Nebraska State Fishing Records: First Half of 2025 Update
Fishing in Nebraska has already delivered some exciting milestones in 2025. By mid-year, two anglers have set new state rod-and-reel records , showcasing both skill and a bit of luck on the water. 🎣 Record Saugeye at Branched Oak Reservoir On April 26, 2025 , Tanner Hamersma of Lincoln landed a remarkable 28-inch saugeye (a hybrid of sauger and walleye) while trolling crankbaits at Branched Oak Reservoir. The fish weighed 8 pounds 15 ounces , beating the previous record by just one ounce. The suspense was palpable as the fish was certified in the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission’s wet lab. Interestingly, saugeyes are not stocked in Branched Oak. Instead, they likely migrated downstream from Meadowlark Reservoir during high water events. This catch highlights how Nebraska’s interconnected waterways can surprise anglers with unexpected species. 🌞 Record Redear Sunfish at Duck Creek Reservoir Just weeks later, on July 6, 2025 , David Bell of Plattsmouth reeled in a 12.5-inc...