2004 Nebraska Hunt Guide and Public Hunting Lands Nebraska Game and Parks Commission 2200 N. 33rd St. / P.O. Box 30370 Lincoln, NE 68503 (402) 471-0641 Get your permits online at www.outdoornebraska.org Including Regulations for • Small Game • Upland Game • • Fur Harvest-Trapping •
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2004 NebraskaHunt Guide
andPublic Hunting Lands
Nebraska Game and Parks Commission2200 N. 33rd St. / P.O. Box 30370Lincoln, NE 68503 (402) 471-0641
Get your permits online atwww.outdoornebraska.org
Including Regulations for• Small Game • Upland Game •
HeadquartersTed Blume (Adm.) Lincoln (402) 471-5531Craig Stover (Asst. Adm.)Lincoln (402) 471-5532Wes Loos (Asst. Adm.) Lincoln (402) 471-5591Dana Miller (Sup.) Valentine W (402) 376-3116Murray Johnson Lincoln (402) 471-5003
PanhandleOfficer City PhoneJim Zimmerman Gering H.(308) 436-7561
(District I Supervisor) W (308) 763-2940Raymond Still Bridgeport (308) 262-1075Walt Meyer Chadron (308) 432-4398Frank Miller Valentine (402) 376-1183John Murphy Crawford (308) 665-2021Dennis Thompson Ogallala (308) 284-6450Dan Zuehlke Ogallala (308) 284-4815Scott Brandt Scottsbluff (308) 635-1277Heath Packett Gordon (308) 282-2553Doug Pollard Oshkosh (308)772-9950
NortheastOfficer City PhoneTom Zimmer Norfolk H (402) 371-6625
(District III Supervisor) W (402) 370-3374Marion Shafer Norfolk (402) 371-2031Robert Kelly Albion (402) 395-2538Ross Oestmann Bloomfield (402) 373-4412Gary Ralston Creighton (402) 358-3892Daniel Roberts Fremont (402) 721-7852Jon Reeves Kennard (402) 427-7378Eric Wiebe Ponca (402) 755-2566Steve Oberg Columbus (402) 564-5937Patrick George O’Neill (402) 482-5771Dale Davis Bassett (402) 273-1700
SouthwestOfficer City PhoneRoger Thompson North Platte H (308) 532-9175
(District IV Supervisor) W (308) 535-8025Dwight Allbery North Platte (308) 532-2753
SoutheastOfficer City PhoneDuane Arp Gretna H.(402) 332-4954
(District V Supervisor) W (402) 332-2965Douglas Kramer Lincoln (402) 466-9001Dina Barta Lincoln (402) 483-2358Stacey Lewton Lincoln (402) 476-0436William Krause Auburn (402) 274-3789Mike Luben Colon (402) 443-4278Levi Krause Louisville (402) 234-2212Russell Mort Nebraska City (402) 873-5684Jeff Clauson Valley (402) 359-5301Dan Evasco Papillion (402) 504-1368Sean McKeehan Ashland (402) 944-4174
South-centralOfficer City PhoneJerry Pecha Kearney H (308) 234-4411
(District VI Supervisor) W (308) 865-5327Terry Brentzel Grand Island (308) 384-8296Tim Williams Hastings (402) 463-2535Dale Johnson Kearney (308) 237-1079Mark Reeves Loup City (308) 745-0748Robert Finke Milford (402) 761-3537Darin Gress Hebron (402) 768-2287Richard Seward Ord (308) 728-3115Randy Pomplun Fullerton (308) 536-2987
NOTE: Most listings are home phone numbers. If youneed to report a game violation in progress and can’treach the officer, contact the sheriff’s department in thecounty or call Wildlife Crimestoppers, 1-800-742-7627.
CONSERVATION OFFICERS
Do Something WILD!Donate to the Nebraska Non Game Check-off FundHelp protect your natural legacy by making a tax-deductibledonation to the Nebraska Non game fund. The Non gameFund supports the conservation of Nebraska’s diversewildlife (including endangered and threatened species). Foryour donation of $40 you will receive a premium of a T-Shirt,for a $20 donation you will receive a water bottle
Short sleeve T-Shirt - Adult S, M, L, XL, XXLWater bottle - Red, Blue, Green
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To donate call402-471-0641or go online at www.outdoornebraska.org
Commission offices, sell hunting andfishing permits and habitat stamps.Hunting, fishing and big game permitsalso are available online at:www.outdoornebraska.org
HIP - MIGRATORY BIRDHARVEST INFORMATION
PROGRAMAnyone planning to hunt doves,
ducks, geese, snipe, rail, coot or wood-cock in Nebraska between Aug. 1,2004 and June 30, 2005 must register.
Only residents under 16 years of ageare exempt. Registration is valid throughJune 30, 2005. If you hunt migratorybirds in another state, you must alsoregister in that state. If you are regis-tered in another state, you must alsoregister in Nebraska before hunting.
HIP registration is required by U.S.Fishand Wildlife Service and Nebraska Gameand Parks Commission regulations.
Registration is free and available 24 hours a day by calling toll-free, 1-888-403-2473, or online at:www.outdoorlicenses.com.
HUNTER EDUCATIONAny person 12 years of age or older,
born on or after Jan. 1, 1977, must havesuccessfully completed a state-certifiedHunter Education course prior to hunting.
Firearm Hunter Education is requiredwhen hunting any game with a firearm,muzzleloader or crossbow.
Bowhunter Education is requiredwhen hunting antelope, deer, elk,bighorn sheep or turkey with a bow andarrow. Hunters must have their validHunter Education card in their possession while hunting.
For class information, contact thenearest Commission office or call thestatewide Hunter Education Coordinatorat (402) 471-6134.
YOUTH HUNTING - Youth huntersunder age 12 must be accompanied bya licensed hunter 19 years of age orolder. Any person under 16 years ofage who hunts antelope, deer, elk,turkey or bighorn sheep must be
accompanied by a person 21 years ofage or older.
HUNTER ORANGEIn Nebraska every hunter during
every season is strongly encouraged towear hunter orange while hunting. It isproven that wearing hunter orange willsave lives and prevent injuries. Statelaw requires hunters to display at least400 square inches of hunter orange ontheir head, back and chest AT ALLTIMES when hunting antelope, deer,elk or bighorn sheep with a firearm ormuzzleloader during firearm or muzzle-loader seasons. Archers need not meetthis requirement during muzzleloaderseasons.This is for your own safety, butfailure to do so can result in a fine.Camouflage hunter orange patternsare legal if the minimum square inchrequirements are met.
PHEASANT HUNTINGOnly cock or rooster pheasants may
be taken in Nebraska. The taking ofhens is not allowed.
GROUSE HUNTINGZONES AND PERMITSNebraska is divided into East and
West zones for prairie grouse (prairiechicken and sharp-tailed grouse) hunting.
The West Zone includes the areawest of U.S. Highway 81. The daily baglimit is 3 and the possession limit 12.
The East Zone includes the areaeast of U.S. Highway 81. Limitedgrouse hunting was allowed there in2000 for the first time since the 1920sand will be allowed again this year.
WHO NEEDS A HUNTING PERMIT?
• Every resident 16 years of ageand older who hunts for small gameand waterfowl needs a NE huntingpermit. For hunting big game (deer,antelope, elk, bighorn sheep, turkey)or furbearers, a NE hunting permit isnot required in addition to the sepa-rate permit needed for those species.
• All nonresidents, regardless ofage, who hunt for or possess anymammal or bird must have a validhunting permit. Any nonresident pos-sessing a turtle, mussel or amphib-ian must have a valid fishing permit.
Permits and stamps are valid for thecalendar year as dated and must besigned by the permit holder to be valid.
A farmer or rancher and their immediate family, who actually live onthe land they own or lease, may huntupland game birds (except turkeys)and squirrel and rabbits on that landwithout obtaining a Nebraska HuntingPermit or Habitat Stamp.
Residents 70 years and older andqualifying veterans over 65 years ofage may obtain a fee-exempt HuntingPermit and Habitat Stamp, issued atCommission permitting offices only.
A resident is any individual who haslived in Nebraska continuously for 30days and intends to become a residentof this state. A new resident should beprepared to provide documentation ofresidency (driver’s license, voter registration card, etc.) to an officerwhen in possession of a resident permit.
Military personnel and full-time students stationed or attending schoolin Nebraska for a period exceeding 30days, are eligible to obtain a residentpermit.
Some mammals in Nebraska, includingcoyotes, prairie dogs and woodchucks,are considered nongame species.Residents do not need a permit to huntthese species, however, nonresidentsmust have a hunting permit. No HabitatStamp is required for nongame species.
For information on prairie dog hunting,write to the Wildlife Division, NebraskaGame and Parks Commission, P.O.Box 30370, Lincoln NE 68503 or call(402)471-0641.
WHO NEEDS A HABITAT STAMP?
Every resident 16 years of age orolder must have a Habitat Stamp tohunt game species or to take furbearersin Nebraska. All nonresidents, regard-less of age, must have a Habitat Stampto hunt game species or to harvestfurbearers. A Habitat Stamp is valid forthe calendar year as dated. To be valid,the stamp must be signed in ink acrossthe face and attached to a valid huntingor fur harvest permit (this does notapply to stamps printed electronicallyor included as part of a fee-exempt per-mit). Landowners hunting antelope,deer, elk or wild turkey with limitedlandowner permits on their own land donot need a Habitat Stamp.
WHERE ARE PERMITSAVAILABLE?
About 900 permit agents, includingmost sporting-goods and hardwarestores, county clerks, banks, discountand convenience stores and
General HuntingGeneral HuntingRegulationsRegulations
NOTICEThis is a guide only. For sources,
consult Nebraska statutes and official regulations.
West Zone East Zone - SpecialPermit Required
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Four hundred special permits to huntgrouse in the East Zone will be issued,each allowing the harvest of three birds.Only one permit is allowed per person.
Permits will be available on a first-come, first-served basis, with permitrequests accepted at the Lincoln Gameand Parks office by mail, phone at(402) 471-5597, or over-the-counter.Hunters wishing to apply by mailshould submit a postcard or letterincluding their name, address and2004 Nebraska Hunting Permit numberor their Lifetime Hunting Permit num-ber. Those under age 16 must submittheir Hunter Education certificationnumber. Those who are not required topurchase a Hunting Permit must pro-vide documentation of such exemption(seniors, veterans, landowners, etc.)
Postcards should be mailed to:Nebraska Game and ParksCommission, Attn: Grouse Permits, P.O.Box 30370, Lincoln, Nebraska 68503.
NONTOXIC SHOTNontoxic shot is required for all
shotgun hunting on federal WaterfowlProduction Areas, National WildlifeRefuges and some state WildlifeManagement Areas, as posted.
Statewide it is unlawful to use or possess shotgun shells loaded with orcontaining shot other than nontoxicshot while hunting, taking or attemptingto take waterfowl.
At present, only steel, coated steel,bismuth-tin, tungsten-iron, tungsten-polymer, tungsten-matrix, tungsten-nickel-iron and tungsten-nickel-iron-tinshot are legal nontoxic shot.
FIREARM RESTRICTIONSDuring any season which permits
hunting deer with rifles using center-firecartridges, wild animals other than deermay be hunted only with a shotgun, .22rimfire rifle, .22 rimfire handgun, or asmaller caliber rimfire rifle or handgun.
