OGALLALA, Neb. (May 9, 2025)&nbsp;— As spring continues to unfold across western Nebraska, anglers and outdoor enthusiasts are flocking to Lake McConaughy—Nebraska’s largest reservoir—for prime fishing, camping, and early-season recreation.&nbsp;

Post-spawn activity has shifted walleye into deeper water, but according to recent reports, anglers are still having success. Smallmouth bass activity has been particularly strong, with excellent results recorded at two recent fishing tournaments.&nbsp;

Water conditions remain favorable heading into mid-May. The current water level at Lake McConaughy sits at 3,239.2 feet elevation, equating to 1,069,200 acre-feet, or roughly 61.3% of the reservoir’s total capacity.&nbsp;

Shower houses are now in service at several major recreation areas, including Cedar View, Arthur Bay, and Lake Ogallala. Additional facilities at Lone Eagle, Little Thunder, and Martin Bay are expected to open soon, pending water quality test results.&nbsp;

All fish cleaning stations around the lake are open for use, and docks have been installed at multiple ramps including Diver’s Bay, Martin Bay (low water), Lemoyne, Cedar View, and both north and south ramps at Lake Ogallala.&nbsp;

The Nebraska Game and Parks Commission reminds campers that&nbsp;reservation season begins May 20, and&nbsp;advance reservations are required&nbsp;for overnight stays at Lake McConaughy throughout the summer. Reservations can be made online at&nbsp;<a href="https://outdoornebraska.gov/">OutdoorNebraska.gov</a>.&nbsp;

A temporary&nbsp;campfire ban&nbsp;remains in effect for Nebraska state recreation areas in central and western parts of the state—including Lake McConaughy and Lake Ogallala—through&nbsp;May 10&nbsp;due to fire safety concerns.&nbsp;

The most recent water temperature reading at the dam was&nbsp;50 degrees Fahrenheit, signaling that peak fishing conditions are just around the corner.&nbsp;

Several upcoming events are scheduled around the reservoir:&nbsp;

Lake McConaughy, located just north of Ogallala, continues to be a top destination for outdoor recreation in the Midwest. For updates on lake conditions, camping, and events, visit&nbsp;<a href="https://visitkeithcounty.com/">VisitKeithCounty.com</a>.&nbsp;

Information provided by Visit Keith County and the Keith County Visitors Committee.&nbsp;

<h2>LAKE MAC REPORT</h2><div><iframe title="Lake Mac Report, May 9 2025" allowtransparency="true" height="150" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);height:150px;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=68sey-18a45d9-pb&from=pb6admin&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Times%20New%20Roman&skin=3267a3&font-color=&logo_link=episode_page&btn-skin=ff6d00" loading="lazy"></iframe></div><p>OGALLALA, Neb. (May 9, 2025)&nbsp;— As spring continues to unfold across western Nebraska, anglers and outdoor enthusiasts are flocking to Lake McConaughy—Nebraska’s largest reservoir—for prime fishing, camping, and early-season recreation.&nbsp;</p><p>Post-spawn activity has shifted walleye into deeper water, but according to recent reports, anglers are still having success. Smallmouth bass activity has been particularly strong, with excellent results recorded at two recent fishing tournaments.&nbsp;</p><div><iframe src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/post.php?href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2FLakeMcConaughyNE%2Fposts%2Fpfbid02xB5zfzCS2KkCuKvcjmUMKqqjNdnq4pKo6RrueSp6j5ZN1VUrXbnrvfWRUsNQLXxFl&show_text=true&width=500" width="500" height="717" style="border:none;overflow:hidden" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="true" allow="autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; picture-in-picture; web-share"></iframe></div><p>Water conditions remain favorable heading into mid-May. The current water level at Lake McConaughy sits at 3,239.2 feet elevation, equating to 1,069,200 acre-feet, or roughly 61.3% of the reservoir’s total capacity.&nbsp;</p><p>Shower houses are now in service at several major recreation areas, including Cedar View, Arthur Bay, and Lake Ogallala. Additional facilities at Lone Eagle, Little Thunder, and Martin Bay are expected to open soon, pending water quality test results.&nbsp;</p><p>All fish cleaning stations around the lake are open for use, and docks have been installed at multiple ramps including Diver’s Bay, Martin Bay (low water), Lemoyne, Cedar View, and both north and south ramps at Lake Ogallala.&nbsp;</p><p>The Nebraska Game and Parks Commission reminds campers that&nbsp;reservation season begins May 20, and&nbsp;advance reservations are required&nbsp;for overnight stays at Lake McConaughy throughout the summer. Reservations can be made online at&nbsp;<a href="https://outdoornebraska.gov/">OutdoorNebraska.gov</a>.&nbsp;</p><p>A temporary&nbsp;campfire ban&nbsp;remains in effect for Nebraska state recreation areas in central and western parts of the state—including Lake McConaughy and Lake Ogallala—through&nbsp;May 10&nbsp;due to fire safety concerns.&nbsp;</p><p>The most recent water temperature reading at the dam was&nbsp;50 degrees Fahrenheit, signaling that peak fishing conditions are just around the corner.&nbsp;</p><p>Several upcoming events are scheduled around the reservoir:&nbsp;</p><ul>
                        <li>May 17&nbsp;–&nbsp;Free Fishing and Park Entry Day&nbsp;across Nebraska&nbsp;</li>
                    </ul><ul>
                        <li>May 31–June 1&nbsp;–&nbsp;Shut Up &amp; Fish Tournament&nbsp;hosted by Vogl’s Lodge &amp; Lure at Lake McConaughy&nbsp;</li>
                    </ul><ul>
                        <li>June 14&nbsp;–&nbsp;Junior Fishing Tournament&nbsp;organized by Youth Outdoors Nebraska&nbsp;</li>
                    </ul><p>Lake McConaughy, located just north of Ogallala, continues to be a top destination for outdoor recreation in the Midwest. For updates on lake conditions, camping, and events, visit&nbsp;<a href="https://visitkeithcounty.com/">VisitKeithCounty.com</a>.&nbsp;</p><p>Information provided by Visit Keith County and the Keith County Visitors Committee.&nbsp;</p>

