Lake McConaughy Walleye Fishing

Trying to find and consistently catch walleye in a vast, sprawling lake like Lake McConaughy can sometimes feel like an overwhelming task. It’s not just a big body of water; it’s a dynamic ecosystem with ever-changing conditions, and those elusive walleye can seem to vanish into thin air. This comprehensive guide is designed to demystify walleye fishing on Big Mac, giving you the insights, tactics, and confidence to hook into some impressive fish, no matter the season or conditions.

Understanding Lake McConaughy's Walleye Habitat

Lake McConaughy, affectionately known as "Big Mac" by locals, isn't just Nebraska's largest reservoir; it's a genuine walleye factory. But to consistently catch walleye here, you need to understand its unique characteristics. It’s not enough to just cast a line; knowing where walleye live, what they eat, and how they react to the lake's ever-changing environment is paramount. This massive impoundment of the North Platte River offers diverse habitats that appeal to walleye throughout the year.

The Unique Structure of Big Mac

Lake McConaughy spans over 30,000 acres at full pool, boasting more than 100 miles of shoreline. This sheer size alone can be intimidating, but it also means an incredible variety of structure for walleye. You'll find everything from long, sandy beaches and gradual sloping points to steep rocky bluffs, submerged timber, and deep-water humps and ledges. The lake bed itself is a mix of sand, gravel, and rock, providing ideal spawning grounds and excellent cover. Walleye are ambush predators, and they love structure that allows them to hide and dart out at unsuspecting baitfish. Key areas to focus on often include the numerous points extending into the lake, particularly those with a quick depth transition, as well as submerged roadbeds and old river channels from before the dam was built. These historical features act as highways for fish, offering distinct travel routes and holding areas. Understanding these contours, which often correlate with dramatic depth changes, is critical for locating active fish.

Furthermore, the reservoir's immense size means that different sections of the lake can fish very differently on any given day. The eastern end, closer to Kingsley Dam, tends to be deeper with more rocky structure, while the western arm, near the river inflow, often has more sandy flats and submerged timber. The key is to break the lake down into smaller, manageable sections and understand the type of habitat each offers. Areas with current, especially near the dam or river inflows, also create unique foraging opportunities for walleye. They'll often stage themselves just out of the main current, waiting for food to be swept past them.

Forage Base and Walleye Diet

Walleye in Lake McConaughy thrive due to an abundant and diverse forage base. This isn't a "one-trick pony" lake when it comes to what the walleye are eating. The primary food source for Big Mac walleye, especially the larger ones, is gizzard shad. These oily baitfish provide a rich, high-calorie diet, contributing to the impressive size and fighting spirit of McConaughy's walleye population. Anglers often find success by "matching the hatch," meaning using lures and baits that mimic the size, color, and action of the local shad. When shad schools are present, walleye will follow them relentlessly, often suspending in open water beneath these baitfish schools.

Beyond shad, walleye will also feed on yellow perch, crappie, and even juvenile white bass or trout. This varied diet means they can be opportunistic feeders. If the shad aren't schooling in a particular area, walleye might be hugging the bottom, picking off perch or crayfish. Knowing what the walleye are currently keying in on can make a huge difference in your success. Sometimes, they might prefer a slower, bottom-oriented presentation mimicking a crayfish, while at other times, a fast-moving crankbait resembling a fleeing shad is the ticket. Pay attention to the stomach contents of any walleye you catch; it’s a direct clue to their current feeding preferences.

Water Levels and Their Impact

Lake McConaughy's water levels fluctuate significantly throughout the year and from year to year, largely dependent on snowmelt from the Rocky Mountains and irrigation demands. These fluctuations profoundly impact walleye behavior and where they can be found. High water years can flood new vegetation, creating excellent shallow-water cover and spawning habitat. This can scatter fish into areas that might otherwise be dry, making them harder to pattern. Conversely, low water conditions can concentrate fish in fewer, deeper areas, making them easier to locate but potentially more pressured.

When the water levels drop, previously submerged structures like humps, points, and even old roadbeds become exposed or are closer to the surface. These become prime targets for walleye seeking cover or ambush points. New rock piles or gravel beds might also appear, which can be excellent for spawning or feeding. It's crucial to stay updated on the lake's current water levels. Websites and local bait shops often provide real-time updates, and studying bathymetric maps in conjunction with current levels can help you predict where walleye will relocate. A good topo map can show you what structures will be exposed or submerged at various elevations, helping you identify prime fishing grounds before you even launch your boat. Understanding these dynamics is key to adapting your Nebraska Fishing Seasons Explained strategies.