Hunters with valid (unfilled) firearmdeer permits may hunt other animalswith a centerfire rifle or centerfire hand-gun during the firearm deer seasons.
NO ROAD HUNTINGIt is unlawful to shoot from any bridge
or public road, including the traveledsurface and the right-of-way.
WHISPERINGHILLS HUNTING• 16,000 acres in
northeast Nebraska• Turkey & deer / state seasons• Pheasant & quail controlled hunts• Other hunting – coyote, prairie dog,
crow calling, etc.• Excellent private pond fishing year-round• Cabins available
SHOOTING HOURS: 30 minutes before sunrise to sunset.1 Requires HIP registration, see Page 5
FURBEARER HARVEST SEASONS
Species Inclusive Dates Bag Method of Taking
Muskrat and Beaver Nov. 1 - Mar. 31 No Limit Trap OnlyBobcat Dec. 1 - Feb. 28 No Limit Hunt and TrapRaccoon, Virginia Opossum,Long-tailed Weasel, Mink, Nov. 1 - Feb. 28 No Limit Hunt and TrapRed Fox, Gray Fox, BadgerStriped Skunk Year-round No Limit Hunt and TrapCanada Lynx, River Otter,Marten, Spotted Skunk, No Open Season No Take No Take Mountain Lion, Bear
EARLY RACCOON & VIRGINIA OPOSSUM HUNTING SEASON
Species Inclusive Dates Bag Method of Taking
Raccoon, Virginia Opossum Sept. 1 - Oct. 31 No Limit Hunt Only
FURBEARER RUNNING SEASONS2
Species Inclusive Dates Bag Method of Taking
Raccoon, Virginia Opossum Mar. 1 - Aug. 31 No Take No TakeRed Fox Mar. 1 - Oct. 31 No Take No TakeBobcat Mar. 1 - Nov. 30 No Take No Take
FURBEARER SHOOTING/TRAPPING HOURS: 24 hours.2 During the running season, bobcat, raccoon, red fox and Virginia opossum may be pursued or chased with hounds,but not killed. A fur harvest permit is required to pursue or chase furbearers with hounds outside of the runningseason.
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WHEN HUNTING ORTRAPPING IN NEBRASKA
The following hunting and trappingpractices are illegal in Nebraska:
PERMITSIT IS UNLAWFUL TO...
• Refuse to show the hunting permit ondemand to any person or officerwhose duty it is to enforce the gamelaws and regulations.
• Hunt migratory game birds without aNebraska HIP registration number.
• Use a hunting permit or stamp unlesssigned by the holder. Stamps issuedonline need not be signed.
• Hunt or trap unless required permits,stamps, and Hunter Education cardare in your possession.
• Lend or transfer a permit to anotherperson.
• Borrow a hunting permit from anotherperson.
• Provide any false information whenprocuring a hunting permit.
• Hunt or secure a permit if disqualifiedfrom holding a permit.
GAME BIRDSIT IS UNLAWFUL TO...
• Shoot doves or bobwhite quail exceptwhen in flight.
• Hunt or take any game birds by baiting or attracting them to the placewhere hunted by distribution of grainor other feeds. Federal regulationsconsider an area baited for 10 daysafter bait is removed.
• Take migratory game birds or turkeysby use or aid of live decoys.
• Use electrically amplified imitations ofbird calls, including records, tapes andcompact discs, to take game birds.
• Hunt migratory game birds withoutmaking a reasonable effort to retrievedead or crippled birds and includingthem in the daily bag. Crippled birdsmust be killed immediately.
USE OF VEHICLES,BOATS OR AIRCRAFTIT IS UNLAWFUL TO...
• Hunt, take or trap any game birdsfrom a vehicle of any kind.
• Hunt, drive or disturb game birds orgame animals with or from any aircraftor boat propelled by power or sail.
• Communicate the location of anygame animal or game bird by radio orother electronic device to or from anyaircraft, vessel, vehicle, snowmobileor other conveyance one day beforeor during the open season.
• Carry a firearm, bow and arrow orother projectile device on a snowmo-bile, except when unloaded and in acase.
• Take or hunt any wild animal or birdfrom or with a snowmobile.
• Shoot or attempt to shoot any bird,fish or other animal from an aircraft.
• Take migratory game birds from asinkbox, from any motorboat unlessmotor is shut off and boat stopped,from a car or other motor-driven landconveyance, from an aircraft, or froma sailboat unless the sail is furled andthe boat is stopped.
• Take migratory game birds by drivingor chasing them with any motorizedconveyance to put them in range ofhunters.
POSSESSION ANDTRANSPORTATION OF GAME
IT IS UNLAWFUL TO...• Take a legal limit of any species and
return to take more of the samespecies in the same day.
• Possess meat from any species takenon a permit past Aug. 1 following theclose of the season or to possessmeat from any deer, antelope,bighorn sheep, or elk taken during the2004 season after Aug. 1, 2007.
• Possess more than one daily bag limitof migratory game birds while in thefield or when returning from the fieldto one’s car, hunting camp, etc.
LEGALMETHODS OF TAKE
Small Game, Upland Game andMigratory Game Birds
SHOTGUN: Only 10 gauge or small-er may be used for all game birds. Forwaterfowl and other migratory gamebirds, including doves shotguns mustbe plugged to limit shell capacity to nomore than three shells in the chamberand magazine combined. No plug isrequired for upland game birds. No plugor gauge restriction exists for cottontailrabbits and squirrels.
RIFLE OR PISTOL: Illegal for allgame birds.
BOW AND ARROW: Legal for rab-bits, squirrels, and upland game birds.Legal for turkey with a special permit(see the Turkey Brochure for turkeypermit information). Legal for migratorygame birds.
CROSSBOW: Legal for rabbits,squirrels, upland game birds exceptturkey (see the Turkey Brochure forturkey permit information). NOT legal
for migratory game birds.TRAPPING: Legal for furbearers,
cottontail, jackrabbit and squirrel duringopen seasons.
PRIVATE LANDSGET PERMISSION
Most hunting in Nebraska is done onprivate land. Permission of thelandowner or his agent is required tohunt, trail game or retrieve downedgame on private lands whether postedor not (including railroad rights-of-way).Always respect the landowner’s rights.DON’T TRESPASS! It is recommendedthat you get permission before thehunting season.
NEBRASKA WILDLIFECRIMESTOPPERS
If you see a game law violation, callthe Nebraska Wildlife Crimestopperstoll-free hotline, sponsored by theNebraska Wildlife Protectors and theGame and Parks Commission. Call 1-800-742-7627. Your call will be keptcompletely confidential and you may beeligible for a cash reward.
Game and Parks Commission, P.O. Box 30370, Lincoln, NE 68503-0370
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Game and Parks Commission within 24hours of the time the carcass is pickedup and before the animal is processedso a conservation officer or designeemay issue the person a salvage permit.Meat from these animals may only bepossessed for 90 days after a salvagepermit is issued. It is unlawful to sell ortrade any meat from a salvaged car-cass. An individual may possess onlyone road-killed carcass at any one timeand must have a salvage permit for thecarcass in his or her possession.
leges may be revoked for some gamelaw violations. This could include certainone-time offenses by individuals orrepeated violations by habitual offenders.
Any person whose privilege to hunt,fish, or harvest fur has been suspendedor revoked in another jurisdiction withinthe United States or Canada shall alsobe prohibited from obtaining a permit forsuch activity in Nebraska for the durationof such suspension in that jurisdiction.
DOG TRAININGDog training is defined as the use of
dogs in a non-competitive processsolely intended to enhance the huntingskills of dogs. Dog training is permittedon private land within the state at anytime, provided written permission isobtained from the landowner.
It is unlawful for anyone to exercise,run, train, or hunt with dogs on stateWildlife Management Areas during theperiod from May 1 through July 31 ofeach year, except on land areas designated and specifically posted with“Authorized Dog Training Area” signs.
It is unlawful for any professional dogtrainer, specific to his or her businessactivities, to exercise, run, or train dogsowned or controlled by him or her on stateWildlife Management Areas at any time.
Dog owners or handlers are prohibitedfrom exercising, running, training orhunting with dogs on areas wherethese activities are prohibited by special regulations.
Training or exercising dogs on areasdesignated and posted as a “Dog TrialArea” is prohibited. Such areas arerestricted for field trial use only.
All game birds released for trainingpurposes must be obtained from a cap-tive wildlife permit holder or licensednonresident breeder, and must bebanded by the trainer with official bandsauthorized by the Nebraska Game andParks Commission. Any person whopurchases game birds from a captivewildlife permit holder or licensed non-resident breeder shall have in his or herpossession a sales tag/receipt from thepermit holder listing the date, speciesand number of birds purchased.
A limit of 10 birds per dog may beharvested during any training session.Training sessions are limited to one day,beginning at sunrise and ending at sun-set. All birds released for dog trainingpurposes, but not taken on the day theyare released, are considered wild birdsand subject to the rules and regulationscovering taking of the same upon completion of the training session.
Game birds obtained for dog trainingmay be kept in captivity without a captive wildlife permit for a period notto exceed 30 days following date ofpurchase or receipt.
TEAL SEASONTeal season is set for Sept. 11-19.
See 2004 Nebraska Early Teal Seasonbrochure for more information.
Duck and goose seasons will be setin late-August. Please consult the 2004Waterfowl and Crow Hunting Seasonsbrochure (Available by early-Sept.) formore information.
EARLY CANADA GOOSE SEASON
A special Early Canada Goose sea-son is put in place for portions of east-ern and central Nebraska. The seasonis set for Sept. 11-19 and allows for thetake of five Canada Geese per day,with a possession limit of 10. Moreinformation, including a zone map, canbe found in the 2004 Early Canada
WEAPON USEAND TRANSPORTATIONIT IS UNLAWFUL TO...
• Have or carry a loaded shotgun in oron any vehicle on any highway orroadway. A shotgun is consideredloaded if there is a shell or shells inthe chamber, receiver or magazine.
• Shoot from any public highway, roador bridge, including the traveled surface and the right-of-way.
• Possess a pistol if under 18 years ofage.
• Take any game bird, including migra-tory birds, with a trap, snare, net, rifle,pistol, swivel gun, shotgun larger than10 gauge, punt gun, battery gun, fishhook, poison, drug, explosive orstupefying substance.
FUR HARVESTIT IS UNLAWFUL TO...
• Take furbearers other than withsnares, metal spring traps withsmooth jaws or box traps except thatraccoon, red fox, gray fox, bobcat,badger, long-tailed weasel, stripedskunk, mink and Virginia opossummay be taken by firearm or bow.
• Possess any live furbearers.
MISCELLANEOUSIT IS UNLAWFUL TO...
• Party hunt. Every hunter must shoothis or her own game.
• Interfere with a person lawfullyengaged in hunting, trapping or fishing.
• Hunt on private land without permission of the owner or agent,including railroad rights-of-way.
• Use a spotlight or other artificial lightfrom or attached to a vehicle or vesselwhile having in possession or controlany firearm or bow and arrow.
• Take game birds or game animals orto hawk except during the legal shooting or hawking hours.
• Take crows by means other thanfirearms, bow and arrow and falconry.
• Willfully injure or kill livestock withfirearms or bow and arrow.
