Start Planning Your Next Fishing Trip

A famous bank robber, when asked why he robbed banks, replied "Because that's where the money is." 
 
If you like to fish, you know that thought can be applied to fishing as well - fishing will the best where good populations of fish are found.   
 
With hundreds of lakes, ponds and reservoirs, miles of river shoreline and thousands of acres of water in the state, Nebraska offers a wealth of opportunity - along with many different species of fish.  So how do you know where to go to find your favorite catch?
 
Each spring and fall, our fisheries staff conduct sampling research at various lakes and reservoirs to get a better idea of the fish populations in these water bodies.  The results of this data, combined with information on ideal habitat and water conditions for each species, are put together to create Nebraska's Fishing Forecast.  It's our best recommendation on where we think the fishing will be good in the coming year. 
 
The forecast highlights seven of the most popular sportfish in the state:  channel catfish, walleye, bluegill, largemouth bass, crappie, wiper and white bass. 

 

In addition to a write up detailing where we think the best fishing for these species can be found, the forecast also offers graphs showing fish populations in sampled waters by size.  This information is helpful because your destination may differ depending upon whether you want catch-and-release action, a chance at a trophy, or just lots of fish to enjoy over the campfire.
 
Anglers searching for other species, such as smallmouth bass, blue catfish, pike and muskellunge will find information in the forecast as well, along with recommendations for the lakes, rivers and reservoirs most likely to yield success. 
 
Two things to remember when reading the forecast:  we don't sample every body of water in the state; there may be some hidden gems out there that just aren't on our research list.  Secondly, high numbers of catchable sized fish in a particular place doesn't guarantee success for every angler.  Water condition, bait, location, skill and even luck still play big roles in making your fishing trip successful. 

 

That's why they call it fishing, not catching.