Kids Fishing Derby

KIDS FISHING DERBY

Kids Fishing Derby

No license, no fees, just fun!

Join us for the Eagle Creek Park Foundation’s Free Fishing Derby, a beloved tradition for over 25 years! Held on DNR’s free fishing day, no license is needed, and park entry fees are waived for families attending the event—so you can enjoy a full day at Eagle Creek Park.

Kids ages 4-14 and their families are invited to this catch-and-release event from 9 am to 1 pm. Fishing poles, bobbers, and bait are provided on a first-come, first-served basis, but feel free to bring your own gear. After fishing and free hot dogs, feel free to stay to explore the park’s beauty.

Many families bring chairs, blankets, and coolers for a comfortable, fun-filled day!

Watch: A look back at Fishing Derby

Fishing Derby Registration

Register

Date: Saturday, June 7, 2025

Time: 9 am to 1 pm

Cost: Free!

Location: Lilly Lake >, Eagle Creek Park

Park entry, fishing gear rental, and lunch are all provided at no cost to the visitor.

The event is scheduled during a DNR Free Fishing Day.

Complete this form to let us know you’re coming. We prepare fishing gear and food for anyone who attends!

Volunteer and Sponsorship Opportunities

Want to Volunteer?

Eagle Creek Park Foundation needs volunteers to make the Kids Fishing Derby a reality! If you’re interested in volunteering, please email ecpf@eaglecreekpark.org to find out more. We need help before, during, and after the event with any of the following:

Fishing Guidance
Registration
Setup and Tear-Down
Parking
Distribution of Fishing Gear

Reach out about volunteering >

Directions

The easiest way to access Lilly Lake is to enter through the 71st Street entrance, and then take your first left (65th St.), then take the first right (Lilly Lake Dr.), then right at the tee in the road.

As you enter the park, let the gate attendant know you’re here for the Fishing Derby, participants will have gate fees waived.

Fishing Derby Photo Gallery

A young girl with braided hair fishing by a serene lake, wearing a blue hoodie and holding a fishing rod.

A child wearing a mask holds a caught fish while fishing by a lake, showcasing a fishing rod and bobber in the background.

A family fishing by a serene lake, showcasing a child and an adult casting fishing lines into calm waters surrounded by greenery.

Eagle Creek Park Foundation table setup near a pond, showcasing brochures and promotional materials for visitors.

Group of children fishing by a lake, showcasing outdoor recreational activities and family bonding moments.

A mother and her child fishing by a serene lake, showcasing a bonding moment in nature with fishing gear and a calm water backdrop.

Outdoor pavilion with people preparing food and snacks on a table, surrounded by greenery.

Two volunteers at a charity event with a snack table featuring chips, condiments, and drinks in a natural outdoor setting.

Children fishing by a serene pond surrounded by greenery, showcasing outdoor family activities and nature exploration.

A vibrant community gathering along a lakeside with people enjoying nature and activities amidst lush greenery.

Group of people fishing by a pond, showcasing community engagement in outdoor activities.

Group of people fishing by a lake, including adults and children with fishing rods and tackle boxes.

A child with curly hair fishing by a serene lake, showcasing outdoor recreational activities and nature.

Fishing

Enjoy some peaceful fishing at Eagle Creek Park.

Iron Eagle Paddle Run

Iron Eagle

Iron Eagle Paddle and Run

Indy’s most enjoyable summer challenge!

Iron Eagle is a unique run-paddle-run adventure race designed for all fitness levels and experience levels. Iron Eagle serves as a fundraiser for Eagle Creek Park’s trails.

Whether you’re a seasoned athlete or just looking for a fun challenge, this race offers a scenic and exciting course through Eagle Creek Park’s trails and reservoir.

The race centers around a 1.5-mile paddle on Eagle Creek reservoir, sandwiched between two 2.6-mile runs through Eagle Creek Park’s beautiful wooded trails.

Individuals and relay teams can participate. All participants receive a medal, t-shirt and access to the post-race party. Register below!

About the Race > More Info > Race Experience & Results >

Support the park

Eagle Creek Park Foundation presents Iron Eagle – a relaxed race for all ages and abilities. Proceeds from the race go to Eagle Creek Park’s trail maintenance fund >.

The trail maintenance fund was used to build a new bridge on the Orange trail in 2023, which competitors now run over during the race!

