May 2021 • Nebraskaland 41
first opened in May," he said.
Bridgeport boasts opportunity for catching a variety of fish,
including bluegills, channel catfish, crappies, largemouth
bass, rainbow trout, cutthroat trout, walleyes, yellow perch
and northern pike.
Joe Rydell, Game and Parks fisheries biologist, said the
lakes range as deep as 15-20 feet, providing ample room
for fish to roam. Generally, he said sunlight moves fish into
deeper water midday, but they swim shallow early and late.
"There are several shallow humps and ridges that run
around the pits that typically have chara, a type of algae that
looks like rooted vegetation," he said. "The trout will roam
the open water, but panfish and bass utilize those chara areas
to roam for food and cover. Fallen trees are also good habitat
along the shores."
While Center Lake caters to boats and personal watercraft
with gasoline engines, electric trolling motors and
paddlecraft are allowed on the other four lakes. The close
proximity of campsites to the water makes Bridgeport a
perfect destination for those with kayaks, canoes and stand-
up paddleboards.
The park also allows hunting by archery, muzzleloader and
shotgun. Its proximity to the Platte River attracts a diverse
set of wildlife. The park made news in 2015 when a moose,
a rare sight in Nebraska, took up temporary residence on the
island at Center Lake.
Even though moose-sightings are certainly not guaranteed,
visitors are sure to find enough to keep them entertained and
returning to this sandy destination.
N
Aerial of Bridgeport State Recreation Area in Morrill County. Fall colors adorn Bridgeport State Recreation Area in the North
Platte River valley.
Canada geese and goslings swim on Center Lake at
Bridgeport State Recreation Area.
