INDIANA— For Hoosiers looking to trade the pavement for the peaceful ripple of a lake or the steady pull of a river, the Indiana Department of Natural Resources (DNR) has a clear message: the water is yours to enjoy.
The DNR’s Public Access Program is currently managing more than 440 sites across the state, ensuring that every resident—from the Ohio River to Lake Michigan—has a place to launch a boat, cast a line, or paddle a canoe without paying an entrance fee.
With 258 sites in Northern Indiana and 182 in Southern Indiana, the program bridges the gap between private property and public recreation. These sites are strategically developed by the Division of Fish & Wildlife to provide:
- Free Fishing: Accessible piers and shoreline access points.
- Boating & Paddling: Concrete ramps for motorized boats and gravel or “carry-down” sites for kayaks and canoes.
- ADA Accessibility: Recent upgrades include accessible fishing piers at locations like the Big Lake Public Access Site and Trine State Recreation Area.
Maintaining these sites isn’t just about pouring concrete. The DNR Public Access Team works year-round to identify new opportunities for Hoosiers. The team selects new sites based on several rigorous factors, including water depth, safety, environmental impact, and proximity to existing access points.
The program is a prime example of “user-pay, user-benefit.” It is largely funded through the sale of hunting and fishing licenses, as well as federal aid from the Sport Fish Restoration Fund. This means that every time a Hoosier angler buys a license, they are directly investing in the ramp or pier they use the following weekend.
Finding a spot to get on the water has never been easier. The DNR provides several tools to help residents navigate the 400+ locations:
- “Where to Fish” Interactive Map: A mobile-friendly map that shows every public access site, what species of fish are present, and what amenities (like ramps or piers) are available.
- The Indiana DNR App: A one-stop shop for maps, regulations, and license purchasing.
- Physical Guides: Free copies of the Indiana Fishing Regulation Guide are available at retailers statewide, featuring a directory of major access points.
While these public access sites are free to enter, remember that a valid Indiana fishing license is still required for those 18 and older, and all boating safety regulations apply.
Whether you are a seasoned angler chasing smallmouth bass or a family looking for a quiet place to launch a paddleboard, the DNR’s Public Access Team is ensuring that Indiana’s blue spaces remain open to everyone.
