Question 1

What is the current water temperature at Merritt Reservoir?

Accepted Answer

The current water temperature at Merritt Reservoir is 70°F as of Invalid date. This temperature reading is based on our advanced satellite monitoring system and real-time data collection. Water temperature is a crucial factor for fishing success and water activities.

Question 2

How often is the Merritt Reservoir water temperature updated?

Accepted Answer

Water temperature data for Merritt Reservoir is updated daily through our satellite monitoring system. The last update was made on Invalid date. We use advanced thermal imaging and surface monitoring technology to provide accurate, real-time temperature readings.

Question 3

What activities are suitable for the current water temperature at Merritt Reservoir?

Accepted Answer

With the current water temperature of 70°F at Merritt Reservoir, conditions are ideal for fishing, boating, and moderate water activities. The temperature typically fluctuates 2-3 degrees throughout the day. This data is monitored via satellite and updated regularly to help you plan your lake activities.

Question 4

How good is the fishing at Merritt Reservoir with the current water temperature?

Accepted Answer

The current water temperature of 70°F at Merritt Reservoir is ideal for catching Northern pike, Walleye, White bass, Channel catfish, Bluegill, Largemouth bass, Smallmouth bass, White crappie. These species are typically most active at this temperature range. For best results, fish during early morning or late evening hours when fish are most active. Always check local fishing regulations and licenses before fishing.

Question 5

What is Merritt Reservoir and what activities are available?

Accepted Answer

Merritt Reservoir is a large all-sports reservoir located in Cherry County, Nebraska. With its clear blue waters and picturesque landscape, Merritt Reservoir is a popular destination for anglers, boaters, and outdoor enthusiasts alike. The lake was created in the late 1950s by the construction of the Central Nebraska Public Power and Irrigation District's hydroelectric dam on the Snake River. Today, the lake spans over 2,900 acres and offers ample opportunities for outdoor recreation.

One of the main draws of Merritt Reservoir is its fishing. The lake is home to a variety of fish species, including walleye, crappie, and white bass. Anglers can enjoy fishing from boats or from the shore, and there are several fishing piers located throughout the lake. In addition, the lake is regularly stocked with fish, making it an ideal spot for both novice and experienced anglers.

Boating is another popular activity at Merritt Reservoir. With its wide-open waters and multiple boat ramps, the lake is ideal for all types of watercraft, from kayaks and canoes to speedboats and pontoon boats. The lake's numerous coves and inlets also make it an ideal spot for water skiing, tubing, and other water sports.

Merritt Reservoir is also home to several campgrounds and picnic areas, making it an ideal destination for a weekend getaway or family vacation. The lake's numerous campsites offer stunning views of the water and surrounding landscape, as well as easy access to the lake for fishing, boating, and other activities. In addition, there are several picnic areas located throughout the lake, perfect for a lakeside lunch or a family barbecue.

Overall, Merritt Reservoir is a beautiful and inviting destination for outdoor enthusiasts of all ages. With its clear waters, abundant fish, and scenic surroundings, it's easy to see why this lake is a popular spot for fishing, boating, and other outdoor activities. Whether you're looking to catch a trophy fish, explore the lake's many coves and inlets, or simply relax and enjoy the natural beauty of Nebraska, Merritt Reservoir is an ideal destination.

Question 6

How big and deep is Merritt Reservoir?

Accepted Answer

Merritt Reservoir is a substantial body of water covering 2906.00 acres (4.54 square miles) with a maximum depth of 0.00 meters (0 feet). This size and depth make it ideal for various activities including and water recreation.

Question 7

What are the current conditions at Merritt Reservoir?

Accepted Answer

Current conditions at Merritt Reservoir as of July 14, 2025: 
      Water temperature is 70°F, 
      weather is Clear, 
      and water clarity is typical for the season. 
      These conditions are regularly updated to help you plan your visit.

Question 8

When is the best time to fish at Merritt Reservoir?

