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Published by the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission

Spring/Summer 2009

Great Park Pursuit set for 2nd year


By Tim Montgomery After a successful inaugural year in 2008, The Great Park Pursuit will return with more sites and outdoor adventures in May 2009. The Nebraska Game and Parks Commission joined the Nebraska Recreation and Park Association to develop the program. The goal was to encourage a healthier lifestyle for participants while increasing awareness of Nebraskas nature rich outdoor recreation opportunities. This years program will be sponsored, in part, by the Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services. The program runs May 1 through Sept. 8. A kick-off event will be held May 16 at the Nebraska Outdoor Expo in Kearney. Other special events will be held June 20 at Pioneers Park in Lincoln, July 25 at Walnut Creek Lake in Papillion and Aug. 8 at Calamus Reservoir. The program, adopted from a similar outdoor initiative started by the Connecticut Department of Environmental Protection, involves a challenge to visit Nebraska parks. Participants follow clues to collect nature-based impressions from posts hidden in each of the selected parks. Prizes and entry into drawings are based on the number of tracings collected. While participants become registered for a free two-night cabin stay at a Nebraska state park of their choice with just one visit, the more See Pursuit, Page 2

Mussels pose major threat to Nebraska


By Eric Fowler With the recent discoveries of invasive zebra and quagga mussels in Colorado and Kansas reservoirs, Nebraska Game and Parks Commission biologists are asking boaters to help keep these species from finding their way into Nebraska waters. Zebra and quagga mussels are freshwater clams that are native to Europe and Asia. Scientists believe they hitched a ride to the United States in the ballast water of ships serving the Great Lakes region in the 1980s. Unchecked by natural predators, they spread throughout the eastern U.S. and, in recent years, southwestern states. The eggs and microscopic larvae of the species easily spread downstream, but in many cases, adult mussels and their larvae are spreading in the same way their ancestors got to the U.S.: hitching rides on boats or in bait buckets, live wells or bilge pumps from infected waters. The species are very similar, with slight differences in coloration, but both cause the same problems. They attach to See Mussels, Page 7

Summer fun in the parks

Another big turkey hunt is expected


Seasons expanded for 2009
By Bob Grier Thanks to a record turkey population, 2009 spring and fall turkey hunters will enjoy longer seasons and fall turkey hunters will be able to hunt during Nebraskas November firearm deer season, according to Kit Hams, the Nebraska Game and Parks Commissions big game program manager. Wild turkey numbers continue to set Spring Harvest records across Recent harvests for Nebraska, Hams said. Nebraska spring In the six years turkey hunting: between 2002 and 2008 19,896 2008, the rural mail 2007 18,001 carriers roadside 2006 17,531 surveys for wild 2005 14,782 2004 12,858 turkeys increased about 400 percent from 2,200 birds in 2002 to 10,850 wild turkeys in 2008. This years extended seasons will give turkey hunters additional time in the field to enjoy the record turkey populations. Additionally, turkey numbers are up in all parts of Nebraska, with the following population increases: Panhandle, 100 percent; Sandhills, 400 percent; southwest, 500 See Turkey, Page 7

ERIC FOWLER

Roasting marshmallows on the campfire under a starry sky was the way this family chose to end a fun-filled summer day at Ponca State Park. See pages 4-5 for ideas on how your family may enjoy the state parklands.

COPYRIGHT, DAVE BRENNER, MICHIGAN SEA GRANT

Commission introduces its new logotype


The Nebraska Game and Parks Commission has introduced a new logotype. The design will make agency communications more consistent while promoting Nebraska as an outdoor destination. The Commissions wellknown circular logo depicting a fish, a pheasant, and a pine tree has been in consistent use for almost 40 years. However, there never has been a standard type treatment for the agencys name. The new design emphasizes the word Nebraska, with game and parks in a secondary role. The objective is to promote the state, rather than simply identifying the agency. The new design especially will be effective at a distance, such as on billboards, sports show displays, and signage on cars and trucks. Instead of simply seeing the circular symbol and a line of uniformly small type, viewers will be able to read Nebraska plainly, associating our state directly with images of the outdoors.

Inside
Expos, Page 2 Open Fields and Waters Program, Page 3 Dog conditioning, Page 3 Ten Things to Do in the Parks, Page 4 Parks events schedule, Page 5 Hunter/angler recruitment, Page 6 Aquatic rehab projects, Page 6 Fly-fishing, Page 8

These zebra mussels are destructive freshwater clams that originated in Europe and Asia.

OutdoorNebraska.org

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Outdoor Nebraska

Expo has new Kearney location


By Julia Plugge Grab a favorite lawn chair, paper and a pen, step outside, and begin brainstorming ideas for all the things you could do in the outdoors. Stumped yet? Now, write in bold letters and circle the words, Nebraska Outdoor Expo. This is your next step in acquiring the vast number of activities existing in the outdoors. The third annual Nebraska Outdoor Expo, set for May 14-16 at Fort Kearny State Recreation Area (SRA), will have a variety of hands-on activities, many of which could be added to your list. The first two days will be an Outdoor Classroom, specifically for students in grades 4 through 6. The Expo will be open to the public only on May 16. The Expo is designed to meet the needs of anyone interested in an outdoor lifestyle, regardless of age or experience, including anglers, campers, bird watchers, and hunters, among others. This year the Expo is moving to its new, outdoor location at Fort Kearny SRA, offering more activities to scientifically enhance the family-oriented event. The sites eight lakes will offer additional onthe-water experiences for anyone interested in kayaking, canoeing and fishing. Other activities will include hunting, camping, shooting sports, outdoor cooking, wildlife observations, Nebraska history reenactments. Demonstrations and seminars by outdoor specialists will

Nebraskas 2009 Expos


April 22-23 Platte River State Park, Louisville (students only) May 6 Trails West YMCA Camp, Scottsbluff (students only) May 14-16 Nebraska Outdoor Expo Fort Kearny SRA, Kearney (students only, May 14-15) Sept. 18-20 Missouri River Outdoor Expo Ponca State Park, Ponca (students only, Sept. 18) For more information: nebraskaoutdoorexpo.org

Outdoor Nebraska
is published by the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission Copyright 2009

Commission Offices
Headquarters 2200 N. 33rd St. P.O. Box 30370 Lincoln, NE 68503-0370 (402) 471-0641 www.OutdoorNebraska.org Alliance 299 Husker Rd., Box 725 Alliance, NE 69301-0725 (308) 763-2940 Bassett 524 Panzer St., Box 508 Bassett, NE 68714-0508 (402) 684-2921 North Platte 301 E. State Farm Rd. North Platte, NE 69101-0430 (308) 535-8025 Norfolk 2201 N. 13th St. Norfolk, NE 68701-2267 (402) 370-3374 Kearney 1617 First Ave. Kearney, NE 68847-6057 (308) 865-5310 Ak-Sar-Ben Aquarium 21502 W. Neb. Hwy. 31 Gretna, NE 68028 (402) 332-3901 Omaha 1212 Bob Gibson Blvd. Omaha, NE 68108-2020 (402) 595-2144

DOUG CARROLL

Expos are great places for children to learn about all sorts of wildlife. enhance the schedule. Local and statewide professionals will be on-site to share their experiences in the outdoors. The Expo is free and, because May 16 is the Nebraska Game and Parks Commissions Free Fishing and Park Entry Day, no vehicle permit is required to enter Fort Kearny SRA. Bring the family for a day of fun activities for all ages. Also, a special kick-off event for the 2009 Great Park Pursuit outdoor adventure program will be held at the Expo. In addition, a variety of exhibitors will display fishing tackle, hunting

equipment, and camping and boating gear. At the Outdoor Classroom portion of the Expo on May 14-15, students will participate in fun, interactive programs to enhance their knowledge of wildlife and the outdoors. Due to the exciting response to the spring Expo 3,000 students have participated annually in the Nebraska Outdoor Expo at Kearney an Outdoor Classroom has been added for each end of the state. (Julia Plugge is the event coordinator in the Information and Education Division.)

