BROKEN BOW – It has been a long-standing, well-loved and time-honored tradition in Broken Bow, or in the words of Community Fishing Night lore keeper Harold Fankhauser: “It’s been going on every year since last century.”
For two hours on Friday, July 8, between 6 and 8 p.m., Melham Park Lake will come alive with all tiers of anglers courtesy of the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission. The Commission’s fishing trailer, anchored in Fort Kearny, will be making its yearly voyage to Broken Bow, and with it, Fankhauser boasts, a walloping good time for anyone interested in landing the big one this summer.
“The trailer has fishing guides, fish I.D. books, coloring books for the kids, and fishing equipment that everyone can borrow.”
The only stipulation is that all attendees must adhere to Game and Parks Commission rules. “The only requirement is that if you’re sixteen or older, you must have a fishing license.”
While licensing services will be unavailable at the trailer itself, Fankhauser says acquiring a fishing license is a snap. “You can purchase it online; you can use your cell phone. It takes a minute and a half.”
As far as what one could be reeling in with that license, Fankhauser says there are at least three species of fish that call the lake home. “Largemouth bass, bluegill, those two are the most common. Lots of catfish, of course.”
In addition to equipment and information, Fankhauser says that instructors will be on hand to keep everyone’s fishing skills sharp and well-rounded. “Usually we have about three or four instructors, plus someone on hand to bait the hook, in case anybody doesn’t want to.”
Fankhauser implores all new hands and old salts to come out and bring their curiosity. “I hope people come on out and enjoy the evening. Bring some questions. There’s two people I know are going to be there who can answer anything, and the whole idea is to have fun.”
