Nebraska Fishing Season and Limits for 2025–2026 by Month – Species, Licenses & Hotspots
Imagine, with a rod in hand, you are standing at the shore of Lake McConaughy before sunrise, seeing the fog rolling across what the locals refer to as “Big Mac.” Perhaps you’re teaching your child the simple pleasure of catching bluegill in a little pond in Omaha, or you’re pursuing walleye at Merritt Reservoir. You’re in for a treat no matter what drives you to Nebraska’s waterways.
The variety of fishing in the Cornhusker State may surprise you. Nebraska has freshwater chances that equal those of its neighbouring states, from the sandy Sandhills lakes brimming with northern pike to the Missouri River’s thriving catfish population. There is enough water to keep any angler occupied all year round thanks to the more than 2,000 lakes, ponds, and reservoirs as well as the many miles of rivers and streams.
Everything you need to know about the 2025–2026 fishing seasons in Nebraska is included in this book, including the new rules that went into effect on January 1, 2025. We’ll go over creel restrictions, prime waterways, licence requirements and those unique rules that may make or ruin your day on the water, whether you’re a local planning weekend excursions or a fisherman visiting Nebraska to see what it has to offer.
With a few exceptions, you may fish all year round in Nebraska; most species don’t actually have “closed seasons.” However, are you aware of the new slot limitations, know when fish are most active, and know when to target the proper waters? That is the difference between a decent and a terrific day.
📅 Quick Reference Table: Nebraska Fish Seasons at a Glance
Here’s a snapshot of what you can target throughout 2025–2026. Remember, Nebraska fishing is open year-round for most species, but peak activity varies by season:
| Species | Best Months | Daily Bag Limit | Special Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Largemouth/Smallmouth Bass 🐟 | April–October | 5 fish | New 2025 slot limits at select waters; some lakes have 21″ minimum |
| Walleye/Sauger/Saugeye | March–May, Sept–Nov | 4 fish (statewide) | 15″ minimum; only 1 over 22″ allowed in daily bag |
| Channel Catfish | May–September | 10 fish | “One-over” restriction removed from Missouri River in 2025 |
| Blue Catfish | Year-round | 1 fish per day | Part of 10-catfish aggregate limit |
| Flathead Catfish | June–August | 1 fish over 30″ | Part of 10-catfish aggregate limit |
| Northern Pike | Dec–March, May–June | 3 fish (statewide) | New protected slots at specific lakes; 1 fish over 34″ allowed |
| Crappie (Black/White) 🐠 | March–May, Sept–Oct | 15 fish | No minimum size statewide; part of 30-panfish possession limit |
| Bluegill/Sunfish | May–August | 15 fish | Trophy bluegill (9″+) restrictions at select Sandhills lakes |
| Yellow Perch | Year-round | 15 fish | Possession limit 30 panfish total |
| Rainbow Trout 🎣 | Oct–May (stocking season) | 5 fish | Only 1 over 16″; check stocking schedules |
| White Bass/Wiper/Striped Bass | April–June | 15 fish | New 2025 rule: only 1 fish over 18″ in daily bag |
| Paddlefish | April–May | 1 per permit | Draw permit required; Missouri River only |
🐟 Popular Sport Fish: What You Need to Know
Bass (Largemouth, Smallmouth, Spotted)
Bass fishing in Nebraska has gotten a lot more interesting with the 2025 regulation changes. Here’s what changed: several lakes now have protected slot limits designed to improve trophy bass populations.
New for 2025:
- Prairie View Lake, Wagon Train SRA, Duck Creek RA, Prairie Queen RA: Protected slot of 15-18 inches—you can keep 5 bass total, but only 1 can be over 18″
- Frye Lake WMA: No minimum length, but only 1 fish over 18″ in your 5-fish limit
- Patriot Park Lake: Added to the 21-inch minimum length list
- Pawnee SRA: Removed from 21-inch minimum list
The statewide bag limit remains 5 bass per day, but pay attention to lake-specific rules. Some trophy waters like Holmes Lake still maintain that 21-inch minimum, meaning you can only keep 1 fish per day there.