In 2026, using the funds raised, the Iron Eagle committee has set their sights on renovating the amphitheater and Red Trail behind the Earth Discovery Center. These enhancements will increase the usability, sustainability, and safety of that section of the trail! Phase 1 of the project was completed in July 2025, Check out Phase 1 >

Donate to the Trail Fund

Iron Eagle 2026

Day(s)

Hour(s)

Minute(s)

Second(s)

About the Race

Iron Eagle Course Map

Download Course Map

About the Race

Iron Eagle is a run-paddle-run adventure race for individuals and teams of all ages and ability levels. The race features a 2.6-mile trail run, a 1.5-mile paddle, and another 2.6-mile trail run back to the finish at the Eagle Creek Park swimming beach for the post-race party.

This event showcases the amazing trails and open water of Eagle Creek Park while offering a fun and scenic challenge. Proceeds support trail maintenance and improvements at Eagle Creek Park.

Date and Time

August 8, 2026
6:30 am-7:30 am boat drop-off, at marina
6:30 am – 7:30 am check-in/registration, & packet pick-up at beach
8 am race starts at the beach.
Post-race party concludes at 12 pm.

Pricing

Priced per person, team information below
Proceeds benefit Eagle Creek trail fund
$60 before June 8th
$70 before July 8th
$80 before August 2nd
$90 from August 3rd until race day
Foundation members receive a $10 discount for Iron Eagle. Become a member today >

Race Experience and Results

Iron Eagle Race Day

Iron Eagle Photo Gallery

Iron Eagle participants range in age, gender, and ability level. The only thing they have in common is that all finishers receive a custom Iron Eagle medal.

Prior Years' Photos

Group of runners participating in a race on a gravel path near a lake.

Two male runners participating in a trail race through a wooded area.

Group of runners participating in a trail run through a wooded area.

Three women running along a wooded trail during a race in a forested area.

A woman in a green tank top running on a wooded trail with other runners in the background.

A male runner wearing a backpack running on a forest trail surrounded by greenery.

Two individuals running on a forest trail, one waving and the other smiling, both wearing race bibs.

Multiple kayakers paddling on a calm body of water with two individuals observing from a railing.

Two individuals paddling in a double kayak on calm water with blue paddles.

Individual paddling a bright yellow kayak on calm water, wearing a blue life jacket and a headband.

An adult and a child paddling together in a double kayak on calm water.

A group of kayakers paddling on a calm body of water with several boats in the background.

Individual paddling a turquoise solo kayak on calm water with a paddle.

A man in swim shorts and a life jacket exiting an orange kayak onto a riverbank.

Individual paddling a kayak on calm water with a paddle in hand.

Individual paddling a red and yellow kayak on calm water with a paddle.

A runner in an orange tank top crossing the finish line at Eagle Creek Park event.

Two women crossing the finish line of a race with arms raised in celebration.

A male runner crossing the finish line at Eagle Creek Park event with a camera in hand.

A man and woman running together across a finish line at Eagle Creek Park event.

Iron Eagle Results

Check out race results from 2019 onward by clicking below! The gallery highlights our 2024 winners. Awards are given for Male and Female Individual, 2-Person Team, and 2-Person Relay categories. (The 3-Person Relay category is not awarded.)

Prior Years' Results

Two women standing together, one holding a trophy and the other wearing a medal, in an outdoor event setting.

A man in athletic wear receiving a paddle award from a woman in a casual shirt at an outdoor event.

Three women holding paddles and awards after a competition, smiling at the camera.

Two male relay race winners holding wooden paddles and medals, smiling at the camera.

Three individuals wearing gray t-shirts and medals, smiling and holding snack bars at an event.

2024 Iron Eagle with Foundation Staff

In 2024 Eagle Creek Park Foundation Staff decided to participate in Iron Eagle – and we had a blast! We particularly enjoyed making our team name: “Titanium Turkeys” into a fabulous t-shirt and getting to meet many of the participants on the day of the event. Also we technically won the 3-Person Relay, as we were the only entrants in the category for 2024.

2024 Iron Eagle Staff Takeaways

Our staff team had a blast at Iron Eagle 2024 and learned a few things along the way! The race atmosphere is fun and welcoming, no intense training is required to enjoy it, and many participants return year after year. If you’ve ever thought about joining, now’s the perfect time to sign up!

Group of participants running in a race, some wearing numbered bibs and athletic clothing.

A woman running on a trail in a forest, with other runners visible in the background.

Individual paddling a turquoise kayak on calm water, wearing a gray shirt and a cap.

A participant in athletic attire crossing a finish line at an Eagle Creek Park Foundation event.

More Information

Iron Eagle Divisions

You will select your division when you register on the race website

Individual

One person completes the entire race by themselves.
This includes both the run stages and the paddle stage.
Historically, it is our most popular division.
1st place male and female individuals receive an award.

