- Details
(Provided by Indiana DNR)
The Indiana DNR is looking for volunteers for a new study called "Snapshot IN" that will use trail cameras to gather information on Indiana wildlife.
Volunteers must have at least 10 acres and be willing to set up a trail camera provided by the DNR on their property this fall. The DNR hopes to find between 20 and 100 volunteers, according to wildlife biologist Shawn Rossler.
"Gathering accurate data on the distribution and relative abundance of wildlife species statewide can be extremely challenging for biologists," Rossler said. "Working with citizen scientists, the DNR hopes to understand how animals are using various land types in Indiana."
Snapshot IN will run during October and November, when many wildlife species are active.
The DNR will provide each landowner with the same camera model, with the same settings.
- Details
(Provided by Indiana DNR)
Hunters this fall can check their game online through the CheckIN Game system, at an on-site check station or by phone.
The online CheckIN Game system at checkINgame.dnr.IN.gov can be used with any Internet-connected device. The website includes instructions on how to use the system. Users also can locate their customer ID and print temporary transportation tags.
The phone-in option, at 1-800-419-1326, carries a $3 fee (Visa or Mastercard only).
Even at the on-site check stations, station managers now will enter information online through the CheckIN Game System. Stations will no longer be using paper log books or issuing metal tags.
A listing of on-site check stations is at dnr.IN.gov/fishwild/6271.htm .
A misprint in the 2015-16 hunting guide incorrectly lists the phone number for CheckIN Game. The correct number is: 1-800-419-1326.
- Details
The Indiana Natural Resources Commission has given final approval to rule changes that govern commercial fishing and sport fishing for catfish.
The new rules raise the minimum size from 10 to 13 inches for catfish caught in rivers and streams, including the Ohio River, and limit the number of large catfish caught in lakes, reservoirs, streams and rivers (including the Ohio River) to no more than one each per day of channel catfish at least 28 inches long, blue catfish at least 35 inches long, and flathead catfish at least 35 inches long.
The DNR proposed the changes in order to increase survival of younger catfish and ensure continued large or ìtrophyî catfish opportunities for both sport and commercial fishing. Larger catfish also have higher reproductive potential and can help control populations of forage species such as gizzard shad and Asian carp.
The Commission granted preliminary approval to the rule changes in November, after which a public comment period including one public hearing. The rule changes will not be in effect until approved by the Attorney Generalís Office and Governor's Office and published in the Indiana Register.
- Details
(Provided by Indiana DNR)
The phone number for deer and turkey hunters to report their harvested animals is wrong in the printed version of the 2015-16 Indiana DNR Hunting & Trapping Regulations booklet.
The correct number is 800-419-1326.
That number appears on page 12 of the booklet but is incorrect on pages 26 and 38.
Hunters are required to register their harvested deer or turkey within 48 hours either online through the DNR's CheckIN Game system (www.CheckINGame.dnr.IN.gov) or at a check station or by calling 800-419-1326.
The DNR regrets the error and apologizes for any inconvenience it may have caused.
- Details
Provided by Indiana DNR)
Waterfowl hunters can apply online now through Sept. 30 for a chance to hunt LaSalle, Kankakee, Kingsbury and Willow Slough fish & wildlife areas in northern Indiana.
Applicants may choose up to five property and date combinations. Successfully drawn applicants will be chosen for one (or more) of their five property and date choices.
On all northern Indiana properties, hunters must be accompanied by at least one but no more than two other hunters.
All hunters must possess a hunting license, state waterfowl stamp, federal waterfowl stamp and a HIP (Harvest Information Program) Number.
All reserved hunt draw results will be posted online at least one week after the deadline has passed.
More information and the application system are at www.dnr.IN.gov/fishwild/5834.htm.