DNR fisheries biologists visited Clear Lake on Aug. 4 after receiving reports from residents of numerous dead fish. Several species of fish were affected, including rock bass, bluegill, redear sunfish, pumpkinseed, warmouth, crappie, bullheads, and bass. Biologists estimated approximately 500 dead fish were between the North and Big basins.

Due to recent weather, this fish kill is likely being caused by natural events. Hot weather, warm water temperatures, and calm (i.e., no wind) days lead to low levels of dissolved oxygen in the water. Without dissolved oxygen, fish are unable to breathe and can die rapidly and in large numbers.

Biologists will continue to monitor the lake in case the situation changes.

While the threat to public health is considered very low at this time, DNR always recommends common sense when recreating in natural waterways, especially during periods of hot weather. For more information on safe water recreation, visit the Center for Disease Control website at cdc.gov/habs/prevention-control.html

To view more DNR news releases, please see dnr.IN.gov.

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Media contact: Alysa Raleigh, Wildlife Health Biologist, DNR Fish & Wildlife, 317-233-3293, araleigh@dnr.IN.gov