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Fish Species

Fishing Ruby Lake, Nevada

Ruby Lake National Wildlife Refuge, nestled in the scenic Ruby Valley of northeastern Nevada, offers a unique and rewarding fishing experience. This high-desert oasis, flanked by the rugged Ruby Mountains, provides anglers with the opportunity to fish in one of the most remote and beautiful settings in the lower 48 states.

Location and Features

Ruby Lake is located at the southern end of Ruby Valley, approximately 65 miles southeast of Elko, Nevada. The refuge encompasses 39,928 acres of diverse habitats, including:

- Extensive marshes
- Lush meadows
- Grasslands
- Brush-covered uplands

Situated at an elevation of about 6,000 feet, Ruby Lake's ecosystem supports a rich variety of wildlife and fish species.

Fish Species

Ruby Lake is primarily known for its excellent bass fishing, particularly for smallmouth bass. The lake's unique combination of marshes and open water creates an ideal environment for bass to thrive. Other fish species found in Ruby Lake include:

- Trout (various species)
- Channel catfish
- Yellow perch

Fishing Seasons and Regulations

Fishing is permitted year-round at Ruby Lake, but specific regulations apply:

1. General Season:
- Open year-round for fishing, except in areas posted as closed.

2. Areas Open for Fishing:
- Collection Ditch: Open for fishing using only artificial lures and flies. Bait, float tubes, and wading are prohibited.
- Marsh Units North of Brown Dike: Fishing permitted only from man-made dikes, except in Unit 21.
- Spring Ponds: Open year-round on the west side of the South Marsh. Bait fishing allowed, but float tubes and wading are prohibited.
- South Marsh: Open for fishing year-round, with special regulations applying.

3. Special Regulations:
- January 1 to June 14: Only foot-propelled flotation devices (float tubes) allowed in Unit 21 and designated areas of the South Marsh.
- June 15 to December 31: Only foot-propelled flotation devices allowed in Unit 21. The entire South Marsh is open to all types of flotation devices.
- January 1 to July 31: Wading and bank fishing permitted only at Brown Dike, the Main Boat Landing, and Narciss Boat Landing in the South Marsh.
- August 1 to December 31: The entire South Marsh is open to wading and bank fishing.

4. Boating Regulations:
- January 1 to June 14: No boats permitted on the refuge.
- June 15 to July 31: Only motorless boats and boats with battery-powered electric motors allowed in the South Marsh.
- August 1 to December 31: Motorless boats and boats with motors up to 10 hp allowed in the South Marsh.

5. Bait Restrictions:
- The possession or use of live or dead bait fish (including crayfish and amphibians) is prohibited anywhere on the refuge.

6. Catch Limits:
- Refer to the current Nevada fishing regulations for specific catch and size limits.

Fishing Tips and Techniques

1. Smallmouth Bass:
- Focus on the edges of marshy areas where vegetation is dense.
- Use topwater lures along marshy edges, especially during early morning hours.
- Due to shallow water, employ finesse techniques and slower retrievals.
- Target areas with submerged structures or rocky outcrops.

2. Trout:
- Try fly fishing in the Collection Ditch using artificial flies.
- Focus on cooler, deeper pockets of water during summer months.

3. General Tips:
- Early morning and late evening are often the most productive times for fishing.
- Be prepared for changing weather conditions due to the high elevation.
- Respect wildlife and maintain a safe distance from nesting birds and other animals.

Access and Facilities

- Boat Launches: Available at the Main Boat Landing, Narciss Boat Landing, Gravel Pit Pond, and Brown Dike.
- Visitor Center: Open Monday to Friday, 8:00 am - 4:30 pm, excluding federal holidays.
- Camping: Not available within the refuge, but nearby options exist.
- Roads: The Auto Tour Route is open to vehicles. Off-road vehicles are prohibited on all refuge roads east of Ruby Valley Road.

Conservation and Wildlife

Ruby Lake National Wildlife Refuge is not just a fishing destination; it's a crucial habitat for various wildlife species. While enjoying your fishing experience, you might encounter:

- Migratory birds
- Waterfowl
- Shorebirds
- Various mammals, including pronghorn antelope

Remember to practice responsible fishing and follow all refuge rules to help preserve this unique ecosystem for future generations.

By offering a mix of excellent fishing opportunities, stunning scenery, and a chance to connect with nature, Ruby Lake provides a fishing experience that rivals some of the best in the Western United States. Whether you're casting for smallmouth bass in the marshes or trying your luck for trout in the spring-fed waters, Ruby Lake offers a fishing adventure you won't soon forget.Amenities

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Lodging

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Camping

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Outside Attractions

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