off-road? If any of this sounds appealing to you ....be sure to look at becoming a volunteer for the Department of Wildlife this year.

NDOW has several Volunteer Activities that are ongoing and scheduled throughout the year such as: hunter education, angler education, tours of fish hatcheries and interpretation. You can also sign up to be a special volunteer for big horn sheep relocation, electrofishing, seed collection, guzzler construction and maintenance or record counting the sage grouse.

Please visit NDOW's downloadable application or call Kim Toulouse (775) 688-1893 for more information.

Sardine ...Anyone?

2006-08-11T10:37:00.000-07:00

With the sun setting fast and the fish rising all around us, we only had an hour left for fishing before we had to head in from Inlcine Lake.

I was lucky enough, this time, to actually get something hooked at the end of my line....and with no complaints, I'd have to say that little three inch trout would have easily fit into a sardine can if I had only had one on hand.

Thanks again Double D' for letting us fish and for the great grub! It's always a good time with you and your family!

More photos of Incline Lake, click here.

Luckier Than The Rest of Us on The Truckee

2006-08-09T08:40:00.000-07:00

I have to admit that I am not an experienced fly fisherman when it comes to fishing on the Truckee River or any River really. It takes a different expertise and an in depth knowledge about the changes in the river flow and the river currents which almost make it seem like you have to be the Head of your Science class or your Biology class to be successful at fishing.

Well fishing last night was somthing of a game of luck...I mean how can you have five friends out fishing a similiar stretch of river and using the same fly patterns but only one of the five caught all of the fish?

Granted they were nothing to Brag about but surely the rest of us wouldn't have minded getting one on the end of our lines.

Top 10 Western and Eastern Stocked Bodies of Water

2006-07-31T09:11:00.000-07:00

WESTERN NEVADA

Topaz Lake - Douglas County
4,934 Rainbow Trout

Thomas Creek - Washoe County
601 Rainbow Trout

Galena Creek - Washoe County
215 Rainbow Trout

Whites Creek - Washoe County
257 Rainbow Trout

Walker River/West Fork - Lyon County
2,000 Rainbow Trout

Carson River - Carson
4,176 Rainbow Trout

Marilyns Pond - Washoe County
1,002 Rainbow Trout

Marlette Lake - Washoe County
4,032 Rainbow Trout

Truckee River - Washoe County
4,335 Rainbow Trout

Knott Creek Reservoir - Humboldt County
2,501 Rainbow Trout
2,500 BowCutt

EASTERN NEVADA

Angel Lake - Elko County
1,500 Tiger Trout
2,700 Brook Trout

Ruby Lake - Elko County
2,403 Rainbow Trout

Jiggs Res - Elko County
2,790 Rainbow Trout

Tabor Creek - Elko County
1,008 Rainbow Trout

Cleve Creek - White Pine County
1,000 Rainbow Trout

White River - White Pine County
1,000 Rainbow Trout

Willow Creek Pond - Lander County
1,073 Rainbow Trout

Tonkin Res - Eureka County
870 Rainbow Trout

Dry Creek Res - Elko County
1,073 Rainbow Trout

Wildhorse Res - Elko County
133,000 (2 inch) Rainbow Trout
6,050 Rainbow Trout

Possession Limits for Chukar Have Increased

2006-07-27T07:26:00.000-07:00

The Nevada Board of Wildlife Commissioners increased the possession limit for chukar and Hungarian partridge from 12 to 18 at their June meeting. This amendment to the biennial upland game season and bag regulations will be in effect for this fall’s hunting season.

“Good to excellent range conditions and a wide distribution of birds mean that these new limits will not have a biological impact on the chukar resource,” said Shawn Espinosa, game biologist with the Nevada Department of Wildlife (NDOW).

The abundance of birds and the amendment mean that a hunter can have a three-day possession limit rather than a two-day limit. If rising gas prices cause a hunter to plan fewer trips this year, the three-day limit allows him or her to extend each trip. This brings Nevada’s limits closer to those of neighboring states.

Nevada Department of Wildlife
Read the Rest of the Press Release

Size Truly Shouldn't Matter

2006-07-25T14:46:00.000-07:00

I was lucky enough to be re-introduced to an old acquintance who just so happened to have a similiar name, work in an almost similiar career field, have an identical breed of dog and just so happens to also share a similiar passion for hunting and fishing. She also has her very own BLOG that seems somewhat similiar in Content as we have with the FishTheWest BLOG. It could almost make for a good X File Cloning Episode if Moulder was still around.

So when you visit her website, please note that Size Truly Shouldn't Matter...especially when you read some of the Fishing Adventures she tells from Alaska comparitive to our Adventures here in Nevada. It just wouldn't be fair...LOL

Monster Ling Cod - Alaska

Barely Comparable 12" Rainbow - Nevada

A Little About 'Da Baums'
Looking for stories of adventures, dogs and pictures of whatever Da Baums have killed lately? Then this is the site for you! We will try to keep the gore down for those of you with weak stomachs!

www.dbaums.blogspot.com/

A Hundred and Ten in The Shade at Squaw Creek Reservoir

2006-07-24T10:22:00.000-07:00

With the dogs kenneled up, the beer on ice and the tunes playing in the CD player, we were on our way to Squaw Creek Reservoir to do a little fishing and hang out with some good old friends. Little did we realize that by the time we got to our favorite spot, the day and evening would play out just like the John Fogerty song,"A Hundred and Ten in The Shade".

Now I know that you would think it an unwise decision to drive up near the Black Rock Desert and camp ou t - but we thought for sure with the little rise in elevation and the Reservoir known to be windy from noon till early evening, that we would have been just fine. I can tell you that by the time noon hit at Squaw Creek, there was no one to be found on the water, rather everyone was in the water to simply cool down.

