Guide To Fishing At Wild Horse Reservoir

AKA: Wildhorse Lake

Remote and scenic, Wild Horse Reservoir is a favorite of anglers that enjoy catching quality fish, without fighting crowds. Brown and rainbow trout are the primary draw here, but the lake also has populations of bass, catfish and perch.

Available Fish Species
Amenities
Today's Weather & Forecast
Boat Launch Ramps
Campgrounds & RV Parks
Map
Lake Video
Contact Info

Wild Horse Reservoir is a stunning freshwater lake located in the northeastern part of Nevada, near the town of Elko. The reservoir is nestled amidst picturesque landscapes, making it a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts seeking fishing and recreational opportunities.

Fishing at Wild Horse Reservoir is an exciting experience due to the variety of fish species that inhabit its waters. Anglers can look forward to catching smallmouth bass, known for their strong fights and acrobatic jumps when hooked. Channel catfish are another popular species in the lake, prized for their size and delicious taste.

Rainbow trout and brown trout are stocked regularly in the reservoir, offering ample opportunities for anglers to try their luck at catching these prized game fish. Their fighting spirit and beautiful colors make them a favorite among trout fishing enthusiasts.

Yellow perch can also be found in Wild Horse Reservoir, providing additional angling opportunities. These fish are known for their tasty flesh and are often targeted by both experienced and novice fishermen.

Boating is a popular activity at Wild Horse Reservoir, with several boat ramps providing access to the water. Anglers can explore different areas of the lake from a boat, increasing their chances of finding the best fishing spots.

Camping facilities are available near the reservoir, providing a comfortable and scenic setting for visitors to relax and enjoy the beauty of the great outdoors. The surrounding landscape offers opportunities for hiking, wildlife watching, and stargazing, making Wild Horse Reservoir a destination that caters to both anglers and nature lovers alike.

As with any fishing location, it is essential to be aware of and comply with local fishing regulations. Visitors should ensure they have the necessary licenses and permits before fishing at Wild Horse Reservoir and follow responsible fishing practices to help protect the lake's ecosystem and preserve its natural beauty for generations to come.

This year-round fishery is a 2,800-acre lake, with about 25 miles of shoreline, and is located in the north-central part of the state, 12 miles south of Mountain City. Ice fishing is popular once the ice is safe, yet the remoteness keeps the number of anglers to a minimum. Once the ice clears there is good fishing the rest of the year. There is plenty of accessible shoreline for fishing from the bank, around most of the lake. There is a concrete boat ramp at Wild Horse Reservoir State Recreation Area, plus numerous places around the lake with primitive options for boat launching. Canoes, kayaks, car toppers and small fishing boats can be portaged from all the same areas available for bank fishing. Bring everything you will need for your stay as the amenities are limited. Camping is available, but no hookups for RVs.

What to fish for...

Fishing for smallmouth bass, channel catfish, rainbow trout, brown trout and yellow perch at Wildhorse Reservoir in Nevada.

Primary fish species residing in Wild Horse Reservoir

Click images for fishing tips and details about each species.

Wildhorse Reservoir Amenities

Marina: NO
Boat Rental: NO
Boat Launch Ramp: YES
Campgrounds: YES
RV Hookups: NO
Lodging: NO
Convenience Store: NO
Bait & Tackle: NO
Restaurant: YES

Today's Weather & Forecast

Public Boat Launch Ramps & Landings

Wild Horse Reservoir State Recreation Area Boat Ramp
Located mid lake, east side, off Gold Creek Road, this is a one-lane, concrete ramp with a dock and paved parking.

Click here for a Nevada Fishing License.