Best Bass Waters:
- Lake McConaughy (smallmouth heaven)
- Branched Oak Lake (largemouth central)
- Lewis and Clark Lake (both species thrive)
- Merritt Reservoir (quality fish, lower numbers)
Spring and fall are prime time. Target rocky points and submerged structure in April through June, then switch to deeper water and shaded areas come July and August.
Walleye, Sauger, and Saugeye
If there’s one fish that defines serious angling in Nebraska, it’s walleye. The state’s reservoirs produce some genuinely impressive fish, and 2025 brings a significant change for Branched Oak Lake.
Statewide Regulations:
- Daily bag: 4 fish
- Possession limit: 8 fish
- Minimum length: 15 inches
- Trophy allowance: Only 1 fish over 22″ in your daily bag
Branched Oak Update: This popular lake near Lincoln reverted to statewide regulations in 2025, making it a bit more liberal than the previous restrictive slot limits.
The Missouri River, particularly around Lewis and Clark Lake, remains a walleye factory. Merritt Reservoir in the Sandhills is another must-fish destination—the clarity and consistent water levels produce healthy, hard-fighting walleye year after year.
Pro tip: Focus on March through May for pre-spawn and spawn activity. Jigs tipped with minnows or nightcrawlers are your bread and butter. Come September and October, walleye move shallow again for fall feeding—some of the best action of the year happens when everyone else has packed up their gear.
Catfish: Channels, Blues, and Flatheads
Nebraska’s catfish populations don’t get enough credit. The Missouri River system produces true monsters, and smaller lakes offer consistent action for families and casual anglers.
2025 Changes:
The “one-over” size restriction on channel catfish from the Missouri River was removed—meaning more flexibility in what you can keep.
Regulations:
- Channel catfish: 10 per day (aggregate with other catfish)
- Blue catfish: 1 per day (part of the 10-fish limit)
- Flathead catfish: Only 1 over 30 inches (part of the 10-fish limit)
Translation? You could theoretically keep 10 channel cats, or 8 channels + 1 blue + 1 flathead—get creative, but stay within the aggregate 10-fish limit.
Hotspots:
- Missouri River (Lewis and Clark Lake area)
- Branched Oak Lake
- Pawnee Lake
- Urban lakes in Omaha and Lincoln
Summer is catfish prime time. Cut bait, chicken liver, stink baits—catfish aren’t picky. Fish the deeper holes during the day, then move to shallow flats and creek channels after dark.
Northern Pike
Pike get people excited in Nebraska, especially in the Sandhills region where these toothy predators thrive in clear, cold waters.
2025 Updates:
Several lakes got new protected slot limits to protect breeding-sized pike:
- Clear Lake, Dewey Lake, Hackberry Lake, Pelican Lake: 3-fish daily bag with protected slot of 24-34 inches; only 1 fish over 34″ allowed
- Smith Lake WMA: Daily bag of 10 pike, but only 3 over 22″ and only 1 over 34″
- Lake Wanahoo: Reverted to statewide rules (3-fish daily bag, 1 over 34″)
Statewide: 3 pike per day, possession limit of 10, with 1 fish over 34 inches allowed.
Pike fishing peaks in late fall through early spring when water temps drop. They’re ambush predators, so target weed edges, drop-offs, and creek inlets. Large spoons, spinnerbaits, and oversized soft plastics work magic.
Don’t miss: Merritt Reservoir, Box Butte Reservoir, and the Sandhills lakes (many require 4WD access, but the solitude and quality fishing are worth it).
🦞 Specialty Species: The Unique Catches
Rainbow Trout
Nebraska’s trout program is a put-and-take operation—the state stocks catchable-sized rainbow trout (10+ inches) in select ponds and lakes during fall and spring. Don’t expect self-sustaining wild trout populations in most areas, but the stocking program creates excellent opportunities for family fishing and urban angling.