The tempature must have been over a hundred degrees and there was absolutely zero wind. Nothing. Nada. Even a few cold beers and a trusty canopy couldn't cool down what turned out to be one of the hottest camping days in my history.

As we watched the time go by and multiple beer cans and beer bottles adding up, we slowly counted the minutes before the sun set behind the northern mountains. Finally, you could actually leave the not so comfortable and minimal shaded area to wonder about in the little less than smoltering heat.

After a few games of 'Washers', a few more beers, and a few BBQ'd burgers it was time to say your prayers and only ask that the next day could be a few degrees cooler.

Oh...and did I mention that since there was no wind, no rain and no anything that there was an overabundance of one thing: Mosquitos. Even after becoming as·phyx·i·ated by large amounts of DEET, I was not so overjoyed to wake up the next morning with multiple skeeter bites in places I couldn't even describe to you online without charging $2.99 a minute.

Waking up scratching and clawing at every little bug bite, with only 3 hours total of sleep... the morning couldn't have come any sooner. Halleluiah.... I would say that our prayers had been answered. There was cloud cover and cool breezes all over the Reservoir.

With the float tubes in the water, our lines in the water and the chance of rain, we were the happiest we had been all weekend.

Sinking line with an olive leech and olive wooly bugger seemed to do the trick and allowed us to have some fun on the water for a few hours. Bait fisherman off-shore seemed to be getting lucky as well catching both Trout and CatFish using Worms and Powerbait.

If you have any hot and humid fishing stories, feel free to send them our way at info@fishthewest.com.

Riverside Fishing on the Fall River

2006-07-18T16:42:00.000-07:00

"Here are just two of 95 photos from our flyfishing trip to the Riverside on the Fall River in Northern California and the surrounding rivers." ~ David LaPlante

Thanks David for the photos...and be sure to check out the other fishing related photos as well as the recent Crested Butte fishing photos on: www.davidlaplante.com

Outdoor Adventure Videos: Available September 2006

2006-07-17T15:40:00.000-07:00

Just dropping a line out to everyone to let you know that we are in development stages of creating an online OutdoorAdventureVideos.com website that markets too the avid WATERFOWL Hunters. Stay Tuned for more information on that! We're looking to launch the site right before opening season...

Oh and be sure to add yourself as a friend to our myspace accounts. We're always happy to meet new people.

www.myspace.com/fishthewest
www.myspace.com/outdooradventurevideos

Decent Trout Fishing on the Truckee River

2006-07-16T18:27:00.001-07:00

Thanks goes out again to Nicki, a fellow fisherwoman, for her pictures and hot tips on what's working on the Truckee River this summer.

"For the trout, I've used either salmon eggs on a split shot, or lures - depends on what the fish are in the "mood" for! My most recent trips, they have been more interested in the lures - usually rooster tails, but caught some of the bigger trout on a Panther Martin silver Blue Fox!"
- Nicki

2006 Special Sage Grouse Hunt Application: Sheldon National Wildlife Refuge

2006-07-13T14:50:00.000-07:00

With the hunting season approaching rapidly for game birds, I wanted to share that the Nevada Department of Wildlife has posted a Reservation Application for the 2006 Special Sage Grouse Hunt in the Charles Sheddon National Wildlife Refuge.

Download the online application here.

First Season: September 16-17
Second Season: September 23-24

Daily Bag Limit: 2
Possession Limit: 4

MORE ABOUT THE SHELDON
"The Sheldon National Wildlife Refuge protects more than half a million acres of high desert habitat for large wintering herds of pronghorn antelope, scattered bands of bighorn sheep, and a rich assortment of other wildlife. The landscape is vast, rugged, and punctuated with waterfalls, narrow gorges, and lush springs among rolling hills and expansive tablelands of sagebrush and mountain mahogany. Elevations on the refuge range from 4,100 to 7,200 feet. Annual precipitation rarely amounts to more than a dozen inches, creating a harsh environment where a wide variety of wildlife manages to thrive. Although established for the protection of wildlife and habitat, the refuge encompasses other interesting features. The remains of old homesteads and ranches intrigue visitors. The lure of fire opals draws miners and rock collectors to the Virgin Valley mining district. Geothermal hot springs create a refreshing oasis in the heart of the refuge. The refuge's mosaic of resources and public interests generates significant management challenges. - US FISH AND GAME"

This description of the SNWR was taken from the US Fish and Wildlife Service Website. Further information on the Sheldon can be read by clicking here.

For more photos of the Sheldon National Wildlife Refuge, visit our gallery from last years Antelope Hunt or Read about the Antelope Hunt by clicking here.

You've Fished the South East - Now Fish the West!

2006-07-12T07:27:00.000-07:00

Thanks to FlyFishMagazine for taking time to make some positive remarks about our website.

"With my proclivity for visiting Las Vegas, I don't know how I have missed the Fish the West website until now. They have a great looking site and blog with lots of information about fishing the other end of the country. I wish I had found them before my last trip out to Vegas. You should have seen the look on the casino concierge's face when I asked her about booking a fishing trip. Sidebar links have been added." - FlyFishMagazine

For more information on fishing the South East be sure to check out ....Flyfishmagazine Blog which is a sister publication to the e-zine www.flyfishmagazine.com. They will use our little corner of the blogosphere to keep our readers up to date on whats new and news in the world of fly fishing. You should also expect a healthy dose of our Editor's ramblings. Excuse him, he can't really help it. View Profile

Bass Fishing is Hot at Ft. Churchill Cooling Ponds

2006-07-09T10:21:00.000-07:00

Went out fishing at the Ft. Churchill Cooling Ponds last Saturday and caught this WHOPPER along with several decent size small mouth bass. - Nicki H

For more information on Mason Valley and the Ft. Churchill cooling ponds click here.