Seasonal Walleye Tactics on Big Mac

Walleye fishing on Lake McConaughy is a year-round affair, but your approach needs to change dramatically with the seasons. What works in April will likely fall flat in August, and vice-versa. Understanding these seasonal shifts in walleye behavior and habitat preferences is the cornerstone of consistent success on Big Mac. Each season presents unique challenges and opportunities, demanding a flexible and adaptable angler.

Spring Spawning and Post-Spawn Bites

Spring is a highly anticipated time for walleye anglers on Lake McConaughy. As ice recedes and water temperatures begin to climb into the 40s and 50s Fahrenheit, walleye migrate towards shallower, rocky areas to spawn. This typically occurs from late March through April, sometimes extending into early May depending on weather. Prime spawning grounds are usually rocky shorelines, gravel points, and the rip-rap around Kingsley Dam. During the spawn itself, walleye can be notoriously difficult to catch as their focus is entirely on reproduction.

However, the pre-spawn and post-spawn periods offer some of the best fishing opportunities of the year. In the pre-spawn, fish are staging, feeding aggressively to build energy for the spawn. Look for them in areas adjacent to spawning grounds, often on the first significant drop-off or point nearby. Post-spawn, the walleye are recovering and hungry, though sometimes a bit sluggish. They'll often move to slightly deeper water near the spawning areas to recuperate before scattering throughout the lake. Trolling crankbaits that mimic shad, or slowly dragging bottom bouncers with live nightcrawlers or leeches, can be incredibly effective during these transitional periods. Don't overlook jigging soft plastics or blade baits directly on the rocky bottom of these spawning flats after the spawn as fish recuperate. These fish are often found shallow early and late in the day as well. For more details on this crucial period, check out our guide on Nebraska Walleye Spawning Season.

Summer Deep Water Strategies

Once summer fully sets in and water temperatures soar, Lake McConaughy walleye typically move to deeper, cooler waters. This doesn't mean they disappear; it just means you have to adjust your game. During the peak of summer, walleye will often relate to submerged humps, deep points, old river channels, and ledges, sometimes suspending over open water in pursuit of gizzard shad schools. Depths of 20 to 40 feet, or even deeper, are common.

Trolling becomes a dominant strategy during summer, especially when covering large expanses of water to find scattered schools of walleye. Deep-diving crankbaits, often fished on lead core line or with snap weights, are essential for getting your lures down to where the fish are holding. Bottom bouncers with spinner rigs or slow death hooks tipped with nightcrawlers are also highly effective, particularly when walleye are hugging the bottom structure. Focus on contour lines and depth changes visible on your electronics. Early morning and late evening bites can be strong, but don't discount the midday bite in deeper, cooler water. Often, if you find a school of shad on your fish finder, walleye won't be far behind. Learning How to Troll for Walleye in Nebraska can significantly boost your summer success.

Fall Feeding Frenzies

Fall on Lake McConaughy brings cooler water temperatures, which re-energize walleye and trigger an aggressive feeding binge as they prepare for winter. This is a fantastic time to target trophy-sized walleye. As the water cools, walleye will often move shallower than in summer, but they can still be found at various depths, chasing baitfish that are also moving to warmer or more accessible areas. Look for them around main lake points, rocky flats, and even the shallow ends of bays, especially during low-light conditions.

Trolling is still a primary tactic, but often with shallower-running crankbaits or even lipless crankbaits, particularly in areas where shad are schooling. Jigging with heavier jigs tipped with minnows or soft plastics can also be deadly when fish are concentrated on specific structures like humps or ledges. The fall bite can extend well into late autumn, sometimes even after the first skim of ice forms on sheltered bays. Don't be afraid to experiment with retrieve speeds and lure colors, as the walleye's aggression levels can vary day by day. This is also a prime time to target Best Nebraska Lakes for Walleye as they put on the feedbag.

