Tag Archives: fish biology

There is no doubt that crappies are a popular fish in the spring.  They can be relatively easy to catch, accessible to every angler, even those fishing from the shore, and tasty on the table.  Given some warm spring weather, which we have finally seen the past few days, and folks are out to catch crappies.  But, there are a lot of misconceptions about crappies in the spring, and clearing some of those up might help you catch even more …

OK, you have to understand that biologists tend to think about things a little bit differently, maybe even a little bit warped.  Subjects and discussions that may be uncomfortable or turn the stomachs of some can be lunch break conversations for biologists.  For example, we tend to be fascinated by the mating habits of this species or that species–it is how the species is perpetuated, how life continues.  I have something interesting about fish mating habits to share in this blog post …

We are in the middle of the summer and have already had some stretches of hot weather in Nebraska.  No doubt there is more of that in the forecast.  Believe me, I am not in a hurry to get out and fish hard during the heat and humidity, especially during the middle of the day.  But, I ain’t about to quit fishing either.  So, what is an angler to do?  How can we scratch some fish even during these “dog …

I will never tell you that fish are smart.  The biggest trophy you have ever caught in Nebraska has a brain about the size as the end of your finger.  I am afraid those of you who arrive home and announce that the fish “out-smarted” you after a catch-less day are setting the bar very low for yourself.  Yes, guys, I am talking to you. However, I will tell you that all wild critters have an incredible instinct to survive and …

There is no doubt that the fish species that can send the largest masses of anglers to the banks during the spring outbreak of fishing fever would be crappies.  Everyone loves to sit on a shoreline on a warm afternoon and experience a good crappie bite.  On the other hand, with schizophrenic weather changes, I can think of no other species of fish that can be more frustrating than spring crappies.  Consistently successful anglers are always adapting and adjusting.  What …

The May 2014 edition of NEBRASKAland magazine is available on-line right now: As always there is a variety of “stuff” and I do not care who you are, you will find something in there that will interest you.  If I may, let me point one out:  On page 38, Jeff Kurrus has an interesting article titled Pound for Pound, Fighting Nebraska’s Fish.  In that story you will find a species by species breakdown of different Nebraska fish, their anatomy and …

I enjoyed a gorgeous, cool morning fishing in Nebraska’s Elkhorn River and backwater areas with a couple young family members of mine as well as a young family friend. I’d highly encourage you and your family to take advantage of Nebraska’s nice, cool summer weather while we have it by goin’ out and doin’ a little fishin’! You don’t need fancy stuff, we used simple tackle and nightcrawlers. Don’t forget your fishin’ permits for those 16 and older! Have fun, …