Happy Fourth of July from the Sparks Marina

2006-07-04T09:43:00.000-07:00

Fishing at Mt. Hood, Oregon

2006-06-27T20:49:00.000-07:00

Thanks to Jay T for his photos and his comments about fishing Oregon...

"MT Hood as seen from Laurence lake Sunday...wide open for 9 inch stockers, one real nice 16" fat bow, one cut bow and a small bull trout. The baetis hatch didn't appear and it was windy the second day so almost perfect"...Jay T.

If you have stories and photos of your recent or past fishing adventures - be sure to send them our way at info@fishthewest.com.

Adventure Number 1,011: Knott Creek Reservoir and the Pine Forest

2006-06-24T16:13:00.000-07:00

After just getting back from our six day road trip to the most eastern part of Nevada, and having had seen more wildlife and places to visit, we decided to plan for one more excursion to the Pine Forest and specifically to Knott Creek Reservoir.

Now you can get to Knott Creek several different ways, but we always opt for the off-road experience... which if you're leaving Reno/Sparks head north to Gerlach, through the Black Rock Desert, too Soldier Meadows, past Summit Lake, through the Sheldon and right up to the turn-off to Knott Creek, Onion and Blue Lakes. All in all the total drive time took about five hours.

Please be advised that the roads are rough and can be steep at times and only high clearance 4X4 vehicles should be driven into the Reservoir. All large campers, trailers and RV's will not be able to make it in, so if you do plan on visiting, be sure to plan on camping more primitively: tent, sleeping bag, cots...etc.

OK...so we started out with every intention on landing what we've heard referred too as 'Old Moe', the largest Trout living in Knott Creek Reservoir, but soon learned that normal Nevada fly patterns at this Reservoir just don't work as easily as they do in other Nevada Reservoirs. Sure the Department of Wildlife says that Emergers, Wooly Buggers and Leeach Patterns work best, but I'm here to say these fish have everything to pick from for breakfast, lunch, and dinner whether it be the fresh water shrimp, over abundance of mayflies, leeches or whatever else their heart desires.

After hours upon hours of fishing and dozens of once barbed now barb less hooks...All I can say is getting skunked at fishing is better than any day at the office.

Thankfully we met a few fellow fishermen that put our woes to rest by telling us that they too had been to the reservoir every year since back in 1964 and had the experience of being skunked but skunked for the entire five days. Lucky for us, we only experienced one day.

TRIP PHOTOS
Be sure to check out the recent photos of the Knott Creek Reservoir trip or send us some of your fishing adventures or fishing tips for Knott Creek: info@fishthewest.com.

Regulations
Regulations and seasons at the reservoir are as follows: Angling season is open from the second Saturday in June through November 15 and only artificial lures and single barb less hooks can be used. If you are so lucky as to wrangle up one of these large trout, you can only keep one in your possession a day so long that he's over 18 inches in length.

"You gotta be tough to be old"

Adventure # 1,010: Great Basin National Park, Lehman Caves, Comins Lake, Cave Lake, Elko and Unionville

2006-06-20T11:31:00.000-07:00

What better way to see Nevada than to take a 6 day road trip that begins on one side of the state and leads you to the far other side and then back around again?

We began our journey early Sunday morning with our first intentions on taking Highway 50 East bound towards Baker, Nevada and the Great Basin National Park. We drove through Fernley, Fallon and headed up to Austin, Nevada to fill up the truck. Little did we know that Austin was being invaded with thousands upon thousands of Mormon Crickets. The roads where literally colored red with the moving crickets and left a solid blood red color in every path that a car had traveled over them. Even the bikers at the gas station said that they had a hard time driving without slipping from side to side on the bug guts.

After leaving Austin and driving through the Humboldt-Toiyabe National Forest and Eureka, we continued on our way east towards Baker making a few quick stops along the way. Illipah Reservoir was just one stop before driving into Ely, Nevada. Illipah is a great place to fish, but like any Nevada Reservoir, you have to get to fishing early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid the wind. There are several places to camp around the Reservoir as well as campgrounds that are setup a little further out from the Reservoir itself.

Leaving Illipah we headed past Ely and made a quick stop by Comins Lake which is located directly to the right of Highway 50/93. There were only a few folks camping and fishing on the lake that afternoon, probably due to the amount of wind that was causing some white caps on the top of the water.

With 6 hours behind us, we finally arrived to our first destination of Baker, Nevada. Baker is located right at the foot of Wheeler Peak and the Great Basin National Park and has a few amenities as well as a place to fill up if you need to. Although we had arrived at the Park, our next three days where scheduled to stay with a family run ranch called Hidden Canyon Ranch. I would recommend this ranch to anyone who enjoys the great outdoors as well as several hidden and secret amenities that they offer.

We were able to stay at their 10,000 square foot log cabin and use all of the amenities that they had been feverishly working on: Fishing Ponds with Bonneville Cutthroat Trout, Pheasant Hunting (not offered till season opens), camping, barbeques, horseshoes, swimming, ATV trips, breakfast and dinner. Not only did we enjoy all of the amentias, but we also encountered and enjoyed several wildlife opportunities: wild turkeys with young turkeys, pheasants, does, bucks and fawns, wild and tamed horses, llamas, chickens, chukar, quail and goats...etc.

Having had a great time at the ranch we headed back to Baker and stopped by the Lehman Caves for an hour and a half tour. The tour is something else to consider doing if you travel to the Great Basin National Park. It's an amazing and almost claustrophobic experience to walk underground several hundred feet. You feel the difference in temperature and humidity the minute that you first take a step inside. The park has done a great job of being able to give you the history of the caves as well as an understanding of how the cave was formed throughout time. Leaving the park was hard; however our third day was planned for camping at Cave Lake as well as driving around Success Loop to find the herds of Elk.

