Free Fishing And Park Entry Day For Neb Game And Parks On Saturday

     Tomorrow is the annual Free Fishing and Park Entry Day in Nebraska. It’s held the Saturday before Memorial Day weekend, which is when the State Park System moves to a full summer schedule at all its locations.

       Entry permits are not needed and anglers can fish without a permit, although they must still observe all other fishing regulations. Camping, lodging and all other user fees also still apply at state park areas.

      Those fishing tomorrow also are encouraged to participate in the Take ’em Fishing challenge, in which anglers pledge to take new or inexperienced anglers fishing. 

       Fish permits typically are required for anglers age 16 and older – but not on Free Fishing and Park Entry Day. 

      Nebraska Game and Parks uses the Free Day as a soft opening for some activities to let new seasonal staff get their feet under them before the full onslaught of tourists, but also sees it as a long-term marketing tool.

      The idea is that by being able to visit the various state parks and other Game and Parks sites for free, residents who might normally stay away will come and learn more about what the sites have to offer, then pass that along to summer visitors.