Indiana Fishing Hook Restrictions Relaxed and Clarified
Anglers can affix up to three hooks, three artificial lures, or a combination of hooks or lures not to exceed three per pole under a temporary rule that takes effect May 24.
The long-standing permanent rule allowed just two hooks per pole. Other changes in the temporary rule define “artificial lure,” “bait,” “fly,” “hook,” “pole” and “line.”
“These changes were needed to clarify Indiana’s fishing regulations so that everyone can more easily determine what fishing tackle can be used,” said DNR director Cameron Clark. “New devices are always coming onto the market and in the past, it has not always been clear if they were permissible.”
Under the new rule, an umbrella rig, for example, now can have up to three hooks and unlimited hookless attractors. When artificial lures are used on an umbrella rig or similar device, they are considered one hook, even if the lure has multiple hooks.
Under the old permanent rule, it was uncertain how many hooks could be used on umbrella rigs. A temporary rule that allowed five hooks on umbrella rigs expired last December after a one-year trial.
As in the past, anglers are still allowed to fish with up to three fishing poles or lines at a time.
The full text of the emergency rule can be viewed at: www.IN.gov/nrc/files/lsa_13-212E.pdf.
