28 Nebraskaland • January-February 2022
Outdoor Nebraska
By Renae Blum
A clear, starry sky, a crisp winter hike and an afternoon spent ice
fi shing — these are just a few delights available to anyone wanting to
get outdoors this month. There is more to do than you might think!
N
Ice fi shing at Smith Lake
As conditions allow | Smith Lake Wildlife Management Area
Many Sandhills lakes are good for ice fi shing, but Smith Lake is a standout, with
a long record of great ice fi shing. It's a classic Sandhills lake, relatively shallow
with lots of aquatic vegetation — and a very productive fi shery, with some big
northern pike and largemouth bass as well.
BOB GRIER, NEBRASKALAND
Winter hiking for
wildlife viewing
Throughout the month | Statewide
Now is a good time to view wildlife while
hiking, especially with fewer people around to
spook them off . State parks are always a good
bet, as are wildlife management areas and
anywhere with water. (Though, you can fi nd
wildlife just about anywhere, including your
own backyard.) Wear layers, bring binoculars
and a journal, and have fun.
CHRIS MASADA
