Tahoe Topliners Fishing – Est. 1996 

5.0
(85 reviews)
Recent reports
 Lake Tahoe Boulevard, South Lake Tahoe, CA 96150, United States–

Tahoe Topliners Fishing – Est. 1996 

South Lake Tahoe, CA, United States
–
23 ft
6
5.0
(85 reviews)

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If you're here to make the most of fishing in South Lake Tahoe, look no further than Tahoe Topliners Sportfishing. Captain Mike will be your guide, offering 30 years of guiding experience.

Captain Mike has guided clients to the last 4 Tahoe Lake record Brown Trout, nearly broke the state record Kokanee, and annually catches some of the largest Lake Trout in the states of California and Nevada. Ask any locals who is the best on the lake and the answer will always come back Tahoe Topliners Sportfishing. 30 years of dedication have brought us a 75% repeat clientele.

Brown Trout, Lake Trout, Rainbow Trout, Sockeye Salmon, and more can be found in these waters, depending on when you go. You can expect to do some light tackle fishing, trolling, drifting, jigging, or maybe something more specialized in this area.

Capt. Mike operates a 23' Aluminum fishing vessel with a capacity for 6 passengers. Rods, reels, and tackle are covered by the charter, as well as lures. Live bait is provided!

You will need a California or Nevada fishing license for anyone over 16 yrs of age. You can purchase these online at either states website or in Town at Big 5 sporting goods !

Capt. Mike is happy to have kids aboard, so the whole family can come and unplug for the day! A few items to bring include snacks, drinks, sunblock (non-spray), and sunglasses.

Give yourself something to look forward to and book a trip with Tahoe Topliners Sportfishing!

If you're here to make the most of fishing in South Lake Tahoe, look no further than Tahoe Topliners Sportfishing. Captain Mike will be your guide, offering 30 years of guiding experience.

Captain Mike has guided clients to the last 4 Tahoe Lake record Brown Trout, nearly broke the state record Kokanee, and annually catches some of the largest Lake Trout in the states of California and Nevada. Ask any locals who is the best on the lake and the answer will always come back Tahoe Topliners Sportfishing. 30 years of dedication have brought us a 75% repeat clientele.

Brown Trout, Lake Trout, Rainbow Trout, Sockeye Salmon, and more can be found in these waters, depending on when you go. You can expect to do some light tackle fishing, trolling, drifting, jigging, or maybe something more specialized in this area.

Capt. Mike operates a 23' Aluminum fishing vessel with a capacity for 6 passengers. Rods, reels, and tackle are covered by the charter, as well as lures. Live bait is provided!

You will need a California or Nevada fishing license for anyone over 16 yrs of age. You can purchase these online at either states website or in Town at Big 5 sporting goods !

Capt. Mike is happy to have kids aboard, so the whole family can come and unplug for the day! A few items to bring include snacks, drinks, sunblock (non-spray), and sunglasses.

Give yourself something to look forward to and book a trip with Tahoe Topliners Sportfishing!

Mike Nielsen
Captain
Mike Nielsen
30 years of experience
ID & credentials verified
responds within an hour

Select date to see availability

Trip availability and prices

Trip date:
Group Size:
September 2026
SuMoTuWeThFrSa
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Group Size
2 adults • 0 children
Change
Almost there...
5 Hour Trip (Shared)
FREE Cancellation 3 days notice
5 hour trip starts at 5:30 AM
Seasonal trip
Mar 18 - Nov 30
Lake Trout
Rainbow Trout (Steelhead)
Brown Trout
Salmon (Sockeye)
US $550
Shared tour: 2 people
5 Hour Trip
FREE Cancellation 3 days notice
5 hour trip starts at 5:00 AM
Seasonal trip
Mar 18 - Nov 30
Lake Trout
Rainbow Trout (Steelhead)
Brown Trout
Salmon (Sockeye)
US $1,100
Entire boat: up to 4 people
Private VIP Trophy trip!
FREE Cancellation 3 days notice
5 hour trip multiple starting times (5:00 AM, 4:00 PM)
Lake Trout
Rainbow Trout (Steelhead)
Brown Trout
Salmon (Sockeye)
US $1,200
Entire boat: up to 6 people
There are 3 people looking at this charter.

