Best Fishing Spots in Parke County, Indiana
Nestled in west-central Indiana, Parke County is renowned for its picturesque landscapes, historic covered bridges, and serene fishing spots. Whether you're an avid angler or a casual fisherman, Parke County offers diverse fishing locations that promise a memorable experience. Here’s a guide to some of the top fishing destinations in the county, along with essential information on obtaining the necessary permits.
Raccoon Lake (Cecil M. Harden Lake)
Address: 1588 S Raccoon Pkwy, Rockville, IN 47872
Contact: (765) 344-1412
Overview: Spanning over 2,060 acres, Raccoon Lake is a prime fishing destination. The lake is well-stocked with bass, catfish, crappie, bluegill, and walleye.
Amenities: The area features multiple boat ramps, fishing piers, and ample shore fishing spots. There are also camping facilities nearby for those looking to extend their fishing trip.
Tips: Early mornings and late evenings are the best times to catch bass near the shoreline. Use live bait or lures that mimic local prey for the best results.
Rockville Lake Park
Address: 828 N Marshall Rd, Rockville, IN 47872
Contact: (765) 569-6541
Overview: Rockville Lake is a 100-acre reservoir offering excellent fishing opportunities for bass, crappie, bluegill, and catfish.
Amenities: The park features boat ramps, fishing docks, and a fish cleaning station. It's a popular spot for boating and fishing tournaments.
Tips: Target bass near submerged structures using crankbaits or plastic worms. For crappie and bluegill, try using small jigs or live bait near brush piles.
Wabash River
Address: Access points in Montezuma and Lodi
Overview: The Wabash River flows through Parke County, offering a rich fishing experience for species such as smallmouth bass, largemouth bass, catfish, and walleye.
Access Points: Access points in Montezuma and Lodi
Tips: Smallmouth bass can be found in rocky areas using soft plastics or crankbaits. Catfish are abundant in deeper sections of the river, and night fishing with stink baits or chicken liver is particularly effective.
Big Raccoon Creek
AT BRIDGTON MILL POND AND MANSFIELD MILL POND
Overview: Big Raccoon Creek flows through several notable fishing locations, including the picturesque Bridgeton Mill Pond and the historic Mansfield Mill Pond. The creek is a haven for anglers, with abundant populations of smallmouth bass, catfish, bluegill, and crappie.
Access Points: Access points are available at various locations, including the covered bridges at Bridgeton and Mansfield. The creek is ideal for wading and offers several spots for bank fishing.
Amenities: Both Bridgeton Mill Pond and Mansfield Mill Pond offer scenic views and facilities such as picnic areas and nearby parking.
Tips: For smallmouth bass, use crankbaits or soft plastics in the creek's rocky areas. Bluegill and crappie are often found near submerged structures and brush piles, making small jigs and live bait effective choices. Catfish are more active during dusk and can be caught using stink baits or chicken liver.
Sugar Creek
Address: Access points vary along Sugar Creek in Parke County
Overview: This scenic creek winds through Parke County, offering excellent fishing for smallmouth bass, rock bass, and catfish.
Access Points: Popular access points include the covered bridges at Bridgeton and Mansfield. The creek's clean, clear waters make it a great spot for wading and fly fishing.
Tips: Try using soft plastics and crankbaits for smallmouth bass. For catfish, use stink baits or chicken liver during dusk or dawn.
Lake Waveland
Address: 3309 N 850 E, Waveland, IN 47989
Contact: (765) 435-2073
Overview: Lake Waveland is a 358-acre lake known for its bass, crappie, bluegill, and redear sunfish populations.
Amenities: The park offers boat rentals, a fishing pier, and picnic areas. It's a family-friendly destination with plenty of shoreline fishing spots.
Tips: Fish for bass along the rocky shorelines using jerkbaits or topwater lures. Crappie and bluegill can be caught near submerged trees and weed beds using small jigs or live minnows.
Obtaining Fishing Permits in Parke County
Before you head out to these fantastic fishing spots, make sure you have the appropriate fishing permits. Here’s what you need to know:
Indiana Fishing License
Who Needs One: All anglers aged 18 and older are required to have a valid Indiana fishing license.
Types of Licenses:
Annual Fishing License: Valid from April 1 through March 31 of the following year.
One-Day Fishing License: Perfect for visitors or occasional anglers.
Senior Annual Fishing License: Available at a discounted rate for residents aged 64 and older.
Where to Buy:
Online: Purchase and print your license instantly from the Indiana Department of Natural Resources (DNR) website.
In-Person: Licenses are available at local retailers, bait shops, and DNR offices.
Trout/Salmon Stamp
Requirement: If you plan to fish for trout or salmon, you will need an additional stamp.
Where to Buy: This can be added to your regular fishing license purchase online or in-person.
Tips for a Successful Fishing Trip
Check Local Regulations: Always check the Indiana DNR website for any updates on fishing regulations, including size and bag limits.
Respect Private Property: Ensure you have permission if fishing on private lands.
Safety First: Wear life jackets when fishing from a boat and be cautious of weather conditions.
Parke County, with its blend of tranquil waters and abundant fish, offers a delightful experience for fishing enthusiasts. Whether you're casting a line at Raccoon Lake or wading in Sugar Creek, you're bound to create lasting memories. Happy fishing!