After warm start to winter, ice fishing conditions arrive across Nebraska

LINCOLN, Neb. - While a warm start to the winter limited early opportunities, a recent cold snap has led to safe ice, and therefore, proper conditions for ice fishing across Nebraska.

“I think a lot of the appeal to it is that it’s something to do during the winter”

Daryl Bauer of Nebraska Game and Parks Fisheries knows the fishing season doesn’t end when the water freezes. For those looking to get into ice fishing, he reccomends finding someone with experience. 

“The best thing is, if you know someone who’s experienced, go with them” Bauer said. “We [Game and Parks] have also usually had some workshops, but due to ice conditions, neither of them happened this year… You can also drive out to the local lake and see if there’s some guys out.”

All it takes is a rod/reel, some warm clothes, a spud and a drill to have some fun on the ice.

Bauer says ice fishing provides ample opportunity for a multitude of species, but says panfish are particularly good though the ice.

“Bluegills, crappie, maybe even yellow perch out west,” Bauer said. “They’re fun to catch, especially through the ice, and you can have a meal of good fresh fish.”

But with the fun ice fishing provides, there’s also safety and responsibility. While most ice across Nebraska has finally found a safe level, that can change, along with conditions.

Bauer urges safety and caution, no matter how safe the ice may seem.

“Close to the shore is where the ice will start to go bad or be the thinnest,” Bauer said. “If it’s a little shaky near the shoreline, you probably better stay off, but if you can get on alright, get out and check the thickness. And check it as you go because ice thickness can vary, not every area may have the same thickness of ice and you bet make sure it’s safe.”