Spotted Tail Complex
The Spotted Tail Complex is located on the north side of the North Platte River between Mitchell and
Morrill, Nebraska. It encompasses approximately 1600 acres of riparian river frontage, seasonal
wetlands, trout stream, grasslands, and farm ground. It has 3 ½ miles of North Platte River frontage, 2 ½
miles of mixed channel seasonal wetlands and 1 ½ miles of Dry Spotted Tail Creek. The properties were
acquired from five separate landowners over the years and together provide a unique contiguous tract
of land. This large tract is one of few along the North Platte River which is open to the public for
recreational use. The vision of Ducks Unlimited and their engineering staff created a seasonal wetland
by using old braded river bottom channels and a combination of spring and irrigation water in
developing the wetlands. The seasonal wetlands help recharge the river, improve water quality, provide
nesting and food resources for shore birds, waterfowl, and other species of birds. The developed
wetlands have enhanced the habitat for all the plant communities and other species that are found
here. There are three parking areas along County Road G for public access and an informational kiosk at
the middle parking area showing the diversity of wildlife and map of the complex. There are 180 acres of
restricted Wildlife Reserve in the Northwest corner of the complex where hunting is not allowed. Dry
Spotted Tail Creek offers year- round fishing, although the best time of year is after irrigation season
when the stream clears up. Fishing on the North Platte River is also allowed year- round for catfish and
other seasonal species.
