Set 35 miles outside Reno, Nevada, Frenchman Lake is known primarily as a cold-water fishery. Stocked with Eagle Lake trout by the CDFW, the lake offers a variety of catchable and fingerling fish. Slow-trolling with night crawlers is popular, but shore fishing can also be productive, particularly on the west side.

While Frenchman Lake has a good reputation for fish quantity, fish size is typically not as impressive. The boat ramp area, the narrows, and upstream near the creek inlet are recommended areas to target. Success rates fluctuate with the seasons, although the best fishing occurs outside of the summer months.

During the warmer periods, there's a reliable bullhead bite, and many anglers opt to cast bait from the shore.

Before heading to the lake, it's crucial to check updates on water levels. The lake might experience a significant drop in water levels during late summer and fall, potentially impacting boat launches. Also, given the lake's elevation at 5,500 feet, expect brisk and windy conditions during the cooler months.