FishKillFlea Nebraska offers Free Fishing Days — try the fishing license for Nebraska waters free!
2026 NE Free Fishing Days
| Date | Type | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| May 2, 2026 | Free Fishing Day | No license needed — all waters |
| June 6, 2026 | Free Fishing Day | National Fishing & Boating Week |
Two free days! More than most states. All regulations (creel limits, size limits) still apply.
Best Spots for Free Fishing Days
| Water | Acres | Target Species | Why Go |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lake McConaughy | 30,000 | Walleye, white bass, smallmouth, rainbow trout | Biggest NE lake — "Big Mac" — beach camping! |
| Lake Ogallala | 410 | Rainbow, brown trout | Cold tailwater below McConaughy — year-round trout |
| Merritt Reservoir | 3,000 | Walleye, musky, bass | Sandhills trophy water — Valentine area |
| Missouri River | — | Flathead catfish, paddlefish, walleye | 50+ lb catfish — NE/IA/SD border |
| Sandhills lakes | Various | Largemouth, northern pike, bluegill | Thousands of natural spring-fed lakes |
More spots: Nebraska fishing spots guide. After free days, licenses are $38/year: where to buy.