Accepted Answer

The best fishing times at Merritt Reservoir vary by season:
      Spring (March-May): Spring fishing at the lake is excellent for Northern pike, Walleye, Yellow perch, White bass, Channel catfish, Bluegill, Largemouth bass, Smallmouth bass, Black crappie, White crappie. Focus on shallow areas warming up first, and use light tackle as fish become more active after winter.
      Summer (June-August): During summer months, fish are most active early morning and late evening. Look for Northern pike, Walleye, Yellow perch, White bass, Channel catfish, Bluegill, Largemouth bass, Smallmouth bass, Black crappie, White crappie in deeper, cooler waters during mid-day.
      Fall (September-November): Fall brings excellent fishing opportunities as Northern pike, Walleye, Yellow perch, White bass, Channel catfish, Bluegill, Largemouth bass, Smallmouth bass, Black crappie, White crappie feed heavily before winter. Focus on areas with falling water temperatures.
      Winter (December-February): Ice fishing is popular during winter months. Target Northern pike, Walleye, Yellow perch, White bass, Channel catfish, Bluegill, Largemouth bass, Smallmouth bass, Black crappie, White crappie in shallower bays and near structure, always ensuring safe ice conditions.
      Additionally, early morning and late evening typically offer the best fishing conditions.

Question 9

What facilities and access points are available at Merritt Reservoir?

Accepted Answer

Merritt Reservoir offers the following facilities and amenities:

Please note that some facilities may have seasonal hours or closures. Check current conditions and regulations before your visit.

Question 10

What types of fish can I catch at Merritt Reservoir?

Accepted Answer

Merritt Reservoir is home to Northern pike, Walleye, Yellow perch, White bass, Channel catfish, Bluegill, Largemouth bass, Smallmouth bass, Black crappie, White crappie. Each species has specific patterns and preferences that can help you plan your fishing trip effectively.

Question 11

What are the best techniques and times to catch Northern pike at Merritt Reservoir?

Accepted Answer

For Northern pike at Merritt Reservoir:
- Best seasons: Spring, Fall
- Active times: Morning, Afternoon
- Preferred water temperature: 55-70°F
- Typical depth: 3-12 feet in spring, 10-25 feet in summer
- Habitat: Lakes, Rivers, Marshes
- Spawning season: Early Spring

Recommended techniques:
- Fishing methods: Casting, Trolling
- Effective lures: Spoons, Spinners, Swimbaits
- Natural bait options: Live fish

Tackle recommendations:
- Rod: Medium-heavy to heavy rod
- Reel: Spinning or baitcasting reel
- Line: 20-40 lb test

Question 12

What are the best techniques and times to catch Walleye at Merritt Reservoir?

Accepted Answer

For Walleye at Merritt Reservoir:
- Best seasons: Spring, Fall
- Active times: Dawn, Dusk
- Preferred water temperature: 50-70°F
- Typical depth: 10-20 feet in spring, 20-40 feet in summer
- Habitat: Lakes, Rivers, Reservoirs
- Spawning season: Spring

Recommended techniques:
- Fishing methods: Jigging, Bottom bouncing, Trolling
- Effective lures: Jigs, Deep diving crankbaits, Spinner rigs
- Natural bait options: Minnows, Leeches, Nightcrawlers

Tackle recommendations:
- Rod: Medium power rod
- Reel: Spinning reel
- Line: 6-12 lb test

Question 13

What are the best techniques and times to catch Yellow perch at Merritt Reservoir?

Accepted Answer

For Yellow perch at Merritt Reservoir:
- Best seasons: Spring, Winter
- Active times: Morning, Afternoon
- Preferred water temperature: 50-68°F
- Typical depth: 3-12 feet in spring, 10-25 feet in summer
- Habitat: Lakes, Rivers, Ponds
- Spawning season: Spring

Recommended techniques:
- Fishing methods: Vertical jigging, Bobber fishing
- Effective lures: Small jigs, Spoons, Spinnerbaits
- Natural bait options: Minnows, Worms

Tackle recommendations:
- Rod: Ultralight to light power rod
- Reel: Spinning reel
- Line: 2-6 lb test

Question 14

What are the best techniques and times to catch White bass at Merritt Reservoir?

