FishingFishing is allowed on the Niobrara National Scenic River, and gives visitors the opportunity to get up-close and personal with the river and its natural beauty. Reminiscent of the traditional use of the river by Native Americans and Homesteaders who settled on the banks, this year-long activity is an integral part of Nebraska’s history.
The Niobrara River, much like the land along it, is spectacularly diverse, and is in fact the most diverse body of water in Nebraska, species-wise. For this reason, the Niobrara has plenty of opportunities for all sorts of anglers. Here are a few of the most popular game species in the river:
Northern pike, common carp, sauger, grass pickerel, and river carpsucker have all been reported in the river as well.
LicensesVisitors fishing within the Niobrara National Scenic River must follow the fishing license requirements in accordance with the laws and regulations of the State of Nebraska. Licenses are required for all participants above 16, and those under must be accompanied by someone with a license. The Nebraska Game and Parks website has plenty of information on special applications and many useful guides, including their yearly Fishing Guide. Ideal spots along the Niobrara, alongside prohibited fishing practices and bag limits, are all located within this guide. Licenses can be purchased here or locally at the Valentine State Fish Hatchery, the Sinclair Gas Station, and Wright’s Bait Shop.
Fishing RegulationsFishing shall be in accordance with the laws and regulations of the State of Nebraska. (36 CFR 2.3). For state fishing regulations go to the Nebraska Department of Game and Parks website. The fishing regulations apply to all “finfish” found in the park. Other taxa, including amphibians, mollusks and crustaceans (e.g. waterdogs, crayfish) are not considered “fish” for the purpose of NPS fishing regulations and addressed by NPS regulations governing “wild life” (36CFR2.2). These fishing regulations apply, regardless of land ownership, on all lands and waters within the park that are under the legislative jurisdiction of the United States. Prospective fishers should be aware, the land around the Niobrara National Scenic River is owned by a collection of organizations and private owners. Ensure that if you choose to drop your line on private land that you have permission from the landowner. For those using live bait, the Northern redbelly dace, finescale dace, blacknose shiner, and Topeka shiner are all considered threatened or endangered and should not be collected. The following are prohibited:
Fish Consumption Advisories in National Park Waters
For visitors curious about safety concerns surrounding fish consumption, the National Park Service maintains information about Fish Consumption Advisories and Mercury and Toxins in Nature.
Aquatic Invasive SpeciesUnfortunately, the Niobrara is not immune to the effects of the introduction of invasive species. Asian carp and round gobies threaten the stability of multiple ecological niches along the river, outcompeting native fish. However, one of the most economically impactful invasive species is the zebra mussel, whose dense reproductive patterns cover substrate, block pipelines, and clog water intake. They also easily outcompete and choke out native clams and mussels. Due to the potential harm these species can do, the United States Geological Survey recommends keeping up good boat hygeine and avoiding transporting water from live wells and bait buckets to different bodies of water to prevent further spread. Fishing Throughout the National Park ServiceWe invite you to visit the Fish and Fishing website for more information about fish and fishing in the National Park Service. You will learn about conservation, different fish species, and parks that offer fishing.
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Last updated: September 20, 2024