Lake Mac Report, May 9 2025

LAKE McCONAUGHY, Neb. — Dust off those rods, untangle the tackle box, and stock up on leeches — fishing season is about to fire up at Lake McConaughy.

With water temperatures holding steady at 50°F near the dam, early May marks the beginning of peak action for walleye anglers. Fish are on the move post-spawn, and seasoned locals know this is the time to strike — especially around the Sand Creek and Otter Creek points, where the walleye tend to migrate.

Whether you're trolling sinkers, spinning rigs, or keeping it classic with a hook and crawler in 15 to 25 feet of water, chances are you'll find success. Just don’t forget your snacks — and maybe a lawn chair for those slower moments.

Currently, the lake is sitting at 61.6% capacity (3,239.4 feet, or roughly 1,073,600 acre-feet of water). Docks open for action include Divers Bay, Martin Bay low water, Lemoyne, Cedar View, and both north and south ramps at Lake Ogallala.

Planning to make a weekend of it? A friendly reminder: starting May 20 through Sept. 10, camping at both Lake McConaughy and Lake Ogallala State Recreation Areas requires an advance reservation. You can book beach spots 30 days out and campgrounds up to 180 days in advance. Until then, camping remains first-come, first-served. <a href="https://outdoornebraska.gov/location/lake-mcconaughy/">MAKE RESERVATIONS HERE</a>

Thanks to the Keith County Visitors Center for keeping anglers in the loop — and if you're looking for updates or some fishy inspiration, check them out on Facebook (search Lake McConaughy).

So grab your gear and make your getaway — the fish are waiting, and so is the lake.

<figure>
                        <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/4/1744390230216.png" alt="<br>" />
                        <figcaption><br></figcaption>
                    </figure><div><iframe title="Lake Mac Report for May 2, 2025" allowtransparency="true" height="150" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);height:150px;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=mkrts-18985b7-pb&from=pb6admin&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Times%20New%20Roman&skin=3267a3&font-color=auto&logo_link=episode_page&btn-skin=ff6d00" loading="lazy"></iframe></div><p>LAKE McCONAUGHY, Neb. — Dust off those rods, untangle the tackle box, and stock up on leeches — fishing season is about to fire up at Lake McConaughy.</p><p>With water temperatures holding steady at 50°F near the dam, early May marks the beginning of peak action for walleye anglers. Fish are on the move post-spawn, and seasoned locals know this is the time to strike — especially around the Sand Creek and Otter Creek points, where the walleye tend to migrate.</p><p>Whether you're trolling sinkers, spinning rigs, or keeping it classic with a hook and crawler in 15 to 25 feet of water, chances are you'll find success. Just don’t forget your snacks — and maybe a lawn chair for those slower moments.</p><div><iframe src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/post.php?href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2FLakeMcConaughyNE%2Fposts%2Fpfbid08nGLbi2DzpaREMHLygcBYwUpSwdrE8eXXccnYAe7gyVnUC9s1VRSYkHb9V3cQ1Brl&show_text=true&width=500" width="500" height="787" style="border:none;overflow:hidden" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="true" allow="autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; picture-in-picture; web-share"></iframe></div><p>Currently, the lake is sitting at 61.6% capacity (3,239.4 feet, or roughly 1,073,600 acre-feet of water). Docks open for action include Divers Bay, Martin Bay low water, Lemoyne, Cedar View, and both north and south ramps at Lake Ogallala.</p><p>Planning to make a weekend of it? A friendly reminder: starting May 20 through Sept. 10, camping at both Lake McConaughy and Lake Ogallala State Recreation Areas requires an advance reservation. You can book beach spots 30 days out and campgrounds up to 180 days in advance. Until then, camping remains first-come, first-served. <a href="https://outdoornebraska.gov/location/lake-mcconaughy/">MAKE RESERVATIONS HERE</a></p><p>Thanks to the Keith County Visitors Center for keeping anglers in the loop — and if you're looking for updates or some fishy inspiration, check them out on Facebook (search Lake McConaughy).</p><p>So grab your gear and make your getaway — the fish are waiting, and so is the lake.</p>