Regulations:
- Daily bag: 5 trout
- Trophy restriction: Only 1 fish over 16 inches
Key Stocking Waters:
- Holmes Lake (Lincoln)
- Pioneers Park Lake (Lincoln)
- Zorinsky Lake (Omaha)
- Walnut Creek Lake (Papillion)
- Two Rivers SRA Trout Lake (near Omaha)
Stocking Schedule: Check the Nebraska Game and Parks trout stocking reports regularly. Fall stocking typically runs September through November, with spring stockings from March through May. Waters can get hit hard immediately after stocking, so timing matters.
Special Note: Two Rivers SRA Trout Lake changed in 2025—you can now practice catch-and-release, and the date you can fish without a trout tag moved to June 1.
For those seeking native trout experiences, head to the Pine Ridge area in northwestern Nebraska. Small streams like Soldier Creek hold limited brook trout populations—it’s challenging fishing, but rewarding for purists.
Paddlefish
Here’s something you won’t find everywhere: paddlefish snagging on the Missouri River! These prehistoric oddities (they’ve got a snout like a spatula) are caught using heavy tackle and weighted treble hooks. It’s totally legal, totally unique, and requires a draw permit.
Regulations:
- Season: Typically April through May (check specific dates)
- Limit: 1 paddlefish per permit
- Location: Missouri River below Gavins Point Dam
You’ll need to apply for a paddlefish permit through a lottery draw system. Demand usually exceeds supply, but if you draw, you’re in for a wild experience. These fish can exceed 100 pounds—it’s more like bow hunting than traditional angling.
Striped Bass, White Bass, and Wiper
These aggressive schooling fish provide some of the fastest action you’ll find in Nebraska. Wipers (white bass × striped bass hybrid) are especially popular and can grow surprisingly large.
New 2025 Regulation:
The “one-over” size restriction increased—now you can only keep 1 fish over 18 inches in your daily bag (previously 15 inches). This protects larger breeding fish while still allowing harvest.
Daily bag: 15 fish
White bass runs in spring are legendary. When they’re schooling and feeding, you can catch fish on nearly every cast. Lewis and Clark Lake, Lake McConaughy, and the Missouri River all produce excellent white bass and wiper action from April through June.
🐠 Panfish & Everyday Catches
Panfish are where most Nebraska anglers cut their teeth—and for good reason. These species are abundant, accessible, and honestly? A plate of fresh bluegill or crappie rivals anything you’ll catch.
Statewide Panfish Regulations
| Species | Daily Bag Limit | Size Restrictions | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Crappie (Black/White) | 15 fish | None statewide | Part of 30-panfish possession limit |
| Bluegill/Sunfish | 15 fish | None statewide | Trophy restrictions at select Sandhills lakes |
| Yellow Perch | 15 fish | None statewide | Part of 30-panfish possession limit |
| Rock Bass | 15 fish | None statewide | Part of 30-panfish possession limit |
Important: The statewide possession limit is 30 panfish total in aggregate. That means you could have 15 crappie + 15 bluegill at home, but that maxes you out—you can’t legally possess more than 30 panfish total regardless of species mix.
Crappie (Black and White)
Spring crappie fishing in Nebraska is borderline addictive. These fish school up tight in March through May for spawning, often in shallow brush and around submerged structure.
Prime crappie waters:
- Branched Oak Lake
- Pawnee Lake
- Sherman Reservoir
- Wagon Train Lake
Small jigs (1/32 to 1/16 oz) in white, chartreuse, or pink work magic. Fish them under a slip bobber around docks, brush piles, and standing timber. Water temps in the 55-65°F range trigger the bite.
Bluegill and Sunfish
Every farm pond in Nebraska probably has bluegill. They’re the perfect species for kids, beginners, and anyone who just wants to catch fish without overthinking it.
Trophy Bluegill Note: Several Sandhills lakes have special regulations protecting trophy-sized bluegill. At Duck Lake, Pelican Lake, Blue Lake, Island Lake, Smith Lake (Cherry County), Frye Lake WMA, and Smith Lake WMA, your daily bag can include only 1 fish over 9 inches. These lakes produce slab bluegill that can exceed a pound—a rarity worth protecting.