Accepted Answer

For White bass at Merritt Reservoir:
- Best seasons: Spring, Summer
- Active times: Morning, Dusk
- Preferred water temperature: 60-70°F
- Typical depth: 5-20 feet
- Habitat: Rivers, Lakes, Reservoirs
- Spawning season: Spring

Recommended techniques:
- Fishing methods: Casting, Trolling, Vertical jigging
- Effective lures: Jigs, Spinners, Spoons
- Natural bait options: Minnows, Worms

Tackle recommendations:
- Rod: Light to medium power rod
- Reel: Spinning reel
- Line: 4-10 lb test

Question 15

What are the best techniques and times to catch Channel catfish at Merritt Reservoir?

Accepted Answer

For Channel catfish at Merritt Reservoir:
- Best seasons: Spring, Summer
- Active times: Night
- Preferred water temperature: 70-85°F
- Typical depth: 5-15 feet in spring, 15-30 feet in summer
- Habitat: Lakes, Rivers, Ponds
- Spawning season: Late Spring to Early Summer

Recommended techniques:
- Fishing methods: Bottom fishing
- Effective lures: None commonly used
- Natural bait options: Cut bait, Stink bait, Liver

Tackle recommendations:
- Rod: Medium-heavy to heavy power rod
- Reel: Baitcasting reel
- Line: 10-30 lb test

Question 16

What are the best techniques and times to catch Bluegill at Merritt Reservoir?

Accepted Answer

For Bluegill at Merritt Reservoir:
- Best seasons: Spring, Summer
- Active times: Morning, Afternoon
- Preferred water temperature: 69-75°F
- Typical depth: 1-10 feet in spring, 10-20 feet in summer
- Habitat: Lakes, Ponds, Streams
- Spawning season: Late Spring to Early Summer

Recommended techniques:
- Fishing methods: Bobber fishing, Casting
- Effective lures: Small jigs, Spinnerbaits
- Natural bait options: Worms, Crickets

Tackle recommendations:
- Rod: Ultralight power rod
- Reel: Spinning reel
- Line: 2-6 lb test

Question 17

What are the best techniques and times to catch Largemouth bass at Merritt Reservoir?

Accepted Answer

For Largemouth bass at Merritt Reservoir:
- Best seasons: Spring, Fall
- Active times: Dawn, Dusk
- Preferred water temperature: 65-80°F
- Typical depth: Shallow in spring/fall, deeper in summer
- Habitat: Lakes, Ponds, Rivers, Reservoirs
- Spawning season: Late Spring

Recommended techniques:
- Fishing methods: Pitching and flipping, Trolling, Casting
- Effective lures: Plastic worms, Crankbaits, Spinnerbaits
- Natural bait options: Shiners, Frogs, Worms

Tackle recommendations:
- Rod: Medium-heavy power rod
- Reel: Baitcasting reel
- Line: 10-20 lb test

Question 18

What are the best techniques and times to catch Smallmouth bass at Merritt Reservoir?

Accepted Answer

For Smallmouth bass at Merritt Reservoir:
- Best seasons: Spring, Fall
- Active times: Morning, Late Afternoon
- Preferred water temperature: 65-75°F
- Typical depth: Shallow in spring/fall, deeper in summer
- Habitat: Streams, Rivers, Lakes, Reservoirs
- Spawning season: Spring

Recommended techniques:
- Fishing methods: Drop shotting, Jigging, Casting
- Effective lures: Jigs, Tube baits, Soft plastics
- Natural bait options: Crayfish, Minnows, Worms

Tackle recommendations:
- Rod: Medium power rod
- Reel: Spinning reel
- Line: 6-15 lb test

Question 19

What are the best techniques and times to catch Black crappie at Merritt Reservoir?

