Blue Catfish

Lake McConaughy near Ogallala is a sleeper lake when it comes to blue catfish. While not as heavily targeted as in some other Nebraska waters, Big Mac holds a healthy population of blues. The best time to target them is during the warmer months, from late spring through early fall. Focus on deeper channels, flats adjacent to channels, and areas with current. Cut bait is king here – shad, herring, or even commercially prepared catfish baits will work well. A local tactic is to fish near the dam or the inlet of the North Platte River, where blues often congregate. Access to the lake is good, with multiple boat ramps available. However, be aware that McConaughy can be a large, windy lake, so be sure to check the weather forecast before heading out. Don't be surprised if you hook into a truly large blue cat here; they definitely reach trophy sizes in this reservoir.