Join us at a Day at the Lake, a celebration of the 25th anniversary of the Aquatic Habitat Program at the recently renovated Conestoga Lake State Recreation Area, just southwest of Lincoln.

A Day at the Lake, set for 3 to 7 p.m. June 18, will offer opportunities to bank, fly, bow and kayak fish — as well as the chance to use a stand-up paddleboard, take a pontoon tour of the lake, and more.

Participants may bring their own tackle, or use ours. We’ll have bait, tackle and volunteers to help you fish. Those age 16 and older need a valid Nebraska fishing permit. Get yours at OutdoorNebraska.org.

Anglers also will have a chance to see new lake maps, talk with consultants who designed the renovation, and learn about new features and fish species in the lake. Anyone who attends can also enter a youth into a drawing for one of three FREE Lifetime Fishing Permits! Entry information will be available at the event.

The Aquatic Habitat Program, funded by anglers, was the first of its kind in the nation. The program works to improve conditions for aquatic life through better management or rehabilitation of existing resources, and collaborates with partners to build new waters to make them the best they can be. In addition to renovated Nebraska water bodies, the program also improves angler access.

Conestoga State Recreation Area was the site of the largest Aquatic Habitat Program project in the program’s 25-year history. The fishery now offers largemouth bass, bluegill, crappie, channel catfish and walleye as well as several new fishing piers and pads and ADA-accessible features to get anglers closer to deep water.

Food truck vendor: Stormin’ Norman’s BBQ and Sides

So, grab your sunscreen and head to the lake for a day of fun!