2-Person Team

Both participants run both running stages and the paddle stage
Teams can consist of two people of any gender.
Teams are welcome to use two single boats or a double boat
Participants need to stay within 50 feet of their teammate
Boat(s) must remain in the boat transition area until both runners have arrived
Finish time and place are based on when the last runner crosses the finish line.
One award is presented to the winning team for this category.

2-Person Relay

Relays can consist of two people of any gender.
One person runs both running stages, and the other completes the paddle stage.
The paddle person and boat need to stay in the boat transition area until the runner arrives.
One award is presented to the winning team for this category.

3-Person Relay

Relays can consist of three people of any gender.
One person runs the first run stage, the second completes the paddle, and the third person runs the second run stage.
The paddle person and boat need to stay in the boat transition area until the first runner arrives
The second runner must stay in the boat transition area until the paddle portion is complete
3-person relay teams are welcome, but will not be eligible for the awards

Iron Eagle FAQ

If you have additional Iron Eagle questions, email ecpf@eaglecreekpark.org

Is there a course map?

The Iron Eagle course used for the 10th anniversary race has become our standard race and can be found here Iron Eagle Course Overview

Can I bring my own kayak/canoe/watercraft?

Competitors and teams are allowed to bring their own watercraft, provided you also bring your own appropriate lifejacket(s) and paddles.

Are watercraft rentals available?

Yes. Kayak and canoe rentals are available in advance through Eagle Creek Outfitters on a first-come, first-served basis. $10 from every boat rental benefits the Foundation. Rentals come equipped with paddles and life jackets.

Single dugout & sit-on-top kayaks are $28. Double kayaks & canoes are $33.

What are the award categories?

Winners will be honored in the following categories:

First place individual female
First place individual male
First place two-person team (2 participants complete the entire race together)
First place two-person relay team (2 participants, each completes 1 or 2 stages)

Where can I park?

The race begins and ends at the beach.
Race check-in, packet pick-up, and registration all occur at the beach.
There is plenty of parking at the beach for competitors and spectators alike.
Before the race, you’ll need to visit the marina to drop off your watercraft or pick up your rental.
Plenty of temporary parking at the marina while you get your watercraft situated before the race.

Can I volunteer at Iron Eagle?

We’d love to have you! We need help with the following:

Water aid stations
Road crossings
Medal distribution
Registration
T-shirt distribution
Boat management
The after party

Please contact ecpf@eaglecreekpark.org for volunteer information.

Foundation Staff, Board members and volunteers all pitching in

Are spectators allowed?

This race starts and ends at the beach with the marina serving as the transition area. Spectators are welcome to view the race at either location.

Note that you won’t be able to drive between the marina and the beach once the race begins.

2026 Iron Eagle Sponsors

Photography

Photography at Eagle Creek Park

Capture the Beautify of Eagle Creek Park

Whether you’re shooting on film, digital, or on your iPhone, it’s hard to take a bad photography at Eagle Creek Park. With almost 5,000 acres of land and water, you’ll see something worth taking a picture of at every turn. Don’t be surprised if you fill you memory card with photos of birds, beautiful landscapes, and other wildlife.

Indy Parks hosts a Park Pass Contest every year – the winner’s photo will be the backdrop for park passes for an entire year! See details below >

Professional Photography & Commercial Filming

Per Indy parks regulations, all non-commercial photography is permitted in the Park. However commerical filming and professional photo shoots require a permit from the Park. See below for fees and permits >

Flying a Drone at Eagle Creek Park.

Eagle Creek Park shares airspace with the Eagle Creek Airport; therefore, consumer drones flown by non-professionals are not allowed.

For drone (UAS) operations, a specific application is needed, along with an FAA certified UAS pilot license and a COI. Ensure you are aware of and abide by all FAA flight rules for drone use. Drone photography/videography activities are also subject to additional fees (see below >).

A Foundation Pass Gives Back

If you plan to take photographs in Eagle Creek Park, trust us, you’ll be back. For unlimited gate entry to the Park, we recommend an Eagle Creek Park Foundation pass. Besides Park access, a Foundation pass makes you a member of the Foundation and is the easiest way to give back to the park!

Get A Pass

LOCATION:

7840 West 56th Street, Indianapolis, Indiana 46254 >

CONTACT:

317-327-7110 >

HOURS:

Open Dawn to Dusk

Monday-Sunday

WEBSITE:

EagleCreekPark.Org >

Professional Photography and Commercial Filming

Professional photo or film requires a permit

Indy Parks requires that individuals and businesses who intend to capture photos or video sign an aggreement and pay daily or yearly fees (see below).

