Find The Best Places To Fish in Nebraska
The purpose of this page is to share basic information about the best fishing opportunities in the state, for a variety of fish species. Nebraska offers a variety of excellent fishing spots for anglers of all levels. One of the best places to fish in Nebraska is the Missouri River. Known for its diverse fish population, including catfish, walleye, sauger, and white bass, the Missouri River provides a thrilling angling experience. Spring and fall are considered the best seasons to fish on the Missouri River as fish are more active during these times. The river's deep channels and abundant underwater structures make it a prime location for catching trophy-sized fish.
Another top fishing destination in Nebraska is Lake McConaughy. Known as the state's largest reservoir, it offers fantastic fishing opportunities year-round. Popular species found in Lake McConaughy include walleye, catfish, white bass, and rainbow trout. Spring and fall are particularly productive for walleye fishing, while catfish are often sought after during the summer months. With its vast expanse and variety of fish species, Lake McConaughy provides a thrilling fishing experience for anglers of all ages.
For those looking for a serene fishing experience, Nebraska's Sandhills region is a hidden gem. The numerous lakes and ponds nestled within the Sandhills offer ample opportunities to catch species such as largemouth bass, bluegill, crappie, and northern pike. Spring and early summer are great times to fish in the Sandhills as fish are more active and readily biting. These secluded bodies of water provide a peaceful and scenic backdrop for a day of fishing.
Lastly, the Platte River is a popular fishing spot in Nebraska, attracting anglers with its abundant catfish, walleye, and white bass populations. Spring and fall are the prime seasons for fishing on the Platte River, as walleye and catfish are particularly active during these times. The river's shallow channels and sandbars create ideal fishing spots for both beginners and experienced anglers.
In summary, Nebraska offers a range of excellent fishing destinations. Whether it's the Missouri River for its diverse fish population, Lake McConaughy for its trophy-sized catches, the Sandhills for a serene fishing experience, or the Platte River for walleye and catfish, there is something for every angler in Nebraska. The best fishing seasons vary depending on the species, but spring and fall generally provide excellent opportunities to catch various fish species in the state.
There are many great places to fish in The Cornhusker State. Lakes, rivers and ponds dot the map from corner to corner, and virtually every popular fish species is available somewhere in these waters.
Nebraska's Top-Five, Amazing Fishing Spots
- Lake McConaughy in southwest NE
- Lewis and Clark Lake in northeast NE
- Lake Ogallala in southwest NE
- Johnson Lake in south-central NE
- Merritt Reservoir in north-central NE
Many Nebraska lakes could be considered the best place to fish in the state, for a variety of reasons. These are lakes with long-standing reputations for delivering both quantity and quality of numerous fish species. Learn more...
Most Popular Fish Species In Nebraska
Walleye top the list plus there are both species of crappie, three species of catfish, three species of bass, four species of trout, panfish, stripers, salmon and others. Learn more...
Best Walleye Fishing Lakes In Nebraska
- Davis Creek Reservoir in central NE
- Lake McConaughy in southwest NE
- Merritt Reservoir in north-central NE
Walleye can be found in virtually all public waters across the state. They grow to good size in most lakes and to bragging size in many. These three notoriously deliver both size and numbers over time. Learn more...
Top Places To Fish For Crappie In Nebraska
- Whitney Reservoir in northwest NE
- Sherman Reservoir in northeast NE
- Wagon Train Lake in southeast NE
Black and white crappie are scattered among most of the lakes in the state. Often, the best place to fish for crappie in NE can vary from year to year. We selected these due to long-standing reputations as good walleye fisheries. Learn more...
Best Lakes To Fish For Catfish In Nebraska
- Branched Oak Lake in southeast NE
- Sherman Reservoir in northeast NE
- Sutherland Reservoir in southwest NE
Blue, flathead and channel catfish grow to monster sizes in many rivers and lakes across the state. For many catfish anglers, the best place to catfish may depend on whether you're looking for numbers or size. These three offer the potential for both. Learn more...
Best Bass Fishing Lakes In Nebraska
- Box Butte Reservoir in northwest NE
- Lake Wanahoo in eastern NE
- Lake McConaughy in southwest NE
Big largemouths, fighting smallmouth and chunky spotted bass are all available to anglers in Nebraska. Choosing the best place may depend on your objectives, but these three are a great place to start. Learn more...
Top Lakes To Fish For Trout In Nebraska
- Lake Ogallala in southwest NE
- Lake McConaughy in southwest NE
In terms of larger lakes, these two are probably the beat place to fish for trout in the state. There are also several rivers, many smaller lakes, and numerous municipal ponds stocked with trout across the state. Learn more...
Enjoy these top spots to go fishing in Nebraska
Find the best places to fish, by state.
102324*