Winter Ice Fishing Opportunities

While Lake McConaughy's massive size and often unpredictable ice conditions make it less of a traditional ice fishing destination compared to smaller lakes, dedicated anglers do venture out for walleye when conditions are safe. Access points can be limited, and caution is always paramount due to potential currents and varying ice thickness. If you decide to pursue walleye through the ice on Big Mac, focus on accessible bays and shallower coves that freeze over reliably.

Walleye under the ice tend to be concentrated near structure or along depth breaks, often in 15 to 30 feet of water. Jigging spoons, small lipless crankbaits, or deadsticking with live minnows are effective tactics. It's often a slower, more methodical bite, requiring patience and good electronics to locate fish. Always prioritize safety, check ice thickness meticulously, and be aware of changing weather conditions. Ice fishing safety tips are crucial, so make sure to review resources like How Thick Ice Needs to Be to Fish Safely in Nebraska before venturing out.

Essential Gear and Lures for McConaughy Walleye

When you're chasing walleye on Lake McConaughy, having the right tools in your tackle box and on your boat can make all the difference. This isn't a place where you can get by with just any old rod and reel. The sheer size of the lake, the depths you'll be fishing, and the tactics required demand specific gear choices to maximize your chances of success.

Rods, Reels, and Line Choices

For Lake McConaughy walleye, versatility is key, but so is power and sensitivity. You'll likely want a few different setups. For trolling, a medium-heavy action rod, typically 7 to 9 feet long, with a moderate fast tip, is ideal. This length helps spread out your lines when trolling multiple rods and absorbs the shock of strikes and waves. Pair this with a reliable line counter reel, which is crucial for precisely controlling lure depth, especially when targeting suspended fish. The line counter allows you to replicate successful presentations time and time again.

For jigging, pitching, or casting lighter baits, a 6'6" to 7' medium-light to medium-action spinning rod with a fast tip will provide the sensitivity needed to detect subtle walleye bites and the backbone to handle larger fish. A good quality spinning reel in the 2500-3000 size range, spooled with braided line, will offer exceptional casting distance and sensitivity. Speaking of line, braided line in 10-20 lb test is excellent for its sensitivity and strength, particularly when jigging or casting. For trolling, many anglers opt for monofilament or fluorocarbon main lines in 10-15 lb test, as these have more stretch, which can be beneficial for deep-diving baits. Always use a fluorocarbon leader (8-12 lb test) when using braided main lines, as its invisibility in the water can lead to more bites from wary walleye. For detailed advice, consider reading up on Best Rod Setup for Nebraska Walleye.

Fishing Method	Rod Action/Length	Reel Type	Line Type & Test (Main)	Leader (if applicable)	Notes
Trolling Crankbaits	MH, 7-9 ft, Mod-Fast	Line Counter	Mono/Fluorocarbon 10-15lb	Fluorocarbon 8-12lb	Shock absorption, depth control
Bottom Bouncing/Rigging	M-MH, 7-8 ft, Fast	Baitcasting/Spinning	Fluorocarbon 12-17lb	N/A	Sensitivity to feel bottom, power for hooksets
Jigging/Pitching	ML-M, 6'6"-7', Fast	Spinning 2500-3000	Braided 10-20lb	Fluorocarbon 8-12lb	Max sensitivity, casting distance
Ice Fishing	L-ML, 28-36 inch, Fast	Spinning/Inline	Mono/Fluorocarbon 4-8lb	N/A	Finesse, hole hopping, light bite detection

Top Walleye Lures and Baits

Lake McConaughy walleye have a wide range of preferences, but a few categories of lures and baits consistently produce. Crankbaits are indispensable, especially for trolling. Deep-diving models like Berkley Flicker Shad, Rapala Deep Husky Jerks, or Reef Runner 600 series in colors mimicking shad or perch are excellent choices. For shallower trolling or casting, lighter lipless crankbaits or shallow-running stickbaits can be effective. Varying your retrieve speed and depth is often more important than the exact color, but natural patterns like silver, blue, and white are always reliable.

Jigs, paired with live bait or soft plastics, are another walleye staple. A 1/8 to 3/8 ounce jig head, tipped with a live minnow (like shiners or fatheads), a nightcrawler, or a plastic grub (such as a Gulp! Minnow or a soft plastic paddletail), can be deadly when jigged along drop-offs or over structure. Bottom bouncers, typically 1 to 3 ounces, combined with spinner rigs or slow death hooks, are perfect for slowly dragging live nightcrawlers across the bottom, especially in summer. These rigs are particularly effective when walleye are hugging the bottom and you need to cover ground. Don't forget the power of live bait; a juicy nightcrawler, lively minnow, or a fresh leech can often entice bites when artificials fail. Our Best Bait for Nebraska Walleye guide offers even more insights.