Cave Lake is located just outside of Ely, Nevada and takes about 15 minutes to get to on a well paved road. The lake is another must see for either fishing or camping. We had no time for fishing since a storm had just passed through and we needed to setup camp before heading out to spot the Elk. BINGO! There they were...bedded down with their young in an opening at the bottom of some quakies. Like anything, once you spot one thing, your eyes quickly become tuned into to being able to spot several others. They were all over the side hills slowly grazing back and forth. We must have spent the next hour just glassing all of them and enjoying having had seen as much wildlife that we had.

The fourth day was planned for staying in Elko, getting cleaned up and heading to what is one of the BEST of the BEST Basque steakhouses around: The Star. With an hour and a half wait on a Wednesday evening, we were ecstatic to finally have sat down and ordered up some of the largest cuts of meat that no other steakhouse could offer in Nevada.

Once out of Elko we had intended on heading to Wildhorse Reservoir for the last night of camping but plans soon changed when we realized that driving so much could become exhausting especially driving on a paved road. So we had decided to head back on Interstate 80 West towards home and make one more stop in a place that we know and love: Unionville, Nevada.

Unionville is located in Pershing County and is considered to be an old Ghost Town that was once most popular during the 1870's through the 1880's when it produced about $3,000,000 dollars in what was mostly silver. There are still several old homes and relics around to look at as well as a Bed and Breakfast. There is a park that is located further in the canyon and is well maintained for travelers or campers. I do want to note that there are dozens of peacocks running around the streets throughout the day and if you have never encountered peacocks and you are a light sleeper, you might find it difficult to get a restful sleep throughout the evening. They are loud and obnoxious birds but great alarm systems for predators.

Once we finished setting up camp, we headed out to do a little skeet shooting. I think the score was 21/33 vs. 32/43 and then took a drive to spot some deer. We didn't have to go too far since the deer side step the two canyon walls throughout Unionville. If you want to see wildlife just pull up a chair, grab a beer and wait. They come to you.

So all in all, this trip was one of the best trips that we have ever planned for and taken. Basically we experienced and saw more places and wildlife in six days than in the last year. If you want any more information on this trip or would like some recommendations on where to stay, simply send us an email and we'll help you out! Have some great outdoor adventures and get off road and fish Nevada!

For more photos of the trip Click Here.

Bass Fishin' at Sand Hollow, Utah

2006-06-19T12:59:00.000-07:00

Sand Hollow is one of Utah's newest State Parks and has hopes to be one of the most popular state parks offering all kinds of recreation from fishing, to boating, biking, equistrian riding and off-roading.

Thanks goes out to Chris and his family for letting us know about this "Hot Spot" that he recommended to everyone to try out. Seems that he and the family had a blast catching some nice size Blue Gill and Bass using jiggs for the most part as well as a few worms here and there. Be sure to check out the photos he sent in.

A Little Information About Sand Hollow, Utah
Sand Hollow Reservoir is the newest of Washington County's largemouth bass waters, located just a stone's throw south from Quail Creek and even closer to Hurricane. A state park entrance fee of $7 per vehicle is required to enter the park...Sand Hollow began filling in 2002 and will be more than 600 surface acres when full. It opened to fishing in 2004. Eight- to 16-inch bass are extremely abundant and a surprising number of larger bass, ranging up to more than five pounds, are also caught.

For more information on Sand Hollow please visit the links below:
Sand Hollow State Park
Utah Division of Wildlife Resources

Remember Kids Fish FREE at the Sparks Marina, June 10

2006-06-05T14:49:00.000-07:00

The Nevada Department of Wildlife with cooperation from the City of Sparks, the Recreation Department and the Sparks Rotary are sponsoring a day of FREE fishing at Sparks Marina geared towards providing opportunities for kids to enjoy a day of successful fishing.

Click here to learn more.
Click here to see photos of the Sparks Marina.

Memorial Day Weekend at Eagle Lake, California

2006-06-05T14:43:00.000-07:00

Fishing Memorial Day Weekend at Eagle Lake, California
Thanks goes out to Marty and his family for sending us his Memorial Weekend Fishing photos from Eagle Lake, California. Looks like you got a little snow but that didn't let that stop you from having a successful fishing trip!

Click here to check out more photos of Eagle Lake.

Fishing Baja, Mexico

2006-06-01T15:34:00.000-07:00

Lots of fish and a whole lotta relaxation....Donna
Check out more photos of Baja!

Comins Lake May Be Slow But Well Worth Fishing this Summer

2006-06-01T08:26:00.000-07:00

Thanks goes out again to another FTW Reader...Chris C. Seems he and his family where just recently out at Comins Lake located in beautiful Ely Nevada.

"Yes we have been up to Cumings Lake in Ely. We had a blast! It took us 3 days to catch 5 fish but it was well worth it. One was a Pike at least 20" another was a 5lb German Brown and 3 pan Rainbow Trout. We used worms and marshmellows plus roostertails for the big ones. I don't have the pics of the big one of course (the proof is in the freezer).

I finally got the wife to get a season license (vs a 24hr license). She really enjoyed her time there as well.

Here are a few of the pics we did take. Hope you enjoy as well as your readers"

...Caz and Shannon

Comins Lake Information:

Fishing Nevada and It's Most Recently Stocked Waters

2006-05-18T13:39:00.000-07:00

Fishing in Nevada, specifically during the Summer and Fall months, looks to be promising for everyone. The Nevada Department of Wildlife has been busy stocking what seems to be every body of water in Nevada with a healthy population of Rainbow raised Trout.

If you are confused on where to fish or what Nevada waters have been recently stocked, be sure to check out the Nevada Department of Wildlife's Stocking Program Page.

You can also check out if your favorite fishing hole has been stocked or any fishing hole by region.

