Fishing Oliver Reservoir

AKA: Kimball Reservoir, Oliver Lake, Kimball Lake

By AA-Fishing Staff Writers

Popular Fish Species Oliver Reservoir, NE

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Walleye Fishing

Walleye are thriving in Oliver Reservoir again this year thanks to a plenty of forage in the lake. May and June tend to be the best time for weekend anglers to catch them. During this time they tend to move shallower, closer to shore and begin spawning. Rocky and gravel are preferred areas for the spawn. 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. Walleye have excellent, low-light vision which helps them find food in deep or murky water. Make an effort to be on the water during low light conditions. 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. 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.

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Yellow Perch Fishing

Yellow perch tend to spawn in the April to May timeframe, and the spawn has been strong for years at Oliver Reservoir. As a result, the lake continues to maintain a very healthy population of yellow perch, which have been a mainstay in the fishery for decades. They are fun to catch in winter when ice fishing as well. Yellow perch are great table fare, and are a food source for many predator fish in the lake. Fishing for yellow perch is simple, their primary diet consists of minnows and other small fish, insects and worms. Yellow perch tend to gather in small groups and hang out on relatively deep structure, near cover and/or drop-offs. Use a small hook and sinker. Bait a small hook with minnows, worms or small jigs using 6 to 10 pound line.

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Bluegill Fishing

Fishing for bluegill is a time-honored tradition at Oliver Reservoir. Young and old, beginners and seasoned anglers alike, all enjoy catching a bunch of fat bluegill. This year, much like recent years, the bluegill population is healthy and always looking for something to eat. Bluegill fishing is as basic as fishing gets. Any pole, reasonably small line and small hooks baited with anything edible, creates the ideal setup. Add a bobber and you can set the depth you prefer the bait to position. Bluegill hang around brush, rocks, vegetation or any cover available. When the lake freezes over, try your luck at ice fishing.

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Fish species to fish for...

Guide to fishing for largemouth bass, channel catfish, white crappie, walleye, rainbow trout, bluegill, yellow perch, muskie and northern pike at Oliver Reservoir in Nebraska.

Oliver Reservoir Fishing Video

Located in the Nebraska pan handle, Oliver Reservoir is a 270-acre lake with a nice variety of fish species. Bass, trout, walleye, sunfish, muskie and northern pike reside in this reservoir, which gets little fishing pressure.

Oliver Reservoir, located near Kimball, Nebraska, is a hidden gem for fishing enthusiasts. This picturesque reservoir offers excellent fishing opportunities. Oliver Reservoir is known for its diverse fish population, making it a popular spot for anglers of all levels. The reservoir is home to a variety of fish species, including walleye, largemouth bass, white bass, crappie, catfish, and bluegill. Anglers can explore the reservoir's shoreline, submerged structures, and weed beds to target these prized fish.

There is plenty of shoreline fishing available, and it is a great place to bring a canoe or kayak. There are a couple of boat ramps, one with a dock, for launching larger ski boats, family boats, pontoon boats and fishing boats. Depending on weather conditions, ice fishing is available some years on Oliver (Kimball) Reservoir.

Primary fish species residing in Kimball Reservoir

Click images for fishing tips and details about each species.

Oliver Reservoir Amenities

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

Today's Weather & Forecast

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

Public Boat Launch Ramps & Landings

Lodgepole Wayside Park Boat Ramp
Located mid lake, northwest side, off Lincoln Highway, this is a one-lane, concrete ramp with a dock and gravel parking.

Oliver Reservoir State Recreation Area Launching
Located along the northeast corner of the lake, off Lincoln Highway, there are several areas offering primitive launching on gravel, with gravel parking.

Fishing License

Click here for a Nebraska Fishing License.

Camping options are available near Oliver Reservoir, allowing visitors to extend their stay and fully embrace the natural beauty of the area. The reservoir offers a campground with amenities such as tent sites, RV hookups, and access to hiking trails and picnic areas. Camping near Oliver Reservoir provides the opportunity to wake up to serene reservoir views, enjoy outdoor activities, and experience the tranquility of the surroundings.

Campgrounds & RV Parks Nearby

Oliver Reservoir SRA Campground - 308 436-3777

Kimball Reservoir NE Map - Fishing & Camping Areas