Lake McConaughy

I am looking to hit Lake McConaughy over Memorial Day weekend, but I haven't heard of any reports lately. I am new to this lake and was wondering what is best to try live bait or artificial. and if artificials are the ticket do crankbaits suffice or should I get some trolling spoons. Is there plenty of camping areas to set up tent?
Need help.
Thanks,

Omaha_jeb

No mention

I went to Big Mac for the first time two weeks ago. It was very large reservoir, however about 40 feet below normal pool capacity. We camped in a tent at the MArtin's Cove area. It was very nice. They had covered shelters with picnic tables under them. One thing I didn't like about the area was no alcohol allowed anywhere. Its hard going fishing without a nice cold beer. If I were you, I would stay away Memorial Day weekend. With only two boats ramps open on entire lake, it could take a few hours to launch and retrieve a boat. We caught 12 walleyes in two days of fishing, biggest was just over 3 pounds. We trolled rapalas up and down the dam and also drifted crawler rigs along the beaches on the north side. Did best trolling in 8 foot of water along the dam at night, Wind was a huge problem. Wind came up and the lake went from 1 foot waves to about 4 foot waves in less than 20 minutes.

[Badger 05]

I wouldn't suggest going to big Mac on Memorial Day weekend. In addition to all the jet skiers and other fisherman there is a 200 boat 2-day tourney that weekend. (I'm fishing in it and I wouldn't be if my schedule worked out any other way) That place is going to be an absolute zoo. I am praying for some wind and nice 3 foot rollers to keep alot of people off the lake during the tourney.

Fishing is: One jerk waiting for another jerk at the end of his line.

Thanks to all those who responded. Anyone have good suggestions on a place to go in Nebraska to find some 'eyes that weekend
Thanks again,
Good luck in the tourney.

[walleye4]

Where are you from? They are starting to catch eyes at alot of lakes in Nebraska. My brother-in-law limited out at johnson's this week, they are starting to take off at Harlan, they are catching them at Sherman, and I have heard of a few coming from Elwood. How far do you live from the Kansas border? They are doing really well at Norton, Kirwin, and Glen Elder. I am going to Norton Sunday!

Wallagator Chaser

I've just moved to Omaha for about a year from Sioux Falls and haven't given 'eyes a try in Nebraska yet. I've just kept driving up into South Dakota to the river and other lakes, but I want to try catch some walleyes in Nebraska. I've always wanted to hit Lake McConaughy, but I think I will wait until another time (too busy). I'm leaning towards Sherman, Calamus, or maybe Harlan County like you say. My goal is to catch some eaters with the possibility to release some large ones. I'm trying to get a large fish for my wife to catch.

Thanks,

Omaha_jeb

[Badger 05]

If you want to catch alot of fish (mostly shorties) Sherman, and Calamus are the best choice. Both of those lakes also give you an opportunity at a few pigs. Be prepared to catch 10-12 short fish for each one you are able to put in the box. Both lakes set up nicely for lindy rigging at this time of year. I was just at Sherman for a tourney May 4th and the bite was on at that time. If you want the chance at numbers of pigs Elwood would be my choice. The only problem with Elwood is that it takes a totally different mindset to fish that lake. No flats, deep canyon style impoundment. Spend all day casting cranks, jigs, and spinnerbaits into the steep shoreline. The bite for Wallys is best there from about 2 A.M. -6A.M. Too early for me. If you haven't fished it much already Lewis and Clark is also a nice option for numbers of fish. Huge flats and some nice rocky shorelines. Not many pigs though. Hope that helped. Let me know what you decide and I may be able to give you some more detailed info on the lake you choose to go to. You may not want to listen to me though cuz I am not a very good fisherman.

Fishing is: One jerk waiting for another jerk at the end of his line.

I think I am going to give Harlan County a try. I fish tournaments sometimes and was just wondering what tournament was being held that weekend? I'd like to see what the winning weights are.
Thanks.

[Badger 05]

It is the Oregon Trail Trading Post Shut up and Fish Tourney. It is a part of the Nebraska Walleye Trail. It is a large tourney with a pretty good purse. I have no idea why they are having it on Memorial Day weekend.

Fishing is: One jerk waiting for another jerk at the end of his line.