WESTERN NEVADA
- Boulder Reservoir
- Sparks Marina
- Liberty Pond
- Tahoe/Cave Rock
- Topaz Lake

EASTERN NEVADA
- South Fork Reservoir
- Wildhorse Reservoir
- Ruby Lake
- Cave Lake
- Comins Lake

SOUTHERN NEVADA
- Echo Canyon Reservoir
- Eagle Canyon Reservoir
- Dacey Reservoir / Kirch WMA
- Lake Mead

NDOW Hosts Free Fly Fishing Class FREE

2006-05-12T07:27:00.000-07:00

Attention all entry level fly fisherman and women, The Nevada Department of Wildlife will be hosting a FREE Fly Fishing Class on May 18 from 6 P.M. - 9 P.M. The class will be held at the Verdi Community Library, 270 Bridge Street and will be focused on basic casting and fly-tying techniques.

Pre-registration is required. For more information call the Department of Wildlife at 688-1559 or visit www.ndow.org.

May 18
6 P.M. - 9 P.M.
Verdi Community Library
270 Bridge St

Big Fish Montana

2006-05-08T07:11:00.000-07:00

This just in from one of our new MySpace Friends... Rob S

"You guys have a great site, I am waiting for the day I can catch one of those monster Lahontan cutt's, Montana has great cutthroat fisheries, but the yellowstone and westslope's don't get near that big! Here's a couple pictures from the Madison River outside Bozeman, MT for your site- Cheers and Good Fishing!"

~ Thanks Again

Muddy Waters at Squaw Creek Reservoir

2006-05-03T19:06:00.000-07:00

What could have been any better than fishing and being outdoors this last weekend. With tempatures close to breaking through the 80's it was anything but picture perfect weather.

With excitement building from packing the vehicle the night before, we where up and on the road to float tube one of our favorite Nevada reservoirs, Squaw Creek. We arrived shortly after 7:00 a.m. to find that we would not have the reservoir to ourselves like years past, rather we would be sharing our day with other families that held similiar interests.

The water was brown and muddy from the winter run-off which influenced which pattern of fly the fish would bite on. I do have to say, that even if these fish are planters, they can still be finiky eaters. So of course given my two cents, between the both of us... the score was 9 to 3. Nine to him and three to me.

He say's he just had the right stuff...I said it's because he had the only fly that they where biting on at the time. Yes, it was just like someone said...it was just like "Fishin' in a Bucket'. I wouldn't have minded having that luck. If you're wondering what the fly was..it was a simply a Bead Head Black Wooly Bugger with a size 8 hook.

There's always next time ...Be sure to check out some of the other Hot Nevada Fishing Spots by visiting: www.fishthewest.com/fishing/. Or visit the Squaw Creek Reservoir photo gallery for more outdoor adventures.

9lb 12oz Pyramid Lake Cutthroat Trout

2006-04-20T22:42:00.000-07:00

With hours spent searching through past fishing photos sent from fellow fisherman, I thought this photo would get everyone excited about fishing Pyramid Lake these next few months...if not this weekend. I know I'm a little envious.

Pyramid Lake, Nevada
January 1, 2003
"The photo attached is me after a fishing trip at Pyramid Lake on New Years Day, 2003. It is not a record breaking fish, but it definitely broke all of my own personal records. Caught it from a boat, trolling about 200' from shore in Dago Bay. Weather was perfect, water was like glass, and this lunker took a frog colored torpedo late in the day. Thought I was reeling an old boat anchor, until he hit the surface and started fighting."

Top 10 Recently Stocked Bodies of Water

2006-04-20T07:44:00.000-07:00

With warmer than usual weather forecasted for this upcoming April weekend, I thought that it was fitting to list the TOP 10 Recently Stocked Bodies of Water in Northern Nevada ... Thank you NDOW for the information.

Idlewild Park Pond, Washoe County
Stocked 1,005 Rainbows: Average Size 9.6

Rye Patch Reservoir, Pershing County
Stocked 500 Rainbows: Average Size 9.8

Liberty Pond, Churchill County
Stocked 1,334 Rainbows: Average Size 9.8

Sparks Marina, Washoe County
Stocked 3,332 Rainbows: Average Size 9.2

Truckee River, Washoe County
Stocked 300 Pilot Peak Cutthroat Trout : Average Size 17.1

Wilson Common, Washoe County
Stocked 625 Rainbows: Average Size 9.4

Sacramento Pass Pond, White Pine County
Stocked 308 Rainbows: Average Size 9.6

Silver Creek Reservoir, White Pine County
Stocked 2,380 Rainbows: Average Size 9.6

Comins Lake, White Pine County
Stocked 3,045 Rainbows: Average Size 9.5

Ruby Lake NWR/Springs, Elko County
Stocked 710 Rainbows: Average Size 8

Wilson River, Oregon and Steelhead Trout Fishing

2006-04-13T21:25:00.000-07:00

First time steelhead fishing on the Wilson River in Oregon, two weeks ago. This little beauty danced across the river on light tackle, and I landed her in about ten minutes. She was a native steelhead, and after the picture, I let her go. ~ Donna S.

The Oregon Department of Wildlife says, "The spring chinook and summer steelhead runs in these rivers are expected to be similar to last year, with a fair to good return of hatchery fish. The daily bag limit is two adipose fin-clipped adult chinook and/or steelhead and five fin-clipped jack chinook. "

For more Wilson River Steelhead Trout photos, click here. For more information on fishing Oregon, visit the Oregon Department of Wildlife.

If you have photos that you would like to share with Fish the West - please send them to info@fishthewest.com.

Fish the East...What's Up With That?

2006-04-10T20:32:00.000-07:00

Fishflop, our new friend on Myspace.com has sent a nice photo of a recent catch he made back home in Pasadena, Maryland on Sunday, April 9.

