Tahoe is most famous for its Mackinaw (lake trout) fishery. It's not uncommon to catch Macks over 18 pounds, and the lake holds both the California and Nevada state records of 37 pounds, 6 ounces.

Kokanee salmon also garners plenty of attention from anglers during certain times of the year. Lake Tahoe replenishes its kokanee population yearly, both through natural reproduction (in nearby tributaries) and annual stockings. Like lake trout, Tahoe proudly claims the state records for Kokanee in California and Nevada at 5 pounds, 2 ounces.

Rainbow trout, though less numerous, also offer anglers a cold-weather option. Most Tahoe rainbows hover around 10-12 inches, although some can reach upwards of 5-10 pounds. Brown trout, brook trout, Lahontan cutthroat trout, and warmer water species such as largemouth bass, crappie, and bluegill round out this mountain fishery.

Tahoe’s shoreline holds plenty of campgrounds and amenities. Because the lake lies in California and Nevada, boat anglers can use a license from either state. Shore anglers need a license from the specific state they’re fishing from. Areas within 300 feet of Tahoe’s tributaries are closed to fishing from October 1st through June 30th for spawning.