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Pursuit
Continued from Page 1 sites participants visit, the more opportunities they have to win. In 2008, the Tesarek family of Plattsmouth was one of 34 teams to visit all 10 selected parks. The Pursuit was a highlight of the familys vacation. Said Karen Tesarek: When we got back to the van, our 13year-old, Andrea, said Finding the places was the most fun part of the whole vacation. I thought that was really something because, in addition to doing The Great Park Pursuit, we also had taken them to the Black Hills, Wind Cave and Mount Rushmore, but she liked the Pursuit the best. Engaging youth in the natural world outside their door is an important component of the program. Of the 1,854 participants from 2008, 900 were

2009 Participating Parks


1 Fort Robinson State Park, Crawford 2 Central Park, Alliance 3 Ash Hollow State Historic Park, Lewellen 4 Kelley Park, McCook 5 Bessey Ranger District of the Nebraska National Forest, Halsey 6 Calamus State Recreation Area, Burwell 7 Cowboy Trail, Norfolk 8 Scenic Park, South Sioux City 9 Lewis and Clark Landing, Omaha 10 Walnut Creek Lake and Recreation Area, Papillion 11 Platte River State Park, Louisville 12 Indian Cave State Park, Shubert 13 Pioneers Park, Lincoln 14 Pawnee Park, Columbus 15 Stolley Park, Grand Island

children. Since todays recreation time is often spent in front of a screen, The Pursuit provides an opportunity which allows participants to feel comfortable in natural environments. To build on the success of the 464 teams registered last year, which represented 122 Nebraska communities and eight states, The Great Park Pursuit will offer more opportunities to participate this year. Expanding to 15 parks across Nebraska for this years program provides more close-tohome opportunities. In addition, this years sites include a mix of local, state and federal parklands. The variety of sites selected highlights the great natural resources of Nebraska while raising awareness of locations that offer educational, historical and entertainment opportunities. (Tim Montgomery is the federal aid administrator in the Parks Division.)

Commissioners
Chairman: James Ziebarth, Wilcox Vice Chairman: Jerrod Burke, Curtis 2nd Vice Chairman: Mick Jensen, Blair Dr. Mark Pinkerton, Wilber Ron Stave, Waterloo Dr. Kent Forney, Lincoln Lynn Berggren, Broken Bow Mark Spurgin, Paxton Rex Fisher, Omaha

Director: Rex Amack Assistant Directors: Roger Kuhn Kirk Nelson Sam Sidner

Staff
Administrator, Information & Education: Doug Bauch Editing and Design: Jerry Kane
Outdoor Nebraska Vol. 18, No. 1
Under federal and/or state law, discrimination is prohibited on the basis of race, color, religion, age, gender, marital status, national origin, disability or political affiliation. If you think you have been discriminated against in any program, activity or facility or want more information, contact the Affirmative Action Officer, Nebraska Game and Parks Commission, Lincoln, NE, 402-471-0641; the Equal Opportunity Commission, Lincoln, NE, 402-471-2024, TTY / TDD 402-471-4693. USFWS, Division of Bird Habitat and Conservation, Civil Rights Coordinator, 4401 North Fairfax Drive, MBSP 4020, Arlington, Virginia 22203.
Printed on recycled paper with soy ink by Jacob North Companies, Lincoln, NE.

Recognition certificate available


The Nebraska Game and Parks Commission has started a new program in which anyone wishing to commemorate a special fishing experience can do so with a Webgenerated recognition certificate. A digital photo of the special occasion is all that is needed to get started. Go to OutdoorNebraska.org, click on Fishing, then Recognition Certificates. Follow the instructions and create a memento that will last a lifetime.

Outdoor Briefs
and reels, bait and fishing instruction will be available to participants. Family Fishing Nights are a perfect opportunity for people, who have never fished or have not in years, to enjoy the sport. A 2009 Nebraska fishing license is required for anglers ages 16 or older. The 2009 schedule: May 20 Wehrspann Lake, Omaha, 6 p.m.; May 27 Pawnee Lake, Emerald, 6 p.m.; June 2 Prairie View Lake, Bennington, 6 p.m.; June 9 Holmes Lake, Lincoln, 6 p.m.; June 17 Halleck Park Lake, Papillion, 6 p.m.; June 24 Bowling Lake, Lincoln, 6 p.m.; June 27 Pawnee Lake, Carp-O-Rama, 8 a.m.; July

7 Zorinsky Lake, Omaha, 6 p.m.; July 14 Holmes Lake, 6 p.m.; July 22 Standing Bear Lake, Omaha, 6 p.m.; July 29 Wildwood Lake, Agnew, 6 p.m.; Aug. 4 Walnut Creek Lake, Papillion, 6 p.m.; Aug. 11 Holmes Lake, 6 p.m.; Aug. 19 Wehrspann Lake, 6 p.m.; Aug. 26 Bowling Lake, 6 p.m.; Sept. 1 Standing Bear Lake, 5 p.m.; Sept. 8 Holmes Lake, 5 p.m.; Sept. 16 Halleck Park Lake, 5 p.m.; Sept. 23 Bowling Lake, 5 p.m.

Record number of deer harvested


A record 80,467 deer and 105 elk were harvested in Nebraska in 2008. Completing the big game harvest totals were 512 antelope and one bighorn sheep.

