DNR hatchery staff is stocking hybrid striped bass across the state for the benefit of Hoosier anglers.

Hybrid striped bass, also known as “wipers,” are a hybrid species of white bass and striped bass. By hybridizing the two, hatchery staff is able to produce fish that grow faster and larger than a typical white bass, yet can tolerate a wider range of conditions than pure striped bass.

On June 17, DNR hatchery staff began stocking nine different lakes across the state with hybrid striped bass. These fish average between 1-1.5 inches when they are stocked, but can reach sizes averaging 13 inches by their second year.

Hybrid striped bass are known for being a challenging catch, but they also help control undesirable species such as gizzard shad in some Indiana lakes. Hybrid striped bass are typically not capable of reproduction. Stockings will be completed in these areas:

• Nyona Lake (Fulton County) – 1,040 fish

• Worster Lake (St. Joseph County) – 3,270 fish

• Clare Lake (LaPorte County) – 420 fish

• Lake Shafer (White County) – 12,910 fish

• Lake Freeman (White County) – 15,470 fish

• Shadyside Pond (Madison County) – 1,000 fish

• Monroe Lake (Monroe County) – 53,750 fish

• Hardy Lake (Scott County) – 7,000 fish

• Patoka Lake (Dubois County) – 44,000 fish

Please note anticipated stock numbers are not always realized due to production issues and other circumstances. Worster Lake, Shadyside Pond, Monroe Lake, Hardy Lake and Patoka Lake are good spots for beginner anglers.

For more information on hybrid striped bass, visit wildlife.IN.gov/3386.htm