Midwest Fishing Lake Guide, Merritt Reservoir, Merritt SRA/SWMA, and Samuel R. McKelvie National Forest.


Merrit reservoir is located 27 miles southwest of Valentine Nebraska in Cherry County. It was constructed by the U.S. Bureau of Reclamation on a narrow valley on the snake river in 1964. Ainsworth Irrigation District, Sandhills division of the Pick-Sloan Missouri Basin Project operates the dam, and the Reservoir subsequently irrigates 34,539 acres of farmland. The Nebraska Game and Parks administers the lake and recreation areas itself. It is a earthen dam with a cement face instead of traditional rip-rap. The Body of water itself is 2,900 acres and at its deepest exceeds 100 feet. Some parts of the reservoir also sits adjacent to Samuel R. McKelvie National Forest and is one of the premier fishing and outdoor recreation spots in the Midwest. The Nebraska State Game and Parks lists Merrit Reservoir as having fishable populations of Bluegill, Bullheads, Channel Catfish, Crappie, Largemouth Bass, Smallmouth Bass, Muskie, Northern Pike, Walleye, White Bass, and Yellow Perch. Each of these populations are excellent and very fishable all Year around, and this lake produces well over 100 master angler awards each year. There also have even been several species taken for master angler awards not listed as normal fish population, such as Rainbow Trout and Alewife. There are several methods that are productive for fishing this lake. Shore fishing is effective around the lake, with the Dam being one of the most popular areas. Fishermen with boats will find everything from baitcasting to trolling effective when properly employed for Walleye and White Bass. Anglers please note: this lake does have a 18" length limit on Walleye and only one Walleye longer than 25" allowed in bag. Muskellunge are also taken with the proper technique, mainly by patient high speed trolling with large crankbait and shad. This may be laborious, but is quite rewarding... Almost a half dozen master angler Muskellunge are taken each year from Merrit Reservoir. The facilities at Merrit Reservoir are excellent. They include both primitive and modern camping facilities, dump stations, drinking water, picnic grounds, and boating access. There is also a marina open all year round with food, gas, and bait. The lake is a very scenic area and possibly one of the best anywhere.