Customer reviews

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Rating

5.0
85 reviews
5.0
Boat & equipment
5.0
Captain & crew
5.0
Fishing Experience

Anglers' gallery (69)

What anglers say

100%
Great experience
100%
Family friendly
100%
Friendly captain
100%
Good boat
92%
Recommended
100%
Caught fish

Reviews (85)

  • Wendy Aycock
    Wendy Aycock
    Repeat angler
    us
    Texas, US
    •
    Member since 2026
    •
    2 trips
    5.0
    Verified
    New

    Great Fishing and an Amazing Lake Tahoe Experience

    5 Hour Trip (Shared) on September 1, 2026 • 2 adults

    We had an amazing experience with Tahoe Topliners Fishing and Captain Mike. He was extremely knowledgeable about Lake Tahoe and he worked hard to make sure we had a great time. The weather had recently changed so the fish were not biting as much as usual, but we still caught Lake Trout and a Rainbow Trout. Captain Mike also recommended a local restaurant that cooked our catch for us. We had more fish than we could eat and the lunch was wonderful. We had a great time and highly recommend Tahoe Topliners Fishing to anyone looking for a memorable experience on Lake Tahoe.

  • Natalie Cuchetti
    Natalie Cuchetti
    us
    Florida, US
    •
    Member since 2026
    5.0
    Verified

    The Highlight of our Lake Tahoe Trip!

    5 Hour Trip on June 18, 2026 • 5 adults • 1 child

    We had an incredible experience on our guided fishing trip! The captain was knowledgeable, engaging, and made everyone feel comfortable from the moment we stepped on the boat. My teenage nephews are avid fishermen, and they really connected with him and appreciated his expertise. My dad had a fantastic time as well. Before the trip, the captain was excellent at communicating what to expect, how to dress, and how to prepare for the cool early-morning conditions, which made everything go smoothly. We enjoyed great conversation throughout the trip, and best of all, everyone caught lake trout! The weather couldn’t have been more perfect—beautiful sunshine, calm water, and stunning scenery. It was a memorable morning on the lake, and we highly recommend this trip to anyone looking for a fun and successful fishing adventure. Five stars! ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

  • Mark Jones
    Mark Jones
    gb
    United Kingdom
    •
    Member since 2026
    5.0
    Verified

    Top skipper in Tahoe

    5 Hour Trip (Shared) on June 4, 2026 • 1 adult

    Shows the power of Fish Booker. I booked this trip at short notice based on the reviews on Fish Booker and what a great find it was. Mike is the perfect guide, in depth local knowledge, worked tirelessly to keep the bites coming with changing tactics and fishing spots and was a raconteur as well. The boat and equipment was top dollar. If you are looking for a great trip I wou ld highly recommend Tahoe Topliner and Captain Mike.

  • David Ulibarri
    David Ulibarri
    us
    Arizona, US
    •
    Member since 2026
    5.0
    Verified

    Captain Mike was amazing

    Special 6 hour trip for David Ulibarri on March 16, 2026 • 5 adults

    Cant sayenough of what a fantastic fishing character we had. Captain Mike went above and beyond. Equipment boat Captain Mike knowledge about the lake unbelievable. Caught 3 species of trout and fish throughout the morning. Took whole family including youngsters. Wasnt sure how that was gonna work but Captain Mike made everyone feel comfortable and they cant wait to go again. Thanks Captain Mike. Highly recommended!

  • Jillian Vokral
    Jillian Vokral
    Repeat angler
    us
    Illinois, US
    •
    Member since 2022
    •
    4 trips
    5.0
    Verified

    Great Captain, Great time!

    5 Hour Trip (Shared) on May 28, 2026 • 2 adults

    We caught about 5-6 fish. The last one being a 10-15lb fish! Captain Mike knew where to go and how to catch them! Had a great time and cant wait to come back and fish again with Mike!

  • Karl Stephenson
    Karl Stephenson
    Repeat angler
    us
    Nevada, US
    •
    Member since 2022
    •
    3 trips
    5.0
    Verified

    great captain

    5 Hour Trip (Shared) on April 20, 2026 • 3 adults • 1 child

    2rd time going out with captain Mike, both times he has made it a great experience. it was a great experience for my family to get shown around the lake by a pro with a ton of experience.

