East Hershey Lake near North Platte: Fishing Spots, Seasons and Access

• Overview

  Set in Lincoln County, East Hershey Lake is a Nebraska water. The setting is mixed forest on every side. It runs to roughly 28 acres — big enough to hold fish away from the bank, small enough to learn. It is one of the smaller waters we list in Lincoln County. The closest town, North Platte, is 8.6 miles away. After that come Sutherland at 10 miles and Ogallala at 41 miles. The county line is nowhere near, so one local authority covers the water.

• Where to Fish on East Hershey Lake

  Depth went unrecorded, which puts the reading back on you. A reservoir gives you a hard edge, a shelf, and not much else. Inflow corners move water, and moving water gathers fish. Records held for Lincoln County cover common carp, white sucker and flathead catfish. It is the county picture; the agency list is water-specific. Anyone new to East Hershey Lake should walk it once before setting up.

• Seasonal Patterns

  Climate normals give 74°F for July and 24°F for January. The freeze arrives properly here and holds. Hard water holds through the cold months, breaking up near mid March. On average, mid March opens the water and mid December closes it again. Reckon on open water from spring through to late autumn, with May and June the strongest. At East Hershey Lake the season follows that pattern closely.

• Tackle & Baits

  Whether you may fish here is not something records settle. East Hershey Lake Wildlife Management Area takes in this water; protected-area rules will apply. A small crankbait along the drop and a worm in the thick stuff cover the bass. Read any posted signs at the access point rather than assuming. Check whether bait restrictions apply before you buy any. Failing this one, try Hershey Lake, 3.2 miles away. For East Hershey Lake in particular, ask before you travel.