By Louie Stout
Another nice public access facility has been added in northern Indiana and is open to ice anglers and boaters.
The site gives anglers access to two lakes, Stone and Brokesha, located north of Middlebury, Ind., just south of the Michigan border. The lakes sit on the Elkhart/LaGrange county lines.
The launch was built on the former Chucks Resort property adjacent to a channel that connects 116-acre Stone with 36-acre Brokesha, also known as Mud Lake.
The launch is accessed off CRN, 1150W in LaGrange County along the east shore of Stone.
Land and construction were financed with fishing license money and federal Sport Fish Restoration funds derived from excise taxes that Hoosier boaters and anglers pay on equipment and tackle.
Previously, Stone had a tiny access on the west side with parking for only one or two tow vehicles. The new access can accommodate at least 10 tow vehicles and has a handicap access and a paved ramp.
Based upon a 2007 DNR survey, both lakes have an average-to-above average bluegill population. They also contain bass, yellow perch, redear and crappie.
Give the DNR credit for taking advantage of a land acquisition made available to them. There was some local resistance at first, but DNR officials met with residents and put them at ease. These opportunities are few and far between these days and the DNR made the most of this one.