"Thought you might like this one. I caught it yesterday." - Fishflop

If you want to learn more about fishing on Myspace.com - be sure to check out myspace.com/fishthewest.

Orvis Comes to Reno, Nevada

2006-04-08T19:42:00.000-07:00

Orvis
Grand Opening in Reno, Nevada
April 7-9, 2006

The new Orvis store is approximately 15,000 square feet and as quoted on their website, "this Orvis Store is more than a place to shop. It's an experience." So grab the family, your buddy or the dog and be sure to check it out.

Grand opening festivities on Sunday include Free T-shirts to the first 100 shoppers, Free Food, Fly Tying Exhibits, Casting Clinics, and much more.

Google Directions
13925 S Virginia St, Reno, NV

Fish the West Lands Its Own Space at My Space

2006-04-03T07:47:00.000-07:00

We're always looking for new folks to give us insight on where to fish in Nevada and what's working and what isn't working. Be sure to stop by and check out the new FTW Myspace Page and add yourself as a friend of FTW.

www.myspace.com/fishthewest

Fishing for Trout Anytime of Year: Wilson Common

2006-04-02T21:11:00.000-07:00

If your looking for a quick secluded getaway with the family or with friends, you should try out Wilson Common Pond in Washoe Valley. The pond is stocked yearly with rainbows and cuttbows and features several other amenities to keep non-anglers entertained: tennis courts, volleball courts and horseshoe pits.

REGULATIONS — Season is open year around, any hour of the day or night. Limit is 5 trout.

MORE INFO — Click here.

TRAVEL FROM RENO — Travel south 1 mile past Bower's Mansion on old 395. Turn east on William Brent Drive and you will see the park to your left shortly after turning.

Where to Fish Nevada This Spring, Summer and Fall

2006-03-30T07:14:00.000-08:00

Do you have any plans for fishing Nevada this year? If so, we've got a list of Hot Spots that we're going to visit and that we know you should visit too!

Western Nevada

Onion Valley Reservoir
Blue Lakes
Knott Creek Reservoir
Boulder Reservoir
Squaw Creek Reservoir
Wilson Common
Walker River
Desert Creek
Pyramid Lake

Eastern Nevada

Southern Nevada

Eagle Valley Reservoir
Echo Canyon Reservoir

Be sure to check out all of Nevada's Hot Spots by visiting: http://www.fishthewest.com/fishing/

Fishing Update for Pyramid Lake and Echo Canyon Reservoir

2006-03-28T07:12:00.000-08:00

Pyramid Lake, Nevada
Have you ever wondered how you could be using the same lure or the same fly...and standing next to someone in a similiar spot, but you're the one only one to get skunked while everyone around you doesn't seem to have a problem landing 'em? This is exactly how I felt this weekend at Pyramid Lake trying to land the BIG Cutthroat Trout! Check out some of the latest photos from Pyramid Lake and be sure to check out the Stone Mother photos and notice the water level difference from March 2006 to March 2004. It's a pretty amazing difference.

Echo Canyon Reservoir
Hope you enjoy these pic's. My family and I went to Echo Canyoun and took 7 trout home with marshmello bait and worms. 8 hours and a great time later we were home here in Las Vegas by 9 p.m. that night enjoying fresh trout and lemon for dinner. What a journey it has been........ Chris C.

Regulations: Season is open year around, any hour of the day or night. Limit is 5 trout and 15 warmwater game fish of which not more than 10 may be largemouth bass. The daily and possession limit is the same. No live bait is allowed.

And They Say ...The Third Times a Charm

2006-03-11T17:21:00.000-08:00

Thanks goes out to Chris and his fishin' buddies for sending us some information on his adventures to Wildhorse Reservoir, Ely and Eagle Valley Reservoir. Seems they limited out on the third day of their trip with nothing but a worm and a hook!

Eagle Valley Reservoir - Lincoln County
Regulations: General regulations prevail. Limit is 5 trout daily and in possession. Season is open year around, any hour of the day or night.

Nevada Anglers Set Three New State Records in 2005

2006-03-07T07:42:00.000-08:00

"After several years of drought, two consecutive years of rain hit the state and the improved water conditions paid off for Nevada’s anglers as they caught three fish in 2005 that will officially go into the books as new state records. " ~ NDOW

Lower Truckee River - 34-pound, 10-ounce carp
Humboldt River - 17-pound, 4-ounce white catfish
Pyramid Lake - 24-pound, 12-ounce cutthroat trout caught on a black wooly bugger at the North Nets.

For more information on other record book trophy fish, please contact the Nevada Department of Wildlife www.ndow.org.

Date: 2/21/06
Contact: Geoffrey Schneider
Phone: (702) 486-5127 extension 3500

Pyramid Lake - President's Day Fishing Derby Results

2006-03-04T13:24:00.000-08:00

The results are in for the 2006 Crosby Lodge President's Day Derby at Pyramid Lake.

Heather P: 13lb 6.4oz - 32 length
Travis L: 11lb 4.8oz - 30.5 length
Jeff J: 10lb 14.4oz - 31 length
Mitch M: 9lb 12oz - 29.75 length
Dave W: 9lb 12oz - 28.75 length
Ralph A: 9lb 12oz - 29.75 length
Lonnie K: 9lb 9.6oz - 28.75 length
Jeff M: 9lb 6.4oz - 29.25 length
Travis L: 9lb 5.6oz - 29 length
Don F: 9lb 3.2oz - 28 length
Blaine M: 9lb 0.8oz - 28 length
Keith A: 9lb 0.0oz - 28.75 length
Isaac T: 8lb 8.8oz - 28 length
Wayne M: 8lb 5.6oz - 28.75 length
Tony C: 8lb 4.8oz - 27 length
Don F: 8lb 4.8oz - 27 length
Heather P: 8lb 2.4oz - 27.75 length
James F: 7lb 14.4oz - 28.5 length
Ryan H: 7lb 12.8oz - 25.5 length
Mike A: 7lb 12oz - 26.5 length

Keep an eye on our website for more Derby information coming soon! To learn more about Cutthroat Trout fishing and Pyramid Lake - click here. To read what the BIG CASH prizes where for the winners of the larget Cutthroat Trout - click here.