• Dig, cut or destroy natural or plantedvegetation on any state-owned orcontrolled area.
• Cause game birds or game animalsto depart from a game reserve orgame sanctuary.
• Hunt, take or trap any wild mammal orwild bird within a 200-yard radius ofan inhabited dwelling or livestockfeedlot, unless permission to do sohas been granted by the owner ortenant of that dwelling or feedlot.
TRANSPORTING ANDPOSSESSING GAME
If en route, while hunting or returningto home, no tags are required if licenseeaccompanies the game (big gameexcepted). It is unlawful to give, put orleave any game birds or game animals atany place or in the custody of anotherperson unless the game is tagged withthe following hunter information: (1)name, (2) address, (3) phone number,(4) date of birth, (5) permit number orseal number (if deer, antelope, elk,bighorn sheep, or turkey), (6) estimatedpounds of meat for deer, antelope, elkand bighorn sheep (7) species of birds oranimals and total number of each, (8)date taken, and if transferred by gift, (9)signature of donor and name of recipient.
If shipped by commercial carrier,game birds and game animals must betagged with official tags.These tags areavailable from Commission offices andconservation officers.
Pheasants, grouse and turkeys musthave head or one leg attached for identification purposes. All migratorygame birds except doves must haveone fully feathered wing or headplumage attached when in transport.
ROAD-KILLEDDEER OR ANTELOPE
A Nebraska resident who accidental-ly kills a deer or antelope with a motorvehicle may field dress and take pos-session of the animal at the time of theaccident and take it to his or her resi-dence. The person must notify the
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Goose brochure, available atCommission offices and permit ven-dors across the state and online atwww.outdoornebraska.org, or in the2004 Waterfowl Guide, available inearly September.
CROW SEASONCrow season dates will be set in
late-August. See 2004 Waterfowl andCrow Hunting Seasons brochure(Available by early-September) formore information.
Crows may be hunted using anyfirearm or bow. Electronic calls can beused. A Nebraska Hunting Permit isrequired, a Habitat Stamp is not.
YOUTH HUNTINGSEASONS
Nebraska’s Youth Pheasant, Quailand Partridge Season and YouthWaterfowl Season, are perfect opportu-nities for hunters to introduce young-sters to hunting.
Because only youths can hunt(adults can hunt during Youth DeerSeason only), adults can focus theirattention on them rather than worryingabout bagging a bird themselves. Thislow-pressure environment makes theexperience more enjoyable for hunterand guide alike.
A special Youth Deer permit wasadded this year for youths between 12and 15 years of age and provides qual-ity hunting and teaching opportunitiesfor youth.
Youth Pheasant, Quail, andPartridge Season
October 30-31, 2004Hunters must be 15 years old or
younger. Resident youth hunters do notneed a permit, but those ages 12 to 15are required to carry a HunterEducation certification card while hunt-ing. Nonresident youths are required tohave a 2004 Nonresident Youth HuntingPermit and Habitat Stamp. Youthhunters under 12 years old must beaccompanied by a licensed hunter 19years old or older.
Adults accompanying youth huntersare not allowed to shoot pheasants,quail, or partridge.Daily bag limits: Two cock pheasants,two quail and two partridge.Possession limits: Twice the daily bag.
Pheasants, quail and partridge takenduring the youth season do not countagainst the youth hunter's possessionlimit during the general hunting seasons.
Youth Waterfowl SeasonSeptember 25-26, 2004
Hunters must be age 15 or youngerto take part. Resident youth hunters donot need any state or federal permits orstamps. Nonresident youths must havea 2004 Nebraska Hunting Permit andHabitat Stamp.
The season is open for ducks, mergansers, coots and geese. Youthsage 12 to 15 are required to carry aHunter Education certification card whilehunting and must be accompanied by aperson at least 18 years old. This adultdoes not need to be a licensed hunter.Youth younger than 12 must be accom-panied by a licensed hunter age 19 orolder. The accompanying adult may nothunt ducks, coots, or mergansers.
Bag and possession limits: same asregular season. See 2004 Waterfowland Crow Hunting Seasons brochure(Available by early-September) formore information.
and non-residents who are between 12and 15 years old to harvest one either-sex deer anywhere in the state duringthe archery, muzzleloader andNovember firearm seasons.Youths age16 may hunt on youth deer permits pro-vided they are age 15 when they applyand provided they are age 15 onSeptember 15 of the calendar year. Allyouths must have passed an approvedHunter Education course to hunt with a
firearm, and an approved Bow HunterEducation course to hunt with a bow.They must carry the appropriate certi-fication card with them when hunting.Youths must be accompanied by anadult (21 years old or older), and musthunt with the legal weapons appropri-ate for the season in which they hunt.
DOVE BANDING STUDYAs part of a national study,
Commission biologists across thestate began placing bands on mourn-ing doves in the summer of 2003. Ifyou discover a band, please contactthe U.S. Fish and Wildlife Servicebanding office at 1-800-327-BAND(2263) or on the Internet atwww.pwrc.usgs.gov.bbl.
GAME VIOLATIONSIn many cases, the Legislature
has passed statutes that spell outspecific penalties and liquidateddamages for violating the state'sgame laws. The following liquidateddamages (assessed in addition tofines and court costs) are set by theLegislature as replacement costsfor wildlife taken illegally. The dam-ages apply to each animal takenillegally.• Bighorn sheep $5,000.• Elk and moose, $1,000.• Deer, antelope, bear, swans and
paddlefish, $750.• Small game animals, ducks and
geese, $75.• Fur-bearing animals, $75, (except
raccoon, $25).• Game fish greater than 12 inches
in length, $50; 12 inches long orless, $20.
• All nongame birds that are protect-ed, $50.The Legislature also established
mandatory revocation of a convictedviolator's hunting license from one tothree years for intentionally injuring orkilling livestock; exceeding the baglimit by two times; hunting game ani-mals during a closed season;obstructing a conservation officerfrom discharging his or her duties;being a habitual offender (defined astwo violations in a calendar year, orthree violations or more in a ten-yearperiod).
The Legislature leaves revocationof a license for one to three years tothe judge's discretion in cases ofhunting without a permit; huntingfrom a vehicle, aircraft or boat;shooting from the road; or knowing-ly hunting on private property with-out permission.
If a person is not eligible for a per-mit because it has been suspended,and that person obtains a permit, ajudge may revoke hunting privilegesfor two to five years.
Advertise in the Game and ParksCommission’s official regulationpublications, the Hunting andFishing guides, and your ad will bein the hands of more than:
Plus thousands more non-residentanglers and hunters! Reach your tar-get audience and maximize youradvertising dollars with a discountby advertising in both guides.
For more information contact:Advertising Manager
Nebraska Game and Parks CommissionPO Box 30370,
Lincoln, NE 68503-0370Call (402) 471-5488 or e-mail:
All individuals, except Nebraska residents under 16 years of age, musthave a Fur Harvest Permit and HabitatStamp to take the following furbearersby hunting or trapping: badger, beaver,bobcat, gray fox, long-tailed weasel,mink, muskrat, Virginia opossum, raccoon, red fox and striped skunk. AllFur Harvest Permits are valid for a calendar year as dated. To pursue orchase these species with dogs duringthe take seasons, a current fur harvestpermit is required regardless ofwhether take occurs or not.
Coyotes, prairie dogs and wood-chucks are considered nongamespecies in Nebraska. Residents do notneed a permit to take these and someother species, however, nonresidentsmust have a Nebraska Hunting Permit.A Habitat Stamp is not needed forthese species.
PROTECTED SPECIESThe following mammals are fully
protected with no open seasons inNebraska: bear, black-footed ferret,Canada lynx, marten, moose, mountainlion, river otter, southern flying squirrel,spotted skunk and swift fox.
RECIPROCITY REQUIREDNonresident permits for harvesting
fur-bearing animals may be issued onlyto residents of states that sell similarpermits to Nebraska residents. Thispermit is issued only by theCommission’s Lincoln office.
LEGAL TRAPS-SETSFurbearers may be trapped only with
snares, metal spring traps with smoothjaws or box traps.
Conibear-type traps with a jawspreadlarger than 8 inches can not be usedunless they are placed under water orat least 6 feet above the ground.
On any lands owned or controlled bythe Game and Parks Commission, onU.S. Fish and Wildlife Service waterfowlproduction areas, on U.S. Army Corpsof Engineers lands at Harlan CountyReservoir or on any road rights-of-way,conibear-type traps with a jawspreadlarger than 5 inches can only be usedwhen placed under water or at least 6 feet above the ground.
During upland game bird seasons, itis unlawful to use snares on any landsowned or controlled by the Game andParks Commission, on U.S. Fish andWildlife Service waterfowl productionareas or on U.S. Army Corps ofEngineers lands at Harlan CountyReservoir.
It is unlawful to use any baits in plainsight within 30 feet of foothold traps seton dry land. Bait is defined as fish, ani-mal flesh, fur, hide, entrails or feathers.
DENS PROTECTEDIt is unlawful to mutilate the dens or
houses of any fur-bearing animal.
TRAP TAGGING It is unlawful to set any trap for
furbearers or coyotes unless such traphas the following information stampedor inscribed legibly onto the trap or ontoa metal tag that is securely affixed tothe trap: (1) the valid driver’s licensenumber of the owner or user; or (2) theowner or user’s Nebraska StateIdentification Card number applied forat Motor Vehicle Operator LicenseExaminer’s offices. Individuals under16 years of age may use the driver’slicense or ID card number of a parentor guardian. Traps are defined to
Plattsmouth: Schilling WildlifeManagement Area, 17614 RefugeRoad, Office not always staffed, call forappointment at (402) 296-0041.
Tecumseh: Osage WildlifeManagement Area, Rural Route 3.Office not always staffed, call forappointment at (402) 335-2534.
GRAY FOX TAGGINGAll gray fox taken in Nebraska must
be registered and officially tagged bythe Nebraska Game and ParksCommission within two calendar daysof the close of the season and beforethe pelt is sold. To have a gray foxtagged, contact your localConservation Officer or theCommission office.
RUNNING SEASONSDuring the running seasons, bobcat,
raccoon, red fox, and Virginia opossummay be pursued or chased withhounds, but not killed.
EARLY RACCOON ANDVIRGINIA OPOSSUMHUNTING SEASON
Raccoons and Virginia opossumsmay be hunted but not trapped fromSept. 1 to Oct. 31. A Fur Harvest Permitis required during this season.Raccoons and Virginia opossums maybe hunted and trapped during the mainfur harvest season Nov. 1, 2004, toFeb. 28, 2005.
RACCOON,STRIPED SKUNK ANDVIRGINIA OPOSSUM
DEPREDATIONFarmers and ranchers are allowed to
destroy or have someone else destroyraccoons, striped skunks and Virginiaopossums that cause agricultural depre-dation on their property. These speciesmay be taken for depredation control
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any time of the year and no permit isneeded. Raccoons, striped skunks andVirginia opossums taken for depredationcontrol can only be sold by individualswith a valid Fur Harvest Permit and if thetake occurred during the take season.
ARTIFICIAL LIGHTSArtificial lights may be used only
while hunting on foot to take unprotectedspecies, including coyotes, and the following furbearers: badger, bobcat, grayfox, long-tailed weasel, mink, Virginiaopossum, raccoon, red fox and stripedskunk. The light shall not be usedfrom or attached to a vehicle or boat.
