Lakes and Fishing

ANSLEY RESERVOIR

Ansley Reservoir is a reservoir located just fifteen miles from Broken Bow, in Custer County, in the state of Nebraska, United States, near Ansley, NE. There is a handicap-accessible fishing dock. Fishermen will find a variety of fish including bream/bluegill, largemouth bass, crappie, and catfish here. There is also an RV park available.

VICTORIA SPRINGS STATE AREA 

Located 6 miles east of Anselmo or 7 miles north of Merna, Victoria Springs has justly been described as an oasis in the Sand Hills. Victoria Springs State Recreation Area is the third oldest area in Nebraska’s state park system. Anglers can find largemouth bass, bluegill, hybrid sunfish, green sunfish, and catfish in the five-acre lake at Victoria Springs. A handicap-accessible fishing pad is available.

PRESSEY PARK STATE WILDLIFE MANAGEMENT AREA 

Located just 5 miles north of Oconto on Highway 21 is the beautiful Pressey Park State Wildlife Management Area. The approximately 1,700 acres of land for Pressey Park was donated to the State of Nebraska by Mr. Henry E. Pressey on May 6, 1930. Today, Pressey Park features fishing, camping, hunting, and shooting facilities. Camping at the park is free and features electrical hookups and restroom facilities.

SHERMAN COUNTY DAM 

Located 40 miles east of Broken Bow near Loup City. Sherman Reservoir State Recreation Area boasts a 2,845-acre lake. Primitive camping includes 360 non-pad sites. Other facilities include picnic tables, shelters, water, a dump station, modern restrooms, vault toilets, four boat ramps, fish cleaning stations, coin-operated showers, and concession. Cabin rental and RV camping pads are available.

CALAMUS RESERVOIR 

56 miles northeast of Broken Bow near Burwell. This is a State Recreation Area with fishing, modern campgrounds, and a hatchery. Open as one the best outdoor recreation areas in the state. Primary sport fish at Calamus State Recreation Area are walleye, white bass, wipers (white/striped bass hybrid), channel catfish, carp, drum, muskie, northern pike, and crappie. In addition, catchable rainbow trout are stocked regularly in adjoining Gracie Creek Pond. In spring and early summer, walleye are tops on most anglers’ lists. As summer progresses white bass, wipers, and catfish show up. Two fish-cleaning stations are on-site.