About Pyramid Lake Fisheries

In the time before humans, the endemic Cui-ui and the large Lahontan Cutthroat Trout evolved from the ancient inland sea which became known as Lake Lahontan.  The Numu (People), evolved with the surrounding environment learning survival instincts from all living beings. The Numu identified themselves from the food from which we are derived; hence Kooyooe Ticutta (or Cui-ui eaters). The western settlement brought new demands and exploitation on local natural resources, and from the diversion of Truckee River water caused Pyramid Lake levels to drop by 80 feet in elevation, causing the near destruction of its fishery. The rise of the delta at the mouth of the Truckee River constrained fish access into the lower Truckee River to spawn naturally. Hatchery programs beginning in 1949 through 1982, stocked Lahontan Cutthroat Trout back to Pyramid Lake. However, up until 1971 the Cui-ui had to fare for themselves. Both fish are listed under the Endangered Species Act in 1966 as endangered. The Lahontan Cutthroat Trout were down listed to threatened in 1973. Management of the spring Cui-ui runs is  researching the year classes of Cui-ui in effort to establish strong survivability. The Tui chub  is the most abundant fish in Pyramid Lake, and it is the primary food source of the Lahontan Cutthroat Trout. It is critically important to understand the delicate food web of Pyramid Lake ensuring that the balance can be sustained. From the water quality to the microscopic life to the fish that derive their survival in Pyramid Lake on the aquatic food web, the effort to maintain a healthy lake system is an important goal.