  • Ken Morrill
    Ken Morrill
    Repeat angler
    us
    Texas, US
    •
    Member since 2021
    •
    3 trips
    5.0
    Verified

    Great Experience on a Beautiful Lake Tahoe

    5 Hour Trip on July 16, 2026 • 4 adults • 1 child

    Captain Mike was very knowledgeable of the lake and got us into fish almost immediately!! We can't wait to go out fishing again with him!!

  • Daniel Mobley
    Daniel Mobley
    us
    California, US
    •
    Member since 2026
    5.0
    Verified

    Great Experience !!!

    5 Hour Trip (Shared) on April 2, 2026 • 2 adults • 1 child

    Captain Mike was great! His 30 yrs of experience on the water and local knowledge really separates him from the rest. We will definitely be back!

  • Scott Kiley
    Scott Kiley
    Repeat angler
    us
    New York, US
    •
    Member since 2025
    •
    2 trips
    5.0
    Verified

    Morning trout trip

    5 Hour Trip (Shared) on August 20, 2026 • 1 adult

    professional captain, who knows the entire lake and works hard to put you on fish. Highly recommend MIke.

  • Peter Zanger
    Peter Zanger
    us
    California, US
    •
    Member since 2026
    5.0
    Verified

    Awesome time

    Private VIP Trophy trip! on August 15, 2026 • 5 adults

    We caught a bunch of fish. Capt Mike and first mate Tyler are super cool. I highly recommend their services

Rating

5.0
85 reviews
5.0
Boat & equipment
5.0
Captain & crew
5.0
Fishing Experience

Anglers' gallery (69)

What anglers say

100%
Great experience
100%
Family friendly
100%
Friendly captain
100%
Good boat
92%
Recommended
100%
Caught fish

All reviews (85)

Frequently mentioned
Showing 1 – 5 of 85 reviews
Wendy Aycock
Wendy Aycock
Repeat angler
us
Texas, US
•
Member since 2026
•
2 trips
5.0
Verified
New
Great Fishing and an Amazing Lake Tahoe Experience
5 Hour Trip (Shared) on September 1, 2026 • 2 adults

We had an amazing experience with Tahoe Topliners Fishing and Captain Mike. He was extremely knowledgeable about Lake Tahoe and he worked hard to make sure we had a great time. The weather had recently changed so the fish were not biting as much as usual, but we still caught Lake Trout and a Rainbow Trout. Captain Mike also recommended a local restaurant that cooked our catch for us. We had more fish than we could eat and the lunch was wonderful. We had a great time and highly recommend Tahoe Topliners Fishing to anyone looking for a memorable experience on Lake Tahoe.

Dwight Holmquist
Dwight Holmquist
us
California, US
•
Member since 2026
5.0
Verified
Fishing with Mike
5 Hour Trip (Shared) on July 10, 2026 • 1 adult

Captain Mike and 1st mate Tyler (Mike's son) were above and beyond for my advanced age (74), bad knees and bad left ankle. Grate assist with boarding and unboarding. Both exhibited patience and concern for my well being. Mike put us onto fish and I caught four really nice lake trout. (Smoked them the next day). My wife a non fish eater was pleasantly surprised and enjoyed her 1st adventure delving into smoked lake trout. More meals to follow. This was my 1st Lake Tahoe charter and could not gave asked for a better experience. Mike, Tyler, boat and fish were outstanding. I fully recommend Tahoe Top Liners for your Lake Tahoe Charter adventure.

Reported catch:
Lake Trout
Natalie Cuchetti
Natalie Cuchetti
us
Florida, US
•
Member since 2026
5.0
Verified
The Highlight of our Lake Tahoe Trip!
5 Hour Trip on June 18, 2026 • 4 adults • 1 child

We had an incredible experience on our guided fishing trip! The captain was knowledgeable, engaging, and made everyone feel comfortable from the moment we stepped on the boat. My teenage nephews are avid fishermen, and they really connected with him and appreciated his expertise. My dad had a fantastic time as well. Before the trip, the captain was excellent at communicating what to expect, how to dress, and how to prepare for the cool early-morning conditions, which made everything go smoothly. We enjoyed great conversation throughout the trip, and best of all, everyone caught lake trout! The weather couldn’t have been more perfect—beautiful sunshine, calm water, and stunning scenery. It was a memorable morning on the lake, and we highly recommend this trip to anyone looking for a fun and successful fishing adventure. Five stars! ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Reported catch:
Lake Trout
Mike Nielsen
Response from Captain

thank you so much you guys were great to have on board and I look forward to seeing you in the future!