Peak season: May through August. Target shallow water in spring (spawning beds are easy to spot), then move to deeper weed edges and drop-offs as summer heats up. Live worms, wax worms, and small spinners rarely fail.
Yellow Perch
Perch don’t get as much attention as crappie, but they’re delicious and fight harder than you’d expect for their size. Ice fishing for perch is huge in northern Nebraska.
Best bets: Box Butte Reservoir, Lake McConaughy, Sandhills lakes. Small jigs tipped with minnows or perch eyes work year-round. When you find a school, stick with them—perch travel in packs.
🦆 Stocked & Managed Waters
Nebraska Game and Parks actively manages over 50 public fishing areas statewide, many specifically designed for family-friendly access. These lakes are typically stocked with channel catfish, rainbow trout, and various warmwater species to ensure consistent action.
Family-Friendly Lakes
These waters are managed for easy access, safety, and high catch rates—perfect for introducing kids to fishing or just enjoying a relaxing afternoon:
- Holmes Lake (Lincoln) – Urban fishing at its finest; trout stocking in fall/spring
- Zorinsky Lake (Omaha) – Large metro lake with multiple species
- Pawnee Lake (Lincoln area) – Bass, walleye, crappie, catfish
- Walnut Creek Lake (Papillion) – Excellent trout fishing when stocked
- Wildwood Lake (Nebraska City) – Small but productive
Trophy Waters
For serious anglers chasing quality over quantity:
- Merritt Reservoir – Consistently rated among Nebraska’s best multi-species fisheries
- Lake McConaughy – “Big Mac” is Nebraska’s largest reservoir; walleye, smallmouth, wipers
- Box Butte Reservoir – Pike, walleye, perch in the Panhandle
- Lewis and Clark Lake – Missouri River impoundment with everything from catfish to walleye
Trout Stocking Program
Rainbow trout aren’t native to most of Nebraska, but the fall and spring stocking programs create excellent coldwater opportunities. Catchable-sized fish (10+ inches) are released into:
- Urban lakes (Omaha and Lincoln metro areas)
- Select state recreation area lakes
- Designated community fishing ponds
Check the official trout stocking schedule before you head out. Stocking dates are updated weekly during active seasons, and fishing immediately after a fresh stock can be lights-out productive.
If you’re interested in exploring trout fishing opportunities in nearby states, check out the Minnesota fishing season guide for more coldwater angling options.
🌍 Public vs. Private Waters: Know Before You Go
Here’s something that trips up out-of-state visitors: You need a fishing permit even on private waters in Nebraska. If you’re fishing a farm pond on your buddy’s land, you still need that annual license.
Public Waters
Nebraska offers extensive public fishing access through:
- State Recreation Areas (SRAs) – Developed areas with boat ramps, camping, amenities
- Wildlife Management Areas (WMAs) – More primitive access; excellent fishing with fewer crowds
- Public rivers and streams – Missouri River, Platte River system, Niobrara River
- Federal reservoirs – Lewis and Clark Lake, Harlan County Reservoir
Most SRAs require a state park entry permit ($10/day or $41/annual for residents; $20/day for nonresidents). Combine it with your fishing permit, and you’re set.
Private Waters
Private ponds and lakes are everywhere in Nebraska—many landowners are happy to grant permission if you ask respectfully. But remember:
- You still need a fishing permit
- Respect property boundaries and rules
- Leave gates as you found them
- Pack out what you pack in
Some private waters operate as fee-fishing operations (put-and-take ponds where you pay for what you catch). These don’t require a state fishing permit, but confirm before you go.
Accessing Remote Waters
Those legendary Sandhills lakes? Many require 4WD access on sandy trails, and some are only accessible by boat or long hikes. Come prepared with:
- Good maps or GPS (cell service is spotty)
- Emergency supplies (water, food, first aid)
- Proper vehicle for sandy/rough roads
- Knowledge of local regulations (some lakes have specific rules)
The Nebraska Public Access Atlas is invaluable for finding access points and understanding land ownership.
