Bluegill fishing at Valentine NWR

Nine Refuge lakes, of which 7 have boat ramps and fishing docks, are open to fishing. Perch, bluegill, northern pike, and large mouthed bass are most sought after. A small boat, electric motors only allowed, waders, or a float tube is helpful in fishing these shallow lakes. Ice fishing is very popular in the winter months, check ice fishing dates to plan your visit. The refuge fishing and hunting brochure shows lakes open to fishing and Refuge specific regulations. Fishing license requirements and bag limits follow State regulations.

Contour maps of lakes open to fishing and records of Master Angler fish from the Refuge can also be found on the Outdoor Nebraska Master Angler Awards web site.

For the latest information on fisheries surveys and renovation planning, please visit https://outdoornebraska.gov/fishsamplingreports/.

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