TOPIC:

Although we have 4 different stocking sites, we are a fishing community. We have 2 hatchery teams that support this fishing community. We have new folks that join in on the great fishing yearly, with many of those continuing to fish and move into bigger boats. Some of those that started out that way have now moved onto getting their captains license and doing some chartering.
But, doesn't matter if your a beginner or a seasoned vet, we all share this fishery.
When I mention the word team, isn't that what makes up our Indiana fishery?  Who else shares into the team? Ben our lake biologist, Jeremy Price our LMC vote?
Jay Wesley and the rest of the Michigan staff? Everyone that shared the pain of the king cuts?

So there are many team members that fit together like a cross word puzzle. Some in state and some out. We all share the lake and what comes next working together. Can we do more? Would you like to know more about how the lake is working in today's fishery? What problems are still out there as well as where there is some good news? Could this Indiana fishing community find interest in any items mentioned above? care to share your thoughts? I would love the hear them.

The Indiana fishing community,,,,

I posted this towards the end of July. This post has received over 1,400 hits. But nobody responded.

Where do you get your information on the lake?
Would you like to know more about how Indiana fits in a lake wide fishery?
Since Indiana doesn't have a group that comes together anymore to discuss items like these and others, would you join one if it existed?
Would you like to have a chance to get involved and take a deeper dive into Lake Management?
What about the fishing folks around the South Bend area? 

Indiana is a big player in what is happening on lake Michigan. We might be the small guy out there but, the small guy is having a impact.
I would really appreciate hearing your thoughts on this. You can call me, leave a PM here, or simply make your thoughts known by responding here.

Presently Indiana only has a tournament group. If your a recreational fishermen who really doesn't care to fish tournaments then is there something here in Indiana for you?????
Ed Erdelac 219 926 4117

Hey Ed, good to see everyone is getting on the same page. Been going to the public meetings with Ben to get information but would be nice to have maybe more than one every year. I don't get out like I use to, but if there is anything I can help you with count me in. Mike

Thanks to those of you that reached out to me today,,,,, much appreciated.

The most important resource we have in Indiana is our younger fishermen. Will you carry the ball and help keep this fishery going?

Ed 
every one is spread so thin these days.  its not like Folks dont care or want to help. we dont know where we can fit in . I certainly would like to help if you have any ideas of where i might be a good fit please let me know .

Frank   

I'd definitely like to get more involved! I was a member of the Michiana Steelheaders for many years but it gradually fell apart because people passed away and no one wanted to take on the responsibilities! I've fished tournaments but I much rather relax and have a good time fishing. As a member of the Michiana Steelheaders most everyone network with each other and we all caught fish. It was important to bring the younger fishermen along to teach them what we knew and learn of few things they decided to try, but most of all, being able to catch a box of fish and share with others.
I'll do my best to help if I can!

• Where do you get your information on the lake?
  • This forum, DNR fishing reports and Michigan city buoy
• Would you like to know more about how Indiana fits in a lake wide fishery?
  • Always eager to learn
• Since Indiana doesn't have a group that comes together anymore to discuss items like these and others, would you join one if it existed?
  • YES
• Would you like to have a chance to get involved and take a deeper dive into Lake Management?
  • YES

I have been given permission by the Great Lakes Salmon Initiative to start a new chapter here in Indiana. Please stay tuned and patient..
Will be looking for a meeting spot. Many of you have mentioned that meetings should be in person, and I believe that also.
Again thanks,
Ed Erdelac

Last Night we moved one step closer.  Izaak Walton League, Miller Chapter |  granted permission to use their conference room for a meeting which will be later this winter.

Looking for January or February for this meeting.  They have a beautiful conference room with seating cap. around 80. Central located right off RT. 249 in Portage.