Prior to the construction of downstream dams in Idaho, the Bruneau River in Nevada was home to chinook salmon and steelhead trout – making their journey all the way from the Pacific Ocean. Redband trout and mountain whitefish are now the only native salmonids that occur here.
- Region
- Eastern
- County
- Elko
- Type of water
- River
Fishing Report
Fishing for redband trout is good, with fish ranging from 3″-10″. Fish are concentrated in shallow pools and calm water downstream of rock and woody debris. Pools two-to-four feet deep hold the majority of fish. Copper Johns, Hare’s Ears and midges in sizes 16-20 are getting hit. Fish are still rising for small dry flies. Flows are moderate, and bank fishing is limited. Chest waders are recommended.
Bruneau River Angler Guide Information
11-20-2025Pertinent Information
The Bruneau is roughly 50 miles in length, 29 miles of which are fishable. Game fish include redband trout (a strain of rainbow trout) and mountain whitefish, but dace, shiners, and suckers are also found. Anglers generally catch an average of eight trout per day and the best times of year to fish are in July, following run-off, through October. Fish can easily be caught on flies, lures, and bait such as worms or salmon eggs primarily along the lower section between Copper Creek downstream to McDonald Creek. There is primitive camping opportunity on Forest Service and State (Nevada Department of Wildlife) property.