26 Nebraskaland • March 2025
Outdoor Nebraska
By Renae Blum
Whether it's sunny or cold, you can fi nd an adventure waiting
for you this month, including fi shing, viewing sandhill cranes
and more.
N
Fish for early spring crappie
As soon as the ice goes out, through May | Statewide
Fishing for crappie in early spring, as soon as the ice has gone out, can be a
great opportunity this time of year. They'll be staying shallow clear into May,
searching for food so they have energy to spawn. Early on, while the water is
cold, look for bays, coves and protected areas where temperatures are warmer,
and then fi sh slow. Take the kids, because when crappies are shallow like this,
anyone can catch them.
JEFF KURRUS, NEBRASKALAND
View sandhill cranes at Fort
Kearny State Recreation Area
March 10 through the fi rst week of April; peak is
the third and fourth weeks of March
About 10 miles southeast of Kearney
A popular choice for viewing the sandhill crane migration
is Fort Kearny State Recreation Area. Visitors fl ock to the
bridge on the park's hike-bike trail, located on the east side
of the park about 600 yards from the parking lot. Arrive 30
to 45 minutes before sunrise and sunset for the best view.
For those staying overnight, the park off ers 120 fi rst-come,
fi rst-served campsites; learn more at OutdoorNebraska.gov.
A park entry permit is required.
JEFF KURRUS, NEBRASKALAND
