DNR biologists are conducting a study at Clear Lake in Steuben County to try to understand why what has been one of the best trout fishing spots in northern Indiana is declining.

Approximately 20 percent of trout stocked into the lake have been tagged just below the dorsal fin with a small “spaghetti” tag.

Anglers who catch tagged trout are encouraged to return the tags to the tag return station at either the DNR public access site or Clear Lake Marina.

Biologists use information provided by tag returns to better manage trout fisheries and develop future stocking strategies. Higher return rates indicate a successful fishery. Lower rates may lead to fish being stocked in other locations.

Anglers must have both a trout/salmon stamp and a valid fishing license to legally take a trout or salmon from public waters. Indiana’s trout and salmon programs are partially funded by the purchase of these annual stamps

The daily bag limit at Clear Lake is five trout, and no more than one can be a brown trout. The minimum size limit is 7 inches.