INDIANA — The Indiana Department of Natural Resources (DNR) has kicked off its statewide fall fish stocking program, placing fish in nearly 150 waterbodies through November.
Because many of these locations are stocked on an annual or biennial basis, anglers can expect a variety of fish sizes across species, including channel catfish, trout, walleye, and muskellunge. DNR hatcheries are also providing limited stockings of bluegill, largemouth bass, black crappie, and redear sunfish in select waters to address localized population needs.
Prime Locations for Fall Trout Fishing
The autumn releases offer prime opportunities for anglers targeting rainbow and brown trout. Family-friendly locations with strong bank access include Spy Run Creek at Franke Park in Fort Wayne, which receives rainbow trout. Anglers seeking opportunities for both rainbow and brown trout can visit Fancher Lake in Lake County, Pinhook Lagoon in St. Joseph County, or Sand Lake in Noble County.
Fisheries biologists recommend fishing between fast and slow currents using a spin-cast or spinning rod with a small inline spinner retrieved deep, or floating a small worm on a bobber rig. State officials remind anglers that a trout and salmon stamp privilege is required in addition to a valid fishing license when targeting trout on public waters. Licenses and stamps can be purchased online at GoOutdoorsIN.com.
Target Destinations for Walleye
For those targeting walleye, the DNR highlights several top waters for fall outings, including Pine Lake in LaPorte County, Clear Lake in Steuben County, Winona Lake in Kosciusko County, and Brookville Lake in Franklin and Union counties.
Because walleye actively feed during low-light hours, early morning and late night offer the highest success rates. Recommended techniques include trolling crankbaits, casting blade baits, or jigging spoons around rocky humps and steep drop-offs, as well as fishing a traditional jig-head and minnow combination.
Anglers planning a trip can locate public fishing access sites near them using the DNR’s interactive “Where to Fish” map tool available at on.IN.gov.
