Published: July 03, 2009 06:01 pm         

Hunting, trapping guide available online

The 2009-2010 DNR Hunting and Trapping Guide is now available on the DNR Web site, dnr.IN.gov.

Within the next week or two, the guide will be available, free of charge, at most DNR properties, various sporting goods stores, hunting license vendors and other locations around the state.

The 44-page publication’s cover shows a hunter participating in a deer reduction hunt last winter at Tippecanoe River State Park.

In addition to providing hunting and trapping rules and regulations, the guide includes articles on the 10 “unwritten” rules of hunting; why Kade Carter, sixth-grade son of DNR director Robert E. Carter Jr., likes to hunt; and how science plays a role in determining hunting rules and seasons.

The guide is a must, not only for veteran Hoosier hunters and trappers but also for those new to the state, and is a fitting addition to any neighborhood welcome package.

DNR seeks Fishin’

Pond volunteers

For the past three years, the free DNR Fishin’ Pond has been a highlight of the Indiana State Fair, and the DNR needs volunteers to keep the tradition going this year, Aug. 7-23, in Indianapolis.

Volunteers not only make this feature enjoyable and educational, they receive a free ticket to the fair, good for the entire day of their four-hour shift.

No experience is needed. Optional training, which is highly recommended for new volunteers, is offered twice in July and will serve as a chance for early ticket pickup. All volunteers also receive a T-shirt to wear during their shift.

Training for new volunteers will be from 3 to 5 p.m. July 24 or from 10 a.m. to noon July 25. The same material will be covered in both, so volunteers need attend only one session. There are morning and evening four-hour shifts at the Fishin’ Pond. Times run 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. and 3:30 to 7:30 p.m.

Those 18 and older may register at www.IN.gov/dnr/5495.htm or contact the GoFishIN program at (317) 562-1338 (e-mail fishpond@dnr.IN.gov) with questions or to register a minor (under 18 years old).

There are four types of opportunities: fishing instructors, equipment workers, registration workers and educators (crafts).

• Fishing instructors: Work individually, directly with two or three children and their parents at the pond fishing, assisting the youth during fishing time and helping them with fishing skills (casting, baiting hooks), catching the fish and returning them back to the pond.

• Equipment: Keep fishing instructors supplied with hooks, bobbers, sinkers, bait, etc., and help in the daily setup of the fishing area and equipment.

• Participant registration: Sign up youth for the event.

• Educators: Help the children with a hands-on educational activity (craft activity). This role is ideal for those who don’t want to get fishy but want to help.