WHERE TRAPPINGIS PERMITTED
Permission of the landowner or operator is required to trap on privateland or on public road rights-of-waywhere title is not held by the county.
Although the entire state is open totrapping, this does not include marshes,lakes or other areas closed by federal,
state or local laws or regulations. Statewildlife management areas are openunless otherwise posted. Trapping isprohibited on state and historical parkswithout special written permission. It ispermitted in season on state recreationareas, except within 100 yards of devel-oped facilities, such as picnic areas,campgrounds and boat ramps.
It is unlawful to trap or attempt to trapon any upland (dryland) portion ofBranched Oak or Yankee Hill state wildlifemanagement areas before Dec. 15.
Trapping is not permitted within 200yards of any dwelling, feedlot or livestock crossing (road or bridge) without permission.
CHECK YOUR TRAPSAll traps set for furbearers must be
checked as follows: one-way, slide-wiredrowning sets and underwaterConibear-type sets, once every twocalendar days. All others: every day.
DISPOSAL OF FURSAll furs must be disposed of within 10
days after the close of the season. Toretain furs longer, written permissionmust be obtained from the Game andParks Commission. An affidavit must befiled with the Commission within 10 daysafter the close of the season, describingthe numbers and kinds of furs to be held.
All furs shipped out of state by com-mercial carrier must have a specialshipping tag available from any Gameand Parks Commission office.
Annual Nonresident Youth Hunt permits are available. Permits purchased whilethe youth is 15 are valid for the entire calendar year, regardless of whether theyouth turns 16 during that year.
*Fees listed include $1 agent fee.
**A current Nebraska Habitat Stamp is required for all resident hunters 16 yearsof age and older and for all nonresidents regardless of age. A Habitat Stamp isvalid for all hunting during the calendar year as dated. Farmers and rancherswho hunt on their own land for other than Migratory Game Birds with a landown-er permit do not need a Habitat Stamp. Limited landowner permit holders do notneed a habitat stamp.
***Up to 1000 furs. $11.00 per additional 100 furs.
Each year Nebraskans have anopportunity to donate a portion of theNebraska income tax return to assistin the conservation and preservationof nongame animals and the habitatsthat support them. Just check thebox and enter an amount on theNebraska Income Tax Return.Because money generated throughsales of hunting permits and habitat
stamps can be used only for gameanimals and habitat improvement,the Nongame Check-off Programis an important tool inpreservingour state’sn o n g a m ew i l d l i f especies.
NONGAME CHECK-OFF PROGRAM
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NEBRASKA LIFETIME PERMITSNebraska Lifetime Hunting, Fishing and combination Hunt-Fish permits are
tickets to years of exciting outdoor experiences. In 2004, hunters also are ableto purchase a Lifetime Habitat Stamp.
Lifetime permits and the Lifetime Habitat Stamp may be issued ONLY toNebraska residents. They are valid for the life of that individual, even if he orshe moves out of state. However, if a lifetime permit holder moves out of state,they must pay non-resident fees to obtain big game permits. Hunters musthave a lifetime Habitat Stamp or annual Habitat Stamp. However, LifetimeFish and Lifetime Combination Hunt-Fish permit holders are exempt from theAquatic Habitat Stamp requirement. Permit fees do NOT include fees for biggame and turkey hunting, or for fur harvesting.
Lifetime permits are available through Commission offices in Alliance,Bassett, Kearney, Lincoln, Norfolk, North Platte, and Omaha, as well as Ak-Sar-Ben Aquarium near Gretna, Chadron and Fort Robinson state parks,Wildcat Hills State Recreation Area and Calamus Fish Hatchery. Informationand applications are also available from 900 permit agents across the state.
BIG GAME SEASONS - Special Permit Required
Species Inclusive Dates
Antelope (archery) Aug. 20 - Nov. 12 & Nov. 22 - Dec. 31Antelope (muzzleloader) Sept. 18 - Oct. 3Antelope (firearm) Oct. 9 - 24Elk (Boyd Unit) Aug. 15 - Nov. 12 & Nov. 22 - Dec. 31Elk (Hat Creek, Bordeaux and Box Elder, Ash Creek Units) Sept. 25 - Oct. 24Deer (archery) Sept. 15 - Nov. 12 & Nov. 22 - Dec. 31Deer (November firearm) Nov. 13 - Nov. 21Deer (muzzleloader) Dec. 1 - 31Deer (special seasons) See 2004 Big Game GuideDeer Youth Permit See 2004 Big Game GuideTurkey (archery) Oct. 1 - Nov. 12Turkey (shotgun) Oct. 23 - Nov. 12Bighorn Sheep Nov. 27 - Dec. 19
Landowner permits and unfilled Firearm Deer and Fall Turkey unit permits are available at Game and ParksCommission offices. See page 8 for locations and telephone numbers.SHOOTING HOURS: Deer, Antelope, Bighorn Sheep, and Elk - 30 minutes before sunrise to 30 minutes after sun-set; Turkey - 30 minutes before sunrise to sunset.
(except closed in firearm unitsduring firearm seasons)
Pick up a copy of the 2004Nebraska Big Game Guide fordetailed information on big gameseasons and permits in Nebraska.
Most big game seasons are set inMarch. Application periods for the per-mits needed to hunt big game began inApril.
Deer: The number of firearm deerpermits issued is limited. Permits insome management units are sold outas of this printing, but may still be available in a few units when the seasons open. New this year, theCommission will issue an unlimitednumber of statewide Youth Permits tohunters between 12 and 15 years ofage. The permits allow holders to har-vest a deer of either sex anywhere inthe state during any open season. Forinstance, youths with these permits canhunt with archery equipment during the
archery season or with firearm equip-ment during the firearm season.
Archery and muzzleloader deer permits are unlimited and validstatewide. These can be purchasedthrough the close of the season.
Antelope and Elk: Permits for theseseasons are very limited and typicallyall units fill during the first drawing.Archery antelope permits are unlimitedand available through the close of theseason.
Bighorn Sheep: One permit to huntbighorn sheep in Nebraska will beissued through a lottery.Only Nebraskaresidents are eligible.
Turkey: Sales of unlimited statewideFall turkey permits went on sale inAugust. Fall permits are unlimitedstatewide permits. The spring seasonwill be set in October.
Big Game HuntingBig Game Hunting
The presence of chronic wastingdisease (CWD) in three areas of thePanhandle region is of continuingconcern to the Commission, just as itis a growing concern to many statesthroughout the nation. The federalgovernment recently formed a CWDTask Force to develop a plan that willprovide a cohesive strategy for moni-toring, containing and eventually elim-inating CWD as a threat to wild deerand elk populations. The plan pro-vides funding and management toolsand gives states the flexibility neededto develop management strategiesthat meet their unique needs.
In Nebraska, the Commission willcontinue to monitor the disease bytesting Commission-collected deer inthe endemic areas of Kimball, Morrilland Sioux counties, as well as all
management units. But the monitor-ing strategy will also include, and infact require, the assistance of deerhunters. Hunters who see an ill ani-mal should not shoot the animal.Please note the animal's locationand contact the Commission as soonas possible. Also, the Commissionwill ask hunters throughout the stateto voluntarily submit the head of deerkilled in the field for testing. Headscan be submitted at check sta-tions, but must be received within48 hours of the kill.
This schedule applies to any point in Nebraska that is due north or due south of each of the cities listed. For each 9 miles west of any designated city, add 1 minute. For each9 miles east, subtract 1 minute. Alliance is Mountain Time. All others listed are Central Time. Be sure to set your watch according to the time zone in which you are hunting.Times are taken from the official “Tables of Sunrise and Sunset,” compiled by the U.S. Naval Observatory. Daylight Savings Time ends the last Sunday of October.
Day
August September October November December January February March April MayRise Set Rise Set Rise Set Rise Set Rise Set Rise Set Rise Set Rise Set Rise Set Rise SetA.M. P.M. A.M. P.M. A.M. P.M. A.M. P.M. A.M. P.M. A.M. P.M. A.M. P.M. A.M. P.M. A.M. P.M. A.M. P.M.
This schedule applies to any point in Nebraska that is due north or due south of each of the cities listed. For each 9 miles west of any designated city, add 1 minute. For each9 miles east, subtract 1 minute. Alliance is Mountain Time. All others listed are Central Time. Be sure to set your watch according to the time zone in which you are hunting.Times are taken from the official “Tables of Sunrise and Sunset,” compiled by the U.S. Naval Observatory. Daylight Savings Time ends the last Sunday of October.
Day
August September October November December January February March April MayRise Set Rise Set Rise Set Rise Set Rise Set Rise Set Rise Set Rise Set Rise Set Rise SetA.M. P.M. A.M. P.M. A.M. P.M. A.M. P.M. A.M. P.M. A.M. P.M. A.M. P.M. A.M. P.M. A.M. P.M. A.M. P.M.
This schedule applies to any point in Nebraska that is due north or due south of each of the cities listed. For each 9 miles west of any designated city, add 1 minute. For each9 miles east, subtract 1 minute. Alliance is Mountain Time. All others listed are Central Time. Be sure to set your watch according to the time zone in which you are hunting.Times are taken from the official “Tables of Sunrise and Sunset,” compiled by the U.S. Naval Observatory. Daylight Savings Time ends the last Sunday of October.
Day
August September October November December January February March April MayRise Set Rise Set Rise Set Rise Set Rise Set Rise Set Rise Set Rise Set Rise Set Rise SetA.M. P.M. A.M. P.M. A.M. P.M. A.M. P.M. A.M. P.M. A.M. P.M. A.M. P.M. A.M. P.M. A.M. P.M. A.M. P.M.
This schedule applies to any point in Nebraska that is due north or due south of each of the cities listed. For each 9 miles west of any designated city, add 1 minute. For each9 miles east, subtract 1 minute. Alliance is Mountain Time. All others listed are Central Time. Be sure to set your watch according to the time zone in which you are hunting.Times are taken from the official “Tables of Sunrise and Sunset,” compiled by the U.S. Naval Observatory. Daylight Savings Time ends the last Sunday of October.
Day
August September October November December January February March April MayRise Set Rise Set Rise Set Rise Set Rise Set Rise Set Rise Set Rise Set Rise Set Rise SetA.M. P.M. A.M. P.M. A.M. P.M. A.M. P.M. A.M. P.M. A.M. P.M. A.M. P.M. A.M. P.M. A.M. P.M. A.M. P.M.
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10111213141516171819202122232425262728293031
Sunrise and Sunset Schedule for North Platte
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It is unlawful to build or use any permanent or semi-permanent treestand or steps that attach to any treewith nails, screws, bolts or wire, exceptthat screw-in steps may be used.
CampingCamping is permitted unless other-
wise posted or restricted by special arearegulations. Few areas have amenities,making camping truly primitive.
FiresOpen fires are permitted only in
fireplaces, grills or fire rings whereprovided by the Commission. Use of
propane or gas stoves and charcoalgrills is permitted.
Motor VehiclesAll motorized vehicles are restricted
to roadways, parking areas or trailsspecifically designated for vehicle use.No off-road vehicles are permitted.
Target ShootingTarget shooting is permitted on most
areas, but the activity is prohibited oncertain areas which are posted.