Electronics for Locating Fish

In a lake as vast and deep as McConaughy, good marine electronics are not a luxury; they are a necessity for finding walleye. A quality fish finder with GPS, side imaging, and down imaging capabilities will dramatically increase your success. The GPS allows you to mark waypoints for productive spots, follow precise contour lines, and safely navigate the lake. Side imaging is invaluable for scanning wide areas to locate schooling baitfish, submerged humps, rock piles, or even individual walleye off to the sides of your boat. This feature helps you quickly determine if an area is worth fishing without driving directly over it and potentially spooking fish.

Down imaging provides a clear, photographic-like view directly beneath your boat, helping you discern bottom composition and individual fish or baitfish schools tight to the bottom. Traditional 2D sonar is still excellent for showing bait balls and fish arches, especially when operating at higher speeds. When you find a productive area, don't just fish it blindly. Use your electronics to understand the structure, locate the baitfish, and then identify where the walleye are relating to them. Learning to interpret what your fish finder is showing you is a skill that takes practice, but it's one that will pay dividends on Lake McConaughy. Many serious anglers also benefit from a reliable trolling motor with GPS Spot-Lock, allowing them to hold position precisely over structure or schools of fish, even in windy conditions.

Mastering Walleye Fishing Techniques

Catching walleye on Lake McConaughy isn't just about having the right gear; it's about employing the right techniques for the conditions at hand. Walleye can be finicky, and adapting your presentation is crucial. Whether you're covering vast open water or targeting specific pieces of structure, a mastery of various techniques will lead to more fish in your net.

Trolling for Open Water Walleye

Trolling is arguably one of the most effective methods for covering the immense waters of Lake McConaughy and locating active walleye, especially during the summer and fall. It involves slowly moving your boat while dragging lures behind you, presenting them to a wide area of water. The key to successful trolling is precise depth control and speed. Walleye often suspend at specific depths, particularly when chasing schools of gizzard shad in open water. Using line counter reels, lead core line, or snap weights helps you ensure your lures are running at the desired depth.

Matching your trolling speed to the water temperature and the aggressiveness of the fish is also vital. Slower speeds (1.0-1.8 mph) are often effective in cooler water or for finicky fish, while faster speeds (2.0-3.0 mph) can trigger reactionary strikes from more active walleye in warmer water. Experiment with different crankbait colors and diving depths until you find what the fish are responding to. When you catch a fish, immediately mark the spot on your GPS, note the depth, speed, and lure color. Then, try to replicate that exact presentation. Multiple rods, each rigged with a different lure or running at a different depth, can help you quickly "dial in" the pattern. Remember to keep an eye on your electronics for baitfish schools and underwater structure; walleye are rarely far from their food source or good cover. For more specific insights, check out Best Depth to Troll for Walleye in Summer.

Jigging and Live Bait Rigs

While trolling excels at covering water, jigging and using live bait rigs are powerful techniques for targeting walleye that are concentrated on specific structures or when they are less active. Jigging involves vertically presenting a jig (tipped with live bait or a soft plastic) directly beneath your boat, often over humps, rock piles, or along drop-offs. The "lift and drop" motion of jigging mimics a dying baitfish, often irresistible to walleye. Sensitivity is crucial here; watch your line intently for subtle taps or slack line that indicates a bite.

Live bait rigs, such as bottom bouncers with spinner rigs or slip sinker rigs (often called Lindy Rigs), are excellent for slowly dragging bait along the bottom. A bottom bouncer keeps your bait just off the lake bed, minimizing snags while presenting a tempting meal. Tipping spinner rigs with nightcrawlers or leeches, and slip sinker rigs with minnows, are classic walleye presentations. These rigs allow you to maintain contact with the bottom, where many walleye feed, and present a natural offering. When walleye are holding tight to cover or are finicky, a slow, methodical live bait presentation can often outproduce faster, artificial lures. Learning How to Jig for Walleye in Nebraska can significantly improve your vertical fishing game.

