May 2025 • Nebraskaland 29
What to Do in May
Attend the Bob Bruner Memorial
Fishing Derby
May 17, 9 a.m. to noon | Lake 16 at Fremont Lakes State
Recreation Area
Bring the family to Fremont Lakes for a morning of fi shing, food and fun.
Youth 15-years-old or younger, accompanied by an adult, are welcome
to compete for prizes in the derby. Other attractions include wildlife
encounters, free sloppy joes and hot dogs, and entertainment from local
civic groups and radio stations. May 17 is also Free Fishing and Park Entry
Day, so take advantage of the chance to fi sh and visit state parks without
the need for a permit.
ERIC FOWLER, NEBRASKALAND
Visit a historic iris
garden
Blooms mid- to late-April through early
June, peaking around Memorial Day
weekend | Eugene T. Mahoney State Park
Soak in the beauty of spring with this stunning
iris display garden. The Sass Memorial Iris
Garden features collections of award-winning
irises, including some varieties bred right here
in Nebraska by the Sass family, renowned
hybridizers who worked from the 1920s to the
1950s. The garden is easily accessible, with
paved walkways, convenient parking and
nearby restrooms and picnic tables. Check out
the nearby conservatory and education
center, too.
JEFF KURRUS, NEBRASKALAND
Go herping
April and May, or as weather allows
statewide, though species will vary
If you enjoy exploring and looking for
wildlife, try "herping." Herpers search for
reptiles and amphibians, such as snakes,
frogs, turtles and lizards, which can be
found anywhere there is nature — forests,
fi elds, ponds or even your own backyard.
Places near water are also a great bet. If you
fi nd a critter, don't pick it up, but do take
pictures –— and share those photos with
others. Learn more by searching "reptiles
and amphibians" at OutdoorNebraska.gov.
JUSTIN HAAG, NEBRASKALAND