Nebraska’s public hunting landsencompass nearly 800,000 acreson about 300 state and federalareas scattered across the state.Most of this land is owned by thefederal government. Of thestate-owned lands, about 47,000acres have been purchased withproceeds from the sale of HabitatStamps. These lands provide outdoorrecreation opportunities for allNebraskans.
Nebraska’s public hunting landscomprise just 2 percent of the state’stotal land area. Most hunting is done onprivate land where permission isrequired. It is best to ask permissionwell in advance of the season.
Unless otherwise posted, hunting isallowed in season on all state WildlifeManagement Areas and federalWaterfowl Production Areas. Specialregulations apply on federal refugesand on national forest lands.
WILDLIFEMANAGEMENT AREASHunting and trapping are permitted
on state lands designated as WildlifeManagement Areas, unless otherwiseposted. Contact district offices for area-specific regulations and information.(See Public Hunting Lands section forlocations.)
Tree StandsPortable tree stands and steps may
be used on state wildlife managementareas but must be removed within 15days of the close of the hunting season.
PPANHANDLEANHANDLENo area of the state has a wider varietyof terrain or more public land than thePanhandle. There are high plateaus,scarred badlands, huge, rugged escarpments and canyons cloaked indark pines. All have direct contrast withthe vast Oglala National Grasslands alsolocated in the district. Traditionally agood deer hunting area, the Panhandlealso has good numbers of wild turkey,especially in the Pine Ridge. Pheasantscan be found in areas of cropland, antelope in the grassland and waterfowlalong the North Platte River.
DISTRICT I – PANHANDLEAlliance OfficeGary Schlichtemeier,Wildlife Manager(308) 763-2940FAX (308) 763-2943
1. Buffalo Creek WMA*; Banner/ScottsBluff Co.s, 5S, 2½W of Melbeta on countyroads; Deer, Dove, Rabbit, Turkey; 4,262acres
2. Bighorn WMA; Dawes Co. 1E of Crawfordon U.S. Hwy. 20. 8E, 1S & 1E on BethelRd., 1S on Bethel Loop Rd.; Deer, Dove,Rabbit, Squirrel, Turkey; 938 acres
3. Bordeaux Creek WMA; Dawes Co., 3E ofChadron on U.S. 20; Elk, Deer, Turkey,Dove, Rabbit; 1,841 acres
5. Pine Ridge Div.; Neb. Natl. Forest,Dawes Co., S of U.S. 20 between Chadron& Crawford; Deer, Dove, Rabbit, Squirrel,Turkey; 50,853 acres
6. Chadron Creek Ranch WMA; Dawes Co.,2S of Chadron State Park on Norwescacounty road; Deer, Dove, Rabbit, Squirrel,Turkey; 2,449 acres
7. Ponderosa WMA; Dawes Co., 2S ofCrawford on NE 2 to access sign 4E; Deer,Dove, Rabbit, Squirrel, Turkey; 3,979 acres
8. Goldeneye WMA; Deuel Co., 1S, 3W ¼Nof Big Springs on I-80 Interchange; Dove,Pheasant, Rabbit, Waterfowl; 23 acres
9. Goldenrod WMA; Deuel Co., 0.1S, 3E ofChappell on U.S. 385; Deer, Dove,Pheasant, Rabbit; 97 acres
10. Crescent Lake NWR; Garden Co., 28Nof Oshkosh between U.S. 26 & NE 2;Deer, Grouse, Pheasant; 40,900 acres.Only designated part of refuge open tohunting. Nontoxic shot only; Maps andspecial instructions available from leafletboxes and at refuge headquarters. Nocamping. No open fires
11. Oliver Reservoir SRA; Kimball Co., 8Wof Kimball on U.S. 30; Pheasant, Rabbit,Waterfowl; 1,187 acres
12. Arnold-Trupp WMA; Morrill Co., 4N 1S 1½ N of Bayard; Deer, Dove, Rabbit,Pheasant, Prairie Dog; 155 acres
13. Chet & Jane Fliesbach WMA; Morrill Co.,3S, 3E of Bayard on NE 26-92; Deer, Dove,Pheasant, Waterfowl; 422 acres
14. Bridgeport SRA; Morrill Co., 1W ofBridgeport, off U.S. 26; Deer, Rabbit,Squirrel, Waterfowl; 126 acres. No center orrim fire rifles or pistols
15. Cedar Canyon WMA; Scotts Bluff Co.,3S4W of Gering; Deer, Dove, Turkey, Rabbit;2,200 acres
Hunting is permitted on many StateRecreation Areas from the firstTuesday following Labor Day throughconclusion of the spring turkey season,unless prohibited or restricted byappropriate signs or specific area regulations.
Hunting is prohibited within 100 yardsof any public use facility or activity area,including picnic areas, campgrounds,private cabins, and concession areas,boat ramps and parking lots.
A Park Entry Permit is required year-round on state park and recreationareas. State Historical Parks are closedto all hunting.
STATE PARKSPortions of some state parks are
open to hunting in accordance withspecial area regulations. Check the listof public lands in this brochure andcontact the park office for more infor-mation. A Park Entry Permit is requiredyear-round on state park and recre-ation areas. State Historical Parks areclosed to all hunting.
CRP-MAPAbout 180,000 acres of private land
enrolled in the federal ConservationReserve Program are open to public,walk-in hunting through the NebraskaGame and Parks Commission’sConservation Reserve Program-Management Access Program.
An atlas detailing CRP-MAP sites isavailable from Commission offices,permit agents and online at:
www.outdoornebraska.org
PRIVATE LANDPermission of the landowner or his or
her agent is required to hunt on privatelands.
Watch for signs designating privatelands open to hunting under theNebraska Habitat Program or checkwith the local Natural ResourcesDistrict office.
CLOSED AREASState wayside areas, hatcheries and
reserves, unless otherwise posted, areclosed to hunting. State and federalrefuges, unless otherwise posted ordesignated, also are closed. Huntingfrom any roadway or highway, includingthe right-of-way, is not allowed.
KEYGame species listed in the following
section are those commonly found onthe public land described. Any otherlegal game species found on theseareas may be harvested as well.
WMA . . . Wildlife Management Area(State owned or managed)
Areas marked with an asterisk (*)were purchased in whole or in part
WPA . . . Waterfowl Production Area (Federally managed)
NWR . . . . . National Wildlife Refuge(Federally managed)
NRD . . . . Natural Resources District(A few NRD-owned lands open to
hunting have been included in thisguide. Others may be available.
Contact your local NRD for more information.)
26 27
15. Willow Lake B.C. WMA*; Brown Co.,18½S of Ainsworth on U.S.7, 12SW onpaved Brown Co. road; Dove,Waterfowl; 511 acres. Nontoxic shotzone; snowmobiles and ATV’s allowedon ice
16.Yellowthroat WMA; Brown Co., 13S ofAinsworth on U.S.7, 2E on access trail; Deer,Grouse, Dove, Snipe, Pheasant, Waterfowl;480 acres, Nontoxic shot, no alcohol orcamping
17. Anderson Bridge WMA*; Cherry Co.,from Kilgore 5½S, 2E, 5S on S sideNiobrara River; Deer, Grouse, Rabbit,Squirrel, Turkey, Waterfowl; 137 acres
19. Big Alkali Lake WMA; Cherry Co., 16S,4W of Valentine, U.S. 83, State Spur 16B, 1¼SE; Dove, Waterfowl; 890 acres; snow-mobiles and ATV’s allowed on ice
21. Cottonwood Lake SRA; Cherry Co.,½E,½S of Merriman, S of U.S. 20;Waterfowl; 180 acres
22. Cottonwood Steverson WMA; Cherry Co.,30N of Hyannis on NE 61; Deer, Dove,Grouse, Pheasant, Waterfowl; 2,919 acres;snowmobiles and ATV’s allowed on ice andHome Valley Lake trail when conditionspermit
23. Merritt Reservoir WMA/SRA; Cherry Co.,26SW of Valentine; Deer, Dove, Grouse,Pheasant, Waterfowl, Turkey; 6,146 acres.Seasonal waterfowl blinds possible
24. Rat and Beaver Lakes WMA; Cherry Co.,29S of Valentine, 6W, U.S. 83; Deer, Dove,Grouse, Waterfowl; 240 acres. Limitedaccess across private grounds
25. Samuel R. McKelvie NF; Cherry Co., 10Sof Nenzel, NE 97 or trail road from MerrittReservoir; Antelope, Deer, Dove, Grouse;115,703 acres
26. Schlagel Creek WMA; Cherry Co., 16S ofValentine, U.S. 83, 4W on State Spur 16B,3½N on trail road; Deer, Dove, Grouse,Rabbit, Waterfowl; 480 acres
27. Shell Lake WMA; Cherry Co., 15NE ofGordon; Deer, Grouse, Waterfowl; 860acres, Nontoxic shot zone
17. Nine Mile Creek WMA; Scotts Bluff Co.,3E of Minatare on U.S. 26, 6N of countyroad; Deer, Dove, Pheasant, Rabbit; 178acres
18. Wildcat Hills SRA/WMA; Scotts BluffCo., 10S of Gering, NE 29 to access road;Deer, Dove, Turkey; 240 acres
19. Metcalf WMA*; Sheridan Co., 12N of HaySprings, county road; Elk, Deer, Dove,Rabbit, Squirrel, Turkey; 3,076 acres
20. Smith Lake WMA; Sheridan Co., 23S ofRushville, NE 250; Deer, Dove, Grouse,Pheasant, Rabbit, Waterfowl; 640 acres
21. Walgren Lake SRA; Sheridan Co., 2½Eof Hay Springs, 3S of U.S. Hwy. 20; Dove,Rabbit, Pheasant, Waterfowl; 130 acres
24. Oglala National Grasslands; Sioux Co.,extreme NW corner of NE above U.S. 20between Harrison & Crawford; Antelope,Deer, Dove, Grouse, Rabbit; 94,344 acres
NNORTHORTH--CENTRALCENTRALNebraska’s Sandhills region is unique.With 20,000-plus square miles of grass-covered sand dunes, it is amongthe largest natural grassland areas in theworld. Mule deer, whitetails, sharp-tailedgrouse and prairie chicken are foundthroughout the district, but a hunt in thisarea can mean lots of walking. Wildturkeys inhabit wooded areas wherevercover is adequate. Waterfowl are foundon lakes and ponds throughout the area.
