Nebraska Public and Pay Lakes

Whether you’re an experienced angler or just starting your fishing journey, Nebraska’s diverse range of public lakes and reservoirs provide opportunities for everyone. Our guide delves deep into the details of each fishing location, providing valuable insights about the lakes, their sizes, resident fish species, available amenities, fishing rules and regulations, as well as where to obtain necessary licenses.

Each lake featured in this guide comes with a thorough set of information. We highlight essential details such as lake size, the nearest city, and a list of amenities like marinas, boat rentals, boat launch ramps, campgrounds, RV hookups, lodging options, convenience stores, bait & tackle, and restaurants. Moreover, we’ve included comprehensive guides for all the featured lakes, arming you with the knowledge to plan your fishing trips effectively. These guides offer a wealth of information about what to expect and how to navigate various aspects such as fishing regulations and licensing requirements.

While our current focus is on Nebraska’s public lakes, we understand the appeal of quieter, more exclusive fishing experiences offered by private lakes. While Nebraska-specific private lake options are currently in development, we do list private lakes in nearby states for those interested in exploring these unique fishing opportunities. In collaboration with local landowners, our team at Wing It is working diligently to expand access to more private lakes within Nebraska. Watch this space!

Table of Contents

Nebraksa DNR Resources & Links

If you’re looking for the most up-to-date information on fishing licenses, requirements, and information about Nebraska fishing and lake options, you should definitely check out the Nebraska DNR. Here is their contact information and other useful links right here.

Nebraksa DNR

2200 N. 33rd St.
Lincoln, NE 68503

  • (402) 471-0641

Helpful Links

Unlock the Great Outdoors

Why limit yourself to public land when there are millions of acres of private land to explore.

Get Access

Nebraska Public Lakes Features & Amenities

Bluestem Lake

  • 325 acres
Bluestem Lake, a 325-acre public lake in Nebraska, is a popular fishing destination with a wide variety of fish species, including largemouth bass, channel catfish, and northern pike. Anglers can enjoy bank fishing, boat fishing, and fly fishing. The lake provides amenities like nearby boat rentals, campgrounds, and convenience stores, making it a great spot for outdoor recreation. Some pros of Bluestem Lake include good fishing opportunities, various fishing methods, a diverse range of fish species, two boat launch ramps, and nearby amenities like boat rental, convenience store, bait & tackle, and restaurant. However, cons include the lack of a marina and RV hookups.
More about Bluestem Lake

Box Butte Reservoir

  • 1,600 acres
Box Butte Reservoir, nestled in the picturesque northwest region of Nebraska, is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. With 1,600 acres of serene environment, it offers ample opportunities for fishing, boating, and camping. Known for its diverse array of fish species including largemouth and smallmouth bass, walleye, and channel catfish, it draws anglers year-round. Despite some fluctuations in water levels, absence of marina, and no on-site lodging, the reservoir's beauty, biodiversity, and recreational facilities make it an attractive destination.
More about Box Butte Reservoir

Branched Oak Lake

  • 1,800 acres
Branched Oak Lake, situated 20 miles northwest of Lincoln, Nebraska, is a delightful 1,800-acre fishing hub, offering diverse fish species, multiple fishing methods, and a range of outdoor activities. Part of the Branched Oak State Recreation Area, it not only supports shore, boat, and kayak fishing for largemouth bass, walleye, catfish, and crappie, but also provides amenities like a marina, boat rentals, campgrounds, and nearby conveniences. Visitors can enjoy hiking, picnicking, swimming, boating, and birdwatching, despite occasional overcrowding during peak seasons. With its rich biodiversity, stunning locale, and a variety of outdoor pursuits, Branched Oak Lake is a destination worth exploring.
More about Branched Oak Lake

Calamus Reservoir

  • 5,200 acres
Calamus Reservoir, nestled in central Nebraska's picturesque sandhills, is a 5,200-acre public lake teeming with diverse fish species, such as largemouth bass, channel catfish, and walleye. Located just five miles northwest of Burwell, it offers various amenities, including boat rentals, campgrounds, RV hookups, lodging, convenience stores, and more. While it lacks a marina and can get crowded during peak seasons, its extensive fishing opportunities and outdoor activities, like camping and hiking, make it an attractive destination for outdoor enthusiasts.
More about Calamus Reservoir

