July 2026 • Nebraskaland 27
WHAT TO DO IN JULY
Scout Now
Even though it's buggy in the woods
and the wetlands, scout now. If you
find a deer trail in the middle of the
summer growth, get a trail camera on
that path to preview what the archery
season might look like. It's also time
to start looking at public wetlands for
teal hunting spots. Look for out-of-
the-way locations that other hunters
will likely miss. Areas that are holding
water now stand a good chance to hold
water on opening day.
JEFF KURRUS, NEBRASKALAND
Night Moves
You don't have to fish at night to
catch fish during the summer, but it's
certainly cooler. People often think
fish stop eating during the summer,
but they continue to consume even
through the dog days. There is just so
much to eat this time of year. While
any night this month is a good time
to fish, consider the week of July 27
when there's a full moon to make
your transition into night fishing. The
extra moonlight will be helpful.
JEFF KURRUS, NEBRASKALAND
Light Up the Lake
If you're looking for a family-friendly
Fourth of July destination, take a trip to
Johnson Lake on July 3 for a spectacular
fireworks display put on by the Johnson
Lake Area Chamber of Commerce. The
show starts at 9:30 p.m., and while
admission is free, all vehicles require
a park permit. Plan ahead for camping
and boating options.
If yo u're i n te re s te d i n s h o o t i n g
your own fireworks at a park, check
OutdoorNebraska.gov for the latest
information on permissible areas.
JULIE GEISER, NEBRASKALAND
raska