Hugh Butler Lake (Red Willow Reservoir)

Hugh Butler Lake (Red Willow Reservoir)

Mccook, Frontier County, NE
3mi²
ft
Directions
Lake Information

Hugh Butler Lake is a premier fishing destination located in Frontier County, Nebraska. The lake spans over 1,630 acres and is a popular spot for anglers looking to catch a variety of fish species. The lake is renowned for its healthy population of Walleye, Crappie, White Bass, Channel Catfish, and Wipers, making it an angler's paradise. Walleye is the most sought-after fish species in Hugh Butler Lake. These fish are known for their hard-fighting nature and delicious taste, making them a favorite among anglers. Walleye can be found throughout the lake, especially around underwater structures such as rocks and drop-offs. Anglers can use a variety of baits and lures, such as jigs and crankbaits, to catch Walleye. The best time to fish for Walleye is during the early morning and late afternoon when they are most active. Crappie is another popular fish species in Hugh Butler Lake. These fish can be found in the lake's deeper waters, around underwater structures and other features. Anglers can use a variety of baits, such as jigs and live minnows, to catch Crappie. The best time to fish for Crappie is during the spring and fall months when they are most active. White Bass is another species that anglers can catch in Hugh Butler Lake. These fish can be found throughout the lake, especially around rocky areas and points. Anglers can use a variety of baits, such as jigs and crankbaits, to catch White Bass. The best time to fish for White Bass is during the spring and early summer months when they are most active. Channel Catfish is another popular fish species in Hugh Butler Lake. These fish can be found in the lake's deeper waters, around underwater structures and other features. Anglers can use a variety of baits, such as worms and stinkbaits, to catch Channel Catfish. The best time to fish for Channel Catfish is during the summer months when they are most active. Apart from fishing, Hugh Butler Lake also offers a range of recreational activities, including boating, swimming, and picnicking. The lake's clear waters make it an ideal spot for swimming and other water activities. The surrounding area offers beautiful natural scenery, including tall trees and an abundance of wildlife, making it an excellent location for nature lovers. Hugh Butler Lake is open for fishing year-round, making it an ideal destination for anglers looking to fish during any season. The lake has several public access points, making it easy for visitors to explore the lake's many attractions. The lake's shoreline offers an ideal place for hiking, bird watching, and picnicking. The lake's calm and serene atmosphere provides a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. In conclusion, Hugh Butler Lake is an ideal destination for anyone looking to experience Nebraska's natural beauty and outdoor activities. The lake's healthy fish population, crystal-clear waters, and scenic surroundings make it a must-visit location for anglers, boaters, and nature lovers alike. Whether you're looking to catch fish, swim, or just relax in a peaceful natural setting, Hugh Butler Lake has something for everyone.

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Current Conditions

59°F°
Feels like 56°F°
Clear
Today's High
72°F°
Today's Low
34°F°

Water Temperature

59°F
Updated: (May 1)
Sign in to contribute temps.

Current water temperature for Hugh Butler Lake (Red Willow Reservoir) is 59°F.

Current Snapshot

Wind10 mph NNE (Gust 15 mph)
Pressure
30.06 inHg
Visibility30 mi
Humidity36%
Cloud Cover5%

Forecast: Saturday, May 3

Day 1 of 9

Hourly Insights

7 AM
34°F°
10 AM
51°F°
1 PM
65°F°
4 PM
72°F°

Temperature

High
72°F°
Low
34°F°

Precipitation

Chance0%
Amount0.00"
Typeclear

Wind

6mph
Avg Speed
Gusts up to
21mph
CalmModerateStrong
Max Speed10 mph

Sun, Moon & UV

Sunrise11:39 AM
Sunset1:40 AM
Moon PhasewaxingCrescent
Max UV Index9 (Very 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)

12:06 AM - 2:36 AM

10:11 AM - 12:41 PM

Minor Times (Good)

4:25 PM - 5:55 PM

7:03 AM - 8:33 AM

Outlook for Saturday at Hugh Butler Lake (Red Willow Reservoir)

Expect temperatures ranging from 34°F to 72°F. Skies look mostly clear with little chance of precipitation. Winds will be averaging 6 mph, with potential gusts reaching up to 21 mph. The maximum UV index will be 9 (Very 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 12:06 AM and 10:11 AM, or try the minor windows near 4:25 PM and 7:03 AM for potential early morning or evening action. Check back for the latest conditions and forecasts for Hugh Butler Lake (Red Willow Reservoir).

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May 2nd 2025

Lake Information

Elevation
N/A
Area
3 mi²
Coordinates
40.355, -100.681

Weather Forecast

Saturday

72°F
34°F

Sunday

73°F
44°F

Monday

73°F
48°F

Tuesday

66°F
51°F

Wednesday

65°F
46°F

Thursday

72°F
43°F

Friday

78°F
47°F

Saturday

78°F
50°F

Sunday

81°F
54°F
Saturday - 5/3/2025
72°F
34°F
12am
43°F
59°F
30.09 hPa
2 mph
WSW
G: 2 mph
2am
38°F
59°F
30.09 hPa
5 mph
W
G: 8 mph
4am
35°F
59°F
30.09 hPa
4 mph
WNW
G: 8 mph
6am
35°F
59°F
30.10 hPa
4 mph
W
G: 7 mph
8am
38°F
59°F
30.09 hPa
2 mph
WSW
G: 6 mph
10am
51°F
59°F
30.05 hPa
4 mph
SSW
G: 8 mph
12pm
61°F
59°F
30.01 hPa
6 mph
SSE
G: 9 mph
2pm
68°F
59°F
29.96 hPa
8 mph
SSE
G: 12 mph
4pm
72°F
59°F
29.92 hPa
8 mph
SSE
G: 12 mph
6pm
72°F
59°F
29.89 hPa
9 mph
SE
G: 12 mph
8pm
67°F
59°F
29.89 hPa
9 mph
SE
G: 16 mph
10pm
58°F
59°F
29.94 hPa
9 mph
SE
G: 21 mph

Water Temperature History

Trends for Hugh Butler Lake (Red Willow Reservoir)

Current Temp

Sign in to view

Latest recorded surface temperature.

Lowest in Period

35°F

On Jan 22

Coldest point in the Last 12 Months.

Average in Period

55°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 (84°F).
  • Coolest avg: February (35°F).
  • Rapid warming often occurs: March → April (+17°F).
  • Sharpest cooling trend: September → October (-19°F).

Weather Forecast

Wind speed and pressure trends

Hourly Wind Forecast

Wind Direction

256°

Pressure

1019 mb

Cloud Cover

17%

Visibility

17 miles

Daily Pressure Forecast

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Frequently Asked Questions About Hugh Butler Lake (Red Willow Reservoir)

Get accurate, up-to-date information about conditions at Hugh Butler Lake (Red Willow Reservoir).