Shore and Wade Fishing for Walleye

Not everyone has a boat, and thankfully, Lake McConaughy offers some excellent opportunities for shore and wade fishing for walleye, especially during certain times of the year. Spring and fall are generally the best seasons for this, as walleye move closer to shore during spawning migrations or fall feeding frenzies. The areas around Kingsley Dam, the sandy beaches along the north shore (like Arthur Bay), and various points and inlets can be productive.

For shore fishing, long casting rods are beneficial for reaching deeper water or submerged structures. Casting crankbaits, spoons, or heavier jigs with soft plastics can cover a lot of water. During the spawn, directly fishing the rocky banks near the dam at night can sometimes yield big walleye that move in very shallow. For wade fishing, safety is paramount. The lake bottom can be uneven, and currents can be strong, particularly near the river inflow or dam. Wading allows you to access areas that boats can't reach and present baits in a more stealthy manner. Focus on areas with good cover, drop-offs, or current seams. Be mindful of fishing regulations regarding the number of lines allowed per angler and Nebraska Fishing License Requirements, and always be respectful of other anglers and private property.

Navigating Lake McConaughy: Access and Safety

Lake McConaughy is a breathtaking place to fish, but its sheer size and dynamic nature demand respect and preparation. Knowing how to safely access the lake and understanding basic boating regulations are crucial, whether you're a seasoned boater or fishing from shore.

Boat Ramps and Access Points

Given the vastness of Lake McConaughy, strategic planning for boat launch is essential. There are several public boat ramps scattered around the lake, each offering access to different sections and catering to various boat sizes. On the south side, the Kingsley Dam boat ramp offers access to the deep, clear waters near the dam and the spillway. Further west, ramps like Cedar Vue, Admiral's Cove, and Arthur Bay provide access to the central and western parts of the lake, which often feature more gradual slopes and sandy bottoms. The north side of the lake also has ramps, though they can sometimes be more affected by low water conditions.

Always check the current water levels and ramp conditions before heading out, especially during dry years. What might be a perfectly usable ramp one season could be completely out of the water the next. Most ramps are concrete, but some are more rustic. Facilities like restrooms and fish cleaning stations are often available at the larger access points. Remember that launching and retrieving a boat on a busy weekend can take time, so plan accordingly. For detailed information on specific locations and conditions, consult our Lake McConaughy Boat Ramp Locations guide, which often provides the most up-to-date information.

Safety Considerations and Regulations

Safety on Lake McConaughy should always be your top priority. This is a large, open body of water that can get very rough very quickly when the wind picks up. Sudden storms are common, and large waves can make navigation dangerous, even for experienced boaters. Always check the marine weather forecast before heading out and be prepared to get off the water if conditions deteriorate. Ensure all safety equipment is on board, including enough life jackets for everyone, a whistle or horn, navigation lights (if boating after sunset), and a fire extinguisher. Nebraska Boat Safety Equipment Requirements are strictly enforced for good reason.

Beyond weather, be aware of other boaters. During peak season, the lake can be crowded with recreational boats, jet skis, and other anglers. Practice good boating etiquette, maintain safe distances, and be aware of your wake. If you're wading or fishing from shore, be mindful of currents, especially near the dam, and submerged hazards. Always inform someone of your float plan – where you're going and when you expect to return. Finally, ensure you have your Nebraska Fishing License Guide and know the specific Nebraska Fishing Regulations Explained, including bag limits and length limits for walleye, which can vary.

Hiring a Guide for Your Walleye Adventure

For those looking to accelerate their learning curve or simply want to maximize their chances of a successful walleye trip on Lake McConaughy without the hassle, hiring a local fishing guide is an excellent option. A professional guide lives and breathes Lake McConaughy and understands its nuances better than anyone. They know the current walleye patterns, the best baits, and where the fish are holding based on recent conditions and water levels. This kind of local knowledge is invaluable, especially on a lake as complex as Big Mac.

A guide can teach you specific techniques, help you interpret your electronics, and ensure you're fishing legally and safely. Many guides also provide all the necessary gear, meaning you can show up ready to fish without investing in expensive equipment. This can be particularly appealing for out-of-state visitors or those new to walleye fishing. You can often find reputable guides through online platforms like FishingBooker, which allows you to browse local captains, read reviews, and book trips directly. Choosing a guide who specializes in walleye on Lake McConaughy will ensure you get a targeted experience focused on your species of choice. A guided trip isn't just about catching fish; it's an educational experience that can drastically improve your future success. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced angler looking for an edge, a guide booked through FishingBooker can offer insights that would take years to acquire on your own.