Conestoga Lake

  • 230 acres
Conestoga Lake, located in southeast Nebraska, is a tranquil 230-acre reservoir offering a rewarding fishing experience to anglers of all levels. Part of the Conestoga State Recreation Area, it's populated with diverse fish species including largemouth bass and black crappie, and features a boat launch ramp, campgrounds, and RV hookups. While it lacks some amenities like boat rental and convenience stores, its peaceful setting and prohibition of motorized boats make it perfect for canoeing and kayaking, amplifying its appeal to outdoor enthusiasts. Despite these minor inconveniences, its pristine waters, abundant fish, and nearby lodging options cement its status as a hidden gem.
More about Conestoga Lake

Davis Creek Reservoir

  • 1,100 acres
Davis Creek Reservoir in Central Nebraska is an open-all-year, 1,100-acre public lake offering a diverse array of fish species like largemouth bass, channel catfish, and yellow perch, along with a range of outdoor activities. With off-shore structures ideal for anglers and opportunities for camping, kayaking, and canoeing, the reservoir is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. While the site lacks a marina and boat rentals, it compensates with amenities including a boat launch ramp, campgrounds, RV hookups, and nearby facilities such as a convenience store, bait and tackle shop, and a restaurant. Despite the absence of on-site lodging, Davis Creek Reservoir is a recommended destination for its varied aquatic life and outdoor activities.
More about Davis Creek Reservoir

Elwood Reservoir

  • 1,300 acres
Elwood Reservoir in southwest Nebraska is a 1,300-acre public lake known for its diverse fishing experience. Situated near the town of Elwood and just 15 minutes off I-80, the reservoir boasts an array of fish species including largemouth and smallmouth bass, walleye, and catfish. The reservoir's amenities include a boat launch ramp, campgrounds, RV hookups, lodging, and a convenience store, as well as numerous recreational activities such as boating, canoeing, kayaking, camping, and winter ice fishing. While the reservoir lacks a marina, boat rentals, and an on-site bait and tackle shop, its diverse fish species, ample activities, and convenient amenities make it a recommended destination.
More about Elwood Reservoir

Enders Reservoir

  • 1,700 acres
Enders Reservoir, situated in southwestern Nebraska, is a 1,700-acre public lake renowned for its diverse range of fish species, including walleye, catfish, bass, northern pike, crappie, and bluegill. Situated near Imperial, the reservoir provides amenities like a boat launch ramp, campgrounds, RV hookups, along with a nearby convenience store and restaurant. Fishing hotspots include the eastern shore and the dam area. It's an outdoor enthusiast's haven, offering boating, water skiing, swimming, hiking, and bird watching opportunities. However, note the absence of a marina, boat rental, on-site lodging, bait & tackle shop, and the fee for using the boat launch ramp.
More about Enders Reservoir

Glenn Cunningham Lake

  • 390 acres
Glenn Cunningham Lake, a serene 390-acre public lake in eastern Nebraska, is a picturesque fishing destination near Omaha in Douglas County. The lake is home to a variety of fish species, such as largemouth bass, bluegill, crappie, channel catfish, and walleye, providing a diverse angling experience. Amenities at the lake include a boat launch ramp, campgrounds, RV hookups, and nearby lodging, convenience store, and restaurant. However, there is no marina, boat rental, or on-site bait & tackle shop. In addition to fishing, visitors can enjoy hiking, biking, and picnicking at the lake. Pets are allowed on a leash, and campsites are available for both tents and RVs. Overall, Glenn Cunningham Lake is highly recommended for its variety of fish and convenient location near Omaha.
More about Glenn Cunningham Lake

