Last month, an Indiana angler made state history by catching a relatively heavy yellow perch. The Indiana Department of Natural Resources (Indiana DNR) shared the catch on May 1 on Facebook. Blas Lara made the remarkable catch during the Mayor’s Fishing Derby in Hammond on April 21 in Lake Michigan. The 3-pound, 2-ounce yellow perch shattered a 43-year-old Indiana state record previously held by Roy W. Burkel Jr. State officials also mentioned that another long-standing record for smallmouth bass was broken on March 3, 1992.
Yellow perch are one of many native fish species found in Lake Michigan and are popular among anglers due to their ease of catching and quality as table fare. Although the population of yellow perch has declined from its peak decades ago, there is still a strong fishery for large perch in the lake. The International Game Fish Association reports that the current world record for yellow perch dates back to May 1, 1865, when Dr. C. Abbot caught a 4-pound, 3-ounce yellow perch in Bordentown, New Jersey, just after the assassination of President Abraham Lincoln.
Ben Dickinson, a Lake Michigan fisheries research biologist with Indiana DNR, stated that perch growth rates have accelerated in recent years, with many reaching trophy sizes at younger ages than in the past. Anglers have reported catching large perch in the 14- to-17-inch size class over the past two years. The Indiana DNR recognizes the significance of Lara’s catch and the impact it has on the fishing community. Lara was not immediately available for comment when contacted by Fox News Digital.
This remarkable catch by Blas Lara highlights the potential for anglers to break long-standing state fishing records and achieve personal milestones in the sport. The Indiana DNR continues to monitor the populations of various fish species in Lake Michigan, including yellow perch, to ensure sustainable fishing practices. The thrill of breaking records and catching trophy-sized fish motivates anglers to continue pursuing their passion for fishing in local waters. The rich history of fishing records, both locally and globally, adds to the excitement and appeal of the sport for fishing enthusiasts worldwide.
The yellow perch caught by Blas Lara serves as a testament to the thriving fishery in Lake Michigan and the efforts of conservationists to protect and preserve the aquatic ecosystem. The record-breaking catch not only reflects Lara’s skill and dedication as an angler but also contributes to the collective knowledge and understanding of fish populations in the region. As anglers continue to pursue new records and exceed previous achievements, they play a crucial role in promoting biodiversity and sustainability in freshwater environments. With ongoing research and monitoring initiatives, the Indiana DNR aims to ensure the long-term health and viability of fish populations in Lake Michigan for future generations to enjoy.