Nicole Gehman
Nicole Gehman
us
New York, US
•
Member since 2026
5.0
Verified
New
Only book with Captain Mike
5 Hour Trip on September 10, 2026 • 2 adults

Not only did we catch 3 rainbows and many lakers, Mike is the most knowledgable, personable, wholesome captain. An excellent guide, beautiful morning on the lake, epic boat, and overall personal and professional experience to enhance our already incredible vaca!

Mark Jones
Mark Jones
gb
United Kingdom
•
Member since 2026
5.0
Verified
Top skipper in Tahoe
5 Hour Trip (Shared) on June 4, 2026 • 1 adult

Shows the power of Fish Booker. I booked this trip at short notice based on the reviews on Fish Booker and what a great find it was. Mike is the perfect guide, in depth local knowledge, worked tirelessly to keep the bites coming with changing tactics and fishing spots and was a raconteur as well. The boat and equipment was top dollar. If you are looking for a great trip I wou ld highly recommend Tahoe Topliner and Captain Mike.

Reported catch:
Lake Trout
Mike Nielsen
Response from Captain

Thank you for joining us on. the Lake. we look forward to seeing you again!

FAQs about Tahoe Topliners Fishing – Est. 1996

Tahoe Topliners Fishing – Est. 1996 offers the following trips to customers:
  • US $275 per person - 5 Hour Trip (Shared) (5 hours)
  • US $1,100 per group, additional US $250 per person after 4 guests - 5 Hour Trip (5 hours)
  • US $1,200 per group - Private VIP Trophy trip! (5 hours)
  • US $1,200 per group - Private VIP Trophy trip! - 4:00 PM (5 hours)
When you book a trip with Tahoe Topliners Fishing – Est. 1996, you can expect the following amenities onboard:
  • Toilet Porta potty enclosure inside cabin, also full facilities at our harbor to use anytime.
  • GPS
  • Fishfinder
  • Live bait well
  • Outriggers
  • Ice box
Trips booked with Tahoe Topliners Fishing – Est. 1996 include:
  • Rods, reels & tackle (We use top notch tackle in mint condition!)
  • Live bait (We provide all live bait and tackle. We use Redside Shiners, Speckled Dace, Tui Chub , Tahoe Suckers, and occasionally Sculpin and Crawfish. All bait must be legally trapped from Tahoe and we DO carry the required Bait license!)
  • Lures (Fully sponsored by Raoala, Storm, sufix, and more!)
  • Catch cleaning & filleting (We specialize in filleting your catch and work closely with a local restaurant that will prepare your catch 3 different ways! We also can provide special homemade recipes!)
  • Drinks (We have water on board!)
Tahoe Topliners Fishing – Est. 1996 offers the following types of fishing:
  • Lake fishing
  • Nearshore fishing (Shallow targeting Browns and Rainbows!)
  • Offshore fishing (Vertical jigging for Mackinaw!)
  • Reef fishing (Structure fishing for Predatory Trout!)
  • Flats fishing (Specialist on shallow flats 5-10 ft water!)
Tahoe Topliners Fishing – Est. 1996 offers the following fishing techniques:
  • Light tackle (We use tge lightest gear on the Lake!)
  • Bottom fishing (Vertical jigging rod in hand!)
  • Trolling (Light tackle downrigging and Toplining!)
  • Jigging (Bottom fishing for Mackinaw)
  • Drift fishing (Drifting live minnows!)
Top targeted fish species with Tahoe Topliners Fishing – Est. 1996 include:
  • Brown Trout
  • Lake Trout
  • Rainbow Trout (Steelhead)
  • Salmon (Sockeye)

Your captain

Mike Nielsen
Mike Nielsen

South Lake Tahoe, California, United States

12 Fishing Reports
ID & license verified
85 Customer reviews
Typical response within an hour
Member since October 2023

Born and raised Tahoe native, I've been guiding Lake Tahoe since 1996 professionally with major sponsorships from industry-leading brands such as Rapala, Storm, Sufix, Luhr Jensen, VMC, Cabelas, Scotty, and more! Fish with the best!