Family Fishing Nights scheduled


Nebraskas Youth Fishing Program is sponsoring Family Fishing Nights at Lincoln- and Omaha-area lakes. Rods

Spring/Summer 2009

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Open Fields expands access to sportsmen


By Scott Bonertz Nebraska landowners have a new opportunity to earn payments for allowing public walk-in hunting and fishing on their lands, lakes, ponds, rivers and streams through the Open Fields and Waters Program. The Open Fields and Waters Program allows enrollment of land types not currently allowed in the Conservation Reserve ProgramManagement Access Program (CRP- MAP). The statewide, two-year pilot program allows landowners to enroll qualifying lands and waters for one or two years. Hunters and anglers will be allowed access to enrolled lands and waters beginning in September 2009. For the lands portion, the new program is focused on sites that must have a core of mature woodland or quality wetland hunting habitat, which will complement the grassland/upland game focus of the existing CRP-MAP. However, land may not be enrolled in both CRP-MAP and the Open Fields and Waters Program at the same time. The program divides the state into two zones. The programs primary target area, which includes lands near large population centers and along the Platte River, will offer higher rates for public access and will receive more staff emphasis for enrollment. Lands enrolled elsewhere will be offered a reduced rate. Landowners may be paid as much as $12 per acre for enrolling high quality woodlands or wetlands in the programs target area and allowing hunter access to their land during all hunting seasons. Payments for hunting access range from $1 to $12 per acre. The payment to landowners who enroll lakes or ponds in the program for fishing access will be $250 for bodies of water up to one acre and an additional $40 per acre for larger waters. Access to streams and rivers bordered by private land will be paid at the rate $750 per mile for cold water trout streams and rivers, and $500 per mile for warm water. Other rates will be paid depending on the quality and type of habitat enrolled in the program and the types of hunting permitted on the land. The Open Fields and Waters Program was developed under the auspices of the Nebraska Game and Parks Commissions Recruitment, Development and Retention (RDR) plan, which seeks to develop future, current and past hunters and anglers in Nebraska. Overall, the number of hunters and anglers has been declining, with a lack of access frequently identified as a contributing reason, said Tim McCoy, the Commissions agriculture program manager. The Open Fields and Waters Program is a great first step toward expanding opportunities to hunt and fish in Nebraska. More information about the Open Fields and Waters Program can be found at OutdoorNebraska.org. Program information also is available on request at Commission district offices in Lincoln, North Platte, Kearney, Norfolk, Bassett and Alliance. (Scott Bonertz is the public information manager in the Information and Education Division.)

Reap rewards of well-conditioned dog


By Scott Bonertz It doesnt matter if you have a field trial dog, gun dog, hunting dog, upland dog, waterfowl dog or a bird dog, all dog owners will tell you they want a wellconditioned dog. Those owners know the first steps toward a well-conditioned dog happen in the offseason. The goal of any hunters offseason conditioning program is to maximize a dogs hunting potential and enhance the well-being of his or her dog. Its important to take a hunting dog to a veterinarian for a full physical exam before beginning any conditioning program. Be sure to tell the vet how you intend to hunt the dog and seek his advice on a proper and safe exercise plan. Ask specific questions to help determine whether your dog is physically fit and has the ability to begin an exercise program. Dog owners should plan on six to eight weeks of preseason conditioning to regain hunt-ready status for any dog that has spent much of the winter relaxing. Dogs that enter the hunting season in unfit condition are prone to injury and may not reach the desired fitness level until late in the season, which can sour time spent afield. The conditioning sessions can be short and fun, not lasting more than 10 or 15 minutes and should take place three to four times a week. Hunters may conduct these sessions on Nebraska Game and Parks Commission-managed properties from May 1 through July 31, except on areas designated and specifically posted with authorized dog training area signs, (WMA) are designated and posted as authorized dog training areas. These areas are Yankee Hill WMA and Wagon Train Lake State Recreation Area (SRA) dog training areas in Lancaster County, Rakes Creek WMA in Cass County, Red Willow Reservoir WMA in Frontier County and Sherman Reservoir in Sherman County. All other WMAs are closed to dog training in May, June and July. Another important aspect to having a well-conditioned dog is nutrition. Many breeds of hunting dogs are very oral and when they have nothing to carry around in their mouths they eat instead and have a tendency to gain weight, said Dr. Kent Forney, a Nebraska Game and Parks Commissioner and Lincoln veterinarian. According to Forney, hard-working sporting dogs will require more calorically-dense food to make up for the calories they burn when afield, but those extra calories are not needed during the offseason. You hear a lot of talk about high protein when feeding dogs, but what it really comes down to is the quality of protein being more important than the quantity, Forney said. So, if you get out early to condition your dog, have it checked by a vet, and give it the proper nutrition, you could be rewarded on your next outing with a happy and healthy dog. You just might fill your bag with more birds, too. (Scott Bonertz is the public information manager in the Information and Education Division.)

Hunters Checklist
There are a number of things hunters can do before and at the start of hunting season to be well prepared. Here are some suggestions from the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission: Hunter Education 1) Dont delay in taking a course; 2) If you already have taken the course, make sure you have a certification card; 3) If youve misplaced or lost the card, request a duplicate as soon as possible. Go to OutdoorNebraska.org to find a hunter education class or request a duplicate card. Other Hunter Requirements Check the Nebraska Hunter Requirements table at OutdoorNebraska.org for items such as age requirements, permit types, accompaniment, habitat stamps, Harvest Information Program numbers, Nebraska waterfowl stamps, and federal duck stamps. Buy Your Permit Before purchasing a permit, know what may be taken with it and where you may hunt with it. Know the Regulations Visit OutdoorNebraska.org for current regulations. Get Permission Line up a place to hunt private land in advance. Field Care Know the proper field care for the game you plan on taking. Be prepared to transport game. Equipment and Gear Check Make sure everything is clean, safe and not needing repair and sight in your firearm. Train Your Dog Use the summer to get your dog in shape for the hunting season. Accommodations Make plans for places to stay during a hunt.

JEFF KURRUS

A well-conditioned dog may result in a very fruitful hunt in the fall.

Born to Run
A common method used to condition sporting dogs is running. Running exercise can be accomplished by various means, such as running free while hunting, running and pulling weights such as cables or chains, running beside a bicycle, running on a merry-go-round-type dog walker, and running on a treadmill. Check OutdoorNebraska.org for areas open to dog training.

which can be used year round for dog training. Five state wildlife management areas

Emerald ash borer not detected in Nebraska yet


By Mike Groenewold Since its arrival into the United States near Detroit in 2002, the emerald ash borer has killed an estimated 20 million ash trees in 10 states east of Nebraska. The larval stage of this destructive, invasive species kills all species of ash by feeding in the cambium layer beneath the bark, disrupting the flow of nutrients and water from the roots to the upper branches and leaves of the ash tree. Infested trees generally die in one to three years. Although the emerald ash borer was discovered in southeast Missouri during the summer of 2008, the insect has not been detected in Nebraska yet. However, community leaders, foresters, land managers and regulatory officials are concerned about the future of the states native and introduced ash trees. It will be difficult to control the emerald ash borer once it arrives in Nebraska. Chemical control may be a viable option for high value landscape trees but likely will be too costly for windbreaks and native woodlands. So what can we do? Its in the best interest of the state to keep the bug out of Nebraska for as long as possible. Entomologists are convinced that most new areas of emerald ash borer infestation are created through human transfer of the insects larval form in ash firewood. Therefore, this year, and in the future, purchase or gather firewood locally for campfires at your favorite park or wildlife area rather than bring it from home. Anyone suspecting an emerald ash borer infestation in Nebraska is encouraged to contact the Nebraska Department of Agriculture at (402) 471-2394. To learn more about the emerald ash borer and its identification go to emeraldashborer.info. (Mike Groenewold is a horticulturist in the Parks Division.)

