Access digital copies of guides and regulations publications from the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission.
Issue link: http://digital.outdoornebraska.gov/i/1532519
Nebraska Game and Parks Commission 15 Free community fi shing events (like this one at Louisville State Recreation Area) introduce people of all ages to fi shing. Hooked on progress Nebraska Game and Parks continued to support and expand recreational fi shing opportunities in 2024. To connect Nebraskans with this valued pastime, Nebraska Game and Parks, with the help of dedicated volunteers, hosted more than 75 free community fi shing events in cities and parks across the state. We also provided fi shing workshops, informational booklets, and specialized training, such as fl y-fi shing and bowfi shing, to teach people more advanced fi shing skills. These events introduced people of all ages to fi shing — a low-cost recreational opportunity to become engaged in the outdoors. With a simple rod and reel, some worms and a permit, they learned they can enjoy locations statewide that off er barrier-free fi shing access, groomed park areas, playgrounds — and highly maintained fi sh populations. In 2024, more than 260,000 adults purchased a fi shing license and spent countless hours on the water. Untold number of youth age 15 and younger — who do not need a permit to participate in the sport — also participated. To enjoy fi shing, anglers need access and infrastructure. Game and Parks, through the Aquatic Habitat Fund and fi shing permit sales, built fi shing piers in places such as Willow Creek Reservoir, Grove Lake, Lake Maloney, Two Rivers and Louisville. Boaters enjoyed improved access through projects at Gallagher Canyon, Midway Reservoir, Hayes Center and Danish Alps. The avid anglers had another successful year of fi shing on Nebraska's public waters where we boast ample opportunities to catch muskie, walleye, largemouth bass and other desirable species. More than 1,800 Master Angler certifi cates were issued for 40 species caught in 194 water bodies. Awards for channel catfi sh (314) topped the list, followed by largemouth bass (280) and wiper (140). Four state records also were broken: one bow fi shing for blue sucker and three rod-and-reel for longnose gar, goldfi sh and longear sunfi sh.