By Daryl Bauer, Fisheries Outreach Program Manager
I have always said that one of the things I love about my time in the outdoors is you just never know what will happen, what you might see. Oh sure, I am out there with a goal in mind, catch a big muskie, shoot a big Tom, etc. However, many times adventures become memorable because of something that was never planned.
Without a doubt, the re-establishment of river otters in Nebraska has been one of the biggest wildlife management successes in our state. I will not mention that without also noting that success and all other fish & wildlife management successes have been accomplished by the support and funding paid for by hunters, anglers and trappers! We have been and continue to be the original conservationists!
That is not to say you are going to see a river otter around every river bend. However, if you spend some time on the water, in the field, you just never know. . . .
There have been a couple of times I was pretty sure I saw a river otter while fishing at Calamus Reservoir. Both times I am sure that is what I saw. Unfortunately, they never stayed long enough for me to get a second, confirmation, look.
One encounter with a river otter I am sure of. Got a very good look at a large otter only a few yards in front of me.
That encounter happened at the end of a frustrating, unsuccessful, muskie fishing expedition. After fruitlessly casting muskie baits for several days, I gave it one last try for a few hours before heading for home (I always hate to quit, especially when I have been skunked).
Was literally down to the last few minutes, last few casts when I glimpsed a large, semi-aquatic critter swimming in from my right. While fishing the spot several times over the previous days, I knew there was a large beaver in the area. I had exchanged greetings with him several times (Yes, I talk to the animals, especially while I am endlessly casting muskie baits. No, they have not talked back. Yet).
As the mammal swam in front of me, it paused, raised its head out of the water, turned, and looked right at me. A river otter!!!!!!
I said, “Hello”, and started grabbing for my camera. The otter returned my greeting, but then went right back to swimming. Submerging, it went around the corner, never to be seen again.
I have a collection of funny fishing commercials. Most of them aired several years ago. Seems to me that they just are not as funny or creative anymore. Then again, maybe it is just my old, warped sense of humor. One of my favorites included a river otter:
If a person could fish with a river otter, and believe me, I would NEVER condone it, that is exactly what I imagine it would be like.
OK, if you wish:
Have a great weekend! Hope you get out on the water, or in the field. You never know what you might see!