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Outdoor Nebraska

Ten Things
to Do in the Parks This Summer
There are plenty of reasons to visit Nebraskas state parklands this summer. Here are 10 of the most common ones:

2. Boating 1. Camping
Few things are more relaxing than a weekend camping trip at a state park. Fish in the morning, go swimming in the afternoon, then enjoy a campfire-cooked meal in the evening. Variety is key as the parks have a range of campsites for tents or recreation vehicles. Whether you want a primitive, secluded campsite or one loaded with amenities for the family, Nebraskas parks have a lot to offer. The states many reservoirs offer great opportunities for spending a relaxing day in the boat. You may pull a skier at Lake Maloney State Recreation Area (SRA), fish for rod-bending flathead catfish at Branched Oak SRA, or take a leisurely cruise around Lewis and Clark Lake SRA and soak up some sun.

3. Fishing
Whether youre making an earlymorning trip to a park for some catch-and-release action, or enhancing your camping trip with some afternoon angling for supper, fishing opportunities abound in the state parks. Take the children out and introduce them to fishing. Target a number of species using a variety of methods.

4. Swimming
From the Family Aquatic Center at Eugene T. Mahoney State Park to the beach at Lake McConaughy State Recreation Area, there are plenty of places to take a cool dip in the states parks. Fort Robinson, Ponca, Niobrara, Platte River and Chadron state parks all have swimming pools. Several state recreation areas have large reservoirs with beaches.

5. Picnicking
Pack a lunch and spend a day relaxing at a state park. It could be a short drive to a nearby park, where wildlife viewing and scenery could be taken in during a picnic in the shade of a tree. Interstate 80 travelers can pack a lunch and enjoy it at one of the state recreation areas along the highway.

6. Hiking
Enjoy the outdoors at your own pace on a hike on one of the parks many scenic trails. Take in the Pine Ridge on trails at Fort Robinson or Chadron state parks or overlook the Platte River on trails at Eugene T. Mahoney or Platte River state parks. Ponca and Indian Cave (photo at right) state park trails lead to beautiful views of the Missouri River.

7. Horseback Riding
A different way to enjoy the vistas of state parks is on horseback. Trail rides are available at Indian Cave (photo above), Eugene T. Mahoney, Ponca, Chadron, Niobrara, Platte River and Fort Robinson state parks. Riders may bring their own horses and travel the trails at Two Rivers, Branched Oak, Pawnee, Rock Creek Station, and Willow Creek state recreation areas, as well as Fort Robinson.

8. Canoeing
Nebraska has excellent canoeing rivers, many of them flowing past state parks. Camping at one of the parks is a rewarding way to end a days float down one of the prairie rivers. If a relaxing tour around a small lake is desired, plenty of state parklands have lakes for such use. Bring a fishing pole and combine two activities.

9. Learning
Much of Nebraskas history can be discovered by visiting any of the states 10 historical parks or eight state parks. Learn about Wild Bill Hickok, Buffalo Bill and Crazy Horse. See wagon wheel ruts along the California-Oregon Trail. Many parks have living-history demonstrations and dont forget Nebraskas four forts, which have rich, colorful histories.

10. Biking
Fort Robinson State Park (SP) has 67 miles of trails, with bike rentals available. An excellent biking destination in eastern Nebraska is Indian Cave SP, with its 36 miles of trails. Niobrara SP, Fort Kearny State Recreation Area (SRA) and Branched Oak SRA also are good options. Dont forget the Cowboy Trail, which stretches across northcentral Nebraska.

All You Need


A Nebraska Park Entry Permit is required for all vehicles entering state parklands. Purchase one at OutdoorNebraska.org and enjoy Nebraskas parks.

Photos by Eric Fowler

Spring/Summer 2009

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2009 State Park Schedule


Alexandria Lakes SRA
Alexandria, (402) 729-5777

Scenic area includes excellent fishing and modern campground. May 16: kids fishing clinic.

Arbor Lodge SHP


Nebraska City, (402) 873-7222

Home of J. Sterling Morton, founder of Arbor Day, features a 52-room mansion with period furnishings, carriage house and arboretum. Sept. 19-20: Applejack Festival, fine arts show.

Arthur Bowring Sandhills Ranch SHP


Merriman, (308) 684-3428

restored buildings, modern and primitive camping, cabin and lodging facilities available from mid-April to mid-November. Restaurant open daily from Memorial Day Weekend through Labor Day Weekend. March 21-24: Fire School; April 3-4: Boy Scout Tree Plant; April 23-26: historical conference; May 22: Park opens at 4 p.m.; May 23: official opening of park activities; June 12-14: Intertribal Gathering; June 11-15: 4-H Horse Camp; July 2-4: art show; July 4: Fort Robinson Fourth of July Celebration; Aug. 8-9: Performance by Trotters; Sept. 7-11: APHA Trail Ride; Sept. 1620: AHA Trail Ride; Sept. 20-26: Cavalry Association.

Permit Required
A park entry permit is required for all vehicles entering state parks, state recreaton areas and state historical parks. Permits, including fishing permits, may be purchased at OutdoorNebraska.org. This Salt Valley lake just west of Lincoln offers camping and fishing, along with miles of trails. June 27: Carp-O-Rama, 8 a.m.-1 p.m.

Platte River SP
Louisville, (402) 234-2217 Located in wooded hills above the Platte River. Modern housekeeping cabins available for year-round lodging. Tepees and camper cabins also available. May 16: fishing clinic, 911:30 a.m.; May 17: mountain bike race, time TBD; May 23-25: holiday buffet; May 23-Sept. 7: horseback trail rides, swimming pool, craft center, paddle boat rentals available; June 21: Father's Day Buffet; July 4: holiday buffet; Sept. 7: Labor Day Buffet.

Working Sandhills ranch interprets early ranching. Includes interpretive center, historical displays and demonstrations. Ranch home tours and visitor center open May 23-Sept. 7, Monday-Saturday (closed Wednesdays), 9 a.m.-4 p.m. and Sundays, noon-4 p.m. June 28: Sod House Sunday.

Fremont Lakes SRA


Fremont, (402) 727-3290 This eastern Nebraska favorite includes 270 water acres in 20 sandpit lakes. May 16: Kids Fishing Day.

ERIC FOWLER

Indian Cave SP
Entrants circle the arena during the dance contest at the Intertribal Gathering at Fort Robinson State Park in 2007. This year, the event, which is open to the public, is June 11-15.
and recreation. Restaurant open yearround. Holiday buffets: Easter, Mothers Day and Fathers Day; May 15, July 10, Aug. 14 and Sept. 11: star gazing; Sept. 12: Moonshell Storytelling Festival. Shubert, (402) 883-2575 Restored schoolhouse and general store from the old Missouri River town of St. Deroin. Located in scenic Missouri River bluffs on the Lewis and Clark Trail. Modern and primitive camping available. Living history demonstrations. June 6: Trails Day (trail restoration); May 23-25, June 6-7, July 4-5, Aug. 1-2, and Sept. 5-7: black powder demonstrations; Sept. 5: fireworks.

