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Brad Bugica Guided Fishing Trip in Reno
Coho Salmon Fishing in Pyramid Lake
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Coho Salmon (Oncorhynchus kisutch) are among the most prized sport fish in North American waters. Their fighting ability and acrobatic leaps make them a favorite target for anglers. In Pyramid Lake, these fish typically range from 24-43 inches and weigh between 8-12 pounds, providing substantial sport on appropriate tackle. - Also known as Silver Salmon for their bright, silvery appearance when fresh from the water - Recognized for their dark blue-green backs, silver sides, and white bellies - Mature fish develop distinctive maroon to reddish coloration on their sides
Guided Fishing Trip by Guide Brad Bugica in December
Meet your Guide Brad Bugica
- Conquer Pyramid Lake, Unleash Epic Fishing!
Summary
Sunday November on Pyramid Lake delivered solid fishing action with Captain Brad Bugica. Our 5.5-hour trolling and jigging adventure targeted Coho Salmon in the deeper waters near Sutcliffe. The partly cloudy skies created perfect fishing conditions as we worked advanced trolling patterns through productive structure. This guided fishing trip focuses on proven lure presentation techniques for trophy fish. Captain Brad's River Wild fishing boat comfortably accommodates up to four anglers with all gear provided for an effective lake fishing experience. The day produced consistent action with multiple hookups, demonstrating why Pyramid Lake remains one of Nevada's premier Coho Salmon destinations.
Fishing Charter with Brad Bugica – Rates & Booking
Guide Brad Bugica of Captain Brad Bugica on Sunday November offers the 5.5-Hour Trolling & Jigging Adventure, an advanced cutthroat trout trolling guided fishing trip on Pyramid Lake. This trip is designed for anglers with solid fishing skills looking to master deep-water lure presentations. Captain Brad provides expert guidance aboard the River Wild, ensuring both comfort and maximum fishing opportunity. The trip accommodates up to four guests and runs from October through June, focusing on the famous Lahontan Cutthroat Trout. All fishing equipment is provided, but experienced anglers are welcome to bring their preferred gear.
Highlights of Advanced Cutthroat Trout Trolling Guided Fishing Trip – Pyramid Lake, NV
This trip stands out for its action-packed approach to trolling and jigging in Pyramid Lake's productive waters. Captain Brad's expertise ensures you'll learn effective lure presentation techniques while targeting trophy-sized fish in the deeper structure areas. The trip begins around 8 am and continues for 5.5 hours, providing ample time to work different trolling patterns and jigging opportunities.
The waters around Sutcliffe offer consistent results for anglers looking to target quality Coho Salmon. This guided fishing trip emphasizes hands-on fishing with minimal instruction and maximum opportunity for hookups. One recent trip resulted in an impressive 17 fish caught, ending with the biggest catch of the day!
Local Species Insights: Coho Salmon
Coho Salmon in Pyramid Lake are prized for their fighting ability and size. These fish typically inhabit deeper water structure where trolling and jigging techniques prove most effective. The Sutcliffe area provides excellent habitat with its mix of depths and underwater features that hold fish consistently throughout the season.
Trolling with specific lure presentations is the primary technique Captain Brad employs for targeting these trophy fish. The partly cloudy conditions often provide ideal fishing opportunities as the fish become more active. While trophy-sized fish aren't guaranteed on every outing, the consistent action makes for an exciting day on the water. Fall months like November offer some of the best fishing as water temperatures reach the ideal range for active feeding patterns.
Plan Your Fishing Charter Day
When preparing for your day on Pyramid Lake with Captain Brad, plan for varied weather conditions. The trip departs from the Sutcliffe area, with exact meeting details provided upon booking. All necessary fishing equipment is included, though experienced anglers may bring their preferred gear if desired. The River Wild fishing boat comfortably accommodates up to four anglers, making this an excellent option for small groups or serious fishing partners.
Captain Brad's advanced trolling trips are available daily throughout the season. For the best experience, bring weather-appropriate clothing, sun protection, and your fishing license. Booking in advance is highly recommended as these specialized trips fill quickly, especially during prime fishing months.
