TOPIC:

What does it cost to say thanks?

I have been thinking for awhile that we all might be missing the boat so to say. Speaking for myself, it dawned on me how I as a fisherman really have not reached out enough to just simply say thanks. Seeing how Indiana doesn't have any natural reproduction, we are really dependent on what comes from the folks that raise our fish. These guys are rock stars when you consider what they have to work with. So on June 30th was Bens last meeting for the season with the public. The letter below is something I presented at the end of this meeting and asked the folks that attended to please sign on. If you agree please do the same.

June 30, 2022           To the Bodine and Mixsawbah fish hatchery teams. Thanks for all your hard  work . It is really appreciated. Seeing how Indiana doesn’t have any premier stocking sites, you folks do a great job with what we have here.  The dedication is also noticed. Thanks for those that helped in night stocking at East Chicago, that not only helps this port, but in return helps all of us.  A king return last fall for Portage, a long time in the making. Many reasons to say thanks !I see where Indiana is #1 lake wide with Steelhead. That is quite an accomplishment. Any time we can beat Michigan it is always a big plus;.Thanks again,Ed Erdelac Cc; Ben DickensonCc; Jeremy Price
 

I could not agree more Ed.

I agree Ed.  We are spoiled to have such a great fishery, one I heard about and dreamed of fishing when I was traveling the country working on drilling rigs.  I moved to Indiana 40 years ago with no intention of staying, caught my first Salmon and never left.  BKD hurt us for a few years and the invasive species keep coming but through it all the fishery has survived. Hell, even the perch fishing seems to be getting better after thinking all was lost. 
I have nothing but respect for the DNR and hatchery personnel and always enjoy talking to the creel census employees. Ben has been more than generous with his time, sharing information here, in his office or in a public meeting. Can't wait to get out this weekend.

Agree with all the above. Spotted IDNR truck by trail creek wier about 730 this morning checking things out. Was able to swing back by a little after 9 and got quite a treat. 5 IDNR folks working there buts off netting carrying and loading in tank truck. Pretty awesome watching those big silver bullets raising hell as they were carried to truck. 

They are definitely the worker bees that keep the ball rolling for us fisherman and women. A huge thank you to you guys!

Totally agree with you letter! Ben Dickenson and everyone else involved that make our fishing a success in lake Michigan and waters of the state deserves a BIG THANK YOU from me and all fellow fishermen and women. Thank you to all involved for you comment and dedication to make our fishing experience possible!