Now for the whole-family DNR Experience, Sept. 18-19

Indiana DNR Release:

Ready for the main course?

The State Fair was but an appetizer of free fun from the Department of Natural Resources.

It’s time to shift attention slightly north to the second annual Hoosier Outdoor Experience at Indianapolis’ Fort Harrison State Park, Sept. 18-19.

During last year’s inaugural Hoosier Outdoor Experience, 13,300 children and adults enjoyed trying more than 50 outdoor activities. These included various types of fishing.

Perhaps you watched your children or others fish at the DNR Fishin’ Pond at the fair. Perhaps you were one of the lucky adults who fished the pond with your child. In 24 days, it’ll be time for both children and adults to learn about—and try—different kinds of fishing. Free.

Even if you’re a veteran angler, you may not have tried some of these methods. Ever wanted to learn to fish with a bow and arrow? You can. Ever wanted to fly fish? You can. You can also learn about fly tying and how to successfully fish in Indiana from experts.

“If you ever wanted to learn about basic fishing, fly fishing or even bowfishing but weren’t sure how to get started, here’s your chance,” said Bill James, DNR’s chief of fisheries.

For bowfishing at the event, floating fish targets will be provided to add realism. Experienced volunteers will coach participants and ensure safety.

“If you’re looking for a unique hands-on experience at the Hoosier Outdoor Experience, be sure to stop by the bowfishing venue,” James said. “You might find you have a hidden talent that would make Robin Hood jealous.”

The Hoosier Outdoor Experience, which runs 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. each day, is presented by the DNR and the Indiana Natural Resources Foundation. The goal is to introduce people to outdoor activities they may have never tried.

Fishing is just one of many free Outdoor Experiences at this family-friendly event. Others include hands-on target shooting, archery, kayaking, mountain biking, hiking, rock climbing and much more.

Activities will be organized in six stations—aquatics, cultural, equestrian, outdoors, shooting sports and wildlife. Shuttles will take participants from station to station.

Parking, admission, activities, demonstrations and seminars at the Hoosier Outdoor Experience are free to the public. Online advance registration is requested to assist with staffing and planning. To register, go to hoosieroutdoorexperience.IN.gov and click on the orange registration icon. Watch for event updates there or on Facebook at Facebook.com/HoosierOutdoorExperience.

If you already enjoy outdoor sports and recreation and want to help others learn to enjoy them as much as you do, sign up to volunteer at http://www.in.gov/dnr/5412.htm.