South Central District plans stocking 15 million fish including walleye and crappie

As the sun dipped below the horizon, casting a warm glow over the Nebraska landscape, fisheries experts gathered for the Nebraska South-Central District Fisheries Meeting 2025. The atmosphere buzzed with anticipation as attendees prepared to discuss the future of fishing in the region, focusing on ambitious plans for fish stocking and angler engagement.

In a significant announcement, officials revealed a bold request for nearly 15 million fish to be stocked across the South Central District in 2025, encompassing 15 different species. Walleye, a favorite among local anglers, topped the list, alongside sauger, channel catfish, and hybrid striped bass. Notably, blue catfish are set to make their debut in the Plum Creek, Gallagher, and Midway canal systems, promising to enhance the fishing experience in these waters. Smallmouth bass and yellow perch will also be introduced into select interstate lakes, diversifying the aquatic life available to anglers.

The meeting also highlighted the recent completion of spring trout stockings, with over a dozen lakes receiving fish that are larger than usual this year, averaging around 12 inches instead of the typical 10. This increase in size is expected to delight anglers eager for a more rewarding catch. To gauge satisfaction with the trout stocking program, officials initiated a survey last fall, aiming to gather feedback from over 1,000 participants by the end of spring.

In addition to trout, the meeting underscored the importance of ongoing creel surveys at popular fishing spots like Sherman and Harlan reservoirs. These surveys, conducted in partnership with the University of Nebraska Lincoln, provide vital data on angler usage and catch rates, informing future management decisions. Last year, Harlan saw over 33,000 angler trips, driven largely by a thriving walleye fishery, while Sherman reported a record crappie catch of over 88,000.

The meeting concluded with a notable regulatory change: the limit for wipers and white bass has been raised to one fish over 18 inches, up from the previous 16 inches. This adjustment reflects a commitment to sustainable fishing practices and the health of local fish populations.

As the attendees departed, the excitement for the upcoming fishing season was palpable. With ambitious stocking plans and a focus on angler feedback, the Nebraska South-Central District is poised to enhance its fishing landscape, ensuring that both seasoned anglers and newcomers alike can enjoy the rich aquatic resources the region has to offer.