Fishing Jeffrey Lake
AKA: Jeffrey Reservoir
Popular Fish Species Jeffrey Lake, NE
Walleye Fishing
Jeffrey Lake is home to a hearty population of walleye. Good fisheries management and plenty of forage in the lake have them growing fat and healthy. 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.
White Crappie Fishing
Plenty of healthy white crappie reside in Jeffrey Lake, as they are making a nice comeback this year. The fish population is healthy and crappie fishing is excellent. The best time to catch crappie tends to be at dawn and dusk. Crappie always like cover and structure, so locate shallow brush and vegetation in Spring and Fall focusing on the 8 to 12 foot range. As the crappie move deep in summer and winter, follow points out to as deep as 30 to 35 feet, as well as ledges near channels at these depths. Live bait and small jigs are the most common method for crappie here.
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 Jeffrey Lake, 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. 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.
Fish species to fish for...
Guide to fishing for largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, channel catfish, flathead catfish, white crappie, walleye, bluegill, white bass, wiper and sauger at Jeffrey Lake in Nebraska.
Jeffrey Lake Fishing Video
Built as an irrigation supply lake by Central Nebraska Public Power, Jeffrey Lake is a magnet for wildlife and home to healthy populations of multiple fish species. This 595-acre impoundment, in the south-central part of the state, is under fished relative to the quality of the fishery.
Jeffrey Lake, located near Brady, Nebraska, is a hidden gem for fishing enthusiasts. Covering approximately 2,700 acres, this serene lake offers excellent fishing opportunities. Jeffrey 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 walleye, largemouth bass, white bass, crappie, and catfish. Anglers can explore the lake's shoreline, submerged structures, and weed beds to target these prized fish.
Bass, catfish, walleye, crappie and white bass are popular targets here. There are virtually no amenities, lodging or campgrounds at the lake. There is a boat ramp as well as other places around the lake with primitive launching options. This is an ideal lake for fishing from shore and fishing from kayaks and canoes.
Primary fish species residing in Jeffrey Lake
Click images for fishing tips and details about each species.
Jeffrey Reservoir Amenities
Marina: NO
Boat Rental: NO
Boat Launch Ramp: YES
Campgrounds: NO
RV Hookups: NO
Lodging: NEARBY
Convenience Store: NO
Bait & Tackle: NO
Restaurant: NO
Today's Weather & Forecast
In addition to fishing, Jeffrey Lake provides opportunities for boating enthusiasts. Boaters can enjoy cruising along the lake's calm waters, taking in the beautiful surroundings 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 adventurous water sports experience, Jeffrey Lake offers a delightful boating adventure.
Public Boat Launch Ramps & Landings
Brady Moorefield Road Boat Launch Ramp
Located in the northeast section of the lake, off Brady Moorefield Road, this is a two-lane, concrete ramp with gravel parking.
Jeffrey Canyon State Wildlife Management Area Boat Launch
Located in the northeast section of the lake, off Sea Street, this is a primitive gravel ramp and gravel parking.
Fishing Guides On Jeffrey 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 Jeffrey 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 Jeffrey 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
No Campgrounds nearby
Jeffrey Reservoir NE Map - Fishing & Camping Areas
Contact Information
Jeffrey Lake
North Platte Visitors Center
101 Halligan Dr.
North Platte, NE 69101
308 532-4729
Fishing lakes in each state.
091824
Jeffrey Lake in Nebraska.
NEBRASKA
Fishing at Jeffrey Reservoir, in Nebraska.
Bass, catfish, walleye, crappie and white bass fishing in south-central NE.