Fall fishing is in full swing at Lake McConaughy, with many anglers targeting walleye, the signature game fish at Nebraska's "big lake." They are typically fishing in deeper (20-50 feet) of water, using slab spoons, blade baits and vertical jigging in the coves around the Ogallala Beach and Lakeview areas of the south side and from Lemoyne back to Arthur Bay on the north side. There has also been some walleye success on an early morning and late evening bite on the southeast rocky points, casing cranks and spinnerbaits.
Smallmouth anglers are still finding good numbers and excellent sizes along the southeast rocky points during the mid-morning period, throwing a number of bass rigs, but with particular success with Ned Rigs and spinnerbaits. Catfish are still being caught at a number of areas, but most anglers have been targeting the west end of the reservoir.
Bank anglers have had good luck in the Spillway and Diver’s Bay areas, casting a number of jigs and baits from shore for walleye, catfish and smallmouth bass. With lower water levels, most of the areas will involve a decent walk.
Campground Amenities: Depending on weather - water, shower facilities, and RV dump stations will remain OPEN through mid to late October at Lone Eagle and Little Thunder. Lake Ogallala East water and shower facilities and the Cedar View Campground shower facility will remain OPEN until mid to late November, to accommodate late fall campers and deer hunters. Beach amenities, such as portable restrooms and the Arthur Bay Shower are closed, but visitors can use amenities in the campgrounds.
Current Boat Ramps: Ramps are available at Martin Bay Lakeside, Divers Bay, and Lemoyne Lakeside (10/7/21). (Docks at Lake Ogallala were removed late last month as levels were lowered for a maintenance project on the Keystone Diversion Dam. The Martin Bay Bayside Boat Ramp and Campground remain closed for construction.)
Camping: All camping in the Lake McConaughy and Lake Ogallala State Rec Areas is first-come, first-served in the off-season. Camping fees may be paid at the Lake McConaughy Visitors and Water Interpretive Center or at the self-pay stations. Don't forget your vehicle permit, available online or at the Visitor Center. Electrical pedestals remain on and available all winter at any campgrounds that have them. Water is available all winter at Lake Ogallala West (by the playground), Arthur Bay RV Dump Station, Sandy Beach Campground and Cedar View Campground and RV Dump Station.
Keith County Campgrounds & Hotels: There are also a number of private campgrounds as well as lodging and hotel options in Keith County:
Guides: Looking for a fishing guide service? Check this list of experienced Lake Mac guides.
Explore the area: Explore www.ilovelakemac.com for local restaurants and other things to see while you're in Keith County. The area boasts two golf courses: Crandall Creek Golf Club in Ogallala and Bayside Golf Club on the south side of Lake McConaughy. Crandall Creek is an 18-hole course with a mature, par 36 front nine and a back nine completed in 1997, making an excellent 72 par course. Bayside Golf features a par 34 front nine with rolling hills and native grasses. The back nine is more challenging with valleys, ravines, and elevated tee boxes.
We'll see you for fall fishing and more fun in Keith County this fall!
Outdoor Report info courtesy of Nebraska Game & Parks.
Walleye photo: Lake Big Mac Spoiled Guide Service
Bass photo: Bill Plains III