“If people concentrated on the really important things in life, there’d be a shortage of fishing poles.” – Doug Larson
If you find yourself agreeing with that quote, you’re probably ready to get out and do some fishing this summer! If fishing is your way of getting in a little bit of R&R, but it’s been a while since you’ve broken out the bait and the fishing pole, lucky for you, Greater Lafayette is home to plenty of great fishing spots.
Before you pack up your gear and head out to the water, be aware that you’ll need a fishing license if you plan on fishing in one of Indiana’s public bodies of water. But don’t worry, it’s easy to apply for a fishing license. It can be done online at https://www.in.gov/dnr/fish-and-wildlife/indiana-fish-and-wildlife-online-license-system/. Licenses are issued by the Indiana Department of Natural Resources and are $17 for an annual license.
Armstrong Park
851 Beck Ln, Lafayette
Located on the south side of Lafayette, this 30-acre park includes a pond where fishing is permitted, but all state regulations do apply, so don’t forget to bring your fishing license!
Fairfield Lakes
County Roads 200 S & 750 E, Lafayette
Sitting on nearly 100 acres of land, Fairfield Lakes is home to four lakes stocked with bass, crappie, and bluegill. A fishing license is required. The lake located across from the parking lot is stocked every spring with rainbow trout and requires a trout stamp. Amenities include a handicap accessible water fountain and restroom, a walkway to the northwest lake that features two handicap fishing pads, and canoe access to the Wildcat Creek. The park closes at 8:30pm or dusk, whichever comes first.
Wildcat Park
5201 Eisenhower Rd, Lafayette
This 53-acre property is owned by the Indiana Department of Natural Resources and is leased to the Tippecanoe County Park and Recreation Department. Fishermen are able to make great use of this property. Amenities include a picnic shelter, handicap accessible walkway linking the restrooms, water fountain, and observation deck overlooking the creek, and to the parking area
Tapawingo Park
100 Tapawingo Dr, West Lafayette
Located along the banks of the Wabash River in West Lafayette, Tapawingo Park is 20 acres in size and is managed by West Lafayette Parks and Recreation. The park offers access to the Wabash River where you can fish, but must have a fishing license.
Prophetstown State Park
5545 Swisher Road, West Lafayette
The Wabash River runs near Prophetstown, making for the perfect opportunity to go fishing. There are several varieties of fish that call the river home, including bass, crappie, bluegill, yellow perch, northern pike, and walleye. If you’re in need of a fishing license, stop by the park’s main office beforehand.
Munger Park
3505 Greenbush Street, Lafayette
Located on the northeast side of Lafayette, the 32-acre park is home to a pond where fishing is permitted, but again, don’t forget your fishing license!
Munger Park is also part of Indiana DNR’s urban fishing program called Go FishIN in the City. For more information about the program including stocking times and fishing opportunities, visit https://www.in.gov/dnr/fish-and-wildlife/fishing/urban-fishing/
Bicentennial Nature Area
North side of Sagamore Parkway (between Schuyler Avenue and Duncan Road), Lafayette
This 196-acre nature area features a large pond (70 acres) allowing for limited bank fishing, small boat fishing (electric motors only), kayaks, canoes, paddle boards, and windboards. Keep in mind, fishing is currently catch and release only. The area is open on a limited basis and can be accessed from the Sagamore Parkway ramps only.
Faith East Community Park
5572 Mercy Way, Lafayette
The Faith East Pond is stocked with blue gill, bass, and other native Indiana fish for catch and release fishing.