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White Bass

White Bass

White Bass are widely distributed across Nebraska's major reservoirs and rivers, with established populations in Lake McConaughy, Merritt Reservoir, Lewis and Clark Lake, Harlan County Reservoir, Johnson Lake, and many other waters statewide.

Scientific Name: Morone chrysops

Physical Characteristics:
  • Silver-white to pale green fish with dark backs and distinctive narrow dark horizontal stripes running lengthwise on their sides.
  • In Nebraska, they typically reach 12-15 inches long and weigh 1-2 pounds, though specimens up to 6+ pounds have been recorded.

What to know

Habitat Distribution

  • Widely distributed across Nebraska's major reservoirs and rivers.
  • Highly migratory open-water fish.

Key Locations

  • Lake McConaughy, Merritt Reservoir, Lewis and Clark Lake, Harlan County Reservoir, Johnson Lake.
  • At Lake McConaughy, focus on Martin Bay, Otter Creek, and areas near Kingsley Dam.
  • Merritt Reservoir particularly around the dam and main lake points.

Specific Spots

  • Mouths of inflowing creeks and rivers, brushy banks, riffles, and shallow areas.
  • During summer, deeper water along channel edges and drop-offs.

White Bass FAQ

Answers from onWater's species guide.

What are the best lures and bait for White Bass in Nebraska?

1/16 to 1/2 oz lipless crankbaits in shad patterns, curly tail grubs in white or chartreuse on 1/16-1/4 oz jig heads, small swimbaits, inline spinners, hair jigs, and spoons. In clear water, use white and silver lures with dark backs; in stained water, try chartreuse and red patterns.

What flies work for White Bass in Nebraska?

Clouser Minnows, Woolly Buggers, and bead-head flies in white, chartreuse, and shad patterns.

When is the best time to fish for White Bass in Nebraska?

Prime time for white bass fishing in Nebraska is from April through July, with peak action occurring when water temperatures reach 55-60°F during the spawning run. Merritt Reservoir offers excellent opportunities from May through August.

How do you catch White Bass in Nebraska?

Vertical jigging with spoons and slabs over deep ledges and channel breaks is highly effective in summer.

What do White Bass eat?

Aggressive predators that feed primarily on shad (threadfin and gizzard shad), alewives, minnows, and various invertebrates including zooplankton, crustaceans, and insects. Their diet shifts seasonally, with juveniles consuming zooplankton and small invertebrates while adults focus heavily on baitfish.

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