Harlan County Reservoir

  • 13,000 acres
Harlan County Lake in south-central Nebraska is a picturesque 13,000-acre fishing paradise. Anglers can enjoy catching largemouth bass, white bass, black crappie, channel catfish, walleye, and bluegill. The lake's many coves and brush piles offer numerous fishing opportunities. Amenities at Harlan County Lake include a marina, boat rental, boat launch ramp, campgrounds, RV hookups, lodging, convenience store, bait & tackle shop, and restaurant. Visitors can also enjoy swimming, boating, water skiing, hiking, and bird watching. Pets are allowed on a leash, and several campgrounds offer various facilities. A Nebraska fishing license is required to fish at the lake. While Harlan County Lake is highly recommended for its amenities and variety of fish species, visitors should be aware that it may get crowded during peak seasons.
More about Harlan County Reservoir

Harry Strunk Lake (Medicine Creek Reservoir)

  • 1,800 acres
Harry Strunk Lake, also known as Medicine Creek Reservoir, is an 1,800-acre public lake in southwest Nebraska. Anglers can enjoy catching channel catfish, flathead catfish, black crappie, white bass, largemouth bass, walleye, and bluegill, with seasonal hotspots around the lake's coves and points. Amenities at the lake include campgrounds, RV hookups, lodging, several boat launch ramps, and a designated swimming beach. However, there is no marina, boat rental, or on-site bait & tackle shop. Visitors can also enjoy boating, swimming, hiking, and wildlife watching. Pets are allowed on a leash, and a valid Nebraska fishing license is required. Although Harry Strunk Lake is recommended for its fish variety and amenities, visitors should note that it can get crowded during peak season. To read more about Harry Strunk Lake, click the button.
More about Harry Strunk Lake (Medicine Creek Reservoir)

Hugh Butler Lake (Red Willow Reservoir)

  • 1,600 acres
Hugh Butler Lake is a 1,600-acre public lake in southwestern Nebraska, known for its diverse fish species such as largemouth bass, channel catfish, walleye, and northern pike. Fishing hotspots are located near the dam and around the fishing piers. Amenities at the lake include a seasonal marina, boat launch ramps, campgrounds, RV hookups, and nearby lodging, convenience stores, bait & tackle shops, and restaurants. However, there are no boat rental services or marinas on the lake. In addition to fishing, visitors can enjoy boating, swimming, and hiking. Pets are allowed with some restrictions. Hugh Butler Lake is rated 4.5 out of 5 stars for its variety of fish species and good catch rates. To read more about Hugh Butler Lake, click the button.
More about Hugh Butler Lake (Red Willow Reservoir)

Jeffrey Lake

  • 595 acres
Jeffrey Lake is a public, 595-acre lake in south-central Nebraska, popular for its diverse range of fish species such as largemouth bass, crappie, catfish, walleye, bluegill, and white perch. Fishing spots can be found in coves and areas with structure. The lake offers amenities like campgrounds, RV hookups, and a boat launch ramp, but there are no marina services, boat rentals, lodging, convenience stores, bait & tackle shops, or restaurants on-site. In addition to fishing, visitors can enjoy boating, camping, and hiking in the surrounding area. Jeffrey Lake receives a 4.5 out of 5-star rating for its beautiful scenery, great fishing opportunities, and well-maintained amenities. However, it can be crowded during peak seasons, and water levels can be unpredictable. Some reports also mention litter and trash around the lake. To read more about Jeffrey Lake, click the button.
More about Jeffrey Lake

Johnson Lake

  • 2,068 acres
Johnson Lake's picturesque landscape and ample fishing opportunities make it an ideal destination for outdoor enthusiasts and anglers alike. Its central location in Nebraska, just 12 miles southwest of Lexington, makes it easily accessible for those looking for a weekend getaway or a longer vacation. The lake's well-maintained facilities cater to visitors' needs, providing a comfortable and enjoyable outdoor experience. In addition to fishing, the surrounding area offers opportunities for nature lovers to explore trails and enjoy the breathtaking Nebraskan scenery. Overall, Johnson Lake is a fantastic choice for anyone seeking a memorable fishing trip or outdoor adventure.
More about Johnson Lake

Lake Maloney

  • 1,600 acres
Lake Maloney, a beautiful public lake nestled in the heart of Nebraska, spans over 1,600 acres and is home to an impressive variety of fish species, including smallmouth bass, channel catfish, and black crappie. Anglers can cast their lines along the picturesque shorelines or fish around the well-maintained docks. Lake Maloney also boasts various amenities such as a boat launch ramp, campgrounds, and lodging options, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable stay for visitors. In addition to fishing, outdoor enthusiasts can partake in boating, swimming, hiking, and picnicking at the lake. A few cons to consider are the lack of marina or boat rental facilities and possible crowds during peak seasons.
More about Lake Maloney

