Fishing Fun: 5 Nebraska State Parks to Reel in the Big One

Sandy Allen

23 Sep 2025 — 3 min read

Photo: Nebraska Game and Parks Commission (Facebook)

Nebraska’s state parks and recreation areas offer more than just wide-open prairies. They’re home to some of the Midwest’s best freshwater fishing. From sprawling reservoirs to hidden gems, here are the top spots for anglers to explore from marinas or a private boat lift for rent in the Cornhusker State.

1. Lake McConaughy State Recreation Area

The 30,000-acre Lake McConaughy State Recreation Area, near Ogallala in Western Nebraska, is the state’s largest reservoir. It features miles of sandy shoreline and prime fishing conditions. It’s popular for trophy-size walleye and bass tournaments. Anglers frequently reel in catfish, white bass and northern pike.

Water: Fresh
Key Species: Walleye, northern pike, catfish, white bass, smallmouth bass
Fishing Type: Shore, boat

2. Lewis and Clark State Recreation Area

Photo: Nebraska Northeast Parks (Facebook)

A Missouri River hotspot, Lewis and Clark State Recreation Area is situated in Northeast Nebraska. Anglers reel in bluegill, walleye, sauger and crappie. This park is ideal for anglers who enjoy chasing river species and relaxing along scenic bluffs. You’ll find excellent boating access and family-friendly facilities such as hiking trails, camping, a playground and a marina.

Water: Fresh
Key Species: Walleye, bluegill, sauger, channel catfish, crappie
Fishing Type: Boat, shore

3. Branched Oak State Recreation Area

Photo: Wikimedia/Ammodramus/CC by SA 1.0 Public Domain

Located in Crofton, just northwest of Lincoln, Branched Oak State Recreation Area is a convenient spot for weekend trips from private boat slip rentals and marinas. Anglers can reel in everything from catfish and crappie to walleye, bluegill and largemouth bass. Park amenities include camping, picnic areas, an archery range, swimming and equestrian trails.

Water: Fresh
Key Species: Catfish, largemouth bass, crappie, bluegill, walleye
Fishing Type: Boat, shore

4. Box Butte Reservoir State Recreation Area

Photo: Nebraska Game and Parks Commission (Facebook)

Box Butte Reservoir State Recreation Area, located in the Panhandle region near Hemingford, offers a peaceful fishing experience to enjoy away from a private boat dock for rent or a local marina. Its northern pike population makes it a favorite for adventurous anglers. You can also cast for trout, bluegill, crappie and channel catfish.

Water: Fresh
Key Species: Trout, channel catfish, bluegill, crappie, northern pike
Fishing Type: Shore, boat

5. Medicine Creek State Recreation Area

If you’re seeking a secluded spot to visit from a private boat slip rental in Nebraska, Medicine Creek State Recreation Area is an excellent choice. It’s situated in Southwest Nebraska, in Cambridge, and features a host of fish species, including catfish, white bass, crappie and walleye. The park has lakeside cabins, camping, a disc golf course, picnicking and a swimming area.

Water: Fresh
Key Species: Crappie, walleye, catfish, white bass
Fishing Type: Boat, shore

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