PLAINFIELD — The public is invited to join a unique, hands-on opportunity to explore Indiana’s aquatic life with a DNR Nongame Aquatic Biologist this month.
The in-person event, led by biologist Brant Fisher, will take place on Saturday, October 18, 2025, from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. ET at Talon Stream Park in Plainfield, IN, along White Lick Creek.
Fisher will lead participants through a stream fish survey, offering a behind-the-scenes look at how fisheries biologists conduct these assessments. Attendees will learn:
- What these surveys reveal about the aquatic environment.
- What fish species live below the water’s surface.
- How the data is used to understand and manage rare and endangered fish.
Location and Participation Details
The event will be held at Talon Stream Park, located along White Lick Creek (Coordinates: 39.711034/−86.413435).
Parking is available at the Talon Stream Park parking lot (Coordinates: 39.710993/−86.413498), located behind the Richard A. Carlulcci Recreation and Aquatic Center. Participants should look for Brant Fisher driving a DNR truck, and will first gather for a discussion before walking to the stream.
Getting Into the Water
During the netting portion of the event, attendees have the option to stay along the shore or get into the stream to see the sampling up close.
If planning to enter the water:
- Wear appropriate clothing and footwear that can get wet and dirty. Water shoes, old gym shoes, or any shoe that covers the toes and has a back are recommended. Waders or tall boots may be helpful if the weather is cold.
- Attendees are encouraged to bring their own water, snacks, sunblock, and bug repellent.
- Participants are welcome to bring their own nets, but nets will also be provided. Any personal net must be legal under current fishing regulations.
The event is open to all ages, but an adult must accompany children under 18.
Registration, Licensing, and Accessibility
Registration is required for this event.
- Fishing License Requirement: Adults (18 and over) who wish to assist with netting fish during the survey must have a valid Indiana fishing license. A license is not required for adults simply attending or observing the event. Children under 18 do not need a license to assist with fish collection.
- Weather Notice: In the event of high water levels or rain, the event will be rescheduled. Registrants will be notified of any changes via email.
- Accessibility: The event will be conducted partially in the water and on surfaces that may be uneven, slippery, and wet.
The DNR values inclusion and access, and encourages participants requiring accommodations to contact Mariah Mason at mmason1@dnr.IN.gov to submit their requests at least one week before the event.