~ Thanks goes out to the Crosby Lodge for a great Derby Event

Fish The West Wins a Silver at the 2006 Addy Awards

2006-03-04T09:20:00.000-08:00

Fish The West has been announced as a Silver ADDY Award Winner from the Advertising Association of Northern Nevada. Thanks goes out to everyone who has wished me luck and sent me positive feedback!

Spring Turkey Draw Still Open

2006-03-03T09:00:00.000-08:00

There are remaining First Come First Serve Spring Turkey tags still available in the following Nevada counties:

Resident Hunts 326 - 0135 - CHURCHILL COUNTY - 947 Tag(s)
Resident Hunts 327 - 0135 - PERSHING COUNTY - 957 Tag(s)
Resident Hunts 328 - 0135 - LINCOLN COUNTY - 883 Tag(s)
Resident Hunts 329 - 0135 - LYON COUNTY, EXCEPT MASON VALLEY WILDLIFE MANAGEMENT AREA - 868 Tag(s)

Limit: One bearded wild turkey

Shooting Hours: One half hour before sunrise to 1 p.m. daily

For more information on purchasing a tag online, click here or visit the Nevada Department of Wildlife's website at www.ndow.org.

Experience Walker Lake, Nevada

2006-02-28T15:14:00.000-08:00

In all of my efforts to help brand Nevada as a great destination for fishing as well as outdoor adventures, there is one Nevada destination that I have overlooked for some time now and would like to highlight as a must to experience and that is Walker Lake. Walker Lake has been known for sometime now as "An Ecosystem in Crisis" and I just want to let everyone know that this is a must to add to your list of destinations.

In as little as 2 hours from Sparks or Reno you can easily find yourself enjoying all of the prestine beauty and wildlife that Walker Lake has to experience. Walker Lake is located 12 miles north of Hawthorne, 55 miles south of Fallon off U.S. 95 and 50 miles west of Yerington off U.S. 95A. It is a terminal lake (lake with no outlet) that is fed by the Walker River. Walker Lake is a remnant of the ancient Lake Lahontan, an extinct lake with surviving remnants in western Nevada and northeast California. It was formed by heavy precipitation caused by Pleistocene glaciers but largely disappeared 50,000 years ago.

The native Lahontan cutthroat trout still inhabit Walker Lake, but the fishery is now maintained by hatchery stocks. River barriers prevent any natural reproduction. Upstream water demands have decreased lake levels by 130 feet since the turn of the century and the decreased water levels have led to increased levels of dissolved solids (salts) and increased the alkalinity to near lethal limits for all fish life in the lake. An increase in lake elevations or a decrease in dissolved solid levels is needed to secure the future of the lake.

The most valuable way that you could help in the efforts to save Walker Lake is to please visit Walker Lake and see the rapid decrease in water levels for yourself. If you then choose to help in the cause to save Walker Lake, please contact the Walker Lake Working Group’s form or write a letter and mail it to the below address.

Walker Lake Working Group
P.O. Box 867
Hawthorne, NV 89415

More on Walker Lake
Visit Walker Lake Photo Gallery

Nevada Fishing License Renewal Date: February 28

2006-02-20T20:51:00.000-08:00

TIME IS ALMOST UP...
The Nevada Fishing License Year is coming to an end FEBRUARY 28, 2006

Before heading out the door to go fishing, be sure to get yourself a new 2006-2007 Fishing License as well as a new Nevada Trout Stamp. For more information on 2006-2007 Fishing Regulations, please visit the Nevada Department of Wildlife.

Fish The West Qualifies for an ADDY Award

2006-02-17T15:51:00.000-08:00

Fish The West has been chosen as a winner of an ADDY Award from the Advertising Association of Northern Nevada. The Advertising Association will announce the winners at a special presentation entitled "A Day at the Races" on Friday, March 3rd.

We are very excited that a website, devoted to Outdoor Adventures in Nevada, has taken interest with so many individuals and is now competitive enough to draw the attention of an Advertising Association.

Thank you and wish us luck!

Adventure #1,006: Road Trip to Boise, Idaho

2006-02-15T09:49:00.000-08:00

In search of a quick adventure that'll get you off the couch and out in the wide open for the weekend? Try a road trip to Boise, Idaho. It only takes 6 - 6.5 hours from the Reno/Sparks area. Well a little longer if you go the speed limit through Oregon and Jordan Valley: 55 mph.

Start your trip off Friday evening and try to get to Winnemucca before 9pm. Try staying at the Red Lion...they offer shuttle service to anywhere you'd like to go within the Winnemucca limits and be sure not to eat a thing and save room for some fine dining Basque style at The Martin (Railroad & Melarkey Streets, Winnemucca, Nevada, 89445, (775) 623-3197).

Plan to leave early in the morning around 6:30AM and begin heading North on US 95 towards the Oregon border. Look for Antelope throughout the valley as you pass Orovada and Fort McDermitt. We came across a few hundred directly off the side of the road. It was an amazing site.

Once out of Fort McDermitt, you've entered into the lower right corner of Oregon. It's a gorgeous transition to watch the mountains change from high snowy peaks, Crooked Creek Range to the left, to flat platues that look like a minature version of the Grand Canyon. The Owhyee River originates in Nevada and flows through Oregon which is said to be what had caused some of these deep cuts through the platuea's.

