(Provided by the Indiana DNR)

Biologist Tom Bacula with 48-inch muskie from Bruce Lake.The DNR muskie stocking program at Bruce Lake has resulted in some impressive fish, according to biologists.

Bruce Lake is a 245-acre natural lake on the Pulaski-Fulton county line, 7 miles east of Winamac. The DNR has stocked muskies annually at Bruce since 2000 and monitors muskie populations periodically to gauge success. 

In mid-April, fisheries biologists from the DNR Division of Fish & Wildlife used trap nets to assess the muskie population in the lake. 

During the week-long survey, biologists caught and released 90 muskies, including several spectacular fish. Most were between 36 and 40 inches.

“I was very impressed with the catch we had from Bruce Lake this year,” said Tom Bacula, DNR fisheries biologist. “We collected 20 muskies over 40 inches. The largest was a 48-inch, 32-pound female.”

Muskies are subject to a one-fish-per-day bag limit and a 36-inch minimum size.

Biologist Tom Bacula with 16-inch crappie from Bruce Lake.While the survey was designed to catch muskies, Bacula and his crew caught numerous crappies, including several over 15 inches long. Bluegills were also common with good numbers in the 7- to 8-inch range.

The lake has a good balance of prey and predator fish, and muskies will continue to be stocked.

DNR maintains a public access site on the west side of the lake.