Indiana’s Free Fishing Day is May 18

   05.09.13

Indiana’s Free Fishing Day is May 18

For Hoosiers who have never cast a fishing line or haven’t cast one lately, Free Fishing Day on May 18 is a great opportunity.

That’s because Indiana’s adult residents do not need a fishing license or a trout/salmon stamp to fish Indiana public waters during Free Fishing Days. May 18 is the second of four Free Fishing Days in 2013.

Clint Kowalik, DNR Go FishIN coordinator, said he expected better weather and better fishing than on the state’s first Free Fishing Day, April 20.

“Go alone to a quiet, secret spot, explore new waters with a friend, or take your family to a local city park pond,” Kowalik said.

As part of a new urban fishing program, DNR will be stocking catchable-size channel catfish in many city park ponds across the state for Free Fishing Day. The program is called Go FishIN in the City, and its mission is to expand fishing opportunities for people who live in Indiana’s urban areas.

Properties hosting family-friendly fishing events for the May 18 Free Fishing Day and phone numbers for organizers are:

  • Munger Park, Lafayette, (574) 896-3673.
  • Crosley Fish & Wildlife Area, North Vernon, (812) 346-5596.
  • Lakeside Park, Fort Wayne, (260) 244-6805.
  • Riverside Park, Indianapolis, (317) 234-8440.
  • Lake Waveland Park, Waveland, (765) 435-2073.

All five events are focused on teaching kids and their families hands-on angling skills, and getting families to go fishing together.

Munger, Lakeside and Riverside parks will all receive catfish through the Go FishIN in the City program to support their Free Fishing Day events.

Event start times and additional information is at dnr.IN.gov/fishwild/3598.htm.

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The Indiana Department of Natural Resources is the agency of the U.S. state of Indiana charged with maintaining natural areas such as state parks, state forests, recreation areas, etc. There are many divisions within the DNR and each has a specific role. The DNR is not only responsible for maintaining resource areas but also manages Indiana's fish and wildlife, reclaims coal mine ground, manages forested areas, aids in the management of wildlife on private lands, enforces Indiana's conservation laws, and many other duties not named here. According to the department's website, their mission is "to protect, enhance, preserve, and wisely use natural, cultural, and recreational resources for the benefit of Indiana's citizens through professional leadership, management, and education."

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