DISTRICT II – NORTH-CENTRALBassett OfficeBen Rutten, Wildlife Manager(402) 684-2921 FAX (402) 684-2816
1. Milburn Div. Dam WMA; Blaine Co., 2NWof Milburn, county road; Deer, Dove,Grouse, Pheasant, Rabbit, Waterfowl; 672acres
2. Hull Lake WMA; Boyd Co., 3W, 2S ofButte, NE 11; Dove, Rabbit, Furbearers;5.5 acres
6. Keller School Land WMA; Brown Co.,from Long Pine 3W on U.S. 20, 9N on U.S.183, 1¼W, 1S on trail roads; Deer, Grouse,Rabbit, Squirrel, Turkey; 640 acres
7. Keller Park SRA; Brown Co., 3W, 9N ofLong Pine, U.S. 183; Deer, Grouse, Turkey;196 acres
8. Long Lake SRA; Brown Co., 20SW ofJohnstown, county road; Waterfowl;30 acres
9. Long Pine SRA; Brown Co., NW of LongPine just S of U.S. 20; Deer, Squirrel,Turkey; 154 acres. Archery range
10. Long Pine WMA*; Brown Co., NW ofLong Pine just N of U.S. 20; Deer, Squirrel,Turkey; 160 acres
11. Pine Glen WMA*; Brown Co., 7W ofBassett on U.S. 20, 9N on county road;Deer, Dove, Rabbit, Squirrel, Turkey; 960acres
12. Plum Creek Valley WMA; Brown Co.,1½W of Johnstown on U.S. 20, 1½S oncounty road; Deer, Dove, Rabbit, Squirrel,Grouse, Turkey; 1,320 acres, 2 miles ofPlum Creek flows through area
13. South Pine WMA; Brown Co., 11½ S ofLong Pine, county road; Waterfowl, Dove;420 acres, 80 acres open water, 152 acresmarsh
14. South Twin Lake WMA; Brown Co., 2E ofJohnstown on U.S. 20, 19S, 3½W on trailroad; Dove, Grouse, Waterfowl; 160 acres
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NNORTHEASTORTHEASTWaterfowl hunting along the MissouriRiver and its marshy backwaters is someof the best Nebraska has to offer. Thereis good white-tailed deer hunting in thebluffs above the river and in the creekbottoms that slice through the district’sgrasslands and croplands. Wild turkeysare numerous along river bottoms andwherever there is an abundance of timber. Pheasants and bobwhite quailcan be found in most agricultural areas.The Missouri bluffs also support anexcellent squirrel population.
DISTRICT III – NORTHEASTNorfolk OfficeTom Welstead, Wildlife Manager(402) 370-3374 FAX (402) 370-3256
1. Grove Lake WMA*; Antelope Co., 2N ofRoyal, U.S. 20, N on county road; Deer,Dove, Pheasant, Quail, Rabbit, Squirrel,Turkey, Waterfowl; 2,008 acres
2. Hackberry Creek WMA*; Antelope Co., 1½E, ½N of Clearwater; Deer, Dove,Pheasant, Quail, Rabbit, Squirrel, Turkey,Waterfowl; 235+ acres
3. Red Wing WMA*; Antelope Co., 5W ofNeligh, county road; Deer, Dove, Pheasant,Quail, Rabbit, Squirrel, Waterfowl; 320acres
4. Beaver Bend WMA*; BooneCo., ½NW of St. Edward;Dove, Rabbit, Squirrel; 27acres
5. Middle Decatur Bend WMA;Burt Co.,2E of Decatur locatedon Iowa side of Missouri River;Deer, Waterfowl; 133 acres.Only accessible by boat from
Missouri River. Area will beclosed due to constructionuntil January 1, 2004 6. Pelican Point SRA;
Burt Co., 4E, 4N, 1E ofTekamah; Quail, Rabbit,Squirrel, Waterfowl; 36acres
8. Chalkrock WMA; Cedar Co., 5N, 1½E ofHwys. 12 & 81 Junction on county road;Dove, Pheasant, Rabbit, Waterfowl; 130acres
9. Tatanka WMA; Cedar Co., 6N, 1E ofCrofton; Dove, Pheasant, Quail, Waterfowl;80 acres
10. Wiseman WMA*; Cedar Co., 5E, 1N, 1Wof Wynot on county road; Deer, Dove,Rabbit, Squirrel, Turkey; 380 acres
11. Whitetail WMA; Colfax Co., ½W ofSchuyler, U.S. 30, 3S, county road; Deer,Dove, Quail, Rabbit, Squirrel, Waterfowl;216 acres
12. Black Island WMA*; Cuming Co., 2E ofPilger or 5NW of Wisner; Deer, Dove,Pheasant, Quail, Rabbit, Squirrel, Turkey,Waterfowl; 204 acres
13. Basswood Ridge WMA*; Dakota Co.,2NW of Homer, county road; Deer, Rabbit,Squirrel, Turkey; 360 acres. Target shootingprohibited
14. Omadi Bend WMA; Dakota Co., 2N, 2½Eof Homer; Pheasant, Quail, Waterfowl; 33acres. Borders Iowa by land. Write NGPCfor map
28. Valentine NWR; Cherry Co., 13S ofValentine on U.S. 83, 16W on State Spur16B; Deer, Grouse, Dove, Pheasant,Coyote with permit. Waterfowl on Duck,Rice and Watts lakes only; 70,085 acresexcept for posted closed areas. Closed forall other birds and animals. Area maps andregulations available from leaflet boxes andrefuge headquarters. No alcohol. No camp-ing. No open fires. Nontoxic Shot Only.
29. Arcadia Diversion Dam WMA; Custer Co.,4S of Comstock, county road; Deer, Dove,Pheasant, Squirrel, Waterfowl, Turkey; 925acres
30. Arnold Lake SRA; Custer Co., 1S ofArnold on NE 40 or NE 92; Rabbit,Waterfowl; 40 acres
31. Myrtle E. Hall WMA; Custer/Loup Co., Twolocations: East – 8W, 1S of Taylor. West –11½W 1S of Taylor; Deer, Dove, Grouse,Pheasant, Quail, Rabbit, Turkey; 1960 acres
32. Pressey WMA; Custer Co., 5N of Ocontoon NE 21; Deer, Dove, Pheasant, Quail,Rabbit, Squirrel, Turkey; 1,692 acres.Campground with electrical hookups.
33. Calamus Reservoir SRA/WMA; Garfield& Loup Co.s, 4W, 3N of Burwell; Deer,Dove, Grouse, Pheasant, Quail, Rabbit,Waterfowl, Turkey; 10,312 acres. Huntingbelow dam restricted to shotgun & archeryonly in signed areas; seasonal waterfowlblinds may be used
34. Mirdan Canal WMA; Garfield Co., 2½W ofBurwell on U.S. 91, ¼N on access road;Deer, Dove, Pheasant, Quail, Waterfowl; 52acres
35. Avocet WMA; Grant County., ½E of Hyannison U.S 2; Waterfowl, Furbearers; 188 acreswith 100 acres of marsh and open water.
36. DeFair Lake WMA; Grant Co., 2S ofHyannis on NE 61, ¼E; Dove, Waterfowl;125 acres, 66 acres water
37. Frye Lake WMA; Grant Co., 1N ofHyannis; Grouse, Waterfowl; 345 acres
38. Atkinson SRA; Holt Co., 1W of Atkinsonon U.S. 20 or NE 11; Pheasant, Rabbit,Waterfowl; 54 acres
39. Harold W. Andersen WMA*; Howard Co.,2N, 3E of Dannebrog; Deer, Dove,Pheasant, Quail, Rabbit, Squirrel, Turkey,Waterfowl; 272 acres
40. Loup Bottoms WMA; Howard Co., ½N,½E of Cotesfield on county roads; Deer,Dove, Pheasant, Rabbit, Squirrel, Waterfowl;80 acres ¼ mile North Loup river access
41. Leonard A. Koziol WMA; Howard Co.,2½N of St. Paul on U.S. 281, 2E on countyroad and ½N; Deer, Dove, Pheasant, Quail,Rabbit, Squirrel, Turkey, Waterfowl; 328acres
42. Marsh Wren WMA; Howard Co., 2½E, 1Sof Elba on county roads; Deer, Dove,Pheasant, Quail, Rabbit, Squirrel, Waterfowl;153 acres ¾ mile North Loup river access
43. North Loup SRA; Howard Co., 4N of St.Paul on U.S. 281; Quail, Rabbit, Waterfowl;20 acres
44. Holt Creek WMA; Keya Paha Co., 9N, 2Eof Springview; Deer, Dove, Turkey; 180 acres
45. Thomas Creek WMA*; Keya Paha Co., 2Sof Springview on U.S. 183, 2E, 1S oncounty road; Deer, Dove, Rabbit, Squirrel,Turkey; 1,154 acres
46. Kent Diversion Dam WMA; Loup Co., 5½Eof Taylor on U.S. 91 and ¼N; Deer, Dove,Pheasant, Rabbit, Waterfowl; 194 acres
47. Fred Thomas WMA*; Rock Co.,11N ofBassett on NE 7; Deer, Turkey, Rabbit; 218acres. Lookout platform over Niobrara River.
48. Twin Lakes RC WMA*; Rock Co.,15½S ofBassett on U.S. 183, 2½E, 2S on countyRd; Waterfowl, Snipe, Deer, Dove, Grouse,Turkey; 903 acres.
49. Sherman Reservoir SRA/WMA; ShermanCo., 4E of Loup City, county road; Deer,Dove, Pheasant, Quail, Rabbit, Turkey,Waterfowl; 3,382 acres. Authorized dogtraining area; seasonal waterfowl blindsmay be used
50. Bessey Division, Nebraska NF; ThomasCo., 1W of Halsey, NE 2; Antelope, Deer,Dove, Grouse; 90,445 acres. Check atheadquarters
51. Davis Creek WMA; Valley and GreeleyCo.s, 3S of North Loup on county road;Deer, Dove, Grouse, Pheasant, Quail,Rabbit, Waterfowl; 2,450 acres
52. Scotia Canal WMA; Valley Co., 4½N ofNorth Loup on U.S. 11 and countyrds.;Deer, Dove, Pheasant, Quail, Rabbit,Waterfowl; 183 acres
43. DeSoto NWR; Washington Co., 2½ N ofFort Calhoun; Deer only; Archery deer lim-ited to portion of west side of MissouriRiver. Managed muzzleloader deer, seedeer information
44. Sioux Strip WMA; Wayne Co., 3 interruptedtracts beginning 2SE of Randolph on countyroad; Dove, Pheasant, Rabbit; 25 acres
45. Thompson-Barnes WMA; Wayne Co., 4N,1W, 1/2N of Wayne; Pheasant, Quail,Cottontail, Dove; 160 acres
SSOUTHWESTOUTHWESTThis rugged High Plains country coversthe gamut for the mixed bag hunter. Thearea’s agricultural land provides some ofthe best pheasant hunting in the stateand some of the largest mule deer in thestate come from the Southwest’s grassland areas. White-tailed deer, wildturkey, quail, grouse, waterfowl andsmall game all have their niche here, giving hunters plenty of options.
