LAKE MICHIGAN SPORT FISHING
The Indiana Domain

RE-PRINT OF ARTICLE, by Richard Blissmer

First published: Dunes Country Magazine Spring / Summer Edition 1984

AWESOME OPPORTUNITY -- SPORTSMAN'S PARADISE

It is a clear day, or perhaps an evening, and you find yourself along the Indiana shoreline of Lake Michigan. It doesn't matter what community you are in as you walk down to the water's edge. Look to the West and you can see the beginning of south Chicago at the Illinois state line. A litle farther up and one can view the skyline of the Chicago loop and even discern some of the taller buildings. Looking to the east, the Michigan state line forms a boundary somewhere along the dunes. Now scan your eyes across the horizon of Lake Michigan. Is it possible to realize that in these few moments you have observed the Hoosier domain of Lake Michigan in its entirety? Waters that boast some of the finest fishing to be found anywhere in the world? If this expanse seems large to you, consider the fact that the great state of Alaska has a shoreline that encompasses 35,000 miles !

When Lake Michigan exploded into a sport fishery that remains unparalleled in our nation's history, it seemed that this minute speck of Indiana would not be able to reap her share of the benefits. There was just a scant 40 mile shoreline, and half of this was sprawled with industry. Her total claim to the waters amounted to only 160 square miles. And there were only two migratory streams, both unfit to sustain natural reproduction of most species.

Amidst the struggle, in stepped Mother Nature with the best asset that anyone anywhere could have asked for. The sheer location of Indiana became a blessing in disguise. Its southern location on Lake Michigan had waters that were the first to thaw in the spring and the last to freeze in the winter, providing a nine-month boating season. Industry that pumped smoke into the skies also pumped warm water back into the lake. And the shallow, sandy bottom stretched out for miles. Combining all these factors created a magnet effect for all the fish living in Lake Michigan.

Searching for a comfortable temperature zone and food, every species was attracted to these warm waters. Coho Salmon, Chinook Salmon, Lake Trout, Brown Trout, and Steelhead Trout all converged here to begin their annual feeding orgy. Indiana waters became known for their excellent catches even before our Department of Natural Resources had the opportunity (or the means) to establish their own stocking programs.

More fish were being taken here per hour than anywhere else in the world. Anglers could come, boggle their minds with limit catches, and be home that evening. And, it has created an economic impact that will be unfolding for decades to come.

There are as many ways of pursuing the prey as there are fishermen. For those who enjoy the thrills, but have no desire to own any of the necessary equipment, charter fishing is the ultimate answer. Even for those who want to "get their feet wet" before investing, charters provide an excellent introduction to sport fishing at relatively low cost. All equipment is furnished -- all you need is a license, and even a one day license is available. And rare is the day when these experienced captains return without a catch. In fact, it is usually above average. There is probably no location that is friendlier and where the captains work together to get the fish than along the Indiana shores of Lake Michigan. One thing about charters - - - be sure to book early, especially if you desire to get on the lake during periods of peak runs. Is it popular? The fleet at Michigan City has tripled in the past year alone. (*note……. statistics here were from data available in 1984 .. rb)

Venturing out in your own craft should be done with extreme caution and common sense, as Lake Michigan is notorious for her sudden changes, from tranquil to tumultous. Many veterans wince when they see newcomers trolling in overloaded, low-riding bass boats - - those that could be swamped merely from the wake of a large cruiser. For safety's sake, be sure you are in complete compliance with Lake Michigan boating laws.

Streams, piers and warm-water discharges provide ample opportunity for the shore angler. There have been several state records set by persons just relaxing with bait fishing or casting some of their favorite lures, without the luxury of a boat.

Our streams do lack the esteem associated with this type of fishing. They are small, narrow, and laced with obstacles both in the water and on the shore. Many areas are private and public access sites are limited. Yet the considerate sportsman can be amply rewarded by working the available locations. Spawning runs attract two kinds of people - - fishermen and pigs. Legal anglers must unfortunately share these waters with the snaggers who plunder the streams with any method possible to take fish. Many strip the eggs and leave the carcass to rot or leave the entrails which are easily detected by one's nose. Their garbage, filth, and litter would not leave a good impression on anyone visiting our area. Snagging is illegal in Indiana, and, although a tremendous task, apprehension and convictions are being strictly carried out.

Most anglers who enjoy having a fish on the end of a line are impressed with Lake Michigan. Others claim they don't enjoy sitting on a boat, dragging some lures through the water, just waiting for a dumb fish to strike some stupid-looking piece of metal with hooks on it. (If you've ever fished here, you know it takes a little more knowledge than that!) But if this is your attitude, then again, Lake Michigan is for you too. For you see, this type of fishing can be as challenging as you want it to be. If you haven't thought about it seriously, then consider these options.

Try stalking the shoreline during the predawn hours in search of the elusive Brown Trout. You'll need a lighter line and a lighter touch if you want to pull them in on purpose. Look for those feeding patterns and see who is smarter. If you say you are good, single out a species such as the Brown Trout and go for a State Record. It takes a while to be able to catch browns consistently, not by chance but by choice.

There are areas in the streams, although more limited, where you can profess your ability as a fly fisherman. While the Steelhead run up in the summer, they stay in the streams all winter, giving you a chance to avoid the rush and work some of the holes. Be careful in the spring, as both migratory streams are closed to fishing to allow for stocking and migration of the fingerlings out into the lake. ( *note -- period of closed fishing is announced by the DNR annually .. rb)

Early some morning, or late some evening, silently anchor that boat off the rocks along the shore and do some serious casting. And for trolling, let's test your skill and equipment. Discard that favorite trout rod and fourteen pound test line. When fishing, why does everything have to be in favor of the fisherman? Get out some ultralight equipment and go for a world record on two-pound test line! Now we're talking the challenging fishing of a true sportsman - - the kind that will have your palms sweating and heart pounding. Indiana has got it - - why don't you go for it?

After having established the summer-spawning steelhead, Indiana can now claim a year-round sport fishery in Lake Michigan and its tributaries. With such generous limits, it has to be the "honey-hole" of the world. And it is right under our noses!

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Author: Although first published in 1984, I felt this article would be a nice addition to the site, and much of the basic context is still valid today. Other pages or links on this site may provide more current information or statistics. The vastness of Lake Michigan, and the Great Lakes, obviously provides unlimited opportunity for individuals to study and select any location they prefer for sportfishing activities. This article denotes Lake Michigan sportfishing, and a few opportunities available from Michigan City, Indiana.