Mike Nielsen
Mike Nielsen
Fully verified
12
reports
85
reviews
2023
member since
~1h
response
Born and raised Tahoe native, I've been guiding Lake Tahoe since 1996 professionally with major sponsorships from industry-leading brands such as Rapala, Storm, Sufix, Luhr Jensen, VMC, Cabelas, Scotty, and more! Fish with the best!

The fish you can target

Brown Trout
Brown Trout
Lake Trout
Lake Trout
Rainbow Trout (Steelhead)
Rainbow Trout (Steelhead)
Sockeye Salmon
Sockeye Salmon
Brown Trout
Brown Trout
Lake Trout
Lake Trout
Rainbow Trout (Steelhead)
Rainbow Trout (Steelhead)
Sockeye Salmon
Sockeye Salmon

Real catches by this captain

  • Great Fishing and an Amazing Lake Tahoe Experience
    Wendy A.
    Wendy A.
  • Morning trout trip
    Scott K.
    Scott K.
  • Good Trip.
    David H.
    David H.
  • July fishing trip
    Paul C.
    Paul C.
  • Great trip beautiful views
    Matthew S.
    Matthew S.
  • great memories made!
    Gerald D.
    Gerald D.
  • great trip Capten Mike was awsomewe
    Bobby M.
    Bobby M.
  • AWESOME MUST DO EXPERIENCE
    Angel A.
    Angel A.
  • Great Captain, Great time!
    Jillian V.
    Jillian V.
  • great captain
    Karl S.
    Karl S.

What is the boat like?

Boat image
Boat category
Skiffs and flats boats
Capacity
6 persons
Boat length
23 ft
Year built
2020
Boat manufacturer
Duckworth
Boat type
Aluminum fishing
Engine model
Yamaha
Powered by
2 x 250HP
Max cruising speed
28 knots

What kind of fishing will you do?

Lake Fishing
Nearshore Fishing
Offshore Fishing
Reef Fishing
Flats Fishing

Which fishing techniques you can try

Light Tackle
Bottom Fishing
Trolling
Jigging
Drift Fishing

Which amenities are available onboard

Toilet
Porta potty enclosure inside cabin, also full facilities at our harbor to use anytime.
GPS
Fishfinder
Live bait well
Outriggers
Ice box
What's included in the trip price
Rods, reels & tackle
We use top notch tackle in mint condition!
Live bait
We provide all live bait and tackle. We use Redside Shiners, Speckled Dace, Tui Chub , Tahoe Suckers, and occasionally Sculpin and Crawfish. All bait must be legally trapped from Tahoe and we DO carry the required Bait license!
Lures
Fully sponsored by Raoala, Storm, sufix, and more!
Catch cleaning & filleting
We specialize in filleting your catch and work closely with a local restaurant that will prepare your catch 3 different ways! We also can provide special homemade recipes!
Drinks
We have water on board!

How cancellations work

Free cancellation up to 3 days prior to trip

You can cancel or modify your booking up to 3 days before the trip date, free of charge. If you cancel or modify your booking later, or fail to show up, you'll forfeit 100% of what you've paid.

More details

What the listing policies are

Pickup not included

Transfer to/from departure site is not included in trip rates.

Child friendly
Starting back in 1996 we have encouraged family's of all ages and today we have parents bring their children that we're one children we took 20 plus years ago! We specialize in building family memories!
You keep catch
We fillet them for you!
Catch and release allowed
Your fish your choice!

How you can pay

Book with 20% deposit, pay rest to captain

When the captain confirms your trip, FishingBooker charges your credit card a 20% deposit to guarantee your reservation.

The remaining balance is to be paid directly to the charter operator on or prior to your trip date in one of the following payment methods:

 Cash

 Visa

 Mastercard

 American Express

 Checks

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