Lake McConaughy

  • 35,700 acres
Lake McConaughy, located in southwest Nebraska, is a 35,700-acre public lake that offers a diverse array of fish species such as walleye, channel catfish, white bass, and rainbow trout, making it an angler's paradise. With a marina, boat rentals, and ample amenities, this lake not only provides an exceptional fishing experience but also other activities such as boating, swimming, water skiing, hiking, camping, and birdwatching. Visitors can enjoy the breathtaking scenery while fishing or participating in other outdoor adventures. Some pros of visiting Lake McConaughy include the great fishing opportunities, beautiful scenery, and many available amenities. However, cons to consider are the potential for crowded conditions during peak season and fluctuating water levels.
More about Lake McConaughy

Lake Minatare

  • 2,300 acres
Lake Minatare, a picturesque 2,300-acre man-made reservoir in western Nebraska, offers anglers a variety of fish species such as Largemouth Bass, Smallmouth Bass, Channel Catfish, Blue Catfish, Walleye, White Bass, Yellow Perch, and Northern Pike. Managed by the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission, this public lake provides not only an idyllic fishing experience but also camping, hiking, and bird watching opportunities in the surrounding areas. With fishing hotspots around the dam and along the western shoreline, Lake Minatare is a hidden gem for fishing enthusiasts and nature lovers. Pros include great fishing opportunities, additional activities, and on-site facilities such as a boat launch ramp, campgrounds, and RV hookups. Cons are the lack of marina or boat rental services and no on-site lodging or restaurant facilities. To read more about Lake Minatare, click the button.
More about Lake Minatare

Lake Ogallala

  • 650 acres
Lake Ogallala, a popular public lake in southwest Nebraska, is well-known for its diverse fish population, including Largemouth Bass, Channel Catfish, Walleye, Rainbow Trout, Brown Trout, White Bass, and Yellow Perch. This destination offers a range of amenities like campgrounds, RV hookups, lodging, a boat launch ramp, and a restaurant. In addition to fishing, visitors can enjoy water skiing, swimming, hiking, birdwatching, and picnicking at Lake Ogallala. However, the lake does not have a marina and can get crowded during peak season. Despite these drawbacks, Lake Ogallala remains a highly recommended spot for anglers and outdoor enthusiasts.
More about Lake Ogallala

Lake Wanahoo

  • 637 acres
Lake Wanahoo, situated in eastern Nebraska, is a 637-acre public lake offering a diverse range of fish species and year-round fishing, along with boating, kayaking, and hiking experiences. While the lake is equipped with a boat launch ramp, campgrounds, and RV hookups, it does not feature a marina, boat rental services, an on-site bait and tackle shop, or a restaurant. Swimming is also prohibited for safety and water quality preservation. Despite these limitations, Lake Wanahoo's popularity stems from its recreational and camping facilities, supplemented by nearby accommodation and convenience stores.
More about Lake Wanahoo

Lewis And Clark Lake

  • 31,000 acres
Renowned for its abundant fish species and extensive amenities, Lewis And Clark Lake in Nebraska is a favored destination among anglers and outdoor enthusiasts. It offers excellent fishing, with species like largemouth and smallmouth bass, catfish, black crappie, walleye, bluegill, and rock bass, particularly near the dam and submerged structures. The lake's vast amenities include a marina, boat rental, launch ramp, campgrounds, RV hookups, lodging, a convenience store, a bait and tackle shop, and a restaurant. In addition to fishing, visitors can enjoy boating, swimming, hiking, and wildlife viewing. Despite potential overcrowding during peak seasons, the lake maintains its appeal with its pet-friendly policy and rich recreational offerings.
More about Lewis And Clark Lake

