Striped Bass

While Nebraska might not be the first place that springs to mind for striped bass, the area near Abie offers a unique, albeit limited, opportunity to target these hard-fighting fish. Some of the larger reservoirs within a reasonable drive of Abie, such as Lake McConaughy (though a longer drive), are stocked with striped bass. These landlocked stripers provide a thrilling challenge for anglers. Spring and fall are generally the best times to fish for striped bass, as they tend to be more active in cooler water temperatures. Trolling with crankbaits or casting swimbaits and topwater lures can be effective. A key local tip: pay attention to wind direction and focus on areas where the wind is blowing into the shoreline, as this often concentrates baitfish and, consequently, striped bass. Striped bass in these reservoirs can reach impressive sizes, with fish exceeding 20 pounds not uncommon. Be sure to have a sturdy rod and reel capable of handling these powerful fish. Also, check the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission website for specific regulations regarding striped bass, as they can vary depending on the water body.