Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Nebraska offers a variety of angling opportunities throughout the state. The popular destinations include Lake McConaughy, Merritt Reservoir, and the Missouri River. The state is home to several species of fish including catfish, walleye, bass, trout, and panfish.
The best times of year to fish vary depending on the species of fish and location. Generally, spring and fall are the best times for trout fishing, while summer is best for catfish and bass. The average seasonal temperatures in Nebraska range from the high 70s in the summer to the low 30s in the winter.
When it comes to bait and lures, live bait such as worms or minnows work well for most species, while artificial lures such as spinners and jigs are popular for bass and walleye. It is important to check local regulations for bait restrictions before fishing.
Interesting fishing facts about Nebraska include that the state record for channel catfish is over 50 pounds, and the world record for flathead catfish was caught in the state. Nebraska is also home to the unique sandhill crane migration, which can be seen from the Platte River during the spring. Overall, Nebraska offers a diverse range of fishing opportunities for anglers of all levels.
| Bessey Fish Pond | |
| Birdwood Lake | Largemouth Bass, Rock Bass, Bluegill and 3 more species |
| Camp Hayes Lake | Largemouth Bass, Bluegill, Channel Catfish |
| East Hershey Lake | Largemouth Bass, Rock Bass, Bluegill and 2 more species |
| East Sutherland Lake | Largemouth Bass, Rock Bass, Bluegill and 3 more species |
| Enders Reservoir | Largemouth Bass, Smallmouth Bass, White Bass and 8 more species |
| Fort McPherson DOR | Largemouth Bass, Bluegill |
| Fremont Slough | Largemouth Bass, Rock Bass, Bluegill and 3 more species |
| Humphrey Pond | Largemouth Bass, Bluegill |
| Maxwell Rest Stop DOR | Largemouth Bass, Bluegill |
| North Platte I-80 City Lake | Largemouth Bass, Bluegill |
| North Platte River (North River WMA) | |
| Oliver Reservoir | Largemouth Bass, Bluegill, Common Carp and 5 more species |
| Pine lake Pond | |
| Stalker Lake | Black Crappie, Bluegill, Channel Catfish |
| Sutherland Cooling Pond | |
| West Hershey WMA | Largemouth Bass, Bluegill |