🎟️ Fishing License Guide: What You’ll Need
Let’s talk permits. Nebraska’s system is straightforward, but there are options depending on how often you fish and whether you’re a resident.
Resident Licenses (2025 Pricing)
| License Type | Cost | Valid Period |
|---|---|---|
| Annual Fish | $38 | Jan 1 – Dec 31 |
| 1-Day Fish | $10 | 24 hours from purchase |
| 3-Day Fish | $31 | 72 hours from purchase |
| 3-Year Fish | $90.50 | 2025–2027 |
| 5-Year Fish | $132 | 2025–2029 |
| Lifetime Fish (ages 16-45) | $710 | Life |
Nonresident Licenses (2025 Pricing)
| License Type | Cost | Valid Period |
|---|---|---|
| Annual Fish | $84 | Jan 1 – Dec 31 |
| 1-Day Fish | $14.50 | 24 hours from purchase |
| 3-Day Fish | $37 | 72 hours from purchase |
| 3-Year Fish | $216.50 | 2025–2027 |
| 5-Year Fish | $326 | 2025–2029 |
Note: All fishing permits include the Aquatic Habitat Stamp (no additional fee), which funds habitat improvement projects.
Who Needs a License?
- Required: Anyone age 16 or older fishing Nebraska waters
- Exempt: Youth under 16 (no license needed)
- No senior exemption: Even anglers 65+ need a permit
Specialty Stamps & Permits
- Aquatic Invasive Species (AIS) Stamp: Required if you’re fishing from a boat. Residents get this with their boat registration; nonresident anglers must purchase separately.
- Paddlefish Permit: Draw permit for Missouri River paddlefish season (limited availability)
- Two Rivers Trout Lake Tag: Separate permit for fishing Two Rivers Trout Lake before June 1
Where to Buy
You can purchase permits:
- Online: GoOutdoorsNE.com (recommended—mobile permits available immediately)
- In person: Sporting goods stores, Walmart, Cabela’s, Scheels, local bait shops
- By phone: Through the Game and Parks office
Pro tip: Download the mobile permit app. Game wardens can scan it directly from your phone, and you won’t risk leaving that paper permit at home on the kitchen counter (we’ve all done it).
❓ FAQ: Your Nebraska Fishing Questions Answered
Do kids need a fishing license in Nebraska?
Nope! Anyone under 16 years old can fish without a permit. Just grab a rod and go. It’s one of the best ways to introduce kids to the outdoors without any financial barriers.
Can I use live bait everywhere?
Mostly, yes—but there are restrictions at certain lakes to prevent the spread of invasive species. As of 2025, the live baitfish restriction was removed at Lake Wanahoo, but always check lake-specific regulations. Some trophy bass waters prohibit live baitfish entirely.
Is night fishing allowed?
Absolutely! Nebraska allows 24-hour fishing at most public waters. Catfish anglers love fishing after dark, and summer night fishing for walleye can be phenomenal. Just make sure the specific water body you’re targeting doesn’t have restricted hours (some urban parks close at sunset).
Can I bowfish in Nebraska?
Yes! Bowfishing is legal for non-game fish species like carp, gar, and buffalo. You’ll need a regular fishing permit. Bowfishing is NOT allowed for game fish (bass, walleye, trout, etc.). It’s become increasingly popular on the Missouri River and shallow Sandhills lakes.
What are the rules on keeping live fish?
You cannot transport live fish from one water body to another without special permits—it’s a serious violation designed to prevent the spread of diseases and invasive species. If you catch it, either release it immediately or keep it legally harvested (dead). No exceptions.
Are there catch-and-release only waters?
Not many, but yes—some waters have catch-and-release regulations for specific species. For example, certain trophy bass lakes may require catch-and-release for bass, while allowing harvest of other species. Always check the lake-specific rules in the Nebraska Fishing Guide.
How do I report a state record catch?
If you think you’ve caught a potential state record, keep the fish alive if possible (in a livewell or on a stringer in the water). Contact Nebraska Game and Parks immediately at (402) 471-0641. They’ll guide you through the verification process, which typically requires an official weigh-in on certified scales with witnesses present. Don’t freeze the fish before verification—it can disqualify the record.
