Merritt Reservoir 

In the heart of the Sandhills is one of Nebraska's prime recreation and fishing lakes. Merritt Reservoir, located 26 miles south of Valentine on Highway 97, is 11 miles long, with 44 miles of shoreline made up primarily of sugar sand beaches in mid- to late-summer. Come for the day to picnic and swim, or stay longer and camp at one of the state maintained campgrounds. Waterskiing, boating and sailing are also popular summertime activities at Merritt Reservoir.

For excellent year-round fishing, Merritt is the place to be. Its pure waters provide superb habitat for many species of trophy-sized fish including largemouth, smallmouth, and white bass, walleye, muskie, perch, crappie, channel catfish, bluegill, and bullheads. Several state and world line class records, as well as the majority of the state's Master Angler Awards have been claimed right here at Merritt Reservoir. During the winter months, ice fishing attracts fishermen from all over the region for tournaments and recreational fishing.

If you enjoy beautiful scenery, uncrowded water
and excellent fishing, this is the lake for you!
To request more information, please call 1-800-658-4024

Merritt Reservoir State Recreation Area Web Site

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Contact Information:
Merritt Reservoir SRA
420 E First St
Valentine, NE 69201-1904
Phone: (402) 376-3320