If you want to fish for a bit, there is a place to camp and even launch small boats directly on the Owyhee River. A quick side note: The word Owyhee applies to the River as well as the surrounding mountains and is an outdated spelling of the word Hawaii.

As you continue on US 95, you'll pass several small ranches and probably see quite a bit of wildlife directly off the sides of the road. For instance in our short drive we saw: 25+ deer, a couple hundred antelope, free range chickens, chukar, quail, pheasants, coyotes and lots and lots of road kill.

As soon as you see the Welcome to Idaho sign, your not too far from Boise now. You'll continue to drive through the out lying ranch areas for a few miles working your way towards a more congested area called Marsing, Idaho. Once you drive through the small town of Marsing, you'll see the very large and very wide river called The Snake River. There is a small park to the right of the road in Marsing, that is setup for anglers, boaters and people who like to picnic.

Allthough the trip to Boise is short, it allows you to be able to relax and enjoy several different terrains and landscapes, rivers, animals, and finally you meet some really nice people. Oh and one final note...on your way home to Nevada, if you have time, try and stop by Rye Patch Reservoir it hasn't been this full in years. Click here to see more photos.

For more photos of this trip and other trips, Click here.

Pyramid Lake Fishing Derby: February 11, 12, 18 and 19

2006-02-06T20:31:00.000-08:00

CROSBY LODGE
19th ANNUAL PRESIDENT'S DAY FISHING DERBY AT PYRAMID LAKE
The Derby starts Saturday, February 11th and Sunday, February 12th and continues to the following weekend of Saturday, February 18th and ending Sunday, February 19th.

ENTRY FEE - $65.00

BIG CASH PRIZES

1st - $4,000.00 Cash
2nd - $2,000.00 Cash
3rd - $1,000.00 Cash
4th - $800.00 Cash
5th - $700.00 Cash
6th - $600.00 Cash
7th - $500.00 Cash
8th - $450.00 Cash
9th - $400.00 Cash
10th - $300.00 Cash
11th – Fishing Charter (Cutthroat Charters) plus $100.00 Gift Certificate – Mark, Fore & Strike
12th – Fishing Charter (Just Rite Fishing) plus $50.00 Gift Certificate – Reno Fly Shop
13th – Coleman Stove plus Fishing Pole Combo and $100.00 Gift Certificate – Sportsman Warehouse
14th – Scotty Downrigger plus $50.00 Gift Certificate – The Gilly plus $50.00 Gift Certificate – Sportsman Warehouse
15th – Fish Mount (McNulty Taxidermy) plus $100.00 Gift Certificate – Sportsman Warehouse
16th – Float Tube plus $50.00 Gift Certificate – Sportsman Warehouse
17th – Fishing Pole Combo and Crosby Lodge Jacket plus $50.00 Gift Certificate – Sportsman Warehouse
18th – Hodgman Neoprene Waders plus $50.00 Gift Certificate – Sportsman Warehouse
19th – Yearly Fishing Permit 2006/2007 – Pyramid Lake Fisheries plus $50.00 Gift Certificate – Sportsman Warehouse
20th – Yearly Fishing Permit 2006/2007 – Pyramid Lake Fisheries plus $50.00 Gift Certificate – Sportsman Warehouse

*Prizes are estimated on number of entrants

Sign Up for the Derby Now!

Learn more about the Derby!

Cutthroat Trout

Adventure #1,005: Chukar Hunting: Giving It One More Hoorah

2006-01-30T07:13:00.000-08:00

Is there anything better than getting up early in the morning, grabbing a black cup of coffee, a few country CD’s and getting out of town and off road as quickly as possible? With chukar and quail season coming to a close, the plan of attack was to give it one last hoorah and try to close out the season with a ‘Bang’. Of course, for us, things never seem to happen as smoothly and as close to the plan as we would anticipate that it should.

Seems that every stop we made throughout the day lead us to a wet and snowy hike, bone chilling temperatures and a whole lotta nothing. Where do all those dang birds go when it snows?

Besides not getting to close the season with a ‘Bang’, we still found ourselves having one heck of a great adventurous day. It doesn’t even seem to matter if you travel the same road multiple times, there’s always something new to look forward too seeing.

For instance when we began our journey, we drove by Pyramid Lake for the umpteenth time and noticed how turquoise the water was from the approaching storm, ran across four Golden Eagles, 2 deceased burrows, a couple of living burrows, a couple dozen wild horses, a couple dozen rainbow trout and to top it off we saw one heck of a WIDE Buck and his little friend running alongside the Black Rock Desert. So what if we never saw any chukar, we’ve always got next season.

Click here to see the photos.

Squaw Creek Reservoir Everyone’s Hitting Their Limit

2006-01-29T11:57:00.000-08:00

Even with all of the snow this year surrounding the mountain ranges, it hasn’t affected the Reservoir icing over. Squaw Creek Reservoir is still able to be fished whether from shore, a tube or a small boat.

Thanks goes out to Sean, Douglas and their family for sharing their Hot Tip on hitting each of their rainbow trout limits: Try using WORMS when fishing from shore.

Learn more about Squaw Creek Reservoir click here.

Raccoon Be Gone

2006-01-21T16:17:00.000-08:00

We're all thankful that our little friend got his eviction notice and moved on very early this morning. Well maybe not all of us 8)

NOTE: Raccoons can breed anytime from December to June, but most of them breed around February. Gestation is 63-65 days, with most babies being born in April or May. Litter size is usually 2-5 babies. At about 8 weeks old, the young usually leave the den and follow the mother to a new location. Young are weaned at about 12 weeks and disperse in the fall or early winter; or they may stay with the mother until the following spring. Raccoons are nocturnal animals.

When eviction techniques are used, do not expect the raccoon to leave until well after dark.

Click here to learn more about Raccoon's.