Accepted Answer

For Black crappie at Merritt Reservoir:
- Best seasons: Spring, Fall
- Active times: Morning, Evening
- Preferred water temperature: 58-68°F
- Typical depth: Shallow in spring, deeper in summer
- Habitat: Lakes, Ponds, Slow-moving rivers
- Spawning season: Spring

Recommended techniques:
- Fishing methods: Vertical jigging, Casting, Bobber fishing
- Effective lures: Small jigs, Soft plastics
- Natural bait options: Minnows, Worms

Tackle recommendations:
- Rod: Light power rod
- Reel: Spinning reel
- Line: 2-6 lb test

Question 20

What are the best techniques and times to catch White crappie at Merritt Reservoir?

Accepted Answer

For White crappie at Merritt Reservoir:
- Best seasons: Spring, Fall
- Active times: Morning, Evening
- Preferred water temperature: 60-70°F
- Typical depth: Shallow in spring, deeper in summer
- Habitat: Lakes, Ponds, Slower rivers
- Spawning season: Spring

Recommended techniques:
- Fishing methods: Vertical jigging, Casting, Drifting
- Effective lures: Small jigs, Spinners
- Natural bait options: Minnows, Insects

Tackle recommendations:
- Rod: Light power rod
- Reel: Spinning reel
- Line: 2-6 lb test

Question 21

What are the best fishing seasons at Merritt Reservoir?

Accepted Answer

Spring: Best for catching Northern pike, Walleye, Yellow perch, White bass, Channel catfish, Bluegill, Largemouth bass, Smallmouth bass, Black crappie, White crappie

Fall: Best for catching Northern pike, Walleye, Largemouth bass, Smallmouth bass, Black crappie, White crappie

Winter: Best for catching Yellow perch

Summer: Best for catching White bass, Channel catfish, Bluegill

Question 22

What water recreation activities are available at Merritt Reservoir?

Accepted Answer

Merritt Reservoir offers various recreational opportunities including:
      - Fishing

Additional lake information:
      - Lake size: 2906.00 acres (4.54 square miles)
      - Maximum depth: 0.00 meters

The lake is particularly suitable for fishing and boating 
      during current conditions. Always check weather forecasts and local regulations before activities.

Question 23

What's the best time to visit Merritt Reservoir, and how's the weather?

Accepted Answer

The best time to visit Merritt Reservoir depends on your planned activities:
      - Summer (June-August): Ideal for swimming, boating, and water sports
      - Spring/Fall: Excellent fishing and fewer crowds
      - Winter: Ice fishing when conditions permit
      Current weather is Clear. 
      Check our real-time updates for water temperature and conditions before your visit.

Question 24

What permits and regulations should I know about for Merritt Reservoir?

Accepted Answer

For Merritt Reservoir, you should be aware of:
      - Fishing license requirements (check state regulations)
      - Boat registration requirements

For specific requirements and current regulations:
      
      - Contact local authorities
      - Visit the DNR website
      - Visit official websites listed below

Question 25

Where can I find more information about Merritt Reservoir?

Accepted Answer

You can find detailed information about Merritt Reservoir through these official resources:
        
        - Additional Information
        
        These resources provide up-to-date information about:
        
        - Current lake conditions
        - Facility hours and availability
        - Special notices and alerts
        
        - Seasonal updates and events
        
        Official websites: http://outdoornebraska.gov/merrittreservoir/

Question 26

What is the water temperature at Merritt Reservoir in January?

Accepted Answer

In January, the water temperature at Merritt Reservoir is approximately 34.40°F. 
        This information helps in planning activities like water activities.

Question 27

What is the water temperature at Merritt Reservoir in February?

Accepted Answer

In February, the water temperature at Merritt Reservoir is approximately 38.76°F. 
        This information helps in planning activities like water activities.

Question 28

What is the water temperature at Merritt Reservoir in March?

Accepted Answer

In March, the water temperature at Merritt Reservoir is approximately 42.24°F. 
        This information helps in planning activities like water activities.

Question 29

What is the water temperature at Merritt Reservoir in April?

Accepted Answer

In April, the water temperature at Merritt Reservoir is approximately 38.86°F. 
        This information helps in planning activities like water activities.

Question 30

What is the water temperature at Merritt Reservoir in May?

Accepted Answer

In May, the water temperature at Merritt Reservoir is approximately 51.29°F. 
        This information helps in planning activities like water activities.

