INDIANA — With summer in full swing, preparations are officially underway for the 2026 Indiana State Fair. The Indiana Department of Natural Resources (DNR) has opened volunteer registration for one of its most popular interactive attractions: the State Fair Fishin’ Pond.
The DNR is calling for “all hands on deck” to help staff the free, hands-on fishing experience, which introduces youth ages 5 to 17 to the sport of angling. This year’s Indiana State Fair is scheduled to run from August 7 through August 23 at the Indiana State Fairgrounds in Indianapolis.
No expert angling status is required to participate, as the DNR staff provides comprehensive training before the event. Shift duties are active, engaging, and vary depending on interest and comfort level:
- Guest Services: Registering young participants and welcoming families to the pond area.
- Pond Assistance: Baiting hooks, safely removing fish from lines, and preparing fishing rods and equipment.
- Guiding: Helping direct and coach young participants around the edge of the pond to ensure a safe, fun experience.
To thank community members for giving back, the Indiana DNR provides a robust package of perks for every day a volunteer works a shift:
| Perk | Details |
| Free Admission | Complimentary gate admission ticket to the Indiana State Fair for each day worked. |
| Free Parking | Complimentary parking pass for Fairgrounds lots during volunteer shifts. |
| Official Gear | A unique, limited-edition DNR Fishin’ Pond volunteer T-shirt. |
| Experience | Professional hands-on training from state conservation and wildlife educators. |
Individual and group registration is handled completely online. Those interested in introducing kids to the outdoors can find shift schedules, age requirements, and the official signup portal at on.IN.gov/fishing-pond.
