Fishing Elwood Reservoir
AKA: Elwood Lake, Lake Elwood
Popular Fish Species Elwood Reservoir, NE
Walleye Fishing
Thanks to the Nebraska Game & Parks Commission and their stocking program, a healthy population of walleye continue to thrive in Elwood 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 and closer to shore. 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. 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. When the lake freezes over in winter, ice fishing for walleye can be very productive. Use GPS to locate spots you normally fish during other times of the year.
Hybrid Striped Bass Fishing
Wipers are a favorite of many locals and fishing guides at Elwood Reservoir, as they are plentiful and grow to bragging size. Hybrid striped bass, commonly referred to as "wipers" are a hybrid of striped bass and white bass. Hybrid striped bass have great potential for spawning massive numbers and growing to large sizes. 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. 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.
Channel Catfish Fishing
Elwood Reservoir, again this year, supports a healthy population of channel catfish, thanks to prior stockings by Nebraska Game & Parks Commission. In Spring, channel catfish tend to migrate toward incoming water, so stay up river away from the main lake. Night fishing for channel catfish often delivers better results than fishing during the day. When the lake freezes over in winter, try ice fishing. In early summer look for rocky banks, the bigger the rocks the better. In summer and winter deeper structure is where to look. The river end of the lake is often the area where the bigger catfish are caught. Fishing for channel catfish is often productive around any kind of structure in the area. Road beds, creek channels and rocky points are all good places to begin. Use a slip sinker or Carolina rig with popular catfish baits. Flathead catfish and blue catfish also reside in the lake and fishing for them is often good as well.
Fish species to fish for...
Guide to fishing for largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, spotted bass, channel catfish, blue catfish, black crappie, walleye, bluegill, rock bass, white bass, yellow perch, hybrid striped bass and muskie at Elwood Reservoir in Nebraska.
Elwood Reservoir Fishing Video
Just fifteen minutes off I-80, in the southwest part of the state, Elwood Reservoir is a 1,300-acre lake offering a variety of boating, camping and fishing. Plenty of cover, coves, points and creek channels provide an excellent home for bass, catfish, walleye, crappie, hybrid striped bass and muskie.
Elwood Reservoir, located near Elwood, Nebraska, is a hidden gem for fishing enthusiasts. Covering over 1,500 acres, this charming reservoir offers excellent fishing opportunities. Elwood Reservoir is known for its diverse fish population, making it a popular spot for anglers of all levels. The reservoir is home to a variety of fish species, including walleye, largemouth bass, white bass, crappie, and catfish. Anglers can explore the reservoir's shoreline, submerged structures, and underwater points to target these sought-after fish.
Some areas of the lake are accessible for shoreline fishing, and there is camping right at the lake. Bring your fishing boat, canoe or kayak and you'll find plenty of fishy looking water. Ice fishing can be very good when safe ice exists. When planning an ice fishing trip, contact Central Nebraska Public Power and Irrigation District for pumping schedules, as ice can become unsafe during some pumping situations.
Primary fish species residing in Elwood Reservoir
Click images for fishing tips and details about each species.
Elwood Reservoir Amenities
Marina: NO
Boat Rental: NO
Boat Launch Ramp: YES
Campgrounds: YES
RV Hookups: YES
Lodging: YES
Convenience Store: YES
Bait & Tackle: NO
Restaurant: NEARBY
Today's Weather & Forecast
In addition to fishing, Elwood Reservoir provides ample opportunities for boating enthusiasts. Boaters can enjoy cruising along the reservoir's calm waters, taking in the beautiful scenery and tranquil 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 exciting water sports adventure, Elwood Reservoir offers a delightful boating experience.
Public Boat Launch Ramps & Landings
Elwood Lake Boat Launch Ramp
Located in the southwest corner of the lake, off Elwood Lake Drive, this is a one-lane, concrete ramp with a dock and gravel parking.
Fishing Guides On Elwood Reservoir
Canyon Lakes Guiding Service - walleye, stripers
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 Elwood Reservoir, allowing visitors to extend their stay and fully immerse themselves in the natural beauty of the area. The reservoir offers a campground with amenities such as tent sites, RV hookups, and access to hiking trails and picnic areas. Camping near Elwood 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
Elwood Resort & Campground - 308 440-4993
Reverie Campground - 308 785-2599
Elwood Reservoir NE Map - Fishing & Camping Areas
Contact Information
Elwood Reservoir
Elwood Resort & Campground
42736 Elwood Lake Dr
Elwood, NE 68937
308 440-4993
Fishing lakes in each state.
062724
Elwood Reservoir in Nebraska.
NEBRASKA
Fishing at Elwood Reservoir, in Nebraska.
Bass, walleye, hybrid striped bass and muskie fishing in southwest NE.
