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.
