Ruby Lake is a shallow desert marsh in northeastern Nevada where cutthroat trout and largemouth bass live among cattails and open water

Ruby Lake National Wildlife Refuge sits in Ruby Valley, about 60 miles south of Wells and roughly 40 miles north of Ely. The refuge covers about 34,000 acres of shallow marsh, open water, and surrounding upland. The lake itself is never deeper than 8 feet and often much shallower — it is a wetland, not a traditional lake. Cutthroat trout and largemouth bass are the main fish species. The refuge also draws waterfowl and upland game birds, but fishing is the primary draw for most visitors.

Access is straightforward: you drive in from Nevada State Route 767, which runs along the western edge of the refuge. There is no entrance fee. The refuge operates a visitor center near the main parking area, and several rough roads branch into the marsh itself. Some roads are passable year-round; others are seasonal. Cell service is unreliable, so plan your trip before you arrive.

Key Takeaways

  • Ruby Lake holds cutthroat trout and largemouth bass in shallow marsh habitat, with best fishing from April through October.
  • You must have a valid Nevada fishing license and follow state regulations; the refuge does not issue its own permits.
  • Access roads vary by season — spring runoff can close interior roads, so call ahead or check conditions before driving deep into the refuge.
  • The marsh is shallow and weedy, so wading boots and a small boat or float tube work better than a large motorboat.
  • Mosquitoes are heavy in summer, especially in early morning and evening; bring insect repellent and plan your fishing times accordingly.

Cutthroat Trout: Season, Regulations, and What to Expect

Cutthroat trout are native to Ruby Lake and are the primary trout species. Nevada's general trout season runs from the second Saturday in March through November 15, though the exact opening date shifts slightly each year. Check the current Nevada fishing regulations before you go — the state publishes them online and updates them annually. At Ruby Lake, cutthroat typically bite best in spring (April and May) and fall (September and October) when water temperatures are moderate.

The daily limit for cutthroat at Ruby Lake is 5 fish, with a 12-inch minimum size. Most fish you will catch run 10 to 14 inches, though larger fish are present. Cutthroat here respond to small spinners, spoons, and flies. Fly fishing is popular in the shallows, especially early and late in the day. Baitfish patterns and small nymphs work well. If you use live bait, minnows and insects are effective, but check current regulations — some bait restrictions may apply depending on the year.

Summer water temperatures can stress cutthroat, so fishing slows from July through August. Winter fishing is possible but difficult — the marsh can freeze over, and access roads often become impassable. Most anglers focus on spring and fall.

Largemouth Bass: Where They Live and How to Fish Them

Largemouth bass were introduced to Ruby Lake and have established a strong population in the deeper channels and open-water pockets within the marsh. Unlike the cutthroat, which are scattered throughout, bass concentrate in areas with deeper water and heavier vegetation. The best bass habitat is along the eastern and southern portions of the refuge, where channels cut through dense cattail stands.

Nevada has no closed season for largemouth bass at Ruby Lake. The daily limit is 5 fish with no minimum size, though most fish run 1 to 3 pounds. Bass here respond well to soft plastics — crawfish imitations, small swimbaits, and creature baits work throughout the season. Topwater lures produce strikes in early morning and evening. Spinnerbaits and jigs are reliable in the weeds. Bass fishing is best from May through September when water is warm and vegetation is thick.

Because the marsh is shallow and weedy, you will need a small boat, canoe, or float tube to reach the best bass habitat. Wading is possible in some areas, but you will cover more water and find more fish from a boat. The narrow channels can be tight — a kayak or small johnboat is more practical than a large motorboat.

Access, Roads, and Seasonal Conditions

Ruby Lake is accessed via Nevada State Route 767, which branches east from US 93 near the town of Ruby Valley. The refuge entrance is clearly marked. Once inside, a main gravel road runs north-south along the western edge, and several secondary roads branch east into the marsh. The visitor center and main parking area are near the entrance.

Road conditions change with the season. Spring runoff (typically March through May) can close interior roads for weeks at a time. Summer roads are usually passable, though some may be rough. Fall roads are generally in good condition. Winter snow and ice can close roads from December through February, though the main entrance road is usually maintained. Before driving deep into the refuge, call the Ruby Lake visitor center or check the refuge website for current conditions. Do not assume a road is open just because it appears on a map.

Parking is available at the main visitor center and at several pullouts along the main road. Some pullouts have boat launch access; others are foot-access only. The refuge does not charge a day-use fee.

