Spooner Lake Fishing in Douglas County, Nevada

• Overview

  Out in Douglas County, Nevada, sits Spooner Lake. The ground around here is rolling hill. Roughly 88 acres: a morning covers one end, an afternoon the other. The bank runs about 1.7 miles all the way round, so one visit can cover most of it. Head to Indian Hills, 6.8 miles away, for anything you forgot. The big place round here is Reno, 29 miles distant. Being near a boundary, it pays to know which side you are fishing.

• Where to Fish on Spooner Lake

  Depth is not on record here, so the bank has to tell you. The arms fish better than the open middle whenever the water is up. Draw-down through summer strips the margins, so follow the water out. Fish documented in Douglas County include rainbow trout, brook trout and tahoe sucker. County records show what lives in the area; the local agency holds the water-by-water list. Work Spooner Lake in sections rather than trying to cover it.

• Seasonal Patterns

  In an average year August sits at 62°F and January at 28°F. Whether it freezes depends on the year. In a normal year the cover is thin and short-lived. March through May is the strongest run, with October and November a second stretch. That shapes the year on Spooner Lake. Barometric swings often matter more than the calendar.

• Tackle & Baits

  Access is not recorded for this water. The closest car park is half a mile away, so pack accordingly. There are picnic tables recorded roughly half a mile off. There are toilets half a mile off. Trout here take small spinners, spoons and, where fly water allows, a nymph or dry. Ask in the nearest town if you are unsure. Keep proof of licence with you rather than in the car. If the gate is shut, Marlette Lake at 4.5 miles is the nearest alternative. For Spooner Lake in particular, ask before you travel.