Fishing Harry Strunk Lake
AKA: Medicine Creek Reservoir, Harry Strunk Reservoir
Popular Fish Species Harry Strunk Lake, NE
Black Crappie Fishing
A nice population of black crappie resides in Harry Strunk Lake. Crappie tend to run in schools, and once a school is located, there is a good chance for catching significant numbers. Crappie fishing is easy and requires simple, basic gear. Virtually any fishing pole, reasonably small line and crappie jigs or small hooks baited with live bait, creates the ideal setup. Add a bobber and you can set the depth you prefer the bait to maintain. The best time to catch crappie tends to be at dawn and dusk. Live bait and small jigs are the most common method for crappie here. Because crappie prefer cover and structure, locate brush and vegetation in appropriate water depths. Using a fish finder can help locate schools of crappie, which tend to stack vertically around cover. In spring and fall focus on the 8 to 12 foot range. As the crappie move deep in summer and winter, follow points out deep, as well as find ledges near channels in deeper water.
Hybrid Striped Bass Fishing
Hybrid striped bass, also known as wipers, are a favorite of many locals and fishing guides at Harry Strunk Lake, as they are plentiful and grow to bragging size. As a hybrid of striped bass and white bass, they have great potential for spawning massive numbers and growing to large sizes. Fishing for hybrid stripers is a matter of locating schools of bait, and schools of hybrid striped bass are likely to be in the area. Mornings, during Fall, hybrids can be caught on topwater or shallow running lures, as they are feeding on baitfish at the surface. When they move deeper, fish finders improve your odds of locating both bait and schools of wipers. Live bait, spoons and jigs are very very effective here, and these hungry fish can be caught year round.
Walleye Fishing
Harry Strunk Lake is home to a hearty population of walleye. Good fisheries management by Nebraska Game & Parks Commission and plenty of forage in the lake have them growing fat and healthy. Use GPS to locate fishing spots you normally fish during other times of the year. Walleye have excellent vision in low light scenarios which helps them find food in deep or murky water. Make an effort to be on the water anytime there are low light conditions. During May and June is the optimal time to catch them, while feeding in shallower water. Other times of the year they are more likely to roam around in deeper water. Concentrate around structure like points, flats and ledges off the river channels. One of the proven methods for catching walleye here is trolling with spinners tipped with live bait, or trolling with long-billed, deep diving crankbaits. However casting live bait, jigs, worms and spoons also works well at times.
Fish species to fish for...
Guide to fishing for largemouth bass, channel catfish, flathead catfish, black crappie, walleye, bluegill, white bass and wiper at Harry Strunk Lake in Nebraska.
Harry Strunk Lake Fishing Video
With over twenty-five miles of shoreline, Harry Strunk Lake also known as Medicine Creek Reservoir has over 1,800 surface acres. Located in the southwest part of the state, the lake provides a wide variety of water-sport activities including, swimming, boating, water skiing, sailing and fishing.
Harry Strunk Lake, located near Cambridge, Nebraska, is a hidden gem for fishing enthusiasts. Covering approximately 100 acres, this serene lake offers excellent fishing opportunities. Harry Strunk Lake is known for its diverse fish population, making it a popular spot for anglers of all levels. The lake is home to a variety of fish species, including largemouth bass, bluegill, crappie, catfish, and northern pike. Anglers can explore the lake's shoreline, submerged structures, and weedy areas to target these prized fish.
The lake is a feature of the Medicine Creek State Recreation Area which offers a host of other outdoor activities. Crappie and walleye fishing are two top favorites for locals. Walleye fishing in summer is concentrated on deeper structure in the main part of the lake, and in spring they move shallower into the creek channel arms. The lake has plenty of brush and trees in the water, especially when the lake is full, which makes a great home for the crappie. The lake also has good populations of bass, catfish, sunfish and wipers. If you like fishing from shore, and don't mind walking a short distance, there is plenty of places for shoreline fishing. Kayaks, canoes and other fishing boats provide easy access to fishing spots not accessible from shore.
Primary fish species residing in Medicine Creek Reservoir
Click images for fishing tips and details about each species.
Harry Strunk Lake Amenities
Marina: NO
Boat Rental: NO
Boat Launch Ramp: SEVERAL
Campgrounds: YES
RV Hookups: YES
Lodging: YES
Convenience Store: NEARBY
Bait & Tackle: NO
Restaurant: NEARBY
Today's Weather & Forecast
In addition to fishing, Harry Strunk Lake provides opportunities for boating enthusiasts. Boaters can enjoy cruising along the lake's calm waters, taking in the peaceful ambiance and scenic views. The lake allows for various water activities, such as motor boating, kayaking, canoeing, and paddleboarding. Whether it's a leisurely boat ride or an adventurous exploration, Harry Strunk Lake offers a delightful boating experience.
Public Boat Launch Ramps & Landings
Harry Strunk Lake Boat Ramp
Located in the southwest corner of the lake, off Trail 1, this is a one-lane, concrete ramp with a dock and paved parking.
Shady Bay Campground Boat Launch Ramp
Located in the southeast corner of the lake, off Trail 4, this is a two-lane, concrete ramp with a dock and paved parking.
Trail 3 Boat Ramp
Located in the southwest section of the lake, off Trail 3, this is a one-lane, concrete ramp with gravel parking.
Fishing Guides On Harry Strunk Lake
If you offer fishing guide services on this lake, please contact us for a free listing, to be posted here.
Fishing License
Click here for a Nebraska Fishing License.
Camping options are available near Harry Strunk Lake, allowing visitors to extend their stay and fully embrace the natural beauty of the area. The lake offers a campground with amenities such as tent sites, RV hookups, and access to hiking trails and picnic areas. Camping near Harry Strunk Lake provides the opportunity to wake up to serene lake views, enjoy outdoor activities, and experience the tranquility of the surroundings.
Campgrounds & RV Parks Nearby
Shady Bay Campground - 308 697-4667
Trail Number 4 Campground - 308 697-4667
Medicine Creek Reservoir NE Map - Fishing & Camping Areas
Contact Information
Harry Strunk Lake
Medicine Creek State Recreation Area
40611 Road 728
Cambridge NE 69022
308 697-4667
Fishing lakes in each state.
100724
Medicine Creek Reservoir in Nebraska.
NEBRASKA
Fishing at Harry Strunk Lake, in Nebraska.
Crappie and walleye fishing in southwest NE.