DISTRICT IV – SOUTHWESTNorth Platte OfficeRichard Nelson,Wildlife Manager(308) 535-8025FAX (308) 535-8028
1. Enders Reservoir SRA/WMA; Chase Co.,9½SE of Imperial, U.S. 6; Deer, Dove,Pheasant, Quail, Rabbit, Waterfowl. Portionposted as waterfowl refuge. 3,643 acres
2. Rock Creek SRA; Dundy Co., 4N, 1W ofParks, U.S. 34, gravel road; Pheasant,Rabbit, Waterfowl; 165 acres
3. Medicine Creek SRA/WMA; Frontier Co.,2W of Cambridge, U.S. 6-34, 7N, accessroad; Deer, Dove, Pheasant, Quail, Rabbit,Squirrel, Turkey, Waterfowl; 6,726 acres
4. Red Willow Reservoir SRA/WMA;Frontier Co., 11N of McCook, U.S. 83;Deer, Dove, Pheasant, Quail, Rabbit,Waterfowl; 4,320 acres
6. Hayes Center WMA; Hayes Co., 12NE ofHayes Center, county road; Dove,Pheasant, Quail, Rabbit, Turkey, Deer,Waterfowl; 78 acres
7. Swanson Reservoir SRA/WMA;Hitchcock Co., 2W of Trenton, U.S. 34;Deer, Dove, Pheasant, Quail, Rabbit,Squirrel, Turkey, Waterfowl; 3,957 acres
8. Clear Creek WMA; Keith Co., ½S, 4½E, 1Sof Lewellen; Deer, Dove, Pheasant, Rabbit,Squirrel, Turkey, Waterfowl; 6,244 acres.Special provisions govern waterfowl hunting,portion posted as refuge; Nontoxic Shot
9. Lake McConaughy SRA; Keith Co., 11Nof Ogallala, NE 61; Deer, Grouse, Rabbit,Turkey, Waterfowl; 6,492 acres. Special pro-visions govern waterfowl blind or bargeplacement
10. Lake Ogallala SRA; Keith Co., 9N ofOgallala, NE 61; Waterfowl; 339 acres
26. Greenvale WMA*; Knox Co., 9W, 3S, ½Wand ¼S of Verdigre on county road; Deer,Dove, Rabbit, Squirrel, Turkey; 200 acres
27. Lewis and Clark Lake SRA; Knox Co.,15N of Crofton, NE 121; Deer, Pheasant,Quail, Rabbit, Squirrel, Turkey, Waterfowl;1,227 acres
28. Niobrara SP; Knox Co.,1W of Niobrara onNE 12; Deer; Special free permit required.Check with park superintendent; 1,234acres, 402-857-3373
29. Oak Valley WMA*; Madison Co., 2½S, 1Wof Battle Creek; Deer, Dove, Pheasant,Quail, Rabbit, Squirrel; 640 acres
30. Yellowbanks WMA*; Madison Co., 3N ofBattle Creek, NE 121, 2½W, ½N, ½W,county road; Deer, Dove, Pheasant, Quail,Rabbit, Squirrel, Turkey; 680 acres. Targetshooting prohibited
31. Dr. Bruce Cowgill WMA*; Merrick Co., 1½E of Silver Creek; Deer, Quail, Turkey,Waterfowl; 250 acres
32. Council Creek WMA; Nance Co., 6½W,1S of Genoa via county road; Deer, Dove,Pheasant, Quail, Rabbit, Squirrel, Turkey;160 acres
33. Loup Lands WMA; Nance Co., AlongLoup River near Loup power canalheadgates: (1) 4SW of Genoa, north sideof river; (2) 10SW of Genoa, south side ofriver; (3) 4SW of Genoa; Deer, Dove,Pheasant, Quail, Rabbit, Squirrel, Turkey,Waterfowl; 485 acres. Use of rifles or hand-guns prohibited
34. Prairie Wolf WMA*; Nance Co., 1S ofGenoa, NE 39; Deer, Dove, Pheasant,Quail, Rabbit, Turkey, Waterfowl; 972 acres
15. Jeffrey Canyon WMA; Lincoln Co., 5S, 3Wof Brady, county road; Waterfowl; 35 acres
16. Muskrat Run WMA*; Lincoln Co., 4W,2N, ½W of North Platte on U.S. 30; Deer,Dove, Quail, Rabbit, Squirrel, Turkey,Waterfowl; 224 acres, Nontoxic Shot. Targetshooting prohibited
17. North River WMA*; Lincoln Co., 3N ofHershey; Deer, Dove, Pheasant, Quail,Rabbit, Squirrel, Turkey, Waterfowl; 681acres. Target shooting prohibited
18. Platte WMA*; Lincoln Co., 6E of NorthPlatte; Deer, Pheasant, Quail, Rabbit,Turkey, Waterfowl; 242 acres. Target shooting prohibited
19. Sutherland Reservoir SRA; Lincoln Co.,2S of Sutherland, NE 25; Dove, Pheasant,Waterfowl; 6,000 acres
20. Red Willow Div. Dam WMA; Red WillowCo., 9NE of McCook; Dove, Pheasant,Quail, Rabbit, Waterfowl; 56 acres
SSOUTHOUTH-C-CENTRALENTRALThe Rainwater Basins comprise a largepart of this region, offering fine sport onwaterfowl, upland and small game. In wetyears, the basins teem with ducks andgeese, with pheasants a bonus on the sur-rounding area. In dry years, the pheasanthunting climbs as dryland increases. Thecentral Platte River provides excellenthunting for a variety of species. Deer andwaterfowl are plentiful along the riversand streams, while quail can be found inthe hilly areas in the eastern part of theregion.
DISTRICT VI – SOUTH-CENTRALKearney OfficeDaylan Figgs,Wildlife Manager(308) 865-5310FAX (308) 865-5309
1. Ayr Lake WMA; Adams Co., 4S of US 6,1E Hastings; Dove, Pheasant, Waterfowl;160 acres; Nontoxic Shot
2. Bassway Strip WMA; Buffalo Co., MindenInterchange I-80, S on NE 10 to markedaccess road; Deer, Dove, Pheasant, Quail,Rabbit, Squirrel, Turkey, Waterfowl; 729acres
3. Blue Hole WMA; Buffalo Co., Both sidesof U.S. 183, just S of Elm CreekInterchange I-80; Deer, Dove, Quail,Rabbit, Squirrel, Turkey, Waterfowl; 427acres
4. East Odessa WMA; Buffalo Co., 5E ofOdessa Interchange, S side of I-80 oneastbound access road; Deer, Dove,Pheasant, Quail, Rabbit, Squirrel, Turkey,Waterfowl; 131 acres
5. Sandy Channel SRA; Buffalo Co., 1½Sof Elm Creek Interchange I-80. Markedaccess; Dove, Rabbit, Waterfowl; 133 acres
55. Victor Lakes WPA; Gosper Co., 4½N,½W of Bertrand, county road; Dove,Pheasant, Waterfowl; 283 acres, NontoxicShot
56. Cornhusker WMA; Hall Co., Grand Island,4W of U.S. 281 and Old Potash Hwy., ½S,county road; Archery Deer, Dove,Pheasant, Quail, Rabbit; 840 acres. Use ofrifles or handguns prohibited
57. Hannon WPA; Hall Co., 2E, 3S of Shelton;Pheasant, Waterfowl; 307 acres. NontoxicShot
58. Loch Linda WMA; Hall Co., from AldaInterchange, 1N, 2E, ½S, 1½E on southside of I-80.; Deer, Dove, Pheasant, Quail,Rabbit, Squirrel, Turkey, Waterfowl; 38acres. Target shooting prohibited
59. Martin's Reach WMA*; Hall Co., ½S 3Walong service road on S side of I-80 atWood River Exit; Deer, Dove, Pheasant,Quail, Rabbit, Squirrel, Turkey, Waterfowl;89 acres
60. Mormon Island SRA; Hall Co., GrandIsland Interchange, I-80, Exit 312; Quail,Rabbit, Waterfowl; 152 acres
61. Deep Well WMA; Hamilton Co., 1½N, 2Eof I-80, Exit #318; Dove, Pheasant, Rabbit,Waterfowl; 238 acres. Nontoxic Shot
10. Diamond Lake WMA; Gage Co., 3W ofOdell, NE 8; Deer, Dove, Pheasant, Quail,Rabbit, Squirrel, Waterfowl, Turkey; 369acres
11. Iron Horse Trail WMA; Gage Co.,Interrupted strip of former railroadright-of-way, NE 4 from Beatrice to SE ofDuBois; Deer, Dove, Pheasant, Quail,Rabbit, Squirrel; 98 acres. For map, writeGame and Parks Commission
16. Bluestem Lake SRA; Lancaster Co.,2½W of Sprague, county road; Deer,Pheasant, Quail, Rabbit, Turkey, Squirrel,Waterfowl; 483 acres
17. Branched Oak Lake SRA/WMA;Lancaster Co., 3N of Malcolm, accessroad; Deer, Pheasant, Quail, Rabbit,Waterfowl, Turkey; 4,406 acres. Areaclosed to Canada goose hunting, portion ofarea closed to waterfowl hunting. Targetshooting prohibited in emergency spillway;Camping limited to 3 days in a 6 day con-secutive time period
18. Conestoga Lake SRA; Lancaster Co., 2N,½W of Denton; Dove, Pheasant, Quail,Rabbit, Squirrel, Deer, Turkey; 486 acres.Closed to waterfowl hunting. Target shoot-ing prohibited
19. Hedgefield WMA; Lancaster Co., 1½S,3E, ½N of Hickman; Dove, Pheasant,Quail, Rabbit, Squirrel, Waterfowl, Turkey;114 acres. Target shooting prohibited;Camping limited to 3 days in a 6 day con-secutive time period
109. Waco Basin WPA; York Co., 1N, ½W ofWaco, county road; Dove, Pheasant,Waterfowl; 159 acres. Nontoxic Shot
SSOUTHEASTOUTHEASTThe rolling hills and croplands of southeastern Nebraska have long servedup quality pheasant hunting, but that’snot the whole story. Quail hunters findgreat shooting in some areas, wild turkeysare increasing and waterfowl hunting isgood. And while the number of white-tailed deer has been reduced inrecent years, the area still supports agood population and is home to some big-racked bucks.
DISTRICT V – SOUTHEASTLincoln OfficeJeff Hoffman,Wildlife Manager(402) 471-5415FAX (402) 471-5528
1. Oxbow Trail Reservoir NRD; Butler Co.,1½E of Ulysses, north side of road; Dove,Pheasant, Quail, Rabbit, Squirrel,Waterfowl; 80 acres
2. Redtail WMA*; Butler Co., 1E of Dwight;Deer, Dove, Pheasant, Quail, Rabbit,Waterfowl; 320 acres
6. Schilling WMA; Cass Co., ½E 1N ofPlattsmouth, U.S. 34, U.S. 75 or NE 66;Dove, Pheasant, Rabbit, Squirrel,Waterfowl; 1,755 acres. Special regulationsapply to 1,310 acres, contact area manag-er. Nontoxic Shot. Target shooting prohibited
7. William Gilmour/Tobacco Island WMA;Cass Co., 1S, of Plattsmouth; Dove, Deer,Turkey, Pheasant, Waterfowl; 1604 acres.Nontoxic Shot; Target shooting prohibited
Elgin’s TaxidermyGamehead Specialty
811 Main St.Stromsburg, NE 68666402.764.8111
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20. Jack Sinn Memorial WMA*; LancasterCo., 2S of Ceresco; and 1S, 3E ofCeresco; Deer, Pheasant, Quail, Rabbit,Waterfowl; 832 acres. Nontoxic Shot. Targetshooting prohibited (both Lancaster &Saunders Cos.)
21. Killdeer WMA; Lancaster Co., 2½N ofMartell, county road; Dove, Pheasant, Quail,Rabbit, Waterfowl, Turkey; 90 acres. Targetshooting prohibited; Camping limited to 3days in a 6 day consecutive time period
22. Little Salt Creek WMA: Lancaster Co.,3E ½S. Raymond. 158 acres; Waterfowl,Pheasant, Quail, Dove, Rabbit, Squirreland Deer. Nontoxic shot.
