Outdoor News: Lake McConaughy reservations; fishing challenge; Indian Cave Outdoor Adventure

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Commission approves 2021 deer, antelope and elk hunting recommendations

A large bull elk walking in a field

Nebraska Game and Parks approved recommendations for 2021 deer, antelope and elk hunting seasons at its meeting April 20 in Kearney.

Commissioners approved staff recommendations to increase deer permits and bonus antlerless-only whitetail tags in several management units to stabilize populations.

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Campers on the shore of Lake McConaughy

Reservation system for Lake McConaughy has launched

The updated online reservation system for all Lake McConaughy and Lake Ogallala state recreation areas’ campsites launched April 21 through Reserve America.

The updated system reflects recent changes at the state recreation areas that require an advance reservation for all campsites, including beach camping areas and former first-come, first-served campground sites, between May 21 and Sept. 12, 2021.

Same-day reservations may be made online until 5 p.m. Mountain time if campsites remain available.

Reservations for beach camping at Lake McConaughy can be made as early as 30 days in advance of arrival. Reservations for campground sites can be made as early as 180 days in advance of arrival. Find our reservation booking window calculator at our website.

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A fawn half-hidden in the grass

Public urged to leave wildlife babies alone

Seeing young wild animals, such as deer, possums, ducks, rabbits and song birds, alone is common this time of year. Though the inclination may be to intervene, the best choice is to leave the animal alone. Read more for further recommendations.

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Bumble bee on a cone flower

New monthly series by Game and Parks to explore science of nature

A new monthly series by Nebraska Game and Parks will explore the science and secrets of Nebraska nature. The series with science educators and guests will cover everything from bees to birds and fossils to parasites.

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A young couple holding a fish

Share the joy of fishing with a beginner — you may win a boat

All of us had to learn how to fish from someone — which can lead to a lifetime of treasured outdoor memories. You can be that person for someone else, and potentially win prizes for it, including a brand new boat.

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OUTDOOR OPPORTUNITIES

Girl holding umbrella in spring at Indian Cave

Have an adventure at Indian Cave

A tradition returns to Indian Cave State Park: the 10th Annual Outdoor Adventure! Activities include a mushroom hunt contest, archery, kayaking and much more.

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A squirrel in a tree

Finding Lancaster County's mammals

Lincoln and Lancaster County are home to many species of mammals, but finding them isn’t always easy. Learn how to spot them in this virtual workshop.

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Closeup of a red crossbill

Get ready for Nebraska Bird Month's BirdBlitz!

Help celebrate Nebraska Bird Month in May by becoming a community scientist! We'll teach how to take part in the fun BirdBlitz in this online workshop.

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POPULAR ONLINE

A lifeguard watching the floating playground at Louisville State Recreation Area

Join the crew: Seasonal positions available!

Enjoy your job, build your skills — and help make Nebraska's state parks the place to be this summer. Seasonal positions are available at parks across the state!

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Closeup of a wild turkey

Having a great hunt in less-than-ideal weather

You may not always be able to  hunt on those glorious blue-sky days. On days with challenging weather, here's strategies you can use for a great turkey hunt.

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Closeup of someone holding a rainbow trout

An ambitious fishing quest

In 2020, Scott Buss put a plan into action: He would travel the state and see how many species of fish he could catch — fishing public waters as much as possible.

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