Question 31

What is the water temperature at Merritt Reservoir in June?

Accepted Answer

In June, the water temperature at Merritt Reservoir is approximately 67.90°F. 
        This information helps in planning activities like water activities.

Question 32

What is the water temperature at Merritt Reservoir in July?

Accepted Answer

In July, the water temperature at Merritt Reservoir is approximately 77.50°F. 
        This information helps in planning activities like water activities.

Question 33

What is the water temperature at Merritt Reservoir in August?

Accepted Answer

In August, the water temperature at Merritt Reservoir is approximately 77.48°F. 
        This information helps in planning activities like water activities.

Question 34

What is the water temperature at Merritt Reservoir in September?

Accepted Answer

In September, the water temperature at Merritt Reservoir is approximately 74.29°F. 
        This information helps in planning activities like water activities.

Question 35

What is the water temperature at Merritt Reservoir in October?

Accepted Answer

In October, the water temperature at Merritt Reservoir is approximately 57.86°F. 
        This information helps in planning activities like water activities.

Question 36

What is the water temperature at Merritt Reservoir in November?

Accepted Answer

In November, the water temperature at Merritt Reservoir is approximately 45.00°F. 
        This information helps in planning activities like water activities.

Question 37

What is the water temperature at Merritt Reservoir in December?

Accepted Answer

In December, the water temperature at Merritt Reservoir is approximately 34.93°F. 
        This information helps in planning activities like water activities.

Question 38

What are the current fishing conditions at Merritt Reservoir?

Accepted Answer

Current water temperature at Merritt Reservoir is 70°F. 
        These conditions are ideal for catching Northern pike, Walleye, White bass, Channel catfish, Bluegill, Largemouth bass, Smallmouth bass, White crappie.

Question 39

What is the maximum depth of Merritt Reservoir?

Accepted Answer

Merritt Reservoir has a maximum depth of 0.00 meters (0 feet). This depth provides excellent habitat for various fish species and supports diverse aquatic life. The lake's depth profile makes it suitable for both shallow-water fishing and deep-water activities.

Question 40

How big is Merritt Reservoir?

Accepted Answer

Merritt Reservoir covers an area of 2906.00 acres (4.54 square miles) at full pool. The lake is currently holding 2487.59 acres of water, which represents 85.6% of its total capacity. This substantial size makes it an important recreational resource for Cherry County, offering extensive opportunities for fishing, boating, and other water activities.

Question 41

Where is Merritt Reservoir located?

Accepted Answer

Merritt Reservoir is located in Valentine, Cherry County, NE. The lake is accessible to the public and serves as a popular destination for outdoor activities. Its location in Cherry County makes it easily accessible from Valentine and surrounding communities.

Question 42

What is the current water level at Merritt Reservoir?

Accepted Answer

Merritt Reservoir is currently holding 2487.59 acres of water, compared to its full capacity of 2906.00 acres. This represents 85.6% of its total capacity. Water levels are good for most recreational activities. These water levels are monitored regularly and impact various recreational activities on the lake.

Merritt Reservoir

Merritt Reservoir

Current Conditions

Water Temperature

Current Snapshot

Forecast: Monday, Jul 14

Hourly Insights

Temperature

Precipitation

Wind

Sun, Moon & UV

Weather Forecast & Fishing Conditions at Merritt Reservoir

Lake Map Views

Try Premium Features

Solunar Fishing Forecast

Best Bite Times

Major Times (Peak)

Minor Times (Good)

Fishing Intelligence

Common Fish Species

Northern pike

Walleye

Yellow perch

Nearby Lakes

Lewis and Clark Lake

Lake Oahe

Lake Francis Case

Pactola Lake

Water Temperature History

Temperature Trend: Last 12 Months

Key Observations (Last 12 Months)

Weather Forecast

Hourly Wind Forecast

Daily Pressure Forecast

Frequently Asked Questions About Merritt Reservoir

What is the current water temperature at Merritt Reservoir?

What is the size and depth of Merritt Reservoir?

What county and state is Merritt Reservoir in?

How often is the Merritt Reservoir water temperature updated?