Merritt Reservoir

  • 1,600 acres
Merritt Reservoir, a tranquil 1,600-acre public lake in north-central Nebraska, is an angler's paradise, hosting a diverse array of fish species like walleye, northern pike, largemouth bass, and crappie, particularly in the dam, inlet, and northwest bay. Apart from its impressive fishing opportunities, Merritt Reservoir is an outdoor enthusiast's haven, boasting amenities such as a marina, boat rental, campgrounds, and hiking trails, complemented by recreational activities including boating, camping, hiking, and wildlife viewing. Although it can become crowded during peak seasons, its appeal lies in its serene setting, plentiful fishing opportunities, and recreational offerings.
More about Merritt Reservoir

Oliver Reservoir (Kimball Reservoir)

  • 270 acres
Oliver Reservoir, also known as Kimball Reservoir, is a 375-acre public lake in Nebraska, famed for its diverse fish species, including largemouth bass, catfish, walleye, crappie, rainbow trout, bluegill, yellow perch, muskie, and northern pike, with prime fishing spots scattered throughout its diverse underwater landscape. Although lacking on-site marinas, boat rentals, lodgings, convenience stores, and bait & tackle shops, the reservoir offers amenities like campgrounds, RV hookups, and a boat launch ramp, with additional services available in nearby towns. Apart from its abundant fishing opportunities, the reservoir invites visitors to engage in camping, hiking, boating, and bird-watching within its serene environment. Despite the absence of certain facilities, the reservoir's appeal lies in its diverse fish species, varied outdoor activities, and peaceful surroundings.
More about Oliver Reservoir (Kimball Reservoir)

Pawnee Lake

  • 740 acres
Pawnee Lake, a 740-acre public lake in southeast Nebraska, offers a rich array of fish species, including catfish, walleye, largemouth bass, bluegill, and crappie, particularly within its various coves and channels. Despite lacking an on-site marina or boat rental, the lake features amenities like a boat launch ramp, campgrounds, and RV hookups, complemented by nearby facilities including lodging, convenience stores, bait & tackle shops, and restaurants. In addition to fishing, Pawnee Lake offers a suite of recreational activities, such as boating, swimming, hiking, and camping, although a valid Nebraska fishing license and State Park permit are required. The lake's appeal lies in its diverse fishing opportunities, accessible amenities, and pet-friendly policies, even without on-site boat services.
More about Pawnee Lake

Sherman Reservoir

  • 2,800 acres
Sherman Reservoir, a 2,800-acre public lake located near Loup City in central Nebraska, offers an abundance of fishing opportunities with species such as Largemouth Bass, Channel Catfish, Walleye, and Black Crappie. The reservoir boasts extensive amenities, including a marina, boat rentals, boat launch ramp, campgrounds, RV hookups, lodging, a convenience store, bait & tackle shop, and a restaurant, providing an ideal setting for both fishing enthusiasts and those seeking a weekend getaway or a day trip. Although it can become crowded during peak seasons, its appeal lies in the variety of fish species, comprehensive amenities, and diverse recreational activities such as boating, swimming, and camping.
More about Sherman Reservoir

Sutherland Reservoir

  • 3,000 acres
Sutherland Reservoir, a 3,000-acre public lake in Nebraska, offers exceptional fishing with an array of species including walleye, white bass, wiper, catfish, crappie, bluegill, smallmouth bass, rainbow trout, yellow perch, black crappie, and striped bass. The reservoir provides a wealth of recreational activities like boating, water skiing, swimming, hiking, and camping, with amenities like a boat launch ramp, campgrounds, and nearby lodging, convenience store, and restaurant. Despite lacking a marina, boat rental facilities, RV hookups, and an on-site bait & tackle shop, the reservoir is highly rated by visitors for its diversity of fish, year-round availability, and pet-friendly environment. While fishing is free, a valid Nebraska fishing license is required for those over 16.
More about Sutherland Reservoir

