OGALLALA, Neb. — It's a sizzlin’ start to July out at Lake McConaughy, where temps are heating up and the fish are biting. Whether you're trolling for walleye, tossing lines off rocky points, or just catching some rays on the water, Nebraska’s biggest lake is the place to be this weekend.
Welcome to the Spahn Marine Lake Mac Report, your weekly update on all things Big Mac — brought to you by Spahn Marine in Big Springs, your go-to for Mercury Premier service and boat motor help at the lake. Stuck on the water? Call Spahn at 308-889-3531 and get back to cruising.
Fishing Report 🎣
Surface temps are holding steady between 68 and 70 degrees, and the walleye action is hot! Anglers are having success trolling in 15 to 25 feet of water — especially from Lone Eagle to Sand Point, and on the south side from Kelly Bay to Lakeview. Fire Tiger swim baits are the lure of choice this week.
Meanwhile, smallmouth bass are still hanging around the rocky points on the south side and the dam face. Trout fans, don’t sleep on the canal below the Lake Ogallala dam — the bite there remains strong.
Lake elevation currently sits at 3,231.1 feet — that’s about 51.5% full, or 898,100 acre-feet of water for you technical types.
Docks in the Water 🚤
Need a place to launch? You’re covered at:
- Diver’s Bay
- Martin Bay (low water dock)
- Both docks at Lake Ogallala
Camping and Safety 🏕️🔥
Every tent site and camper pad is booked solid for the 4th of July weekend — so if you didn’t grab a spot early, head to VisitKeithCounty.com to check for alternate lodging nearby.
Campfires? Still allowed, but remember: use extreme caution and never leave your fire unattended. And keep the fireworks at home — they are not permitted at Lake McConaughy or Lake Ogallala.
Weekend Events 🎆🏐
- Saturday, July 5: Hit the sand for a good cause! The Keystone Lemoyne Fire Department is hosting a sand volleyball tournament fundraiser starting bright and early at 8 a.m.
- Saturday night: Don’t miss the FREE Patriotic Drone Show at 10 p.m. at Ogallala’s Western Diamonds Sports Complex. It’s a sky-high salute you won’t forget!
Thanks to Patrick Schnell with Nebraska Game and Parks for the outdoor updates, and to the Keith County Visitors Committee for helping keep us all in the know.
That’s your Lake Mac Report for the week! Find more updates at SandhillsPost.com, and remember — whether you're casting a line or just soaking up the sun, life’s better at the lake.
Brought to you by Spahn Marine in Big Springs and Buzz’s Marine in Kearney.