Lake Mac Report for Weekend of May 2, 2025

The Spahn Marine Lake Mac Report — your go-to source for the latest news, water conditions, and fishing action from Nebraska’s largest lake, Lake McConaughy.

First things first:&nbsp;If you’re having boat motor trouble, help is just down the road.&nbsp;Spahn Marine in Big Springs&nbsp;is a&nbsp;Mercury Marine Premier Dealer&nbsp;with&nbsp;Mercury-certified technicians&nbsp;who are ready to get you back on the water fast. Give them a call at&nbsp;308-889-3531.

Now for the fishing: Did you know that of the 125 Master Angler walleye caught across Nebraska last year, a whopping&nbsp;90 came from Lake McConaughy? And that’s not all — the lake claimed top honors with both the&nbsp;heaviest&nbsp;(15 lbs 2 oz) and&nbsp;longest&nbsp;(32") walleye. So far this year,&nbsp;three more 32-inchers&nbsp;have been caught, and just this week there were&nbsp;multiple reports of 10+ pound walleye&nbsp;being reeled in. The spring bite is on!

Boat &amp; Shore Fishing Update:Anglers trolling large crankbaits along the face of Kingsley Dam are finding success, while bank anglers are doing well with jigs and crankbaits.&nbsp;Thanks to Jake Fahrenbruch&nbsp;for the latest report from the water.

Docks are now in&nbsp;at Divers Bay, Martin Bay (low water), Lemoyne, Cedar View, and both the north and south ramps at Lake Ogallala.

Boater Reminder:From sunset to sunrise through&nbsp;April 30, boats within 30 yards of Kingsley Dam must travel&nbsp;counter-clockwise&nbsp;(south-to-north) due to spawning regulations.&nbsp;All boats must stay at least 200 feet away&nbsp;from the dam's outlet and morning glory structures.

Coming Up:Don’t miss the&nbsp;Catfish Classic Tournament&nbsp;next&nbsp;Saturday, May 3&nbsp;at Lake McConaughy. For more details, contact&nbsp;Chad Vogl at (308) 355-2321.

That wraps up this week’s&nbsp;Spahn Marine Lake Mac Report. Catch more updates at&nbsp;SandhillsPost.com. This report is brought to you by&nbsp;Spahn Marine in Big Springs&nbsp;and our friends at&nbsp;Buzz’s Marine in Kearney.

