Fishing Wagon Train Lake
AKA: Wagon Train Reservoir
Popular Fish Species Wagon Train Lake, NE

Walleye Fishing
Wagon Train Lake is home to a hearty population of walleye. Good fisheries management by Nebraska Game & Parks Commission and plenty of forage in the lake have them growing fat and healthy. Walleye have excellent vision in low light scenarios which helps them find food in deep or murky water. Make an effort to be on the water anytime there are low light conditions. During May and June is the optimal time to catch them, while feeding in shallower water. Other times of the year they are more likely to roam around in deeper water. Concentrate around structure like points, flats and ledges off the river channels. One of the proven methods 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.

Black Crappie Fishing
A nice population of black crappie resides in Wagon Train Lake. Crappie tend to run in schools, and once a school is located, there is a good chance for catching significant numbers. Crappie fishing is easy and requires simple, basic gear. Virtually any fishing pole, reasonably small line and crappie jigs or small hooks baited with live bait, creates the ideal setup. Add a bobber and you can set the depth you prefer the bait to maintain. The best time to catch crappie tends to be at dawn and dusk. Live bait and small jigs are the most common method for crappie here. Because crappie prefer cover and structure, locate brush and vegetation in appropriate water depths. Using a fish finder can help locate schools of crappie, which tend to stack vertically around cover. In spring and fall focus on the 8 to 12 foot range. As the crappie move deep in summer and winter, follow points out deep, as well as find ledges near channels in deeper water.

Muskie Fishing
Fishing for muskellunge in Wagon Train Lake could provide a trophy fish on any given cast. Giant musky roam these waters and are aggressive eaters. Muskie fishing can bring some exciting moments to your fishing day, as big muskies are spectacular, and strong fighters. Use a strong rod in medium- to medium-heavy action, with heavy line - 20# or heavier. Because of their sharp teeth, steel leaders are highly recommended. Muskie have a big mouth so use big baits, same baits you would use for bass but in larger sizes. Topwater, spinnerbaits, crankbaits and jerkbaits all work well for hungry muskie. The best time of year to chase these big fish is Spring, and then again in Fall as the water temperature starts cooling.
Fish species to fish for...
Guide to fishing for largemouth bass, channel catfish, black crappie, walleye, bluegill, redear sunfish, yellow perch, wiper and muskie at Wagon Train Lake in Nebraska.
Wagon Train Lake Fishing Video
For those who enjoy slower-paced water sport activities, Wagon Train Lake is an ideal getaway. All boats are allowed on the lake, but a 5-mile per hour speed limit is in force everywhere on the lake. This 315-acre lake located in the southeast corner of the state, is ideal for kayaks, canoes and non-powered boats of all kinds.
Wagon Train Lake, located near Hickman, Nebraska, is a popular destination for fishing enthusiasts. Covering over 300 acres, this serene lake offers fantastic fishing opportunities. Wagon Train Lake is known for its diverse fish population, making it a sought-after spot for anglers of all levels. The lake is home to a variety of fish species, including largemouth bass, bluegill, crappie, channel catfish, and walleye. Anglers can explore the lake's shoreline, submerged structures, and weed beds to target these prized fish.
Here, one can fish without the disturbance of fast boats, jet skis and water skiers. The lake has multiple species of fish - muskie, walleye, wiper, bass, crappie and various sunfish populate the lake in healthy quantities. There is a nice boat ramp with a dock on the east side of the lake where Park Road intersects the lake. Over one-hundred camp sites, some with hookups for RV's, are available for camping nearby the lake.
Primary fish species residing in Wagon Train Lake
Click images for fishing tips and details about each species.
Wagon Train Lake Amenities
Marina: NO
Boat Rental: NO
Boat Launch Ramp: YES
Campgrounds: YES
RV Hookups: YES
Lodging: NEARBY
Convenience Store: NEARBY
Bait & Tackle: NO
Restaurant: NEARBY
Today's Weather & Forecast
In addition to fishing, Wagon Train Lake provides opportunities for boating enthusiasts. Boaters can enjoy cruising along the lake's calm waters, taking in the beautiful surroundings and peaceful ambiance. The lake allows for various water activities, such as motor boating, kayaking, canoeing, and paddleboarding. Whether it's a leisurely boat ride or an adventurous water sports experience, Wagon Train Lake offers a delightful boating adventure.
Public Boat Launch Ramps & Landings
Wagon Train Lake State Recreation Area Boat Launch Ramp
Located in the southeast corner of the lake, off Park Road, this is a one-lane, concrete ramp with a dock and gravel parking.
Fishing Guides On Wagon Train Lake
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 Wagon Train Lake, allowing visitors to extend their stay and fully embrace the natural beauty of the area. The lake offers a campground with amenities such as tent sites, RV hookups, and access to hiking trails and picnic areas. Camping near Wagon Train Lake provides the opportunity to wake up to serene lake views, enjoy outdoor activities, and experience the tranquility of the surroundings.
Campgrounds & RV Parks Nearby
Wagon Train Lake SRA Campground - 402 471-0641
Wagon Train Dam-Site 8 Park Campground - 402 471-0641
Wagon Train Lake NE Map - Fishing & Camping Areas
Contact Information
Wagon Train Lake
Wagon Train Lake State Recreation Area
3019 Apple St
Lincoln, NE 68503
402 471-0641
Fishing lakes in each state.
101724
Wagon Train Lake in Nebraska.
NEBRASKA


Fishing at Wagon Train Lake, in Nebraska.
Muskie, walleye, wiper, bass and sunfish fishing in southeast NE.