Shepherd Reservoir Fishing Guide, Sioux County, Nebraska

• Overview

  Out in Sioux County, Nebraska, sits Shepherd Reservoir. Rolling bush runs right down to the water. At 6 acres it is the sort of place you fish for an evening rather than a day. It is one of the smaller waters we list in Sioux County. For supplies, Lusk is 24 miles out. After that come Hot Springs at 47 miles and Chadron at 50 miles. The line between counties passes nearby, which can change who manages the water.

• Where to Fish on Shepherd Reservoir

  Depth is unknown to us, and the shoreline is the better guide. Held water runs deepest at the wall and shallows back to the inflow. Standing timber shows when the level drops, and fish sit against it. Survey and observation records for Sioux County include yellow bullhead, fathead minnow and sand shiner. Species recorded across the county may be limited to a few waters. On Shepherd Reservoir the obvious spot is not always the productive one.

• Seasonal Patterns

  Seasonal averages run from 24°F in January up to 72°F in July. Four clear seasons, with a proper winter at one end. Winter fishing happens on the ice here, with open water back around late March. The season between ice runs from about late March to early December. The shoulder weeks of the open season are the productive ones. Plan around that when you fish Shepherd Reservoir.

• Tackle & Baits

  The rules here are undocumented as far as public sources go. It is recorded as intermittent, which means the basin empties in dry spells. The map shows no ramp or car park nearby, so this is a walk-in water. Catfish want bait on the bottom: cut bait or worms, a simple running rig, and patience after dark. State or provincial rules still apply whatever the bank status. Keep proof of licence with you rather than in the car. Jordan Reservoir sits 10 miles off and takes the overflow. Signs at Shepherd Reservoir carry more weight than any list.