Fishing Lake Ogallala

AKA: Ogallala Lake

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

Popular Fish Species Lake Ogallala, NE

Lake Ogallala Popular Fish - Rainbow Trout

Rainbow Trout Fishing

Thanks to continuous stocking programs by the Nebraska Game & Parks Commission has helped to maintain a good population of rainbow trout for anglers at Lake Ogallala. Fish for rainbow trout here with worms, salmon eggs, prepared baits, small spinners, spoons, jerkbaits and small crankbaits in vibrant colors to mimic their preferred prey. While fishing from a boat is preferred, plenty of trout are caught here by anglers fishing from the bank. Additionally, floating or sinking flies, such as nymphs, streamers, or dry flies, are popular choices for fly anglers targeting rainbow trout. Trolling with lures or flies behind a boat, casting near shoreline structures, or still fishing with bait can all yield success. Adjusting lure size, color, and retrieve speed can enhance chances of enticing these colorful and spirited fish.

Lake Ogallala Popular Fish - Yellow Perch

Yellow Perch Fishing

Yellow perch tend to spawn in the April to May timeframe, and the spawn has been strong for years at Lake Ogallala. 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. 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.

Lake Ogallala Popular Fish - Smallmouth Bass

Smallmouth Bass Fishing

Lake Ogallala continues to sustain a robust smallmouth bass population. Many locals enjoy smallmouth fishing, as smallies are tough fighters and very exciting to catch. Smallmouth bass fishing is good virtually anytime they are shallow. Use shallow spinnerbaits, buzzbaits, crankbaits, tube baits and jerkbaits around rip rap. Around grass, use worms, jigs, topwater and spinnerbaits. In winter, spend your time on deeper structure with drop-shot rigs, small worms, jigs and spoons. Largemouth bass also reside here in good numbers. Rock piles and points are prime areas for smallmouth as these areas are also home to crawfish.

Lake Ogallala Fishing Video

Fish species to fish for...

Guide to fishing for largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, channel catfish, walleye, rainbow trout, brown trout, white bass, yellow perch and wiper at Lake Ogallala in Nebraska.

Located on the North Platte River, Lake Ogallala is immediately downstream from the dam at Lake McConaughy. This 650-acre impoundment, with nearly 10 miles of shoreline, offers a quieter side for fishing. The lake is home to a variety of fish species, including walleye, largemouth bass, white bass, crappie, catfish, and bluegill. It is a great lake for smaller fishing boats, kayaks and canoes, as the lake has a "no wake" policy. The lake is stocked with trout and has plenty of access for shoreline fishing around the lake.

Primary fish species residing in Lake Ogallala

Click images for fishing tips and details about each species.

Lake Ogallala Amenities

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

Today's Weather & Forecast

Public Boat Launch Ramps & Landings

Ogallala Lake South Boat Ramp
Located in the southwest corner of the lake, off Keystone Lake Road, this is a two-lane, concrete ramp with a dock and gravel parking.