Bob: Haven't heard much about Harlan County in Southern Nebraska. Anything going on good there with the walleye fishery or other good fishing opportunities. If yes - what species, time of year, methods and local facilities. Thanks, miket!

miket:

Wish I could be of some help with Harlan County Reservoir. The only body of water in Nebraska that I have ever fished is Merritt Reservoir. Hope someone else can provide some info.

Best Fishes,

Bob Jensen

Mike,

Most of the reports at Harlan this past year were pretty grim (I believe 10 fish were caught in a one-day tourney in June with approx 70 boats during stable, but windy wthr). Since the high water period in the early 90's the lake has been up and down walleye wise. Some good years, some poor years.

Most succesful anglers work the weed beds/flooded brush pretty hard with jigs and bobbers. Trolling right through cover with heavy line and large plugs can also be the ticket. The fish will also suspend chasing shad throughout the year.

A lot of criticism and finger pointing is going on over the mgt of the fishery right now.

I grew up in the area, but personally would view this as one of the last lakes to go to for a quality walleye fishing trip in the KS, NE, SD region. I wish I could say otherwise.

Anecdotally you'll hear of some nice catches but there is no consistency in the lake right now. It is a fabulous white bass, wiper, and catfish lake.

If you insist on walleyes, join the guys going night blind on the rocks snagging, oops I mean catching, walleyes in late march and early april typically. (no shot intended, but snagged fish should be released) This is the one time fish will concentrate in the 8 mile lake.

Todd