Fishing in Pyramid Lake: Coho Salmon
Coho Salmon (Oncorhynchus kisutch), also known as Silver Salmon, belongs to the Salmonidae family within the order Salmoniformes. These fish are distinguished by their dark blue-green backs, silver sides, white bellies, and black spots on their backs and upper tail. In Reno waters this November, anglers target these acrobatic fighters for their spirited runs and spectacular aerial displays.
Coho Salmon Overview
Coho Salmon are highly regarded game fish known for their aggressive strikes and fighting stamina. They're typically smaller than Chinook Salmon but offer excellent sport on light to medium tackle, making them popular among recreational anglers seeking both challenge and table fare.
Coho Salmon Habitat and Distribution
These fish inhabit both freshwater and marine environments during their lifecycle. They're found in the Pacific Ocean from California to Alaska and in Asian waters near Japan and Russia. In lake systems like Pyramid Lake near Reno, Coho thrive in deeper, cooler waters, particularly around structural features that provide feeding opportunities.
Coho Salmon Size and Weight
Typically measuring between 24 and 43 inches in length, Coho Salmon generally weigh between 8 and 12 pounds. Trophy specimens from Pyramid Lake occasionally exceed these averages, with some reaching the mid-teens in weight, providing substantial sport on appropriate tackle.
Coho Salmon Diet and Behavior
Coho are opportunistic feeders, primarily consuming smaller fish, squid, and zooplankton. Their feeding behavior makes them susceptible to trolled lures that mimic injured baitfish. They tend to school in deeper water during daylight hours, moving to shallower areas during low light conditions to actively feed.
Coho Salmon Spawning Season
Spawning typically occurs in late fall through winter, with peak activity when water temperatures range between 45-55°F. During November in the Pyramid Lake region, some Coho may exhibit pre-spawning behavior patterns, often resulting in aggressive feeding to build energy reserves for the reproductive process.
Coho Salmon Fishing Techniques
Trolling remains the most effective method for targeting Pyramid Lake Coho. Flashy spoons, plugs, and hoochies trolled behind flashers or dodgers at depths of 20-60 feet produce consistent results. Jigging with metal lures or tipping jigs with bait can be highly effective when fish are concentrated. In November, anglers around Reno often find success trolling near underwater structure and along depth changes where temperature breaks occur.
Coho Salmon Is It Good to Eat?
Coho Salmon is considered excellent table fare, often preferred by many over other salmon species for its medium-firm texture and moderate oil content. The flesh ranges from orange to pink, offering a rich flavor that's less intense than Chinook but more distinctive than Rainbow Trout. It's particularly well-suited for grilling, smoking, or baking and provides excellent nutrition with high levels of omega-3 fatty acids.
Coho Salmon Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the best bait for Coho Salmon in Pyramid Lake?
A: While trolling with artificial lures typically produces the best results, hoochies tipped with corn or small pieces of shrimp can be particularly effective when the bite is tough. Flashy spoons and plugs in blue, green, or silver patterns tend to trigger aggressive strikes.
Q: Where can I find Coho Salmon near Reno?
A: Pyramid Lake offers some of the best Coho fishing opportunities near Reno. The Sutcliffe area specifically provides excellent access to deeper waters where these fish typically hold. Look for underwater structure and depth changes between 20-60 feet.
Q: Is Coho Salmon good to eat?
A: Yes, Coho Salmon is widely considered one of the best-tasting salmon varieties. Its moderate oil content provides excellent flavor without being overwhelming, and its firm flesh holds up well to various cooking methods.
Q: When is the best time to catch Coho Salmon?
A: In the Pyramid Lake region, fall months like October and November often provide the best action as water temperatures cool. Early morning and evening hours typically offer peak feeding activity, especially on partly cloudy days with light chop on the water surface.
Q: What gear do I need for Pyramid Lake Coho fishing?
A: Medium-heavy rods with line-counter reels loaded with 12-20 lb test line are ideal. Downriggers or lead core line helps reach proper depths. A variety of spoons, plugs, and hoochies in silver, blue, and green patterns are essential for trolling success.
Q: How do Coho compare to Cutthroat Trout in Pyramid Lake?
A: While Lahontan Cutthroat Trout are the native species in Pyramid Lake, Coho Salmon offer different fighting characteristics with more aerial displays and runs. Coho typically grow larger than the average Cutthroat but share similar habitat preferences in the lake's deeper structure areas.
