LAKE McCONAUGHY, Neb. — Cooler temperatures aren’t stopping the bite at Lake McConaughy as anglers report success with walleye, bass and wipers across the reservoir, according to Patrick Schnell, superintendent with Nebraska Game and Parks for Lake McConaughy and Lake Ogallala.
Surface water temperatures near the dam were recorded at 54 degrees Fahrenheit Tuesday morning, with air temperatures expected to stay in the 60s through the week before warming up by the weekend.
Fishing Report Walleye are hitting live bait at depths of 12 to 25 feet. White bass and wipers are also biting well along the north shoreline, particularly when winds push into the north bays. Good-sized smallmouth bass have been reported on the rocky points along the south side of the lake and near the face of the dam.
Lake Conditions Lake McConaughy is currently at 3,236.6 feet, equating to 1,012,800 acre-feet, or 58.1% of capacity. For daily updates, visit CNPPID’s Lake & River Data.
Boat Ramp Access Boat ramps currently available include:
- Martin Bay (low water, near the base of the dam)
- Divers Bay/Burma Road
- Cedar View (lake side)
- Lemoyne
- Both ramps at Lake Ogallala
Fire Safety Campfires are permitted at both Lake McConaughy and Lake Ogallala, but safety rules remain in effect. Fires must be contained in designated fire rings no larger than three feet in diameter. Open flames should never be left unattended and must be fully extinguished before leaving the area.
Fireworks are strictly prohibited at both State Recreation Areas (SRAs), and their sale and use remain banned in Keith County.
Camping Reminder Camping reservations are now open. Beach camping may be reserved up to 30 days in advance, while modern campgrounds with electrical hookups can be booked up to 180 days out. Visit OutdoorNebraska.gov and click “Reservations” in the top right corner, or call the Lake McConaughy Visitor Center at 308-284-8800 for assistance.
Upcoming Events
- May 31 – June 1: Shut Up & Fish Tournament, Vogl’s Lodge & Lure
- May 31 – June 1: Denver Bassmasters Tournament
- June 7: Terry McCormick Memorial Walleye Tournament
- June 14: Junior Fishing Tournament (Youth Outdoors Nebraska)
For more information and updates, follow Nebraska Game and Parks or visit the Lake McConaughy Visitor Center.