Hunting, Fishing and Shooting
Aquatic invasive species (AIS) pose a serious threat to recreational and natural resources of the Lake Tahoe watershed. AIS compete with native species and can increase algae growth that contributes to the decline of Lake Tahoe’s famous water clarity. AIS damage boats and gear by building up on rudders, hulls and paddles. Watercraft are the largest source for spreading aquatic invasive species (AIS) into new waterways. Mandatory inspections and decontaminations stop aquatic invasive species before they enter the water. Please do your part to protect Lake Tahoe and plan ahead for mandatory boat inspections and ensure your watercraft arrives Clean, Drained and Dry!
Lake and Pond Fishing
Sparkling lakes and rivers in the Lake Tahoe Basin provide numerous opportunities to test your angling skill! To prevent over-fishing and to give fish a chance to reproduce naturally, state rules and regulations are in effect.
Several lakes and streams are closed to fishing year-round. Some of the lakes and streams are catch and release only. Before fishing, check out the regulations in California and Nevada by visiting the links below.
Fishing licenses can typically be obtained from local sporting goods stores. Failure to obtain a fishing license or to follow rules and regulations can result in stiff fines. For more information about fishing at Lake Tahoe including catching the big one, where to fish, regulations and more, visit Fishing at Lake Tahoe.
Hunting
Hunting is a seasonal activity, and the rules are simple: Follow the state laws and regulations pertaining to hunting, including seasons, dates and licensing. Forests and grasslands may place some areas as off limits to hunting. So check in with your local Forest Service ranger to be sure you are following all the rules.
Hunting is permitted in both the California and Nevada portions of the Lake Tahoe Basin during hunting seasons designated by the California State Department of Fish and Wildlife and the Nevada Division of Wildlife.
Hunting is not permitted in those areas where the discharge of firearms is prohibited by County Ordinance, California State or local law, Nevada State or local law or Federal regulations. Hunters must follow all laws, including no hunting within 150 yards of a residence, building, campsite, developed recreation site or occupied area. A valid California or Nevada hunting license is required.
For more hunting information for California, visit the California Department of Fish and Wildlife web site or call them at 562-590-5132 and on the Nevada Side, visit the Nevada Department of Wildlife or call them at 775-688-1500.
Recreational and Target Shooting
Shooting spots activities have been enjoyed for generations and are welcomed on National Forest System lands in the Lake Tahoe Basin.
Both state and federal laws apply on National Forest System lands, so you need to check on the state laws and county ordinances which may apply to the area you will be visiting. You also need to be in compliance with any general federal laws and regulations about weapons including the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), etc.
The only regulations specific to use of weapons imposed by the Forest Service is that you cannot discharge a weapon within 150 yards of any structure/development or occupied area, within or into a cave, across or on a road or body of water, or in any manner that endangers a person. You also cannot use any tracer or incendiary ammunition. Forest Service regulations require that you also comply with all State laws regarding the use of firearms while hunting.
If you are planning on visiting a designated Wilderness Area, be advised that the Regional Forester or Forest Supervisor has the option to implement a special local order which additionally prohibits the mere possession of a firearm within that Wilderness Area. Although this prohibition is not common, you should contact the Forest Supervisor's office to find out whether such a restriction has been imposed.
We encourage you to use designated shooting areas or ranges. However, if you choose to shoot in an undesignated area, please ensure that your shooting does not damage any facilities or natural resources, disrupt other uses, or endanger public safety, and ensure you remove any targets, wads, shells, brass and other refuse with you when you leave. Be sure your shooting target area is free of rocks, as wildfires have resulting from sparks from ricochets. Be responsible for your action and follow outdoor ethics, in other words always, Leave No Trace and Tread Lightly! on federal lands.
It is also a good idea regardless, just to contact the local Forest Office in advance of your visit to ask the same question, as they are more aware of local ranges and other opportunities, local orders or restrictions, issues and special conditions that may affect you.
Related Information
§ 261.10 (d) 1,2,3 Occupancy and Use
The Lake Valley Firearms Control Area, see Title 9: 9.44.060 Lake Valley Firearm Control Area is in place and enforced by El Dorado County. View the map
Search for Hunting, Fishing and Shooting Opportunities
Angora Ridge
Bayview Trailhead and Day-Use Area
Big Meadow Trailhead
Blackwood Canyon Campground
Camp Shelly
Cascade Falls
Desolation Wilderness
Eagle Falls Picnic Area and Trailhead
Echo Chalet
Echo Lakes Trailhead - PCT Access