Ashfall Fossil Beds SHP


Royal, (402) 893-2000

Huge bone bed of animals fossilized in volcanic ash. Park includes interpretive center and ongoing excavation of fossils. Open daily Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day weekend. Call for additional open days.

Ponca SP
Ponca (402) 755-2284 Located in scenic bluffs above Missouri River on the Lewis and Clark Trail. Modern and primitive camping available. Housekeeping cabins available MayOctober. Outdoor Education programs are available Memorial Day-Labor Day. May 9: International Bird Migration Day; May 10: Mothers Day Buffet; May 29-31: Becoming an Outdoors-Woman Workshop; June 20-21: Fathers Day Fossil Hunt; June 21: Fathers Day Fish Fry; Aug. 7-9: Becoming an OutdoorsFamily Workshop; Aug. 22-23: Heritage Farm Weekend; Sept. 8-9: Archery SightIn; Sept. 19-20: Missouri River Outdoor Expo (students only on Sept. 18).

Ash Hollow SHP


Lewellen, (308) 778-5651

Rest stop for wagon trains on the Oregon Trail. Park includes interpretive center, archaeological site and wagon ruts. Visitor center open May 23-Sept. 7, Tuesday-Sunday, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. June 12-13: Ash Hollow Pageant.

Lake McConaughy SRA


Ogallala, (308) 284-8800 Nebraskas largest reservoir, with 100 miles of shoreline, white-sand beaches, modern and primitive camping. May 2: catfish tournament; May 16: walleye tournament; May 3031: Big Mac Shut Up and Fish Walleye Tournament; June 5-6: Easter Seals Multi-Species Fishing Tournament; June 6: Nebraska Walleye Association Kids Fishing Clinic and Water Expo; June 6 -7: Colorado Walleye Association Tournament; June 21-22: Nebraska Walleye Association Tournament; July 25: Kites and Castles.

Fort Atkinson SHP


Fort Calhoun, (402) 468-5611 First military post west of the Missouri River. Interpretive center, reconstructed stockade, outbuildings. Visitor center open weekends only, 10 a.m.-5 p.m., May 2-17 and Sept. 12Oct. 18; open daily, 10 a.m.-4:30 p.m., May 23-Sept. 7; living history demonstrations, 11 a.m.-5 p.m.: May 23, June 6-7, July 4-5, Aug. 1-2, and Sept. 5-6.

Buffalo Bill Ranch SHP


North Platte, (308) 535-8035

Home and barn built by frontier showman and scout William F. Buffalo Bill Cody. Cody memorabilia, historical displays. House and barn open March 23-May 22, Monday-Friday, 10 a.m.-4 p.m., open seven days a week, May 23-Sept. 7, 9 a.m.-5 p.m.; open Sept. 8-Oct. 23, Monday-Friday, 10 a.m.-4 p.m.

Rock Creek Station SHP


Fairbury, (402) 729-5777 See wagon ruts along the old OregonCalifornia Trail in this history-rich park. June 6-7: Rock Creek Trail Days.

Fort Hartsuff SHP


Burwell, (308) 346-4715 Restored plains infantry post, interpretive center. See living history demonstrations. April 25-May 15: buildings open, 9 a.m.-5 p.m., MondayFriday, closed on weekends; May 16Sept. 7: office open, 9 a.m.-5 p.m., Monday-Saturday and noon-5 p.m. on Sunday; Sept. 9-27: buildings open, 8 a.m.-8 p.m., seven days a week and office and buildings open, 9 a.m.-5 p.m., Monday-Friday.

Two Rivers SRA


Waterloo, (402) 359-5165 Fishing and swimming at several sandpit lakes, Platte River. Caboose cabins available Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day weekend.

Calamus SRA
Burwell, (308) 346-5666 Nebraskas newest large reservoir has a fish hatchery nearby. June 6: Calamus Carp Tournament; Aug. 1: Calamus Carp Tournament; Aug. 2324: Windsurfing Rodeo.

Merritt Reservoir SRA


Valentine, (402) 376-3320 This Sandhills lake is one of the states finest bodies of water for fishing. June 13-14: catfish tournament; June 27-28: Nebraska Walleye Trail; July 11-12: Nebraska Walleye Association tournament; July 19-24: Nebraska Star Party; Aug. 21-22: catfish tournament.

Victoria Springs SRA


Anselmo, (308) 749-2235 A secluded, scenic getaway in the Sandhills. Two cabins near the parks pond and modern camping available. May 16: Kids Fishing Day; June 6: Very Important Kids Day.

Chadron SP
Chadron, (308) 432-6167 Nebraskas first state park. Located in the scenic Pine Ridge. Housekeeping cabins available from mid-April to midNovember, plus a group camp/conference facility. Modern campground with showers available. April 25: Chadron Adventure Race; June 20: Chadron State Park Anniversary Day; July 10-12: Fur Trade Days.

Niobrara SP
Niobrara (402) 857-3373 Located at confluence of the Niobrara and Missouri rivers on the Lewis and Clark Trail. Modern and primitive camping available. Modern housekeeping, cabins overlooking the river with year-round availability. May 23-Sept. 6: horse trail rides; June 6Aug. 9: swimming pool open daily; Aug. 10-Sept. 6: swimming pool open on weekends; May 23-Sept. 5: buffalo cookout and entertainment every Saturday; May 23, July 4, July 11, July 25, Sept. 5: Nebraska Humanities Program; May 30, June 13, June 27, July 18, Aug. 15, Aug. 22: National Park Service Interpretive Program; July 3, July 31: National Park Service Kids Program; Aug. 1: Ponca Culture Night; Aug. 8: mountain man storytelling.

Fort Kearny SHP and SRA


Kearney, (308) 865-5305 Oregon Trail military post. Interpretive center, reconstructed stockade and buildings, living history. March 30-May 15: park open by appointment only or at superintendent's discretion; May 16Sept. 7: park open daily, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. March 7: Polar Bear Plunge, 2 p.m., at SRA; May 14-16: Nebraska Outdoor Expo; May 23-25 and Sept. 5-7: 1860s soldier and civilian encampment, living history demonstrations; June 11: Pony Express reride, midnight; June 20: Pawnee storytelling, at SHP, 6-10 p.m.; July 4-5: Fourth of July Stampede Days.

Wildcat Hills SRA


Gering, (308) 436-3777 This Panhandle jewel is situated among rugged buttes and pine-covered canyons. June 16-20: High Plains Science Adventures; July-August: summer day camps at nature center.

Eugene T. Mahoney SP
Ashland, (402) 944-2523 Ultra-modern park located in bluffs above Platte River. Year-round lodging

Willow Creek SRA


Pierce, (402) 329-4053 Camping, boating, fishing and biking are among the activities to enjoy. June 6-7: Fish and Chips Fishing/Golf Tournament.

