Local organization stocks walleye fingerlings in Wolf Lake

Through the fundraising efforts of local fishing organization Perch America, around 5,500 walleye fingerlings found a new home in Wolf Lake on Nov. 20.

"This is our 13th consecutive year of doing the walleye stocking," said Bruce Caruso, Treasurer and Wolf Lake Walleye Stocking Project Manager for Perch America. "Initially it was only going to be a one year deal and then we decided to continue year after year.

"It's been a successful program. People are enjoying the fishery and catching some quality walleye."

These 5- to 7-inch fish were set free on the Saturday fall morning into the Hammond side of the lake with a crowd of close to 40 people on hand to watch and take part in assisting in their release.

The first container of fish to go in was deposited by Caruso and Hammond Parks Foundation board member, Bonnie Henry.

"It was exciting, really exciting dumping the first bucket of fish," Henry said. "I have been here an hour and a half waiting for the fish to arrive.

"I think the stocking program is great. I'm a fisherman and appreciate the efforts."

Perch America estimates that they have stocked over 76,000 walleye into Wolf Lake over the 13 years that they have been helping Wolf Lake remain a prime spot for fishing in the region.

For the past 12 years, Tom Werenski of Richmond Fisheries located in Richmond, Ill., has supplied the Minnesota-raised walleye.

"Tom's pricing is good and he is a biologist," Caruso said. "He is very concerned with the health and well being of the fish he brings."

The money raised by Perch America comes from donations and contributions from individuals, civic organizations, clubs, local businesses and major corporations.

"This was surprisingly a real good year of fundraising considering the economic conditions," Caruso said. "Fortunately we have some great contributors.

"I must also commend the Indiana Department of Natural Resources and Dr. Jennifer Strasser of the Indiana Board of Animal Health. Without their collaboration this program wouldn't exist."