23. Olive Creek Lake SRA; Lancaster Co., 1½E of Kramer; Deer, Pheasant, Quail,Rabbit, Squirrel, Waterfowl, Turkey; 438acres
24. Pawnee Lake SRA; Lancaster Co., 3W,3N of Emerald; Deer, Pheasant, Quail,Rabbit, Squirrel, Waterfowl, Turkey; 1,184acres. Trap and archery range available.Use of center or rim fire rifles or pistols isprohibited. Target shooting is prohibited innorthwest portion of area.
25. Stagecoach Lake SRA; Lancaster Co.,1½S, ½W of Hickman; Deer, Pheasant,Quail, Rabbit, Squirrel, Turkey; 412 acres
26. Teal Lake WMA; Lancaster Co., 2S ofKramer; Dove, Pheasant, Quail, Rabbit,Squirrel, Waterfowl, Turkey; 93 acres;Camping limited to 3 days in a 6 day con-secutive time period
27. Wagon Train Lake SRA; Lancaster Co.,2E of Hickman, county road; Deer, Pheasant,Quail, Rabbit, Squirrel, Waterfowl, Turkey;720 acres. Dog training area available
28. Wildwood WMA; Lancaster Co., 1N, 1Wof Agnew; Deer, Dove, Pheasant, Quail,Rabbit, Squirrel, Waterfowl, Turkey; 491acres; Camping limited to 3 days in a 6 dayconsecutive time period
29.Yankee Hill WMA; Lancaster Co., 2½E,1S of Denton, county road; Deer, Dove,Pheasant, Quail, Rabbit, Squirrel,Waterfowl, Turkey; 938 acres. Target shoot-ing prohibited; camping limited to 3 days ina 6 day consecutive time period; dog training area
36. Iron Horse Trail WMA; Pawnee Co.,Interrupted strip of former railroadright-of-way, NE 4 from Beatrice to SE ofDuBois; Deer, Dove, Pheasant, Quail,Rabbit, Squirrel; 97 acres. For map, writeGame and Parks Commission
55. Catfish Run WMA; Saunders Co., 1E ofAshland; Archery hunting for all legal gamespecies is allowed. 60 acres.No firearms allowed
56. Czechland Lake Recreation NRD;Saunders Co., 2 N, ¾ W of Prague off NE79; Dove, Pheasant, Rabbit, Waterfowl; 95acres
57. Jack Sinn Memorial WMA*; SaundersCo., 1S, 4E of Ceresco; Deer, Pheasant,Quail, Rabbit, Waterfowl; 470 acres.Nontoxic Shot Target shooting prohibited(both Lancaster & Saunders Cos.)
63. North Lake Basin WMA*; Seward Co.,1N of Utica, county road; Pheasant, Dove,Waterfowl; 364 acres. Nontoxic Shot
64. Oak Glen WMA*; Seward Co., 1½N ofGarland; Deer, Dove, Pheasant, Quail,Rabbit, Squirrel, Turkey; 633 acres.Hunters may use only .22 rimfire rifles,muzzleloading rifles, shotguns using a sin-gle ball or slug, shotguns using lead orNontoxic Shot, or bow and arrow.
66. Smith Creek NRD; Seward Co., ½ S, 1Eof Utica, interchange on Interstate 80;Waterfowl; 13 acres
67. Straight Water WMA; Seward Co., 2½N,1W of Goehner; Dove, Pheasant,Waterfowl; 240 acres. Nontoxic Shot
68. Twin Lakes WMA; Seward Co., 2½N, 1Eof Pleasant Dale; Deer, Dove, Pheasant,Quail, Rabbit, Squirrel; 1,270 acres. Closedto waterfowl hunting. Closed to all publicaccess Oct. 15 to end of dark goose sea-son; Camping limited to 3 days in a 6 dayconsecutive time period
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THE CLASSIFIEDSOUTDOOR ORGANIZATIONSWILDLIFE CRIMESTOPPERS
Help protect our outdoor resources. Reportviolations to the NEBRASKA WILDLIFECRIMESTOPPERS hotline 1-800-742-7627.You can remain anonymous. To join ormake a tax-deductible donation, write toNebraska Wildlife Protectors Association,P.O. Box 726, Broken Bow, NE 68822-0726.
CALL TO ACTIONThe success of Ducks Unlimited hinges oneach member’s efforts in the conservationof North America’s wetlands and waterfowl.You can help meet conservation goals byvolunteering your time, energy andresources. Learn more about how you canmake a difference for ducks, call 1-800-45-DUCKS or visit our web site atwww.nebraskadu.org.
WILD TURKEY FEDERATIONJoin the NWTF and help us in our missionto conserve the wild turkey and preserveour turkey hunting heritage. Our funds helpacquire lands and manage habitats to ben-efit the wild turkey in Nebraska. For moreinformation, call Nebraska chapter presi-dent Kevin Jech at 308-327-2230.
Check the new NEBRASKAland GiftCollection – a catalog of all-Nebraskaitems for those who enjoy the outdoors.For your free copy, call 1-800-632-5263or e-mail [email protected], orwrite to Gift Collection, Nebraska Gameand Parks Commission, PO Box 30370,Lincoln, NE 68503.
HUNTERS . . .Get Your newCRP-MAP AtlasThe 2004 CRP-MAP Atlas isjam-packed with mapsand information onManagement AccessProgram areas inNebraska covering over180,000 acres. CRP-MAPallows walk-in huntingaccess on hundreds oftracts of private land.To get your CRP-MAPAtlas, stop by your nearestGame and ParksCommission office inAlliance, Bassett, Kearney,Lincoln, Norfolk, NorthPlatte, Omaha, Ak-Sar-BenAquarium at Gretna or atover 900 permit agentsacross the state.You can also check theCommission’s web site atwww.outdoornebraska.org
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Love Nebraska?You’ll love NEBRASKAlandMagazine. It’s all Nebraska with storiesabout hunting, fishing, outdoor recreation,wildlife and the breathtaking photos that have
made it famous. Now, with this special offer, you canstill subscribe to NEBRASKAland for just $16. Save 55% off the
cover price and receive NEBRASKAland’s Wild Game Cookbook, filled withover 150 wild game recipes, cooking tips, and more! A $12.95 value, it’syours FREE with this special offer. Nebraska residents must add state andlocal sales tax on NEBRASKAland subscriptions.
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For answers to all yourquestions on Nebraska’shunting, fishing, parks and year-round outdoor activities. You caneven purchase your permits online!Visit our 10,000 page web site today.
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Stopping PoachersNEBRASKA WILDLIFE
CRIMESTOPPERSCall 1-800-742-7627to report game violations
You can remain anonymous and may be eligible for a cash reward.
The Commission is studying howhabitat improvements made in recentyears as part of the Focus onPheasants program have affected thebirds.
Biologists fitted 20 hen pheasantsin Stanton County with radio transmit-ters last winter and followed theirmovement throughout the nestingand brood-rearing season this springand summer, documenting the habi-tats they used and when they usedthem. They also documented the
number of eggs each hen laid, thenumber of chicks hatched and thenumber that survived. The study willcontinue for two to three years withplans to have radio collars on 50 hensby the time the birds nest in 2005.
Through Focus on Pheasants, theCommission, Pheasants Forever andother partners are improving habitaton private land enrolled in the CRP.Much of the work involves diskinggrasslands and interseeding theareas with forbs, such as alfalfa andsweet clover. Greater plant diversityshould improve nest density andbrood survival, thereby increasing thepopulations of pheasants and otherground-nesting birds. Work is under-way in six focus areas across thestate to demonstrate the benefits ofthe practices.
FOCUS ON PHEASANTS
REPORT WILDLIFEVIOLATIONS
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Celebrate Nebraska HabitatCollect Special 25th Anniversary Stamps and Medals
Front of medallions(same for all five)1½-inch diameter
Back of deermedallion$10 each
Back of pheasantmedallion$10 each
Back of turkeymedallion$10 each
Back of ducksmedallion$10 each
Back of cranesmedallion$10 each
Nebraska’s 25th
Anniversary Habitat Programcollectibles are favoritesamong outdoor enthusiasts.The collection featuresmedallions, posters, and aframed set of actual habitatstamps with two medallions.Make your selections today,and support the state’swildlife habitat program.
This framed set of sixanniversary medallions(topmedallion shows front of allfive below) is truly a uniquegift for an outdoor enthusi-ast. The matted collection isdisplayed in a 14- by 71/2-inchwood frame. Available for$115 each – while quantitieslast – only at Commissionoffices listed on page 8.
For VISA and MasterCardorders (poster and unframed medallions only)
call toll-free
Shipping and handling will be added to the order.Nebraska residents must add state and local sales tax.
1-800-742-0056Also available online at
outdoornebraska.org/catalog
This poster is a 24- by18-inch high-qualityreproduction ofNebraska’s habitatstamp collection.Suitable for framing,the poster is availablefor $5 through mail orat Commission officeslisted on page 8.
This prized collectible includes all 25 actual habitat stamps issuedfrom 1977 to 2001 and two special anniversary medallions, showingthe front and back.This framed and matted collection measuring 181/2 by 151/2 inches is available while quantities last for $495 onlyat Commission offices listed on page 8.
Nebraska Habitat Program25th
AnniversaryStamp Collection
Nebraska Game and Parks Commission
4544
Find the answers to all of your hunting, fishing,wildlife, parks and outdoor recreation questionson the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission’s
web site at:wwwwww..oouuttddoooorrnneebbrraasskkaa..oorrgg
Many small game seasons andupland bird seasons open while theweather is relatively warm. Eventhe early weeks of pheasant andquail season in Nebraska are car-ried out when the temperature iswell above freezing. Huntersshould take extra precaution toavoid spoilage, often that meanscleaning game immediately in the
field and placing it on ice as soonas returning to your vehicle, homeor lodge.
Pheasants, grouse and turkeysmust have the head or one legattached for identification purpos-es. All migratory game birdsexcept doves must have one fullyfeathered wing or head plumageattached when in transport.
HANDLING GAME IN WARM WEATHER
Under federal and/or state law, discrimination is prohibited on the basis of race, color, religion, age, gender, mar-ital status, national origin, disability or political affiliation. If you think you have been discriminated against in anyprogram, activity or facility or want more information, contact the Affirmative Action Officer, Nebraska Game andParks Commission, Lincoln, NE, 402-471-0641; the Equal Opportunity Commission, Lincoln, NE, 402-471-2024, TTY / TDD 402-471-4693.
Printed on recycled paper with soy ink
Some areas of the state contin-ued to suffer dry conditions. Huntersshould take every precaution toensure that wildfires are not createdas a result of their activities.
All hunters should carry with themthe necessary tools to contain fires,such as a shovel, a blanket, andcontainers of water. If a fire is dis-covered or gets out of hand, contactlocal authorities immediately. Earlyresponse is critical to containment.
Other tips for avoiding the ignitionof a wildfire are:• Do not drive into grassy areas to
park or to retrieve a dead orwounded animal. The exhaustsystems of vehicles can becomevery hot and can easily ignite drygrasses and underbrush.
• Never leave a campfire unattend-ed, and whenever possible, usefire rings provided at recreationand parks areas, or confine cook-ing fires to a grill structure. Ensurethat the fire is fully extinguishedbefore leaving the area.
• Do not discard lit cigarettes in thefield or out of vehicle windows.