FAQ
Q: What time does the BOKWPT start?
A: Registration for the Branched Oak Kids White Perch Tournament opens at 7:00 AM and stops at 10:00 AM. The tournament fishing times officially begins at 9:00 AM and ends at 12:00 PM.
Q: How long does the BOKWPT last?
A: The tournament fishing period is from 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM. Lunch will be served immediately after fishing ends. Once everyone has finished eating, we will announce the winners of the tournament and distribute prizes. The event typically concludes between 1:00 PM and 1:30 PM.
Q: What if we arrive early?
A: We encourage participants to arrive early, starting at 7:00 AM. Once registered, you can find an available fishing spot and start fishing at your leisure. Volunteers will collect all white perch caught before 9:00 AM so that everyone starts the tournament with a clean slate.
Q: What if we are going to be late?
A: Registrations close at 10:00 AM sharp. You must be registered to participate in the Branched Oak Kids White Perch Tournament (BOKWPT), win prizes, and receive a free lunch.
Q: What do you serve for lunch?
A: Our lunch typically consists of hot dogs, chips, and cookies. We may occasionally add other items, depending on donations from our generous supporters.
Q: What if I or my child has food allergies?
A: Our food may contain ingredients that could trigger food allergies or dietary restrictions. We cannot guarantee that our food is safe for everyone to consume. If you have food allergies or dietary restrictions, please bring your own food.
Q: Is the BOKWPT really free?
A: The Branched Oak Kids White Perch Tournament (BOKWPT) is free to enter, including registration, prizes, bottled water, and lunch. This is possible thanks to the generosity of our donors. However, the State of Nebraska requires a vehicle park entry permit; and a fishing permit is required for anglers aged 16 or older. The BOKWPT has no control over the requirements or prices of these permits. Proceeds from these permits are used by the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission to maintain our state parks and fisheries. For more information, please see the following questions.
Q: Do I need a fishing permit for the BOKWPT?
A: Anglers aged 16 or older must have a valid Nebraska Fishing Permit. We recommend purchasing your permit before the event. You can purchase a permit online or at some local retailers. Permits are available for 1 day, 3 days, or the year, for both residents and non-residents. For more information, please see the Nebraska Fishing Guide
Q: Do I need a permit to enter the State Park?
A: All vehicles entering the state park must have a valid Nebraska Park Permit. We recommend purchasing your permit before the event. You can purchase a permit online or at some local retailers. Available permits are 1 day or the year.
Q: What is the age limit to participate in the BOKWPT?
A: The BOKWPT is open to all ages 0 and up.
Q: Do kids need to be with a parent?
A: All participants under 18 must have an adult accompany them for the entire event. The adult is responsible for supervising and ensuring their child's safety during the tournament activities. This rule is in place to prioritize the well-being and security of all participants. Thank you for your cooperation.
Q: Do I need to have a child with me to participate?
A: Bringing a child to participate is not required, but the BOKWPT is geared towards kids and families. We encourage adult anglers to join our event with a child.
Q: What if my kid(s) are too young to fish alone or have physical limitations?
A: We understand that some of our anglers have limitations and may need assistance for a variety of reasons. We encourage anglers to seek assistance only when necessary, so they can fish to their own abilities when possible.
Q: Is the BOKPWT wheelchair accessible?
A: The event area is not officially wheelchair accessible, but some participants have used wheelchairs without difficulty. The terrain is mowed grass with some bumps and slopes. The parking lot is paved, but there is no designated parking for people with disabilities. Please contact us at bokwpt@nefga.org if you need more information.
Q: Can I participate in the BOKWPT if I don't know how to fish?
A: Yes, we have many first-time anglers participate in the BOKWPT each year. Don't worry, we can help! We have experienced volunteers who can teach you the basics of fishing in just a few minutes. Our volunteers will be available throughout the event to help you when you need it. Please be respectful of their time so they can help everyone.
Q: What is a white perch?
A: White perch are an invasive species of fish that are present in Branched Oak Lake. See our "White Perch" page for more information
Q: Can I keep other species of fish I catch during the event?
A: We encourage catch and release, but you may take home any legally caught fish that you are allowed to possess. Nebraska has statewide and lake-specific fishing regulations. Please refer to the Nebraska Fishing Guide for the regulations you must follow at Branched Oak Lake.
Q: What do you do with all of the white perch caught during the BOKWPT?
A: No white perch may be taken home by participants. State law prohibits possession of live white perch. All white perch caught during the event will be donated to local raptor recovery programs to nourish recovering raptors in Nebraska, who love white perch! Thank you for understanding and cooperating with this important rule.
Q: Is it safe to fish in the BOKWPT?
A: Fishing is an enjoyable activity for millions of people every year, but like many activities, it carries some risk. We cannot guarantee the safety of anyone who attends and participates in the BOKWPT, but we have not had any injuries reported in the past several events. You will be walking, sitting, and fishing on grass terrain. The area is maintained and mowed regularly, but there could be hidden obstacles. You will also be fishing at the edge of a rocky shore, so we recommend that all attendees stay off the rocks to avoid slips, trips, and falls. We will be outdoors enjoying nature, so weather, insects, wildlife, and wild vegetation can also be factors.
Q: Where do we park?
A: We have a paved road and parking area where we fish. It's easy to find—check the map on our homepage. There are no designated parking spots for people with disabilities.
Q: Do I need to bring fishing equipment and bait?
A: You don't need to bring your own gear, but feel free to do so if you have it. The Nebraska Game and Parks Commission provides free loaner fishing gear, but we can't guarantee that there will be enough for everyone. We also provide free bait while supplies last. You can borrow gear and bait, and return them at the end of the tournament.
Q: What items should I bring to the BOKWPT?
A: We will be fishing outdoors in the grass and handling fish and bait, so please be prepared. Common items to bring include sunscreen, insect repellent, hand sanitizer, and cleaning wipes. You can also bring snacks and non-alcoholic drinks. We will provide bottled water, but you may need to walk to get it. You are welcome to bring blankets, chairs, pop-up tents, and umbrellas to protect yourself from the elements. There is some limited shade from trees, but not enough for everyone. Be prepared to walk on grassy and paved surfaces. Many families bring carts and wagons to haul their gear. Registration is central, and all allowed fishing spots are within 330 yards of registration, so please wear sturdy, comfortable shoes. Please follow the common outdoor rules of "Pack it in. Pack it out." and "Leave No Trace." Anything you bring with you should leave with you. We will have plenty of trash bags for proper waste disposal.
Q: Will you cancel the BOKWPT if there is bad weather?
A: The BOKWPT is held rain or shine, so please be prepared. We have experienced many weather conditions over the years, but our participants have always been able to adapt and enjoy the day. Check the forecast leading up to the tournament and prepare accordingly. We will monitor the weather for severe conditions during the tournament and do our best to keep participants informed of changing conditions. However, you will also need to monitor the weather for yourself and your family. It is each participant's responsibility to determine their own safety at our event. There are no storm shelters in the area where we fish. In the past, we have had only one event where participants sheltered in their vehicles for a brief period of time to wait out a small thunderstorm. Once the storm passed, everyone was able to continue fishing and have a great time.
Q: Are there public restrooms?
A: There are primitive public restrooms available where we fish. They are centrally located near the registration area, and near the swimming beach area. Be aware there is no running water in the restrooms. We provide a hand washing station near the registration area for you to use.
Q: Is there camping available?
A: Camping is not available where we hold the BOKWPT, but there is camping available at Branched Oak Lake near the event area. We suggest you reserve a camping spot as far in advance as possible. Camping and camper spots can fill up several weeks in advance of the BOKWPT.