Swanson Reservoir

  • 5,000 acres
Swanson Reservoir, a public lake in southwest Nebraska, is an angler's paradise with a broad variety of fish species including largemouth bass, channel catfish, blue catfish, black crappie, walleye, white bass, yellow perch, wiper, and northern pike, and hotspots like the north shore, inlet, and coves. Besides fishing, the reservoir hosts activities such as boating, swimming, camping, hiking, and picnicking. Amenities encompass a boat launch ramp, campgrounds, RV hookups, a convenience store, bait & tackle shop, and a restaurant, although it lacks a marina, boat rental services, and on-site lodging. Appreciated for its diverse fish population, serene atmosphere, and scenic surroundings, Swanson Reservoir has a visitor rating of 4 out of 5 stars, and requires a fishing license, with spring and fall deemed the best fishing periods.
More about Swanson Reservoir

Wagon Train Lake

  • 315 acres
Wagon Train Lake, a 315-acre public lake in southeast Nebraska managed by the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission, provides excellent fishing opportunities for a range of fish species, such as largemouth bass, channel catfish, black crappie, walleye, bluegill, redear sunfish, yellow perch, and muskie. Prime fishing spots often include underwater structures like weed beds, drop-offs, and submerged timber. Beyond fishing, the lake offers activities like boating, hiking, picnicking, and wildlife viewing, with amenities like boat launch ramps, campgrounds, and RV hookups, while nearby facilities offer lodging, a convenience store, and a restaurant. Despite lacking a marina, boat rental services, and an on-site bait & tackle shop, Wagon Train Lake is popular and highly recommended for its diverse fish species and picturesque surroundings, but a valid Nebraska fishing license is required for anyone over 16.
More about Wagon Train Lake

Wehrspann Lake

  • 245 acres
Wehrspann Lake, a tranquil 245-acre public lake in Nebraska, offers a fantastic angling experience with a diverse range of fish species, such as largemouth bass, channel catfish, flathead catfish, blue catfish, black crappie, walleye, and bluegill. Best fishing spots are typically near underwater structures and drop-offs. The lake also offers activities like hiking and birdwatching, and although it lacks a marina or campground, it does offer a boat launch ramp, a convenience store, and a restaurant, with nearby facilities for lodging, boat rental, and bait & tackle shops. Online reviews highlight Wehrspann Lake as a great fishing spot, despite limited amenities, and pets are welcome if leashed. However, a valid Nebraska fishing license is needed.
More about Wehrspann Lake

Whitney Lake

  • 900 acres
Whitney Lake, situated in Nebraska, is a public and accessible fishing destination, providing an array of fish species like largemouth bass, channel catfish, black crappie, and many more. The lake's optimal fishing period ranges from May to September. Though the site lacks a marina, boat rental, and campgrounds, it has a boat launch ramp available, and other activities such as boating, water sports, hiking, and wildlife viewing can be enjoyed. A valid Nebraska fishing license is required for fishing, and pets are allowed if kept on a leash. Swimming is also permitted in designated areas. Despite potential crowd issues on weekends and holidays and fluctuating water levels, Whitney Lake still holds a 4-star rating for its beautiful scenery and abundance of fish species.
More about Whitney Lake

Willow Creek Lake

  • 700 acres
Willow Creek Lake, a 700-acre public lake in northeast Nebraska, offers a rich diversity of fish species, including largemouth bass, channel catfish, black crappie, walleye, bluegill, white bass, and wiper. Apart from fishing, visitors can indulge in outdoor activities like boating, swimming, picnicking, water skiing, and hiking. Although the lake lacks a marina and boat rental service, it does provide a boat launch ramp, campgrounds, and RV hookups. Nearby lodging options and a convenience store are available, despite the absence of immediate restaurants or stores. Visitors give Willow Creek Lake a high rating for its fishing opportunities, beautiful scenery, well-maintained campgrounds, and hiking trails, though it's worth noting the lack of certain amenities. A valid Nebraska fishing license is required for fishing.
More about Willow Creek Lake
Unlock the profits in your land

The hassle free way to monetize your acreage.

Learn More

Pay Lakes in Nebraksa

If you’re looking for less crowds, uniquely stocked ponds, and a truely one-of-a-kind experience, Nebraska also has a growing selection of private lakes. Wing It is working with local landowners to provide day access, so the options for private lakes will increase even more over the next few years. Make sure to sign up for access before you leave!

Nearby Private Pay Lakes & Ponds

Start Exploring

©2023 Wing It™ – Lawrence, Kansas

Facebook Youtube Instagram Twitter