What was swimming beneath the fishing pier at Merrick State Park? An underwater camera offered a closer look.
The water was muddy and the view wasn’t exactly crystal clear, but the camera still picked up panfish moving around beneath the pier.
The pier looks like a good place to bring kids fishing. At the time, loaner life jackets were hanging near the entrance to the pier. Visitors could borrow one while using the dock and return it afterward.
The sign at the entrance identifies it as an ADA fishing pier and recognizes the Friends of Merrick State Park, a Wisconsin DNR Knowles-Nelson Stewardship Grant, local organizations, businesses, and individuals who helped fund the project.
Fishing gear is available to borrow
You don’t necessarily need to bring your own fishing equipment. The Wisconsin DNR says anglers of any age can check out basic fishing gear free at the Merrick State Park office through its Tackle Loaner Program.
Available equipment can change, so the DNR recommends calling the park office before making a special trip. Bait is not provided, and Wisconsin fishing-license requirements still apply.
Between the fishing pier, loaner life jackets, and equipment available from the park office, Merrick has made it fairly easy for a family to give fishing a try.
The underwater video answered the original question too. There were fish down there.
Sources: Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources, Merrick State Park Recreation; Wisconsin DNR Tackle Loaner Program.