Free Fishing and Park Entry Day


Free Fishing and Park Entry Day in Nebraska is May 16, when anyone may fish in Nebraska or enter a state park without a permit.

Fort Robinson SP
Crawford, (308) 665-2900 Historical outpost served from Indian Wars through World War II. Museums,

Parks Key
SP: State Park SRA: State Recreation Area SHP: State Historical Park

Pawnee SRA
Emerald, (402) 796-2362

Page 6

Outdoor Nebraska

NGPC On the Air


Radio Schedule
Nebraska Outdoor Report Wednesday, 7:35 a.m., WNAX 570 AM, Yankton, S.D., with NGPCs Greg Wagner Nebraska Outdoor Update Wednesday, 8:35 a.m., KHUB 1340 AM, Fremont, with NGPCs Greg Wagner Outdoor Headline Update Friday, 7:10 a.m., KZEN 100.3 FM, Columbus, with NGPCs Greg Wagner Nebraska Outdoor Report Friday, 8:48 a.m., KFAB AM 1110, Omaha, with NGPCs Greg Wagner Lincoln Live Nebraska Outdoors final Friday of each month, 11 a.m., KFOR 1240 AM, Lincoln, with NGPCs Jeff Rawlinson, Aaron Hershberger and Ralph Wall, and KFORs Dale Johnson Nebraska Outdoors Saturday, 7 a.m., call-in program, ESPN 1480 AM, Lincoln, with NGPCs Jeff Rawlinson, Aaron Hershberger and Ralph Wall, and ESPN 1480s Tim Barrett The Great Outdoor Radio Show Saturday, 9 a.m., call-in program, KOZN 1620 AM, Omaha, with NGPCs Greg Wagner

Plan aims to get people outside


RDR efforts will focus on building outdoor skills for families, youth
By Jeff Rawlinson Several 2009 hunter/angler Recruitment, Development and Retention (RDR) Plan efforts will rely on the Nebraska Game and Parks Commissions education team. The team will work to develop more opportunities for families and youth to become engaged in the outdoors, especially hunting, fishing and shooting sports. The 20-year RDR Plan was adopted by the Commission to reverse the trend of waning numbers of hunters and anglers in Nebraska. It aims to recruit new hunters and anglers, further develop existing hunters and anglers, and retain those that already exist. Here are some new programs: Outdoor U. This will provide outdoor skills education through easily accessed programs, events and Webbased learning opportunities. It will incorporate an incentive program that encourages a lifelong learning and teaching culture. Outdoor U. recognizes many ways to lead participants to involvement in hunting, shooting, fishing, camping and greater environmental stewardship. It awards participants with degrees as they proceed through with Pathfinder and ending with Legacy Outdoorsman. Each degree will allow participants a flexible path with requirements to succeed, while engaging participants in outdoor activities, Web programs, workshops, etc. The program focuses on research that suggests participation in any activity relies on social support available and continued involvement in similar activities with goals achievable through effort. Hunting and Fishing Family Camps Camps and extended workshops are key tools in helping families, adults and youth develop outdoor traditions. Capitalizing on some of the successful camps the Commission has offered, this program will enhance Becoming an Outdoors-Woman events, add a new Becoming and Outdoors-Family, offer species-specific hunting/fishing development workshops, and include Youth Outdoor Skills Camps to greatly expand these programs reach. This effort will build off of existing programs, including the popular Outdoor Expos, to further funnel participants into more focused educational programming, where fun and safety are the goals. Urban Fishing Club The program partners with communities to develop a six- to eight-week offering that will target beginning anglers and cover elements from equipment set-up, knots, casting, bait and lure selection to how to catch fish. Many other new plans also will be implemented in 2009. This will require that the Commission staff be focused on the outcome: a society that values and participates in outdoor traditions. (Jeff Rawlinson is an assistant administrator in the Information and Education Division.)

Aquatic rehab projects ensure better fishing


By Jerry Kane Recent aquatic rehabilitation projects will ensure better fishing, increased water quality and improved access for anglers around the state for years to come. The projects, part of the Nebraska Aquatic Habitat Program, are funded in part by proceeds from the Nebraska Aquatic Habitat Stamp, which is included in the price of a fishing permit. Here is an update on recent projects of the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission, as well as its parnters: Glenn Cunningham Lake This Omaha-area project is being done in two phases. The first phase has been completed and includes improvements to the reservoir. Improvements include jetties, offshore breakwaters, submerged and exposed islands, excavation, and outlet modifications. The second phase, which remains in progress, includes structures designed to reduce the amount of muddy water entering the reservoir. One part of this includes construction of sediment basins along Little Papillion Creek upstream from the reservoir. During high flows, the basins will collect much of the silt before it reaches the lake. A weir, a structure that regulates the flow of water, is being built along Nebraska Highway 36 at the inlet to the reservoir to further reduce the inflow of muddy water. The lake has been stocked with bluegill, channel catfish, largemouth bass and walleye, but most will not be of catchable size until at least the fall of 2010. Bowling Lake This fishable Lincoln lake is
Spawning Bed Vegetation Barrier Offshore Breakwater

Television Schedule
Turpin Time Tuesday, noon (frequently during 5:30 p.m. and 10 p.m. newscasts), KDUH-TV, Ch. 4, Scottsbluff, with Dick Turpin Nebraska Outdoors with Rocky Hoffmann Wednesday, 6:25 p.m., KNOP-TV, Ch. 2, North Platte, with NGPCs Rocky Hoffmann Morning Outdoor Files Wednesday, 6:54 a.m., NTV Network (KHGI-TV, Ch. 13, Kearney, KWNB, Ch. 6, Hayes Center), with NGPCs Ralph Wall Turpin Time Wednesday, 6 p.m., KMEGTV, Ch. 14, Dakota Dunes, S.D., with Dick Turpin Outdoor Report Thursday, 6:50-7 a.m., KOLN/KGIN-TV, Ch. 10-11, Lincoln and Grand Island, with NGPCs Ralph Wall Turpin Time Thursday, 6:50-7 a.m., KOLN/KGINTV, Ch. 10-11, Lincoln and Grand Island, with Dick Turpin Turpin Time Thursday, 11:30 a.m. newscast, Friday, 6:55 a.m., KNOP-TV, Ch. 2, North Platte, with Dick Turpin Weekly Outdoors Report Thursday, 6 p.m. sportscast, WOW-TV, Ch. 6, Omaha, with NGPCs Greg Wagner Weekly Outdoors Report Saturday, during 8 a.m. newscast, WOW-TV, Ch. 6, Omaha, with NGPCs Greg Wagner

Fish Attractors (cedar trees)

Jetty

Island

Offshore Breakwater

Jetty
ERIC FOWLER

New features at Glenn Cunningham Lake are labeled above in this June 2008 photo. near completion. It has been deepened from its previous 4-6 feet to the new 10-18 feet. Some of the excavated lake bottom material was used to build an access peninsula to the island and several hard points. The lakes pumping system was damaged after a heavy rain and runoff last June, and repairs were made and the lake was filled to capacity in March 2009. Sherman Reservoir Work on this lake in central Nebraska was finished in May of 2008. The project included the construction of seven jetties and eight offshore breakwaters to protect shorelines from wave erosion. Also, sediment was removed from four bays so that crappie fry, fingerlings and adults would not be stranded in backwaters during summer irrigation drawdowns. Jetties and breakwaters were marked, but the tops intentionally were built to a lower elevation than high pool to keep protected zones from becoming isolated and stagnant. This created a potential boating hazard when the reservoir was maintained at or above full pool. To reduce risk, rock piles extending above the water line were placed at 100-foot intervals along the tops of those structures. The exposed rocks, along with hazard buoys, alert boaters to the presence of jetties and breakwaters. Crescent Lake This Garden County lake, and its watershed, were renovated to remove carp and other rough fish; Rotenone was applied in 2007 and 2008 to several lakes and their connecting waterways to remove rough fish. (Jerry Kane is a public information officer in the Information and Education Division.)

