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DNR State Fair Fishin' Pond

For information about the Indiana State Fair, including dates and directions, please visit their website.

People around pond

DNR State Fair Fishin' Pond

The Fishin’ Pond, started in 2006, gives children ages 5-17 the chance to fish for free during the State Fair. Each year, thousands of kids fish at the pond. For many of them, it is their first fishing experience. The program would not be such a success without the help of wonderful volunteers.

Volunteer

Ready to share your passion for fishing, outdoor recreation, and natural resources with the next generation? Registration for Indiana State Fair Fishin’ Pond volunteer shifts opens mid-May, and DNR needs hundreds of volunteers to make this event a success. 

Volunteers receive orientation, free admission to the fair on the day of their four-hour shift, a commemorative T-shirt, and the chance to help families connect with fishing resources. Not interested in baiting hooks or handling slippery fish? Check out all four volunteer positions below to see which is the best fit for you.

Guides

Show families where to register, direct them to available fishing spots, and help when needed.

Volunteer

Registration

Help parents register their kid for fishing.

Volunteer

Fishing

Work directly with kids and families. Help bait hooks, cast, catch, and return fish to the water.

Volunteer

Equipment

Tie knots to hooks and supply crew with poles.

Volunteer

Man helping child fish

If you are interested in volunteering at the State Fair Fishin’ Pond, please click on the name of the job you would like to sign up for, and you will be directed to the appropriate sign-up page that will list all of the available dates and times for that job.

Another way to register for a shift

  1. Sign in using your volunteer username and password
  2. Click “Register for an Upcoming Event”
  3. Select event by station (e.g., State Fair Fishin’ Pond – FISHING)
  4. Choose time slot by clicking the circle next to desired shift(s)
  5. Click “Register” at bottom of page (the green checkmark shows you’re good to go – you’ll receive a confirmation email)

Thank you for making our goal to grow a love for fishing in kids across Indiana possible.

If you need additional assistance or have questions, email DNRStateFairFishingPond@dnr.IN.gov

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