Lake McConaughy

Lake McConaughy

Ogallala, Keith County, NE
47mi²
974.00ft
Directions
Lake Information

Lake McConaughy, affectionately known as "Big Mac," is a colossal testament to the grandeur of nature and one of Nebraska's most magnificent treasures. Stretching across a staggering 30,000 surface acres, Lake McConaughy stands as the largest reservoir in Nebraska, a natural wonder where size knows no bounds. A Marvel of Engineering: The heart of this aquatic giant is its dam, a colossal structure that ranks among the largest of its kind on the global stage. The dam's immense presence is a testament to human ingenuity and the will to harness the raw power of nature for the benefit of communities and ecosystems alike. Fishing Extravaganza: Lake McConaughy has long been celebrated as a premier fishing destination, beckoning anglers from across the nation. Its cool, clear waters host a diverse array of game fish species, including walleye, channel catfish, Northern pike, wiper, smallmouth bass, and white bass. Many of these aquatic denizens have grown to trophy proportions, with several state records proudly attributed to the waters of Big Mac. For anglers' convenience, the area boasts three fish cleaning stations strategically located at Martin Bay, Otter Creek, and Cedar View. Boating Paradise: Lake McConaughy's vast expanse offers a haven for water enthusiasts of all kinds. Whether you're into the thrill of water skiing and tubing, the serenity of sail boating, or the soaring adventure of parasailing, Big Mac has it all. You can bring your own boat or personal watercraft, or choose to rent one from a private outfitter. With numerous boat ramps equipped with docks scattered around the lake, your aquatic adventures are only a launch away. Should you have questions about ramp availability, the Visitor's Center is your friendly point of contact. Lake Ogallala and Serenity: When the winds are less forgiving for water recreation at Big Mac, Lake Ogallala awaits below the dam. Often sheltered from the gusts, it provides a tranquil alternative. Some of Lake McConaughy's bays also remain surprisingly calm, even on the windiest afternoons, offering pockets of serenity amidst the grandeur of the lake. A Paradise Awaits: Lake McConaughy, with its breathtaking scale and abundant recreational opportunities, stands as an iconic destination in Nebraska. Whether you're an angler seeking the next big catch, a boating enthusiast ready to set sail, or simply a nature lover seeking the awe-inspiring beauty of a vast reservoir, Big Mac has it all. Explore this aquatic paradise and uncover the wonders of Lake McConaughy, a Nebraska gem that proudly showcases the grandeur of the natural world.

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Current Conditions

62°F°
Feels like 58°F°
MostlyClear
Today's High
63°F°
Today's Low
43°F°

Water Temperature

46°F
Updated: (Apr 29)
Sign in to contribute temps.

Current water temperature for Lake McConaughy is 46°F.

Current Snapshot

Wind14 mph NNE (Gust 17 mph)
Pressure
29.70 inHg
Visibility14 mi
Humidity57%
Cloud Cover13%

Forecast: Thursday, May 1

Day 1 of 9

Hourly Insights

7 AM
45°F°
10 AM
55°F°
1 PM
60°F°
4 PM
63°F°

Temperature

High
63°F°
Low
43°F°

Precipitation

Chance0%
Amount0.00"
Typeclear

Wind

13mph
Avg Speed
Gusts up to
25mph
CalmModerateStrong
Max Speed17 mph

Sun, Moon & UV

Sunrise11:44 AM
Sunset1:45 AM
Moon PhasewaxingCrescent
Max UV Index6 (High)

Solunar Fishing Forecast

Action Rating
2/5

Todays action is rated a 2 (scale is 0 thru 5, 5 is the best)

Major Times (Best)

10:17 PM - 12:47 AM

8:07 AM - 10:37 AM

Minor Times (Good)

2:05 PM - 3:35 PM

6:00 AM - 6:00 AM

Outlook for Thursday at Lake McConaughy

Expect temperatures ranging from 43°F to 63°F. Skies look partly cloudy with little chance of precipitation. Winds will be averaging 13 mph, with potential gusts reaching up to 25 mph. The maximum UV index will be 6 (High), so plan sun protection accordingly. For anglers, today's fishing action is rated 2/5 (Todays action is rated a 2 (scale is 0 thru 5, 5 is the best)). Look for the best bite times during the major periods around 10:17 PM and 8:07 AM, or try the minor windows near 2:05 PM and 6:00 AM for potential early morning or evening action. Check back for the latest conditions and forecasts for Lake McConaughy.

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April 30th 2025

Lake Information

Elevation
974 ft
Area
47 mi²
Coordinates
41.241, -101.786

Weather Forecast

Thursday

63°F
43°F

Friday

61°F
41°F

Saturday

73°F
39°F

Sunday

70°F
46°F

Monday

71°F
47°F

Tuesday

57°F
48°F

Wednesday

64°F
44°F

Thursday

62°F
47°F

Friday

70°F
50°F
Thursday - 5/1/2025
63°F
43°F
12am
50°F
46°F
29.92 hPa
8 mph
NNW
G: 21 mph
2am
46°F
46°F
29.92 hPa
10 mph
NW
G: 18 mph
4am
44°F
46°F
29.94 hPa
12 mph
NW
G: 22 mph
6am
44°F
46°F
29.98 hPa
13 mph
NW
G: 19 mph
8am
48°F
46°F
30.00 hPa
14 mph
NW
G: 21 mph
10am
55°F
46°F
29.99 hPa
14 mph
NNW
G: 19 mph
12pm
59°F
46°F
29.98 hPa
13 mph
NW
G: 18 mph
2pm
61°F
46°F
29.95 hPa
11 mph
NW
G: 17 mph
4pm
63°F
46°F
29.89 hPa
12 mph
NW
G: 19 mph
6pm
60°F
46°F
29.90 hPa
17 mph
NNW
G: 24 mph
8pm
54°F
46°F
29.97 hPa
14 mph
NNW
G: 23 mph
10pm
50°F
46°F
30.04 hPa
11 mph
NNW
G: 19 mph

Water Temperature History

Trends for Lake McConaughy

Current Temp

Sign in to view

Latest recorded surface temperature.

Lowest in Period

34°F

On Jan 22

Coldest point in the Last 12 Months.

Average in Period

51°F

Typical temp during the Last 12 Months.

Temperature Trend: Last 12 Months

Surface temperature over the selected period.

Key Observations (Last 12 Months)

  • Warmest avg: July (77°F).
  • Coolest avg: February (34°F).
  • Rapid warming often occurs: April → May (+16°F).
  • Sharpest cooling trend: September → October (-12°F).

Weather Forecast

Wind speed and pressure trends

Hourly Wind Forecast

12am1am2am3am4am5am6am7am8am9am10am11am12pm1pm2pm3pm4pm5pm6pm7pm8pm9pm10pm11pm07142128

Wind Direction

327°

Pressure

1013 mb

Cloud Cover

90%

Visibility

15 miles

Daily Pressure Forecast

ThuFriSatSunMonTueWedThuFri0.008.8617.7226.5835.44
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Frequently Asked Questions About Lake McConaughy

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