Advanced Strategies for Challenging Conditions

Lake McConaughy can be a truly fantastic walleye fishery, but it's also a dynamic environment where conditions can change rapidly. Wind, varying water clarity, and sudden cold fronts are common challenges that can shut down a bite if you're not prepared to adapt. Mastering these advanced strategies will help you maintain success even when Mother Nature throws a curveball.

Dealing with Wind and Waves

Wind is an almost constant companion on Lake McConaughy, and it can be both a blessing and a curse for walleye anglers. A moderate chop can actually be beneficial, breaking up the water's surface, reducing light penetration, and making walleye feel more secure to feed in shallower water. This "walleye chop" can often trigger aggressive bites. When these conditions prevail, focus on the windblown side of points and shorelines, as the wave action concentrates baitfish and oxygen. Trolling with crankbaits or casting jigs and plastics into the waves can be very effective.

However, strong winds can quickly whip Big Mac into a dangerous fury, creating large waves that make boat control difficult and fishing uncomfortable or impossible. In these conditions, safety must always come first. If you choose to fish, seek out protected areas like large bays, river arms, or the leeward side of major points or islands. These areas offer calmer water where fish might also seek refuge. When fishing in heavy wind, use your trolling motor with spot-lock to hold position over structure, or employ a drift sock to slow your drift if you're covering open water. Heavier jigs and baits might be necessary to maintain bottom contact, and stout rods will help you control your line in the wind. Understanding How Wind Direction Affects Walleye Fishing is crucial for planning your approach.

Adjusting to Water Clarity and Temperature

Lake McConaughy's water clarity can vary dramatically depending on the season, rainfall, and river inflow. Generally, the lake is quite clear, especially near the dam, but heavy rains can bring in muddy water from the Platte River, particularly in the western arm. Walleye are highly sensitive to light and use their excellent low-light vision to their advantage, so water clarity plays a significant role in their behavior.

In very clear water, walleye tend to be deeper during the day or feed more actively during low-light periods (dawn, dusk, cloudy days, or at night). Use natural-colored lures (silver, white, clear, perch patterns) and longer fluorocarbon leaders to avoid spooking fish. Stealthy presentations are key. When the water is stained or muddy, walleye become less light-sensitive and may move shallower. This is the time to switch to brighter, more aggressive lure colors like chartreuse, orange, or firetiger, which create a stronger silhouette and vibration. These colors stand out better in reduced visibility. Water temperature, of course, dictates walleye metabolism and activity levels. Always pay attention to surface temps and adjust your speed and depth accordingly; warmer water generally means faster retrieves and deeper presentations, while colder water often calls for slower, more subtle approaches.

Finding Walleye After Cold Fronts

Few things can shut down a walleye bite faster than a strong cold front. The sudden drop in air temperature, often accompanied by clear skies and high pressure, makes walleye sluggish and often sends them scattering or burying themselves in cover. The day or two immediately following a cold front can be incredibly frustrating. However, it's not impossible to catch them; you just need to adjust your strategy significantly.

After a cold front, walleye often move deeper and become much less aggressive. They might hug the bottom tightly or suspend in thick cover. Your best bet is to slow down your presentation dramatically. Instead of fast trolling, switch to slow-dragging bottom bouncers with live bait, or vertical jigging with minnows or soft plastics in deeper water. Focus on subtle movements – a slight twitch of the rod tip, a very slow retrieve. Look for walleye congregated on specific pieces of structure like deep humps, ledges, or the edges of old river channels. Sometimes, a reaction strike can still be triggered with a quick jigging motion, but generally, a patient, finesse approach will be more successful. These tough conditions are when your electronics become even more critical, helping you pinpoint those reluctant fish. Remember, even a slow bite on Lake McConaughy can be better than no bite at all!

Disclaimer

Fishing conditions and regulations in Nebraska can change. Always consult the latest Nebraska Game and Parks Commission regulations before heading out on the water. This guide is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Adhere to all local, state, and federal laws and prioritize safety on your fishing excursions.