Fishing Lake McConaughy

AKA: McConaughy Reservoir

By AA-Fishing Staff Writers

Popular Fish Species Lake McConaughy, NE

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Walleye Fishing

Thanks to good fisheries management, a healthy population of walleye are thriving in the waters of Lake McConaughy this year. May and June tend to be the best time for weekend anglers to catch them. During this time they tend to move shallower and closer to shore. Other times of the year they are more likely to roam around in deeper water. As always, stay around schools of baitfish. They are eager to feed throughout the lake, but tend to concentrate around structure on points, flats and ledges off the river channels. A proven method 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.

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Smallmouth Bass Fishing

Smallmouth bass are a favorite of many locals at Lake McConaughy. Fishing for smallmouth bass is good anytime they are shallow - in spring, during high water, mornings in summer and during warmer fall afternoons. Use shallow crankbaits around rip rap, and around grass use worms, jigs, topwater and spinnerbaits. In winter, spend your time on deeper structure with small worms, jigs and spoons. Largemouth bass also reside here in good numbers.

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Hybrid Striped Bass, Wiper Fishing

Hybrid striped bass, also known as wipers, are a favorite of many locals and fishing guides at Lake McConaughy, 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.

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Fish species to fish for...

Guide to fishing for smallmouth bass, smallmouth bass, channel catfish, walleye, rainbow trout, white bass, yellow perch, wiper and northern pike at Lake McConaughy in Nebraska.

Lake McConaughy Fishing Video

The largest reservoir in Nebraska, Lake McConaughy is a sprawling 35,700-acre lake offering water sports galore. A favorite vacation spot for Nebraskans, it is located in the southwest part of the state, with easy access off I-80.

Lake McConaughy, located near Ogallala, Nebraska, is a premier destination for fishing enthusiasts. Spanning over 35,000 acres, this expansive reservoir offers exceptional fishing opportunities. Lake McConaughy is known for its diverse fish population, making it a favorite spot for anglers of all levels. The lake is home to a variety of fish species, including walleye, white bass, catfish, striped bass, and wiper. Anglers can explore the lake's underwater structures, rocky points, and submerged vegetation to target these prized fish.

All types of boating from kayaks and canoes to sailing and water-ski boats, join a variety of fishing boats to enjoy this water wonderland. Surrounded by plenty of camping and RV parks, as well as lodging options, there are plenty of choices for places to lay your head after a day on the water. There is a broad spectrum of fish species to entice most any angler. Bass, trout, walleye, catfish, sunfish and northern pike all reside here and compete for the plentiful food supply. Rocky shorelines, a few docks and plenty of brush provide cover for the fish and baitfish that make this a great fishing lake.

Primary fish species residing in Lake McConaughy

Click images for fishing tips and details about each species.

Lake McConaughy Amenities

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

Today's Weather & Forecast

In addition to fishing, Lake McConaughy provides ample opportunities for boating enthusiasts. Boaters can enjoy cruising along the lake's vast waters, taking in the breathtaking views and tranquil atmosphere. The lake 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, Lake McConaughy offers an enjoyable boating experience.

Fishing Boat Rentals

Big Mac Marina
Rentals: Kayaks and pontoon boats
308 726-5598

Lake Mac Bivouac Rentals
Rentals: Kayaks
308 750-9232

Van’s Lakeview Fishing Camp
Rentals: Fishing boats and pontoon boats
308 284-4965

Public Boat Launch Ramps & Landings

Big Mac Boat Launch Ramps
Located in the northeast corner of the lake, off Arthur Bay Public Road #2, these are two, one-lane, concrete ramps with paved parking.

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

Lake McConaughy State Recreation Area Boat Ramp
Located in the southeast corner of the lake, off Burma Road, this is a two-lane, concrete ramp with a dock and gravel parking.

Lake View Campground Launch Areas
Located mid lake, on the southwest side of the lake, off Lakeview West Road, there are several options for launching based on water level, mostly gravel ramps and parking.

Leymone Boat Ramps
Located mid lake, on the north side of the lake, off Leymone Road, these are two, two-lane, concrete ramps with gravel parking.

Martin Bay Boat Launch Ramp
Located in the northeast corner of the lake, off Martin Bay Recreation Road, this is a three-lane, concrete ramp with a dock and paved parking.

Spillway Bay Boat Launch Ramp
Located in the southeast corner of the lake, off Highway 61, this is a two-lane, concrete ramp with a dock and gravel parking.

Marinas

Big Mac Marina
302 NE-92
Lemoyne, NE 69146
308 726-5598

Fishing Guides On Lake McConaughy

Big Mac Spoiled Guide Service - walleye

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 McConaughy, allowing visitors to extend their stay and fully embrace the natural beauty of the area. The lake offers multiple campgrounds with amenities such as tent sites, RV hookups, and access to hiking trails and picnic areas. Camping near Lake McConaughy provides the opportunity to wake up to serene lake views, enjoy outdoor activities, and experience the tranquility of the surroundings.

Campgrounds & RV Parks Nearby

Cedar Vue Campground - 308 284-8800

Eagle Canyon Hideaway Campground - 308 287-2673

Arthur Bay Campground - 308 284-8800

Lake View Campground - 308 284-4965

Spillway Bay Campground - 308 284-8800

Lake McConaughy NE Map - Fishing & Camping Areas

Contact Information

Lake McConaughy
Lake McConaughy State Recreation Area
1475 NE-61
Ogallala, NE 69153
308 284-8800

Fishing lakes in each state.

062024