To most Nebraskans and residents of neighboring states, McConaughy is known as a place for outdoor good times. Its waters and surrounding land provide the setting for many different kinds of outdoor recreation, thanks to efforts of the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission. Obviously such a fine piece of water offers excellent fishing and boating. But, Big Mac has become a favorite with campers, sailboaters, wind surfers, swimmers, water skiers, picnickers, scuba divers, hunters, ice boaters, and many other outdoor fun seekers. Fishing has long been the primary drawing card at Lake Mac, with its cool, clear, deep waters.
Game fish vary from sporty rainbow trout to the everyday catfish.
Prized most highly by the local angler is the walleye, and Nebraska's current state record is 16 lb. 2 oz. came from Big Mac. Also top ranked is the white bass fishing. In recent years, a close relative of the white bass has been stocked, and the striped bass offers a tackle-busting contest an angler will not soon forget. Although smaller in size, the smallmouth bass provides some dynamite action.