Outdoor News: Thanksgiving pheasant releases; fly tying workshop; Mahoney magic shows

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Get expert tips on upland hunting the Sandhills

Man and dog hunting grouse in the Sandhills

With upland season in full swing, Nebraskaland writer Justin Haag turned to an expert for advice on hunting grouse in the Sandhills.

Hear from wildlife biologist Melvin Nenneman on where to focus your hunt, what the terrain is like for hunters, how grouse behavior changes throughout the day, and much more.

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Pheasant hunters talking and smiling

Pheasants to be released for hunting prior to Thanksgiving

Looking for a fun family activity over the Thanksgiving holiday? How about a pheasant hunt? Nebraska Game and Parks will release adult rooster pheasants on 18 wildlife management areas prior to the Thanksgiving holiday weekend.

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Aerial view of Carter P. Lake

Carter P. Johnson Lake and dam to be decommissioned

Nebraska Game and Parks will decommission and remove the dam at Carter P. Johnson Lake at Fort Robinson State Park for the safety of the public. Once the dam is removed, Soldier Creek will be restored to a natural flowing state.

The 480-foot-long earthen dam, built in 1935, was reclassified as a high-hazard-potential dam in February 2020. Learn more at our website.

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Camping site at Branched Oak State Recreation Area

New GIS maps available for online camping reservations

We're excited to announce that campers can now view GIS maps of potential sites when booking reservations on our website. With GIS maps, you can view detailed campsite information; filter campsites by nearby amenities and activities; and see campgrounds in different views, such as satellite or terrain views. Follow the link below to read our simple GIS maps guide.

See maps guide

A magician holding a wand and top hat.

See a magic show at Mahoney State Park

Be dazzled by a magic show this fall and winter at Eugene T. Mahoney State Park. Family-friendly Omaha magician Ryan Chandler, who has appeared on television with magicians Penn and Teller, will begin a series of performances starting Nov. 25. Learn more online.

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OUTDOOR OPPORTUNITIES

Someone holding a collection of fishing flies

Create your own fishing fly at Schramm

It's a lot of fun to fish using a fly you made yourself. Join us at Schramm Education Center for a workshop where you can make your own, guided by the Cornhusker Fly Fishers.

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Boy using a slingshot

Learn how to use a slingshot at Mahoney

Have you ever used a slingshot? Now is a great time to learn. Come out to Eugene T. Mahoney State Park on Nov. 18 for a one-hour program during our Shooting Sports Saturday event.

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Aerial view of Wildcat Hills Nature Center

Visit the Wildcat Hills Nature Center

If you're visiting the Wildcat Hills, this nature center is a must-see! Here, you can discover the features of this pine-clad butte range through interactive displays and interpretive programming.

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POPULAR ONLINE

Kids looking at a pelt

Explore our wildlife education trunks

If you're looking for a fun way to educate students, check out our wildlife education trunks. Trunks are free to check out and highlight different types of animals and ecosystems.

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Prosciutto-wrapped northern pike dish

Be inspired by Game and Parks' Pinterest

Whether you're looking for your next outdoor recipe, need a new phone wallpaper, want ideas for places to visit, or would like to learn something new — you can find it all on our Pinterest!

Visit Pinterest page

Deer hunter in a tree stand

What the deer hunting experience is like

Some think hunting is only about taking a game animal. Untrue — the experience encompasses so much more than that. Hear from Nebraska hunter Greg Wagner on the essence of deer hunting.

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