🔗 Related Guides & Resources
Looking to explore fishing opportunities beyond Nebraska? Check out these neighboring state guides:
- Kansas Fishing Season Guide – Similar warmwater fisheries just across the southern border
- Iowa Fishing Season Guide – Missouri River access and excellent catfishing
- Colorado Fishing Season Guide – Mountain trout fishing a few hours west
For authoritative information directly from the source, visit:
- Nebraska Game and Parks Commission – Official regulations, stocking reports, and news
- 2025 Nebraska Fishing Guide (Digital) – Complete regulations and lake maps
🗺️ Nebraska Fishing Hotspots: Top 5 Must-Visit Waters
Can’t decide where to start? Here are five waters that consistently deliver quality fishing experiences:
1. Merritt Reservoir (Cherry County)
Located in the heart of the Sandhills, Merritt is arguably Nebraska’s premier multi-species fishery. Clean, consistent water levels and diverse habitat produce quality walleye, northern pike, largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, perch, and crappie. The scenery alone is worth the drive—rolling hills, clear water, and star-filled night skies.
Target species: Walleye (spring/fall), northern pike (winter), bass (summer)
Access: Good boat ramps, primitive camping, remote setting
2. Lake McConaughy (Keith County)
At over 30,000 acres, “Big Mac” is Nebraska’s largest reservoir and a legendary fishery. The lake produces trophy walleye, smallmouth bass, white bass, wipers, and even occasional rainbow trout. It feels more like an ocean than a lake when the wind picks up.
Target species: Walleye, smallmouth bass, wiper, white bass
Access: Multiple state recreation areas, full amenities, marina
3. Lewis and Clark Lake (Knox County)
Formed by Gavins Point Dam on the Missouri River, this lake straddles the Nebraska-South Dakota border and offers incredible diversity. Catfish, walleye, sauger, white bass, crappie, smallmouth bass—you name it, Lewis and Clark has it.
Target species: Catfish (summer), walleye (spring/fall), white bass (spring)
Access: Lewis and Clark SRA on Nebraska side; excellent facilities
4. Branched Oak Lake (Lancaster County)
Just 20 minutes from Lincoln, Branched Oak is the go-to destination for urban anglers. It’s large (1,800+ acres), well-managed, and consistently produces quality fish. The 2025 regulation changes make walleye fishing even more attractive here.
Target species: Walleye, largemouth bass, crappie, catfish
Access: Multiple boat ramps, nearby camping, easy access
5. Box Butte Reservoir (Dawes County)
Way out in the Panhandle, Box Butte is a sleeper fishery that produces outstanding northern pike, walleye, and perch. It’s remote, which keeps pressure low and fish quality high. If you want solitude and consistent action, make the drive.
Target species: Northern pike, walleye, yellow perch
Access: Primitive access, bring supplies, stunning scenery
Interactive Map: Check out the Nebraska Public Access Atlas for detailed maps and GPS coordinates for all public waters.
✅ Wrap-Up: Get Out There!
So there you have it—everything you need to know about fishing Nebraska in 2025–2026. From the new slot limits protecting trophy bass and pike to the consistently productive trout stocking programs, the Cornhusker State offers way more than meets the eye.
Before you head out:
✅ Grab your fishing permit (online is easiest—get that mobile permit!)
✅ Check current regulations for your target lake (rules change lake-by-lake)
✅ Review the trout stocking schedule if you’re chasing rainbows
✅ Pack appropriate gear for your target species
✅ Bring a buddy or the family—fishing’s always better with company
Water levels, weather, and fish behavior change constantly. Check the Nebraska Game and Parks website for current conditions, fishing reports, and any emergency regulation changes before you go.
Whether you’re a local trying a new lake or a visitor experiencing Nebraska angling for the first time, remember: the best fishing trip is the one where you actually go. Tight lines, stay safe, and respect the resource. Those fish aren’t going to catch themselves! 🎣