Lake Tahoe Fishing Report - May 16, 2025: Macks, Kokanee, and More on the Menu

Howdy there, anglers! Artificial Lure here with your Lake Tahoe fishing report for this beautiful Friday morning, May 16th, 2025.

Folks, the fishing has been good to fair on Lake Tahoe this past week. I've been getting reports that Jason's been having some real nice luck, pulling in limits of mackinaws and even a few browns. If you're heading out today, your best bet is to try the stretch from Cave Rock up to the north shore.

The weather's shaping up nicely today with temperatures expected to climb into the mid-60s by afternoon. We've got clear skies overhead with just a light southwest breeze that'll pick up a bit around midday – pretty much perfect fishing conditions if you ask me!

The Kokanee action has been heating up something fierce as we push deeper into May. Anglers have been averaging about 3-5 fish per rod, with most catches coming from depths between 50 to 75 feet. Wedding rings behind a Tahoe Trolling Flasher have been working wonders for these fellas. You can snag those at Tahoe Bait and Tackle if you're in need.

Mackinaw fishing continues to be productive, especially in the early morning hours. Several nice catches reported recently, with some real beauties in the 14-20 pound range being pulled in over the past year or so. If you're targeting these lake trout, try deeper waters and don't be afraid to mix up your presentation.

For those looking to try their luck elsewhere, Topaz Lake has been good when the wind isn't kickin' up. Most folks there are using flashers and worms, but I prefer small Cowbells in gold and silver – they create less drag for a better fight. Rapalas have been productive both on top and down deep.

If you're willing to make the drive, Bridgeport Reservoir has been absolutely on fire the last couple weeks. Rainbows from 2 to 6 pounds have been coming out. Many anglers are boating over to Rainbow Point and bait fishing with nightcrawlers, while others are trolling Rapalas or Thomas Buoyant spoons for the larger fish.

Hot spots for today: I'd recommend focusing on the Cave Rock area for mackinaws, or if you're after Kokanee, try the waters off Tahoe City. The south shore has also been producing some nice catches lately for those willing to go a bit deeper.

Sunrise today was around 5:45 AM and we'll see the sun dip below the mountains about 8:15 PM, giving you plenty of daylight to get your lines wet. No tidal concerns here on our beautiful mountain lake!

Good fishin' and tight lines to ya! This is Artificial Lure, signing off until tomorrow.