Important notes from photo/film agreement:

You must provide credit to Indy Parks and Recreation and the specific facility or location in all print materials or reproduction.
All necessary licenses, approvals, insurance, and permits must be obtained, and a Certificate of Insurance (COI) naming the Consolidated City of Indianapolis as an additional insured for $1,000,000 is required.

Rates for professional photo shoots & commercial filming

Professional Photo Shoot	$30.00/day
Professional Photo Annual Permit*	$150.00/year*
*If purchased on/after June 1st	$110.00
*If purchased on/after Sept. 1st	$80.00
Commercial Filming 4 hours or less	$200.00/day
Commercial Filming 5 hours or more	$400.00/day

You can access the agreement by clicking the button below.

Professional Photo & Film Agreement

UAS Drone Application

Submitting your permit(s)

Whether you are planning a photography shoot, filming, or to flying your drone, all permits should be submitted in person to the Park Office for processing.

The Park Office is located at 7840 W. 56th Street, Indianapolis, IN 46254, and hours are 9 am – 5 pm, Monday – Friday.

Park Pass Contest

Contest Rules for the Annual Eagle Creek Park Photo Contest:

• Photos must be of Eagle Creek Park.

• Photos should be horizontal.

• You may email up to 5 photos to indyparksCS@indy.gov.

• The top 5 photos, chosen by a selection committee, will be posted to Facebook for public voting around early October.

• Public voting usually closes around mid-October.

• The winner is typically announced in mid-October.

An Annual Tradition

Beyond professional endeavors, you can also participate in the annual Eagle Creek Park Photo Contest, presented by Indy Parks.

This yearly contest invites park enthusiasts to submit their best photographs of Eagle Creek Park, with the winning photo selected to be featured on the following year’s Eagle Creek Park Pass.

Submissions typically open through late September, with public voting for finalists and the winner announcement occurring in October.

See 2024 Finalists

Other Offerings at Eagle Creek

Waterfowl Sanctuary

Waterfowl Sanctuary at Eagle Creek Park

Eagle Creek Outfitters

Rent all the gear you need at Eagle Creek Outfitters.

Marina

Launch your kayak or paddleboard from the Marina at Eagle Creek Park.

Boat Ramp

Get in the water at the Boat Ramp at Eagle Creek Park.

Causeway

About the 56th Street Causeway at Eagle Creek Park.

Beach

Go for a swim at the beach at Eagle Creek Park!

Golf Club

Fore! Play a round at the Eagle Creek Golf Club.

Fishing

Fishing at Eagle Creek

Anglers welcome at Eagle Creek

Eagle Creek Park offers fantastic opportunities for anglers of all skill levels, boasting a reputation as “one of the best places in Indy to catch fish day in and day out”. The park’s immense 1,300-acre reservoir is a prime spot, providing a rich habitat for various species and a “great resource for both wildlife and recreation”.

Fishing is permitted in several key locations within the park:

Eagle Creek Reservoir: Known for Largemouth Bass, Crappie, and Catfish. The reservoir offers ample space for fishing from the bank or by boat.
Lilly Lake: This area allows for bank fishing and is annually stocked with Largemouth Bass, Carp, Channel Catfish, and Crappie. Bluegill and other panfish are most commonly caught in Lilly Lake.
Waterfowl (Bird) Sanctuary: Minor fishing is allowed along the bank from the parking lot, with species including Largemouth Bass, Bluegill, Crappie, Carp, and Catfish.

Fishing Map and Info

A Foundation Pass gives back

An Eagle Creek Park Foundation Pass grants umlimted gate entry and is the easiest way to give back to the park. If you plan to fish often, it’s as essential as your pole and license.

Get A Pass

More Fishing Info

Fishing Rules

All fishing and boating on the reservoir are regulated by the Indiana Department of Natural Resources, with specific rules including state and bag limits, a maximum boat length of 26 feet, and requirements for fishing with a pole. You can also find live bait, artificial lures, tackle, and boat rentals at the Marina Bait House.

Indiana DNR Fishing Info

Kids Fishing Derby

For our younger anglers, don’t miss the Eagle Creek Park Foundation’s Free Kids Fishing Derby! This beloved tradition, running for over 25 years, is a fantastic opportunity for kids aged 4-14 and their families to enjoy a fun-filled day of fishing.

The derby is held at Lilly Lake on a DNR free fishing day, meaning no license is needed, and park entry fees are waived for all families attending the event. Poles, bait, and food are provided by the Foundation. Click the post below to learn more