It’s fishing season and the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission has a lineup of Community Fishing Events scheduled across the state for family fun beginning in May.
Community Fishing Events provide opportunities for people of all ages who have never fished or have not fished in years to learn and enjoy the activity. Rods and reels, as well as bait and fishing instruction, will be available for free.
Look for the Community Fishing Events Trailer at each site. Appropriate fishing and park permits are required. All fishing regulations apply.
The Discover Fly-Fishing program is back in 2026. These events, held in conjunction with Community Fishing Events, are free and open to anyone interested in a basic introduction to fly-fishing. Learn about the equipment and how to use it, then watch a fly-tying demonstration. Loaner fly rods will be available.
In addition to fishing fun, participants at select locations will have the opportunity to learn about fisheries management, ask questions about regulations or discuss other related topics. Game and Parks is introducing a Chat with a Biologist feature in which a fisheries biologist will be on hand near the trailer to visit with anglers. Chat with a Biologist locations are noted in the schedule.
Free Fishing and Park Entry Day in Nebraska is May 16. Enjoy a Saturday of fishing or state park activities without the need to purchase a fishing or park entry permit for the day. That special day is held annually in Nebraska on the Saturday preceding Memorial Day weekend.
The schedule of Community Fishing Events, which are from 6-8 p.m. unless otherwise noted, follows. Additional and special events are noted. All events are listed at Calendar.OutdoorNebraska.gov. Cancellations due to weather will be posted there.
June 7 – Scottsbluff, Terry’s Pit, Community Fishing Event, 4-7 p.m.
Aug. 9 – Alliance, Laing Lake, Community Fishing Event, 5-8 p.m., Chat with a Biologist