Merritt Reservoir
A remote Sandhills reservoir famous for muskie and walleye, plus white bass.
Species
Fishery rating out of 5.
Muskellunge
Big baits along weed edges and rock bars, best in fall.
Walleye
Points, flats and reefs at low light. Jigs and live bait early, crankbaits and crawler harnesses in summer.
White Bass
Schools chasing shad in open water, and spring river runs.
Largemouth Bass
Weeds, docks and wood in the shallows.
Boat launches
1 launch sites. Fees and hours change, so confirm before you go.
- More public accessPublicSee the Nebraska Game & Parks or lake website for all ramps and feesDirections ↗
Size & creel limits
Special rules for this lake, confirmed from official state regulations. Minimum size and daily limit.
| Species | Min size | Daily limit |
|---|---|---|
| Muskellunge Tiger muskie too | 50 in | 1 / day |
Other species in this lake: look up the limits at Nebraska Game and Parks Commission ↗
Bait & tackle nearby
Closest shops to the lake and its boat launches. Call ahead for live bait and hours.
- Merritt Trading PostNearby88337 Nebraska Highway 97, Valentine, NE 69201(402) 376-3437Directions ↗
- Tooth and Whisker OutdoorsNearby311 W Hwy 20, Valentine, NE 69201(402) 376-1284Directions ↗
Local tips
- Remote, with dark skies. It's a popular stargazing spot.
- Sandy shoreline and clear water.
- Muskie fishing peaks in fall.
View on interactive map
Zoom and pan on a street, satellite or terrain map. Red pins are boat launches.
More Nebraska lakes
Harlan County Lake Calamus Reservoir Swanson Reservoir Sutherland Reservoir Sherman Reservoir Lake Minatare Johnson Lake Harry Strunk Lake All Nebraska lakes →
Always wear a life jacket and check your state's current regulations before you fish.