44 2020 Annual Report • Fisheries
L A K E M c C O N A U G H Y W A L L E Y E
A N D W H I T E B A S S R E S E A R C H
Lake McConaughy is one of the most popular fishing destinations
in Nebraska with walleye and white bass often targeted by anglers. A
multiyear investigation, being conducted with University of Nebraska
at Kearney researchers, into walleye and white bass population
characteristics and stocking success is providing insights into how
these fish species are functioning within the reservoir. Results indicate
approximately 90% of the young-of-year walleye population sampled
during study years were stocked fish. However, results were more
variable for white bass with only about 24% of the young-of-year white
bass population sampled identified as stocked fish. Initial stocking
predation has been identified as a major factor influencing stocking
success. Therefore, additional research has been conducted, producing
stocking predation-risk maps to guide future stocking locations.
Work continues to assess white bass recruitment with current
investigations focusing on the North Platte River that feeds Lake
McConaughy. Fish community sampling in 2020 yielded 1,790 fish
representing 32 genera. Future analysis will investigate distribution
patterns associated with habitat types and additional sampling in the
unique habitats that lie between the river and reservoir.
ERIC
FOWLER,
NEBRASKALAND
MAGAZINE
Fish sampling at Lake McConaughy State Recreation Area.
ROCKY
HOFFMANN,
NEBRASKALAND
MAGAZINE