What Gear and Boats Work Best

The shallow, weedy nature of Ruby Lake means that traditional bass boats and large motorboats are impractical. A small aluminum johnboat (14 to 16 feet) with a shallow-draft electric motor or small gas motor works well. Kayaks and canoes are popular and give you access to narrow channels that larger boats cannot reach. A float tube or belly boat is effective for fly fishing and light tackle work, though you will be limited to shallower areas.

Wading is possible in many areas, especially along the main road and in the open-water sections. Wading boots are essential — the bottom is soft mud and silt, and the water is cold even in summer. A wading staff helps you navigate the uneven bottom. Chest waders are more practical than hip waders because you will often be in water deeper than hip-wader height.

Bring polarized sunglasses — they help you see fish in the shallow water and reduce glare off the marsh. A net is useful for landing larger fish. Insect repellent is not optional; mosquitoes are heavy, especially in summer mornings and evenings.

Regulations, Licenses, and What You Need Before You Go

You must have a valid Nevada fishing license. Licenses are sold online through the Nevada Department of Wildlife website, at sporting goods stores in nearby towns (Wells and Ely both have options), and at some gas stations. A one-day license costs less than a full-year license if you are visiting for just a few days. Licenses are required for anyone 12 and older.

Follow all current Nevada fishing regulations for cutthroat trout and largemouth bass. Regulations can change year to year, so download the current guide from the Nevada Department of Wildlife before you leave home. Key rules: cutthroat have a 5-fish daily limit and 12-inch minimum; largemouth have a 5-fish daily limit with no minimum. Some bait restrictions may apply — check the regulations for the specific year you are fishing.

The refuge itself does not issue permits or have special restrictions beyond state law. However, the refuge does ask that you stay on designated roads and parking areas, and that you pack out all trash. Camping is not allowed within the refuge, but there are campgrounds in nearby Ruby Valley and in Ely.

When to Fish and What the Weather Is Like

Spring (April and May) and fall (September and October) are the best times to fish Ruby Lake. Water temperatures are moderate, fish are active, and access roads are usually passable. Spring can be windy, which is typical for Nevada high desert. Fall is often calm and clear, with cooler mornings and mild afternoons.

Summer (June through August) is warm and can be hot, with daytime temperatures in the 80s and 90s. Mosquitoes are at their worst in early morning and evening. Fish bite, but the heat and insects make long days uncomfortable. Plan to fish early and late, and take a break during midday heat.

Winter (November through February) is cold, with snow possible. Access roads often close, and the marsh can freeze over. Most anglers do not fish Ruby Lake in winter, though it is technically possible during mild spells.

Nearby Towns, Lodging, and Services

The nearest towns are Wells (about 60 miles north) and Ely (about 40 miles south). Both have gas stations, restaurants, and lodging. Wells is smaller and more remote; Ely is larger and has more services. Ruby Valley itself has a few scattered ranches and a small community, but no commercial services. Bring fuel, food, and water with you — do not count on finding supplies near the refuge.

Campgrounds are available in Ruby Valley and near Ely. The refuge does not have camping facilities. If you are planning a multi-day trip, book lodging in advance, especially during peak seasons (spring and fall).

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a special permit to fish Ruby Lake?

No. You need only a valid Nevada fishing license, which you can buy online or at sporting goods stores. The refuge does not issue its own permits or charge a day-use fee. Follow all current Nevada fishing regulations for the species you are targeting.

Can I launch a motorboat at Ruby Lake?

Yes, but only a small motorboat with a shallow draft. The marsh is shallow and weedy, so large motorboats are impractical. Kayaks, canoes, and small johnboats with electric or small gas motors work best. Check with the visitor center about specific launch areas and current water levels.

What is the best time of year to fish Ruby Lake?

Spring (April and May) and fall (September and October) are best. Water temperatures are moderate, fish are active, and roads are usually passable. Summer is hot and buggy; winter roads often close. Plan your trip for spring or fall if possible.

Are there fish in Ruby Lake year-round?

Yes, but fishing is seasonal. Cutthroat and largemouth are present year-round, but they are most active and catchable from April through October. Winter fishing is possible but difficult due to cold water, ice, and road closures.

What should I bring to avoid mosquitoes?

Bring insect repellent with DEET, long sleeves, and a hat. Mosquitoes are heaviest in early morning and evening, especially in summer. Plan to fish during midday when mosquito activity is lower, or fish in fall when populations drop.