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Several hunting seasons begin Sept. 1

hunter

It's go time! A number of hunting seasons open on Sept. 1, including archery deer, dove, grouse, early teal and other small game and furbearer seasons. As you take the field, remember to check season dates and take precautions in the field to prevent potential wildfires, Looking to hunt on state recreation areas? Those areas are closed until Sept. 2. Check our Small Game and Waterfowl Guide for a refresher on regulations, and make sure you have the right permits, stamps and a HIP number if needed. Good luck and good hunting!

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fish art

Nebraska Fish Art Contest open for entries

If you know a budding outdoor artist, encourage them to participate in the Nebraska Fish Art Contest. Open to students in kindergarten through 12th grade, this free, international contest gives young people the chance to highlight their artistic talents while learning about fish, fishing and aquatic conservation. The 2025-2026 contest is accepting entries through Feb. 28, 2026.

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pheasant

Optimistic outlook for upland bird hunting 

If you are an upland hunter, good news is in the air! Recent surveys and field reports have created an optimistic outlook for Nebraska upland bird hunting seasons this fall. Good habitat and good bird production is expected across much of the state. To learn more about what to expect this hunting season, including a breakdown by geographic regions and species, check out our new Upland Outlook. 

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Bighorn ram in field

Commissioners approve mountain lion, bighorn sheep seasons

The Nebraska Game and Parks Commission approved a 2026 mountain lion hunting season at its Aug. 22 meeting in McCook. They also approved a 2026 bighorn sheep regular hunting season, 2026 fee increases, 2025 state park hunting seasons, and the third edition of the Nebraska Master Legacy Plan. 

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UPCOMING EVENTS

image of Arbor Lodge mansion

Murder at the Deadwood Saloon

Embrace your inner sleuth by participating in a murder mystery at Arbor Lodge State Historical Park. Murder and mayhem at the Deadwood Saloon will have you looking for clues and trying to break the case as you mingle with a cast of suspicious characters and make new friends. Get tickets and reserve your spot today!

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Living History at Fort Atkinson

Fort Atkinson SHP living history

Step back in time Aug. 6-7 for a look at the 1820s on the prairie with reenactors representing the military and civilian aspects of fort life. Interact with fur traders, blacksmiths, coopers, carpenters and weavers. Experience the cannon firing and drills. It’s two full days of activities, include a special presentation at 1 pm each day.   

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Wildcat Hills Preschool programming sign

Wildcat Hills monthly preschool program 

Children ages 2-6 in the Scottsbluff area are invited to a monthly program of themed stories and hands-on activities created specially for early learners. The program starts Sept. 9 and topics include birds, bats, turkeys, evergreens, fossils, pollinators and more. The program is free; children must be accompanied by an adult.

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POPULAR ONLINE

Kester award

Kester receives Public Lands Hero Award

Nebraska Game and Parks' access program manager, Adam Kester, recently received the Hero Award for his outstanding efforts to improve public access for hunters and anglers in Nebraska. Learn more about this recognition and Adam's hard work.

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people on a hill at sunset

Everyone needs a sit spot

Do you have a sit spot? There is beauty, peace and, yes, science behind the need for your own personal place in nature to sit and just be. And whether it's in your garden, at the lake or high up in a tree, there are benefits to visiting this space often.

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drum

Worth the catch: A tasty, hard-fighting game fish

Some anglers think certain fish are ‘no good’ or ‘trash fish.’ If your first reaction to catching freshwater drum is disappointment, listen up! These fish can be fun to catch and tasty to eat when prepared right.

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