Fishing Sutherland Reservoir
AKA: Sutherland Lake
Popular Fish Species Sutherland Reservoir, NE
Walleye Fishing
Sutherland 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. 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, 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.
Smallmouth Bass Fishing
Smallmouth bass are the most sought-after species at Sutherland Reservoir, with fish over 3 pounds very common. Smallmouth bass fishing is particularly good when they move to shallow water. Use shallow spinnerbaits, buzzbaits, crankbaits, tube baits and jerkbaits around any sort of rip rap. Around grass, use worms, jigs, topwater and spinnerbaits. Other times, focus your time on deeper structure with drop-shot rigs, small worms, jigs and spoons. Rock piles and points are prime areas for smallmouth as these areas are also home to crawfish.
Channel Catfish Fishing
To fish for catfish on Sutherland Reservoir, most any rod and reel will work, as long as the line is strong enough. For serious catfish enthusiasts, using the right equipment improves success. A medium action, to medium-heavy action rod is ideal, in the 6' to 7' range. Use a slip sinker or Carolina rig with popular catfish baits on at least 10-pound line. Use sharp hooks with bait holders on the shank, or circle hooks for live bait. Sutherland Reservoir has a decent population of channel catfish, and they are eager to bite. The typical fish are about 2 pounds, with larger ones caught frequently. Night fishing for catfish often delivers better results than daytime fishing. Fishing for channel catfish is often most productive around any kind of structure in the area. In Spring channel catfish migrate toward incoming water, so stay up river away from the main lake. In early summer look for rocky banks, the bigger the rocks the better. In summer and winter deeper structure is where to look. 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.
Fish species to fish for...
Guide to fishing for smallmouth bass, channel catfish, black crappie, walleye, rainbow trout, bluegill, white bass, yellow perch, striped bass and wiper at Sutherland Reservoir in Nebraska.
Sutherland Reservoir Fishing Video
Open for access by all boats, Sutherland Reservoir is a great place to enjoy water sports in the southwest part of Nebraska. This 3,000-acre lake is also a great fishery with multiple fish species.
Sutherland Reservoir, located near Sutherland, Nebraska, is a popular destination for fishing enthusiasts. Spanning over 3,000 acres, this picturesque reservoir offers excellent fishing opportunities. Sutherland Reservoir is known for its diverse fish population, making it a sought-after 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.
Trout, walleye, smallmouth bass, white bass, wiper, sunfish and striped bass are caught here. Fishing from shore, canoes, kayaks or fancy fishing boats all works here. With quick access off I-80, and plenty of camping spots, this is an easy getaway for a family vacation or a quick fishing trip. Three boat ramps and two docks are available for public use.
Primary fish species residing in Sutherland Reservoir
Click images for fishing tips and details about each species.
Sutherland Reservoir Amenities
Marina: NO
Boat Rental: NO
Boat Launch Ramp: YES
Campgrounds: YES
RV Hookups: NO
Lodging: NEARBY
Convenience Store: NEARBY
Bait & Tackle: NO
Restaurant: NEARBY
Today's Weather & Forecast
In addition to fishing, Sutherland Reservoir provides ample opportunities for boating enthusiasts. Boaters can enjoy cruising along the reservoir's calm waters, taking in the beautiful surroundings 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, Sutherland Reservoir offers a delightful boating adventure.
Public Boat Launch Ramps & Landings
Hershey Beach Boat Ramp
Located mid lake, east side, off S Bubble Road, this is a one-lane, concrete ramp with a dock and gravel parking.
Westshore Boat Ramp
Located mid lake, west side, off Great Plains Indian Highway, this is a one-lane, concrete ramp with gravel parking.
Fishing Guides On Sutherland Reservoir
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 Sutherland 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 Sutherland 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
Sutherland Reservoir Campground - 308 535-8025
Oregon Trail Park Campground - 308 386-4653
Sutherland Reservoir NE Map - Fishing & Camping Areas
Contact Information
Sutherland Reservoir
Sutherland Reservoir State Recreation Area
301 East State Farm Rd.
North Platte, NE 69101
308 535-8025
Fishing lakes in each state.
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Sutherland Reservoir in Nebraska.
NEBRASKA
Fishing at Sutherland Reservoir, in Nebraska.
Trout, walleye, smallmouth bass, white bass, wiper and striped bass fishing in southwest NE.