Spring/Summer 2009

Page 7

Litter prevention crucial to stewardship


By Jerry Kane Properly disposing of litter is a way everyone may gain a sense of stewardship of Nebraskas outdoors. And by doing so, Nebraskans can ensure future generations will have clean parks and waters to enjoy. Litter is unsightly in parks and along roadsides, pollutes water and landscape, and can be fatal to fish and wildlife. Bait containers, fishing line, soda cans, cigarettes, and plastic bags are common items found on the banks of Nebraska waters. Trash floating or submerged in the water can be ingested by or entangle fish or wildlife, possibly leading to injury or starvation. Trails, campgrounds and wildlife management areas also are places where users leave trash behind for others to pick up. That wastes park resources. Would you rather have parks personnel spending their time picking up trash or teaching a child how to fish? Here are some suggestions for keeping land and water clean from the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission: Leave only your footprints Properly discard trash when camping, fishing, hunting or hiking. Parks have trash containers, but the lack of a container in a more remote spot is no reason to litter pack it out with you. Dont leave trash in a fire ring. Recycle trash Take the aluminum cans, plastic bottles and paper home with you to recycle. Recycle fishing line Bins specifically designated for these purposes are located at many eastern Nebraska lakes and sporting goods stores. Fishing line wasted on the ground or in the water poses a serious threat to fish and wildlife. Reuse Dont leave spent shotgun shells behind. Consider reloading them. Volunteer for Take Pride in America Day This takes place each spring and is an opportunity for people to take stewardship in their state by volunteering for parks projects that include clean-up. This year, Take Pride in America Day is set for May 2. Pick it up If you see trash, pick it up and properly dispose of it. Take a plastic garbage bag with you when you visit a park or lake and clean up what you can. Set an example Doing any of the above items will set a good example for others. Maybe someone will notice and help out. Teach children why they shouldnt litter. (Jerry Kane is a public information officer in the Information and Education Division.)

How Long Does It Take?


A list of waste materials and how long it takes them to decompose, according to the Nebraska Department of Environmental Quality: Banana peel 3-4 weeks Paper bag 1 month Cardboard 2 months Cotton rag 5 months Wool sock 1 year Cigarette butt 2-5 years Leather boot 40-50 years Rubber sole 50-80 years Tin can 80-100 years Plastic 6-pack ring 450 years Aluminum can 200-500 years Disposable diaper 550 years Plastic bag 20-1,000 years Plastic jug 1 million years Glass 1-2 million years Styrofoam 1 million years

Ways to Prevent Spread of Invasive Mussels in Nebraska Waters


If you boat in waters infested with zebra or quagga mussels, follow these steps to ensure you wont spread them to other waters: Clean: Remove all plants, animals and mud from your boat and trailer before leaving the boat ramp and then thoroughly wash your boat and equipment, preferably with high-pressure scalding water, ensuring that even crevices are cleaned. Drain: Remove all water from your boat, motor, bilge, live wells and bait containers before leaving boat ramp. Dry: Allow time for your equipment to dry before launching into other waters. Adult and larval mussels can survive for up to five days in the heat of summer and much longer in cool, humid weather.

Mussels
Continued from Page 1 hard surfaces and form clusters that can clog water systems in power and municipal water plants, requiring costly regular treatment. Microscopic young sucked into the cooling systems of boat motors can grow and clog those systems, causing engine damage. They also are voracious feeders, filtering microscopic organisms from the water, and have disrupted the aquatic food chain in many inland lakes. Zebra mussels have been found in the Missouri River along Nebraska twice an adult in 1999 and larvae in 2003 but intensive monitoring hasnt detected any since. In 2006, zebra mussels were found in a lake at Offutt Air Force Base in Bellevue. The lakes outlet,

which drains into the Missouri River, was plugged and last September the lake was chemically treated to kill the zebra mussels. While it appears that effort was successful, officials hope to treat the lake a second time this spring and will continue monitoring efforts to ensure all zebra mussels are killed. Zebra mussels have been found in seven Kansas reservoirs since 2003, including three in 2008. In Colorado, the discovery of adult zebra mussels in Pueblo Reservoir in 2007 led to a state initiative that found larval zebra and quagga mussels in eight other reservoirs in 2008, including Julesburg Reservoir, an irrigation reservoir in the northeastern corner of the state. Water diverted from the South Platte River feeds the lake, also known as Jumbo Reservoir, and is returned to the river near the Nebraska border.

We thought the threat was going to come from the east, said Darrol Eichner, the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission district fisheries supervisor who oversees Lake McConaughy and other large reservoirs in southwestern Nebraska. Jumbo Reservoir is less than an hours drive from McConaughy, which draws many of its visitors from Colorado. Other reservoirs in the area attract visitors from both Colorado and Kansas. Eichner said zebra and quagga mussels can deplete phytoplankton, microscopic plants and algae at the base of the aquatic food web. This can leave little, if anything, to eat for zooplankton, the small invertebrates that are the primary food source for recently hatched walleye, white bass and other reservoir game fish, as well as alewives and small gizzard shad, the primary forage for adult game fish in

McConaughy. These mussels could very easily affect game fish recruitment, Eichner said. Biologists will begin taking water samples to look for mussel larvae this summer at McConaughy. We might already have them, we dont know, Eichner said. More than fishing is at stake. Several hydro-electric and coal-fired power plants are served by water from the Platte River system, and mussel infestations could lead to higher electric rates. Officials from state and federal agencies, power companies and other stakeholders in Nebraska began working together this year to develop an Aquatic Nuisance Species management plan that will guide monitoring and, if necessary, control efforts. (Eric Fowler is a regional editor for NEBRASKAland magazine.

