28 Nebraskaland • August-September 2025
Catch brook trout in Pine Ridge streams
Year-round | Nebraska's far northwestern corner
For fi sheries biologist Daryl Bauer, it's not diffi cult to explain the appeal of brook
trout fi shing in the Pine Ridge. It's "some of the prettiest fi sh in the state in some
of the prettiest country." These trout may not be huge, but feature gorgeous
coloring, particularly during spawning season in late fall. They're not hard to
catch either, if you don't spook them. Pretend you're hunting deer on foot: Sneak,
be quiet, tread lightly and wear camoufl age.
JUSTIN HAAG, NEBRASKALAND
Outdoor Nebraska
By Renae Blum
The fi rst hints of fall usher in the fl ap of wings, as birds
begin to migrate. New hunting seasons arrive, with
some relief from July's heat. And, as always, there is
something new to discover.
Explore a unique wildlife
refuge via a guided hike
Aug. 2, 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. | Meet at the parking
area on the west end of Hackberry Lake
With its unplowed prairies, diverse habitats and
interesting relics, the Valentine National Wildlife
Refuge is well worth exploring. Join a local nonprofi t, the
Sandhills Prairie Refuge Association, for a free, 2/3-mile,
easy hike through this landscape, led by two biologists.
You'll learn about native prairie plant identifi cation,
birding and 1930s Nebraska history — and perhaps
experience incredible views from an observation deck at
an old fi re tower. Registration is required. Learn more at
sandhillspra.org.