<div><iframe title="Lake Mac Report for Weekend of April 25th, 2025" allowtransparency="true" height="150" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);height:150px;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=zaeih-188f243-pb&from=pb6admin&share=1&download=1&rtl=1&fonts=Times%20New%20Roman&skin=1b1b1b&font-color=&logo_link=episode_page&btn-skin=ff6d00" loading="lazy"></iframe></div><p>The Spahn Marine Lake Mac Report — your go-to source for the latest news, water conditions, and fishing action from Nebraska’s largest lake, Lake McConaughy.</p><p>First things first:&nbsp;If you’re having boat motor trouble, help is just down the road.&nbsp;Spahn Marine in Big Springs&nbsp;is a&nbsp;Mercury Marine Premier Dealer&nbsp;with&nbsp;Mercury-certified technicians&nbsp;who are ready to get you back on the water fast. Give them a call at&nbsp;308-889-3531.</p><div><iframe src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/post.php?href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2FLakeMcConaughyNE%2Fposts%2Fpfbid02HQmnDc9smB5A9mkHNn7yAiVRQmyNMmPVdH86P48npe4DP9TnCgcARNzy3z6xYZjQl&show_text=true&width=500" width="500" height="730" style="border:none;overflow:hidden" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="true" allow="autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; picture-in-picture; web-share"></iframe></div><p>Now for the fishing: Did you know that of the 125 Master Angler walleye caught across Nebraska last year, a whopping&nbsp;90 came from Lake McConaughy? And that’s not all — the lake claimed top honors with both the&nbsp;heaviest&nbsp;(15 lbs 2 oz) and&nbsp;longest&nbsp;(32") walleye. So far this year,&nbsp;three more 32-inchers&nbsp;have been caught, and just this week there were&nbsp;multiple reports of 10+ pound walleye&nbsp;being reeled in. The spring bite is on!</p><p>Water Conditions:</p><ul>
                        <li>Current lake elevation:&nbsp;3,239.4 ft&nbsp;(61.6% capacity)</li><li>Water temperature at the dam:&nbsp;47°F</li>
                    </ul><p>Boat &amp; Shore Fishing Update:Anglers trolling large crankbaits along the face of Kingsley Dam are finding success, while bank anglers are doing well with jigs and crankbaits.&nbsp;Thanks to Jake Fahrenbruch&nbsp;for the latest report from the water.</p><p>Docks are now in&nbsp;at Divers Bay, Martin Bay (low water), Lemoyne, Cedar View, and both the north and south ramps at Lake Ogallala.</p><p>Boater Reminder:From sunset to sunrise through&nbsp;April 30, boats within 30 yards of Kingsley Dam must travel&nbsp;counter-clockwise&nbsp;(south-to-north) due to spawning regulations.&nbsp;All boats must stay at least 200 feet away&nbsp;from the dam's outlet and morning glory structures.</p><p>Coming Up:Don’t miss the&nbsp;Catfish Classic Tournament&nbsp;next&nbsp;Saturday, May 3&nbsp;at Lake McConaughy. For more details, contact&nbsp;Chad Vogl at (308) 355-2321.</p><p>That wraps up this week’s&nbsp;Spahn Marine Lake Mac Report. Catch more updates at&nbsp;SandhillsPost.com. This report is brought to you by&nbsp;Spahn Marine in Big Springs&nbsp;and our friends at&nbsp;Buzz’s Marine in Kearney.</p><p>Remember...Tight lines and safe boating!</p>

Lake Mac Report for Weekend of April 25th, 2025

Ogallala, NE - This report is sponsored by Sphans Marine in Big Springs &amp; Buzz Marine in Kearney.

Inflows to Lake McConaughy are at 851 cubic meter feet per second, that’s down about 70 from last week and down almost 200 cubic meter feet per second from a year ago this week.&nbsp;DOCKS are in at Divers Bay, Martin Bay low water, and Lake Ogallala north and south ramps. Lemoyne is expected to go in soon. (Note: if the wind is forecasted to be greater than 20 mph, docks will be pulled half to all the way out, depending on wind direction.)&nbsp;

WATER LEVEL is at 1,062,600ac-ft (61% capacity)&nbsp;

Water temperatures earlier this week near Kingsley Damm in the morning were around 44 degrees...&nbsp;Daytime anglers continue to have some pre-spawn success at Lake McConaughy. The walleye spawn is just around the corner.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Upcoming events, Try your luck at the Catfish Classic fishing tournament Saturday, May 3 at Lake Mac. Call Chad Vogl at (308) 355-2321 for more information.&nbsp;

<figure>
                        <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/4/1744390230216.png" alt="<br>" />
                        <figcaption><br></figcaption>
                    </figure><div><iframe title="Lake Mac Report | April 11, 2025" allowtransparency="true" height="150" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);height:150px;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=ku9ph-187a54d-pb&from=pb6admin&share=1&download=1&rtl=1&fonts=Times%20New%20Roman&skin=1b1b1b&font-color=auto&logo_link=episode_page&btn-skin=ff6d00" loading="lazy"></iframe></div><p>Ogallala, NE - This report is sponsored by Sphans Marine in Big Springs &amp; Buzz Marine in Kearney.</p><p>Inflows to Lake McConaughy are at 851 cubic meter feet per second, that’s down about 70 from last week and down almost 200 cubic meter feet per second from a year ago this week.&nbsp;DOCKS are in at Divers Bay, Martin Bay low water, and Lake Ogallala north and south ramps. Lemoyne is expected to go in soon. (Note: if the wind is forecasted to be greater than 20 mph, docks will be pulled half to all the way out, depending on wind direction.)&nbsp;</p><p>WATER LEVEL is at 1,062,600ac-ft (61% capacity)&nbsp;</p><p>Water temperatures earlier this week near Kingsley Damm in the morning were around 44 degrees...&nbsp;Daytime anglers continue to have some pre-spawn success at Lake McConaughy. The walleye spawn is just around the corner.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><p>Upcoming events, Try your luck at the Catfish Classic fishing tournament Saturday, May 3 at Lake Mac. Call Chad Vogl at (308) 355-2321 for more information.&nbsp;</p>