Fishing Lake Minatare

AKA: Minatare Reservoir

Popular Fish Species
Lake Minatare Fishing Video
Available Fish Species
Amenities
Today's Weather & Forecast
Boat Launch Ramps
Local Fishing Guides
Fishing License
Campgrounds & RV Parks
Map
Contact Info

Lake Minatare, NE

Popular Fish Species Lake Minatare, NE

White Bass Fishing

White bass are aggressive, hard-fighting and just plain fun to catch. Numerous successful spawn years have increased the population of white bass in Lake Minatare, and anglers can expect some great fishing this year. When fishing for white bass, the average fish is typically in the one- to two-pound range. These schooling fish tend to roam around the lake looking for ideal water conditions and baitfish. Look for them to generally be in 15 to 35 feet of water, whether they are hovering around the bottom or swimming in open water. Fish finders are the best way to locate big schools of white bass. Fish near the bottom at night with live bait. When the lake freezes over, try your luck at ice fishing for white bass. In spring, once the water temperature rises into the mid sixties, they move shallow into the backs of coves and creek channels to spawn. When white bass chase schools of bait near the surface, spinners, spoons and small crank baits work well. At this time anglers can fish from shore and often do quite well. Use lures that imitate baitfish, including small crankbaits, small jerkbaits, jigs and spoons.

Walleye Fishing

Lake Minatare 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. When the lake freezes over in winter, ice fishing for walleye can be very rewarding. 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.

Lake Minatare Popular Fish - Smallmouth Bass

Smallmouth Bass Fishing

Smallmouth bass are the most sought-after species at Lake Minatare, with fish over 3 pounds very common. Largemouth bass also reside here in good numbers. Smallmouth bass fishing is particularly good when they move to shallow water. Use shallow spinnerbaits, buzzbaits, crankbaits, tube baits and jerkbaits around any sort of rip rap. Around grass, use worms, jigs, topwater and spinnerbaits. In winter, when the lake freezes over, consider ice fishing for smallies. Other times, focus your time on deeper structure with drop-shot rigs, small worms, jigs and spoons. Rock piles and points are prime areas for smallmouth as these areas are also home to crawfish.

Fish species to fish for...

Guide to fishing for largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, channel catfish, blue catfish, walleye, white bass, yellow perch, wiper and northern pike at Lake Minatare in Nebraska.

Lake Minatare Fishing Video

Located in the heart of the Nebraska pan handle, Lake Minatare is a great get-a-way just ten miles northeast of Scottsbluff, NE. The lake has 2,300 surface acres, so there is plenty of water to fish or go boating.

Lake Minatare, located near Minatare, Nebraska, is a beloved destination for fishing enthusiasts. This picturesque lake offers fantastic fishing opportunities. Lake Minatare 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 walleye, largemouth bass, crappie, bluegill, catfish, and white perch. Anglers can explore the lake's shoreline, submerged structures, and weed beds to target these sought-after fish.

The lake is lined with submerged vegetation virtually all around the lake, providing excellent cover for baitfish and the many species of fish that feed on them. Well known for healthy populations of walleye, catfish and smallmouth bass, it is also home to largemouth bass, sunfish, wiper and northern pike. There are three boat ramps for launching everything from pontoon boats and sail boats, to power boats and fishing boats, as well as canoes and kayaks. There is easy access at various places around the lake for fishing from shore.

Primary fish species residing in Lake Minatare

Click images for fishing tips and details about each species.

Lake Minatare Amenities

Marina: NO
Boat Rental: NO
Boat Launch Ramp: YES
Campgrounds: YES
RV Hookups: YES
Lodging: NO
Convenience Store: YES
Bait & Tackle: YES
Restaurant: NO

Today's Weather & Forecast

In addition to fishing, Lake Minatare provides ample opportunities for boating enthusiasts. Boaters can enjoy cruising along the lake's calm waters, taking in the beautiful scenery and peaceful ambiance. The lake allows for various water activities, such as motor boating, kayaking, canoeing, and paddleboarding. Whether it's a leisurely boat ride or an exciting water sports adventure, Lake Minatare offers a delightful boating experience.

Public Boat Launch Ramps & Landings

Butte View Campground Boat Launch Ramp
Located in the northeast corner of the lake, off Butte View Road, this is a two-lane, concrete ramp with a dock and paved parking.

Lakeview Point Campground Boat Launch Ramp
Located mid lake, west side, off Lake Minatare Recreation Road, this is a two-lane, concrete ramp with a dock and paved parking.

Scouts Rest Campground Boat Ramp
Located in the northwest corner of the lake, off Scupper Ave, this is a two-lane, concrete ramp with a dock and paved parking.

Fishing Guides On Lake Minatare

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 Lake Minatare, 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 Lake Minatare provides the opportunity to wake up to serene lake views, enjoy outdoor activities, and experience the tranquility of the surroundings.

Campgrounds & RV Parks Nearby

Lake Minatare SRA Campgrounds - 308 783-2911

Lakeview Point Campground, Butte View Campground, West Wind Campground, Scout’s Rest Campground, Sunrise East Campground and South Gate Campground.