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Trout Fishing Locations In Nebraska

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Guide to fishing for rainbow, cutthroat, brook and brown trout in local lakes and streams.

By AA-Fishing Staff Writers

Trout fishing in Nebraska

Nebraska offers exciting opportunities for trout fishing, with both rainbow trout and brown trout being popular species among anglers. Although the state is not known for its extensive trout fisheries, there are several lakes and rivers where trout can be found, providing anglers with thrilling fishing experiences. The purpose of this page is to share basic information about trout fishing and identify trout fishing waters in the state.

Rainbow trout are the most common trout species in Nebraska and are typically stocked in lakes and rivers throughout the state. They are known for their acrobatic leaps and strong fights, making them a favorite target for anglers. Some popular lakes for rainbow trout fishing include Lake Ogallala, Merritt Reservoir, and Grove Lake. These lakes are periodically stocked with rainbow trout to maintain the populations and provide anglers with ample opportunities to catch these vibrant fish.

Brown trout, while less common, can also be found in certain Nebraska waters. They are typically found in rivers, particularly in the colder, faster-flowing sections. The Niobrara River is known for its brown trout fishery, offering anglers a chance to catch these elusive and prized fish. Brown trout can also be found in some lakes, such as the Calamus Reservoir.

Nebraska's state records for rainbow trout and brown trout demonstrate the potential for trophy-sized catches. The current state records for both species exceed impressive weights, highlighting the possibility of landing a record-breaking trout in Nebraska's waters.

When targeting trout in Nebraska, anglers often use a variety of techniques such as fly fishing, spinning, or bait fishing. Common baits and lures for trout fishing include artificial flies, spinners, spoons, and dough baits. Anglers can also practice catch-and-release to help sustain trout populations and ensure future fishing opportunities.

It's important for anglers to be aware of specific regulations and fishing limits for trout in each water body. Additionally, anglers should obtain the necessary fishing permits and familiarize themselves with any special regulations or seasons specific to trout fishing in Nebraska.

While Nebraska may not be widely known for its trout fisheries, the state still offers opportunities for anglers to enjoy trout fishing experiences. With lakes, reservoirs, and rivers that support trout populations, anglers can test their skills and enjoy the thrill of catching rainbow trout and brown trout in the scenic landscapes of Nebraska.

Trout Waters

Hugh Butler Lake, Kimball Reservoir, Lake McConaughy, Lake Ogallala, Lake Maloney, Merritt Reservoir, Oliver Reservoir, Red Willow Reservoir and Sutherland Reservoir are some of the major bodies of water in NE with trout (typically stocked). Many rivers and smaller lakes may also contain trout. Some of the waters with stocked trout include Crystal Cove, Fremont Lake, Standing Bear Lake, Grove Lake, Weeping Water Pond, Auburn Lake, Holmes Lake, Qwest Lake, Benson Lake, Ta-Ha-Zouka Park Lake, Pawnee Park Lake, Such’s Lake, Ord City Lake, Windmill State Recreation Area Lake No. 1, Lexington City Park Lake, Holdrege City Park Lake, Arnold Lake and Birdwood Lake.

Fishing Boats For Rent In NE

Trout Species In The State

Rainbow Trout

Rainbow trout

World record: 42 lbs 2 oz

State Record: 14 lbs 2 oz

Cutthroat Trout

Cutthroat trout

World record: 41 lbs 0 oz

State Record: 5 lbs 7 oz

Brook Trout

Brook trout

World record: 14 lbs 8 oz

State Record: 5 lbs 1 oz

Brown Trout

Brown trout

World record: 40 lbs 4 oz

State Record: 20 lbs 1 oz

Click the images and links above for species details.

Select the best trout lures and baits

Trout spinners, crankbaits and jerkbaits work well for shallow, reasonably active fish. Salmon eggs, worms and prepared baits will work at virtually all depths.

Nebraska Record Trout

The NPPD Canal was home to the state record rainbow trout.

Ogallala Lake gave up the state record cutthroat trout.

The state record brook trout was taken from Pawnee Springs.

The state record brown trout came out of the Snake River.

Additional trout information

Brown Trout
Brown trout being released.

The 5 primary trouts are the rainbow, brook, brown, cutthroat and lake trout. Browns are considered the most difficult to catch and brookies are the easiest. Pure cold water is key to survival of the trouts.

Trout Conservation
Trout Unlimited

Visit the Nebraska Game & Parks Commission website for details on trout stocking in Nebraska lakes, ponds and streams.

Watch trout fishing videos to see trout anglers in action.

 

Trout locations and info, by state.

AK Trout Fishing AL Trout Fishing AR Trout Fishing AZ Trout Fishing CA Trout Fishing CO Trout Fishing CT Trout Fishing DE Trout Fishing GA Trout Fishing HI Trout Fishing IA Trout Fishing ID Trout Fishing
IL Trout Fishing IN Trout Fishing KS Trout Fishing KY Trout Fishing MA Trout Fishing MD Trout Fishing ME Trout Fishing MI Trout Fishing MN Trout Fishing MO Trout Fishing MS Trout Fishing MT Trout Fishing
NC Trout Fishing ND Trout Fishing NE Trout Fishing NH Trout Fishing NJ Trout Fishing NM Trout Fishing NV Trout Fishing NY Trout Fishing OH Trout Fishing OK Trout Fishing OR Trout Fishing PA Trout Fishing
RI Trout Fishing SC Trout Fishing SD Trout Fishing TN Trout Fishing TX Trout Fishing UT Trout Fishing VA Trout Fishing VT Trout Fishing WA Trout Fishing WI Trout Fishing WV Trout Fishing WY Trout Fishing
 

Learn the habits of trout

Trout are considered some of the most difficult fish to fool. Once you locate Nebraska waters with a population of trout, the challenge becomes identifying trout flies and lures that will trigger strikes. Visit the trout fishing page to learn more about the habitat each of the trouts prefer.