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I’ll never forget the days spent on the water with my dad and brother when I was growing up in northwest Indiana. Sometimes we’d seek trout on Lake Michigan, and other days we’d fish for salmon on Salt Creek.
There was always a healthy rivalry among us on who’d reel in the biggest catch. At the time, I didn’t know about the DNR’s Fish of the Year competition, called FOTY for short, that organized a similar contest statewide.
On this Indiana Fishing Regulations Guide, you’ll see our full list of state records. And be sure to check out the FOTY results, several of which were caught back in my old Lake Michigan stomping grounds.
As the new DNR director, I’m passionate about making sure we continue to provide great public access to Indiana’s waterways so that lasting memories—and record catches—are available to all Hoosiers, now and in the future.
These days, you’ll find my kids and me wading up the creek beds near our home in west-central Indiana. There are days when one of my kids will say, “Dad, let’s go fishing,” which is a request I grant every chance I get. Just like I did with my dad and brother, we’re making cherished memories together. And who knows? With a little luck, a FOTY honor may be in their future.
I’ll see you on the water!
I’m so excited to celebrate the Record Fish program this year. When I became division director and was asked to sign my first batch of certificates for each winner, I was surprised and excited by the number of participants. Even more surprising was the number of individuals who caught multiple different annual records each year.
I first saw Liu He’s name while signing certificates for him. As our staff processed his entries, and I signed his certificates over and over, we began to ask a bunch of questions, which led to this year’s article on him.
I hope this year’s guide not only creates a much-deserved buzz about the Record Fish program, but also generates more excitement for fishing this year. My family and I are a competitive bunch, so when we fish together, that’s always part of the fun. In fact, the photo you see of me flexing with my fish happened because I was bragging about my catch to my husband (whose next cast resulted in an even bigger fish).
More state fishing records were broken last year than I’ve seen in a very long time, from anglers in waters all across the state. I encourage you to find new ways to get outside and wet your line, explore new spaces, and challenge yourself to try a new fishing technique or two. Competition is part of the fun—but making wonderful memories with your friends and family across our great state is more important.
You can buy your fishing license in our new system, the Activity Hub. Visit GoOutdoorsIN.com for more information on our improved functions and latest features!
