Outdoor News: Morel hunting tips; new camping challenge; a trophy fishery

Nebraska Game and Parks Commission sent this bulletin at 04/17/2020 04:30 PM CDT

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Introducing a new challenge: Camp at Home

Mother and son camping in backyard

Social distancing may be the name of the game right now, but if you enjoy camping, the ultimate getaway is just steps from your front door.

Nebraska Game and Parks invites you to participate in a new challenge: Camp at Home, Nebraska. Pitch a tent or shelter in your backyard, make memories with family and share the photos with us. You'll automatically be entered into a drawing for prizes, including a grand prize two-night camping stay. Learn more.

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A group of turkeys in spring

Shotgun turkey season opens April 18

On April 18, Nebraska's spring shotgun turkey season opens statewide. Nebraska offers long seasons, great public access and turkeys in every county, allowing hunters to stay close to home. To stay safe in the field, keep at least 6 feet away from people you meet, gain permission from landowners in advance by phone or internet, minimize travel distance from your home and spread out. Also avoid congested parking lots, trailheads, and other access sites. 

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A Game and Parks wildlife researcher in the field

See updates on Game and Parks wildlife research

Nebraska Game and Parks' wildlife division conducts research year-round to aid in the conservation and management of various species. From restoring bighorn sheep to the Pine Ridge to recovering the endangered Salt Creek tiger beetle, their work is critical. Here's what the latest research looks like. 

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Man holding a master angler muskellunge

A 50-inch minimum: The muskies of Merritt

Merritt Reservoir has long been one of Nebraska’s top fishing destinations. And with this year’s adoption of a 50-inch minimum for what many consider to be Nebraska’s greatest fish, the muskellunge, Merritt has entered rarefied air as a trophy fishery. Learn more in this feature Nebraskaland Magazine story.

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OUTDOOR OPPORTUNITIES
A walleye swimming

Fish for walleye

The walleye may be Nebraska’s most popular, albeit often hard-to-catch, game fish. Right now, during spawning season, is a prime time to target this species.

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A western meadowlark singing

Enjoy some bird watching

Have you ever stopped to listen to or watch the birds in your area? Now is a good time to start! These bird watching tips can help you spot a variety of wild birds.

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A flowering redbud tree

Participate in BudBurst

Budburst is a fun way to get outside and enjoy and learn about nature with your family. Observe a plant, record your findings, and help out the scientific community!

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POPULAR ONLINE
Closeup of a knife being sharpened

Sharpen your knife like a butcher

Whether you are hunting, fishing, camping or simply cooking a meal, a sharp knife is an essential tool. Keep your knives sharp with this easy-to-learn technique.

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A painting of a rural scene

Capturing outdoor beauty through paint

Photography is a popular way of capturing a beautiful outdoor scene. But there's another way to do it: through paint! Learn about a growing hobby: plein air painting.

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Morels growing in the ground

Hunting morels: Here's the basics

Early reports of morels are coming in! It's time to head out in search of this delicious fungi. Here's some handy tips to aid your search from Jenny Nguyen-Wheatley. 

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