Free Fishing and Park Entry Day is May 17

Free Fishing and Park Entry Day in Nebraska is May 17. Enjoy a Saturday of fishing or state park activities without the need to purchase a fishing or park entry permit for the day.

Free Fishing and Park Entry Day, held annually in Nebraska on the Saturday preceding Memorial Day weekend, means anyone can explore outdoor opportunities at any Nebraska state park, state recreation area or state historical park.

Anglers must observe all fishing regulations. Camping, lodging and all other user fees still apply at state park areas. Entrance fees for museums at state historical parks and the entrance fee at the Schramm Education Center remain in effect.

Several family-friendly activities are scheduled in state park areas across the state to celebrate Free Fishing and Park Entry Day. Some of them include:

Schramm Park State Recreation Area

Come for the grand opening of the Treehouse Classroom. From 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., learn about nature and enjoy a view of the Canyon Ponds in this unique educational facility. Park naturalists will have activities set out for guests to enjoy. See how layers of rock can tell a story about geological events of the past. Discover and learn about the outcrop fossils that date to 350 million years. Meet at the Geological Outcrop across from the canoe launch between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m.

Platte River and Eugene T. Mahoney state parks

Bait a hook, cast a line and catch a fish from 9 to noon at beginner fishing programs at Platte River State Park’s Owen Landing and Eugene T. Mahoney State Park’s CenturyLink Lake.

Fort Hartsuff State Historical Park

Fort Hartsuff was named in honor of the Civil War hero Maj. Gen. George L. Hartsuff. At this living history event, volunteers plan to take over the fort with 1860s impressions and demonstrations from the time of the War Between the States. Admission is $5 for ages 13 and up, $1 for ages 3-12 and free for 2 and under.

Ash Hollow State Historical Park

Children under age 18 are invited to fish Ash Hollow’s pond and keep everything they catch. A free hot dog lunch will be served from noon to 2 p.m. Mountain time.

Fort Kearny State Recreation Area

Enjoy some free fishing at the park. Look for the Family Fishing Trailer, where loaner rods and reels, bait and fishing instruction are available for free to participants.

Fremont Lakes State Recreation Area

Come join in at the Bob Bruner Memorial Fishing Derby for fun, food and fishing. Local radio stations, volunteers and civic groups will be on hand to provide food, prizes, as well as loaner fishing tackle, bait and instruction.

Visit Calendar.OutdoorNebraska.gov for more information on events.