The Nebraska Game and Parks Commission (NGPC) has made significant strides in enhancing the muskie populations at Merritt Reservoir and Cottonwood-Seberson Lakes, as discussed during the Nebraska Northwest District Fisheries Meeting held on May 23, 2025. The ongoing muskie project, initiated in 2020, aims to assess the age structure, growth potential, and reproductive success of these fish in their respective environments.

As part of the project, biologists have tagged 53 adult muskies in Cottonwood-Seberson and 45 in Merritt, with a total of approximately 1,400 and 1,570 fish stocked in these lakes, respectively. Recent findings indicate promising growth rates, with some fish reaching up to 31 inches in just a few years. The use of small PIT tags allows researchers to track individual fish, providing valuable data on their growth and reproductive capabilities.

The meeting highlighted the importance of understanding the health of these fish populations. Data collected over the years shows that muskies in Cottonwood-Seberson can live up to 19 years, while those in Merritt Reservoir are generally younger, with a maximum age of 12 years. The health of these populations is influenced by their food sources, with Merritt benefiting from a diverse diet, while Cottonwood-Seberson faces challenges due to a less favorable prey base.

In addition to the muskie project, the NGPC discussed ongoing fishery surveys aimed at guiding anglers to the best fishing spots across the Northwest District. Lakes such as Merritt Reservoir and Lake Winters Creek are noted for their walleye populations, while other species like black crappie and yellow perch are thriving in various locations.

The meeting also addressed the impact of the winter kill experienced in 2022-2023, which affected several lakes. The NGPC is actively stocking fish to rebuild populations and ensure sustainable fishing opportunities for local anglers. Notably, West Long Lake has emerged as a hotspot for northern pike, with a new regulation protecting certain size ranges to promote healthy growth.

As the NGPC continues its efforts to monitor and enhance fish populations, the community can look forward to improved fishing experiences in Nebraska's lakes. The next steps involve ongoing assessments and potential adjustments to regulations based on the health of fish populations, ensuring that anglers have access to robust and sustainable fisheries.