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