Fishing Calamus Reservoir
AKA: Calamus Lake
Popular Fish Species Calamus Reservoir, NE
Walleye Fishing
Fertile water, good food sources and great fish management by Nebraska Game & Parks Commission makes an ideal fishery for walleye, as it does in Calamus Reservoir this year. May and June tend to be the best time for weekend anglers to catch them. During this time they tend to move shallower, closer to shore and begin spawning. Rock and gravel are preferred areas for the spawn. Other times of the year they are more likely to roam around in deeper water. As always, stay around schools of baitfish. They are eager to feed throughout the lake, but tend to concentrate around structure on points, flats and ledges off the river channels. Walleye have excellent, low-light vision which helps them find food in deep or murky water. Make an effort to be on the water during low light conditions. A proven method for catching walleye here is trolling with spinners tipped with live bait, or trolling with long-billed, deep diving crankbaits. However casting live bait, jigs, worms and spoons also works well at times.
White Bass Fishing
Successful spawn years in the past have elevated the fishing for white bass in Calamus Reservoir, and anglers should expect some great fishing this year. White bass are aggressive, hard-fighting and just plain fun to catch. When fishing for white bass, the average fish is typically in the one- to two-pound range. These schooling fish tend to roam around the lake looking for ideal water conditions and baitfish. Look for them to generally be in 15 to 35 feet of water, whether they are hovering around the bottom or swimming in open water. Fish finders are the best way to locate big schools of white bass. Fish near the bottom at night with live bait. In spring, once the water temperature rises into the mid sixties, they move shallow into the backs of coves and creek channels to spawn. When white bass chase schools of bait near the surface, spinners, spoons and small crank baits work well. At this time anglers can fish from shore and often do quite well. Use lures that imitate baitfish, including small crankbaits, small jerkbaits, jigs and spoons.
Hybrid Striped Bass Fishing
Fishing for hybrid stripers is a matter of locating schools of bait, and schools of hybrid striped bass are likely to be in the area. Hybrid stripers, also known as wipers, are a favorite of many locals and fishing guides at Calamus Reservoir, as they are plentiful and grow to bragging size. As a hybrid of striped bass and white bass, they have great potential for spawning massive numbers and growing to large sizes. Mornings, during Fall, hybrids can be caught on topwater or shallow running lures, as they are feeding on baitfish at the surface. When they move deeper, fish finders improve your odds of locating both bait and schools of wipers. Live bait, spoons and jigs are very very effective here, and these hungry fish can be caught year round.
Fish species to fish for...
Guide to fishing for largemouth bass, channel catfish, walleye, bluegill, white bass, yellow perch, muskie, wiper and northern pike at Calamus Reservoir in Nebraska.
Calamus Reservoir Fishing Video
A very popular place for outdoor activities in Nebraska is centered around the friendly waters of Calamus Reservoir. This 5,200-acre lake in found in the sandhills area, in central Nebraska, within Calamus State Recreation Area.
Calamus Reservoir, located near Burwell, Nebraska, is a renowned destination for fishing enthusiasts. Covering approximately 5,000 acres, this picturesque reservoir offers excellent fishing opportunities. Calamus Reservoir is known for its diverse fish population, making it a prime spot for anglers of all skill levels. The reservoir is home to a variety of fish species, including walleye, largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, white bass, crappie, and bluegill. Anglers can explore the reservoir's submerged structures, rocky points, and weed beds to target these prized fish.
While this area offers camping, hiking and picnicking, the lake is the draw and provides for some great boating and fishing. Walleye, white bass and catfish are the primary targets here, but there is plenty of bass, sunfish, muskie and northern pike fishing here as well. A store, fishing tackle, boat rentals, and bar and grill are all located near the lake for your convenience.
Primary fish species residing in Calamus Reservoir
Click images for fishing tips and details about each species.
Calamus Reservoir Amenities
Marina: NO
Boat Rental: YES
Boat Launch Ramp: YES
Campgrounds: YES
RV Hookups: YES
Lodging: YES
Convenience Store: YES
Bait & Tackle: YES
Restaurant: YES
Today's Weather & Forecast
In addition to fishing, Calamus Reservoir is a paradise for boating enthusiasts. Boaters can enjoy cruising along the reservoir's calm waters, taking in the stunning views and peaceful ambiance. The reservoir allows for various water activities, such as motor boating, kayaking, canoeing, and paddleboarding. Whether it's a leisurely boat ride or an exhilarating water sports adventure, Calamus Reservoir offers an enjoyable boating experience.
Fishing Boat Rentals
Husker Marine Sport Shop
Rentals: Fishing boats, kayaks, canoes and pontoons
308 346-4410
Public Boat Launch Ramps & Landings
Buckshot Bay Boat Ramp
Located in the southwest section of the lake, off S Lake Road, this is a two-lane, concrete ramp with a dock and gravel parking.
Homestead Knolls Boat Ramp
Located in the northeast section of the lake, off Dam Road, this is a two-lane, concrete ramp with a dock and paved parking.
Nunda Shoal Campground Boat Ramp
Located mid lake, southwest side, off S Lake Road, this is a two-lane, concrete ramp with a dock and paved parking.
Valleyview Flat Campground
Located in the northeast corner of the lake, off Highway 96, this is a two-lane, concrete ramp with a dock and paved parking.
Fishing Guides On Calamus Reservoir
Calamus Fishing Guide Service - walleye, white bass, wipers, crappie, bass
If you offer fishing guide services on this lake, please contact us for a free listing, to be posted here.
Fishing License
Click here for a Nebraska Fishing License.
Camping options are available near Calamus Reservoir, allowing visitors to extend their stay and fully embrace the natural beauty of the area. The reservoir provides several campgrounds with amenities such as tent sites, RV hookups, and access to hiking trails and picnic areas. Camping near Calamus Reservoir provides the opportunity to wake up to serene reservoir views, enjoy outdoor activities, and experience the tranquility of the surroundings.
Campgrounds & RV Parks Nearby
Calamus Reservoir SRA Campground - 308 346-5666
Homestead Knolls Campground - 308 346-5666
Nunda Shoal Campground - 308 346-5666
Valley View Flat Campground - 308 346-5666
Calamus Reservoir NE Map - Fishing & Camping Areas
Contact Information
Calamus Reservoir
Calamus Reservoir State Recreation Area
42285 York Point Rd
Burwell, NE 68823
308 346-5666
Fishing lakes in each state.
072524
Calamus Reservoir in Nebraska.
NEBRASKA
Fishing at Calamus Reservoir, in Nebraska.
Walleye, white bass and catfish fishing in central NE.