Fishing Swanson Reservoir
AKA: Swanson Lake
Popular Fish Species Swanson Reservoir, NE
Blue Catfish Fishing
This year blue catfish are running in the big to monster size in Swanson Reservoir. Most of the local guides offer catfish trips, and big blues are the favorite target. Fishing for blue catfish is most often productive during spring through summer around any kind of structure. Blue catfish are primarily found in large rivers, along the main channels, in and around tributaries flowing into impoundments of major river systems. They tend to move upstream in the summer in search of cooler temperatures, and downstream in the winter in order to find warmer water.The river end of the lake is often the area where the bigger catfish are caught. Road beds, creek channels and rocky points are all good places to begin. Use a slip sinker or Carolina rig with cut bait or other popular catfish baits. Channel catfish are also available here for anglers to pursue.
Walleye Fishing
Swanson Reservoir 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. 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.
Largemouth Bass Fishing
Swanson Lake is a popular bass tournament lake. Weekend and tournament anglers find the fishing to be slow at time, yet pretty good at other times. Fishing for bass can be quite rewarding, with an occasional bass over 4 pounds being caught. Bass often move shallow and become aggressive when they are in a feeding mood. Use shallow crankbaits around rip rap. Around grass, use worms, jigs, topwater and spinnerbaits. In deeper water, drop shot rigs, big worms, jigs and spoons are good options. In winter, spend your time fishing deeper structure where the bass spend much of their time. In winter when the lake freezes over and the ice is safe, bass can also be caught while ice fishing.
Fish species to fish for...
Guide to fishing for largemouth bass, channel catfish, blue catfish, black crappie, walleye, white bass, yellow perch, wiper and northern pike at Swanson Reservoir in Nebraska.
Swanson Reservoir Fishing Video
Considered by many as a terrific fishing lake, Swanson Reservoir is a 5,000-acre lake in the southwest part of the state, at Trenton, NE. The featured draw to anglers are white bass, walleye and northern pike. In addition bass, catfish, crappie, perch and wiper all reside here.
Swanson Reservoir, located near Trenton, Nebraska, is a premier destination for fishing enthusiasts. Spanning over 4,000 acres, this expansive reservoir offers outstanding fishing opportunities. Swanson Reservoir is known for its diverse fish population, making it a favorite 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 underwater points to target these prized fish.
During winter, when ice conditions are safe, ice fishing is quite popular here. Fishing from shore is also popular with much of the shoreline accessible for fishing from the bank. Swanson Lake is open to all boats and a great place for your favorite water sport. Bring the family for an outing, enjoy the camping and fishing, and bring your boat. Bass boats, fishing boats, pontoon boats, pleasure boats, kayaks and canoes all provide anglers wide-spread to some of the best fishing in the area.
Primary fish species residing in Swanson Reservoir
Click images for fishing tips and details about each species.
Swanson Reservoir Amenities
Marina: NO
Boat Rental: NO
Boat Launch Ramp: YES
Campgrounds: YES
RV Hookups: YES
Lodging: NO
Convenience Store: YES
Bait & Tackle: YES
Restaurant: YES
Today's Weather & Forecast
In addition to fishing, Swanson Reservoir provides ample opportunities for boating enthusiasts. Boaters can enjoy cruising along the reservoir's vast waters, taking in the breathtaking views and tranquil atmosphere. The reservoir allows for various water activities, such as motor boating, sailing, kayaking, canoeing, and paddleboarding. Whether it's a leisurely boat ride or an exciting water sports adventure, Swanson Reservoir offers an enjoyable boating experience.
Public Boat Launch Ramps & Landings
Spring Canyon Campground Boat Ramp
Located in the southeast corner of the lake, off Swanson Reservoir Recreation Road, this is a one-lane, concrete ramp with a dock and gravel parking.
Trail 3 Boat Launch Ramp
Located in the northeast corner of the lake, off Trail 3, this is a two-lane, concrete ramp with a dock and paved parking.
Marinas
Good Life Marina & Restaurant
36152 Road 44B
Trenton, NE 69044
308 334-5268
Fishing Guides On Swanson Reservoir
Steve Lytle Fishing Guide - bass
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 Swanson Reservoir, allowing visitors to extend their stay and fully embrace the natural beauty of the area. The reservoir offers campgrounds with amenities such as tent sites, RV hookups, and access to hiking trails and picnic areas. Camping near Swanson 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
Macklin Bay Campground - 308 334-5493
Spring Canyon Campground - 308 334-5493
Swanson Reservoir NE Map - Fishing & Camping Areas
Contact Information
Swanson Reservoir
Swanson Reservoir State Recreation Area
36166 Road 44B
Trenton, Nebraska 69044
308 334-5493
Fishing lakes in each state.
090724
Swanson Reservoir in Nebraska.
NEBRASKA
Fishing at Swanson Reservoir, in Nebraska.
White bass, walleye and northern pike fishing in southwest NE.