Turkey
Continued from Page 1 percent; central, 500 percent; northeast, 200 percent; and southeast, 300 percent. The 2009 statewide spring turkey seasons begin with a youth archery season, March 25-May 31; archery season, March 25-May 31, youth shotgun season, April 11-May 31, and shotgun season, April 18-May 31. Each hunter is allowed up to three permits and the bag limit is one male or bearded female turkey per permit. The 2009 statewide fall archery and shotgun season is Sept. 15-Dec. 31, with permit limits of two permits per hunter and bag limits of two turkeys per permit. Turkey hunters are required to display a minimum of 400 square inches of hunter orange on their head, chest and back when hunting during the November firearm deer season. Survey cards returned by spring wild turkey hunters continue to show

high satisfaction with the season and the numbers of birds seen, and spring hunters report very little issue with increased numbers of hunters, both on private and public ground, Hams said. Statewide harvest for the spring wild turkey seasons have increased with the record population of birds, Hams added. Between 2002 and 2008, the statewide harvest of turkey in the spring went from 9,000 in 2002 to 19,000 by 2008. To those who remember back to Nebraskas early wild turkey hunts, the increase is henomenal. The year of my first spring hunt in Nebraska, 1967, the spring harvest was only 243 birds. Spring turkey permits are available from Commission offices and online at OutdoorNebraska.org. Additional information is available in the 2009 Nebraska Spring and Fall Turkey Hunting Seasons brochure and on the Web sites information pages. (Bob Grier is the district information officer in the Commissions Alliance office.)

Page 8

Outdoor Nebraska

Warming Up on Fly Rod


Pursue a variety of warm-water fish with a fly rod
By Tom Keith If you are a fly-fisherman who doesnt have the time or resources to travel to fish trout every weekend, heres some great news. Theres no reason to put your gear in the garage and take up golf just change your focus from fishing for trout and concentrate on species such as largemouth or smallmouth bass, bluegill, crappie, northern pike or carp. When targeting trout, anglers usually use small flies that accurately imitate various forms and species of aquatic insects, crustaceans and minnows that trout feed on at certain times. In warmwater fishing, anglers after larger fish such as largemouth and smallmouth bass or northern pike, generally use larger flies one half to 3 inches long for bass and up to 8 or 10 inches for northern pike that imitate beetles, grasshoppers, wasps, spiders, moths, caddisflies, stoneflies, damsel flies, dragon flies, and dobson flies. Floating and diving deerhair bass bugs or pike flies in large sizes, from 6 to 3/0, swimming flies that imitate small fish or leeches, nymphs of aquatic insects, shrimp, crabs, eels, salamanders, and small snakes. Bottom flies often imitate crawdads, sculpin minnows, hellgrammites, and minnows. Bluegill and crappie are generally taken on trout-size dry and wet flies, nymphs, streamers and bucktails. Here are some suggestions to help you be successful when fly-fishing for some warmwater species: Largemouth bass Fish lakes and ponds. Look for structure and cover in relatively shallow water. This could include the edge of a are active both day and night. Northern pike Fish Merritt, Oliver and Box Butte reservoirs, Mormon Island, Sandhills lakes, and some reservoirs. Fish large floating, diving flies that cause a commotion on the surface and less-noisy minnow-imitating flies in shallow water near weedbeds and rushes during daylight hours. Use nylon-coated steel leaders to avoid cuts or breaks made by the pikes teeth. Bluegill Fish farm ponds, NRD lakes, Sandhills lakes, sandpits, and reservoirs. Cast nymphs, wet and dry flies to shallow, weedy areas along the shoreline, under tree limbs that hang over and into the water, and in areas of partially-submerged timber during daylight hours. Slow or stop-and-go retrieves usually provoke strikes. Crappie Fish farm ponds, NRD lakes, sandpits, and reservoirs. Use dry and wet flies and minnow-imitating flies (red/yellow-colored flies are very productive) over and near rocky areas, in shallow coves with brush piles, in areas of flooded timber, and near weedbeds in the evening through morning. There usually is little activity during midday. Carp Most lakes and reservoirs have fishable numbers. Carp are an exciting challenge on a fly rod. Some carp flies resemble mulberries and the fluffy seeds of cottonwood trees, terrestrial insects, pupal and larval stages of aquatic insects, leeches, worms, scuds, and small baitfish. Carp flies should be fished very slowly and with little disturbance in the water. (Tom Keith is a public information officer in the Informationa and Education Division.)

MAGGIE KEITH

The number of tools fly anglers cram into their fishing vests is limited only by the needs and choices of the individual. However, there are some essential items. They are (clockwise from upper left): rod, reel and line; box with fly assortment; tool for weighing and measuring fish; nail clipper; fillet knife; leaders; and forceps.

Which Flies to Try

Photos by Maggie Keith

These fly patterns would be good options to consider when targeting specific fish species:

Dahlberg Diver for northern pike

Improved McGinty for bluegill

Goddard Grasshopper for carp

Deer-hair Popper for largemouth bass

Wool-head Minnow for crappie

Hardshell Crawdad for smallmouth bass

creek channel, drop-off into deeper water, weedbeds, partially submerged brush piles, timber, and shoreline vegetation. Take a variety of fly patterns so you will be able to fish the surface, the mid-depths and near or on the bottom. Try a variety of retrieves at various depths to

locate the fish and then duplicate that retrieve as long as you are getting strikes. Shortly after dawn and in the evening are the best times to fish, but bass are active both day and night. Smallmouth bass Fish the Missouri River,

Merritt Reservoir, Lake McConaughy, or Interstate 80 lakes. Smallmouths prefer brush piles, weedbeds, flooded timber, and rocky areas. Flies that imitate crawdads, small fish and insects are best. Shortly after dawn and in the evening are the best times to fish, but bass

Getting Started: Selecting a Rod, Reel, Line, and Leader


Use this guide to select the correct equipment for a desired use. Fiberglass rods will be less expensive than graphite, but they will generally be heavier and a little more difficult to cast. three or four 7-foot knotless tapered leaders in appropriate tippet sizes. (Start with 4x for panfish and 2x for bass) size of fish) medium-slow or slow-action rod weight-forward line and bass bug taper line, both rated to match the rod single-action reel with capacity to hold above lines and 50-plus yards of backing selection of 7-foot knotless tapered leaders with tippets ranging from 3x to 0x Northern pike 9-foot, 8-, 9- or 10-weight rod with heavy butt weight-forward floating line and musky-pike taper rated to match the rod 6-8 feet of 10- to 20-pound monofilament leader with 8- to 12-inch nylon-coated steel leader single-action reel with capacity to hold above lines and 50-plus yards of 20-pound test backing -- Tom Keith

Specific Purpose
Panfish 7-foot, 4- or 5-weight, medium-action rod single-action fly reel of appropriate size and weight to complement the short, light rod weight-forward floating 5weight fly line and proper amount of backing selection of knotless tapered leaders with tippet sizes from 3x to 6x Bass 8- to 9-foot, 7- or 8-weight rod (depending on

Multipurpose
If you can have only one fly rod, these are the recommendations: 7-foot medium-action rod rated for 7- or 8-weight NGPC line weight-forward floating fly line matched to rod weight inexpensive single-action fly reel with capacity to hold fly line and 50 yards of backing (or enough to fill the spool)

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