Lake Waveland public meeting
Hoosiers can help improve lake’s fishing
The Department of Natural Resources will host a public meeting to discuss
fishery management plans for Lake Waveland near Waveland, Ind.
Hoosiers interested in the management of the 358-acre public lake are
invited to the meeting to discuss problems with the lake’s game fish
population and possible management options. The meeting is scheduled for 6
p.m. on Thursday, Feb. 21 in Waveland at the Waveland Volunteer Fire
Department, 108 W. Howard Street.
Lake Waveland was known for its high quality bluegill fishing until gizzard
shad became abundant. Shad compete for food and space with young game fish.
“Shad have the most noticeable negative effects on bluegill populations,”
said DNR fisheries biologist Doug Keller. “Lake Waveland used to be one of
the best bluegill fishing lakes in central Indiana, but now is one of the
poorest due to shad.”
Gizzard shad were first noticed in the lake in 1994 and were likely
introduced through illegal stockings. Biologists have recently found other
undesirable fish species in the lake, including carp, golden shiners,
suckers, and bullhead catfish.
At the meeting, DNR Fisheries biologists will discuss the current status of
the fishery and present potential management options. Biologists believe
totally replacing the current fish population with stocked gamefish will
provide the greatest benefit to anglers and local recreation-related
businesses.
“A complete fishery renovation is the most drastic and costly option. The
DNR would have to have strong public support for the project before
investing the necessary resources to accomplish such a project,” said Tom
Flatt, DNR southern fisheries management supervisor.
“I hope anglers will take advantage of this opportunity to voice their
opinions on how their money should be spent to improve Lake Waveland
fishing,” said Keller
For more information, contact Doug Keller at (765) 342-5527.