Crappie Fishing Honey Holes In Nebraska
Nebraska may not be the first state that comes to mind when thinking about crappie fishing, but the Cornhusker State has a lot to offer for anglers seeking these tasty and challenging fish. In fact, Nebraska lakes and rivers are filled with hidden gems known as “honey holes” that are home to some of the best crappie fishing in the Midwest. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at some of the top crappie fishing honey holes in Nebraska.
Lake McConaughy
Lake McConaughy, also known as “Big Mac,” is the largest reservoir in Nebraska and a popular destination for crappie fishing. Located in the western part of the state, this man-made lake is known for its crystal-clear water and thriving fish population. The best time to fish for crappie in Lake McConaughy is during the spring when the water temperatures are still cool. Anglers can expect to find plenty of crappie near the small bays and inlets, as well as around brush piles and submerged trees. The best techniques for catching crappie in this lake include using jigs, live bait, and trolling with small crankbaits.
Pawnee Lake
Pawnee Lake is located near the city of Lincoln in eastern Nebraska and is a popular spot for crappie fishing. This 740-acre lake offers anglers plenty of opportunities to catch crappie due to its diverse structure and excellent water quality. The best time to fish for crappie in Pawnee Lake is during the spring and fall, as these are the peak spawning seasons for these fish. Look for crappie around submerged trees, stumps, and weed beds in this lake. Jigs, minnows, and small spinners are some of the most effective baits for catching crappie in Pawnee Lake.
Calamus Reservoir
Calamus Reservoir, located in north-central Nebraska, is another excellent crappie fishing honey hole in the state. This 5,000-acre lake is known for its excellent fishing opportunities, including a healthy population of crappie. The best time to fish for crappie in Calamus Reservoir is during the winter months when the fish move to deeper waters. However, anglers can also have success during the spring and fall, especially near the submerged timber and brush piles. Jigs, crappie minnows, and small spinners are the go-to baits for catching crappie in this lake.
Harlan County Reservoir
Located in south-central Nebraska, Harlan County Reservoir is a hot spot for crappie fishing. This 13,000-acre lake is one of the most popular fishing destinations in the state, thanks to its abundant and diverse fish population. Crappie fishing is good year-round in this lake, but the best time to catch them is during the spawn in late spring and early summer. Anglers can find crappie around sunken brush piles, docks, and other structure in the lake. Jigs and live bait are the most productive baits for catching crappie in Harlan County Reservoir.
Lake Maloney
Located just a few miles from North Platte, Lake Maloney is a small but fruitful crappie fishing honey hole in Nebraska. This man-made lake is known for its excellent water quality and diverse fish population, including crappie. The best time to fish for crappie in Lake Maloney is during the spring and fall, when the fish are in shallow waters. Look for them around submerged trees, brush piles, and other structure. Jigs, minnows, and small spinners are the best bait options for catching crappie in this lake.
Platte River
Last but not least, the Platte River is another popular destination for crappie fishing in Nebraska. This 310-mile river is a favorite among anglers for its abundance of game fish, including crappie. The best time to fish for crappie in the Platte River is during the spring and fall when the fish are actively feeding. Look for crappie around brush piles, fallen logs, and other structure along the banks. Jigs, minnows, and small spinners are the most effective baits for catching crappie in this river.
Conclusion
Nebraska may not have the same reputation for crappie fishing as other Midwest states, but that doesn’t mean it lacks great fishing opportunities. The state is filled with hidden gems known as “honey holes” that are home to some of the best crappie fishing in the region. From large reservoirs to small lakes and rivers, Nebraska has something to offer for every crappie angler. So, the next time you’re planning a fishing trip, consider visiting one of these top crappie fishing honey holes in Nebraska for an unforgettable experience.