Outdoor Notes

Notes Anglers encouraged to complete survey

LINCOLN — Anglers who have received a mailed survey about Nebraska fishing — or the text or email version — are encouraged to complete it. Their responses will help shape the decisions Nebraska Game and Parks makes about fisheries management.

Nebraska’s fisheries are constantly changing, as are its anglers. Game and Parks periodically surveys anglers to learn how their activities, opinions and desires change over time. The information is used to adjust the agency’s approaches to managing the state’s fisheries.

The comprehensive survey was sent to 10,000 randomly selected 2025 Nebraska fishing license holders. That means each survey respondent represents more than 20 other anglers in the state.

Game and Parks is joined by the Bureau of Sociological Research at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln in conducting this survey.

Area residents urged to celebrate with First Day Hikes

LINCOLN — Start the new year by getting outdoors and participating in First Day Hikes at Nebraska’s state parks Jan. 1.

These annual guided hikes give the chance to explore trails, snap photos, watch wildlife and participate in any planned activities. Or choose any state park and create your own hiking adventure.

Activities include a potluck soup luncheon at Ash Hollow State Historical Park, a guided tour at Fort Hartsuff SHP, winter art activities at Schramm Park State Recreation Area, and tours of the James Family Conservatory and Nature Center at Eugene T. Mahoney State Park.

Branched Oak SRA will host a 5- to 6-mile First Day Trail Ride for equestrian riders.

Hikes are planned at: Ash Hollow SHP Chadron SP Eugene T. Mahoney SP Fort Hartsuff SHP Fort Kearny SRA Indian Cave SP Johnson Lake SRA Lake Ogallala SRA Mormon Island SRA Platte River SP Ponca SP Red Willow SP Rock Creek Station SHP Schramm Park SRA Wagon Train SRA Wildcat Hills SRA Windmill SRA