LOOGOOTEE — The renovation of West Boggs Lake should bring anglers and money back to the Martin-Daviess region.
The fall renovation of the Loogootee lake will not only improve fishing conditions, but also is expected to revive the lake’s contribution to the local economy.
Boggs is a popular regional attraction, drawing visitors from around southern Indiana. Outside of the Daviess-Martin market, Lawrence County residents form the single largest group to visit West Boggs. Mike Axsom, superintendent of Daviess-Martin Joint County Parks, said 75 percent of visitors to Boggs come from outside Daviess-Martin counties.
West Boggs Lake was once a premier bluegill and bass fishing lake, drawing anglers from 81 Indiana counties, Kentucky, Michigan and Ohio, according to the Indiana Department of Natural Resources.
The quality of the fishery declined when populations of undesirable fish, namely gizzard shad, increased. From 2004 to 2010, a DNR survey found that recreational boating decreased by 11 percent and the number of angler visits decreased by 63 percent.
The once million-dollar fishery now contributes about $326,000 annually to the economy.
“Anglers buy bait, food, gas and lodging in the area, bringing economic gain and tourism to the community,” DNR fisheries supervisor Brian Schoenung said. “In a small town, the nearly $800,000 lost annually can have a big impact.”
A similar renovation in 1994 increased the number of angler visits to the lake annually by 71 percent.
“The fisheries renovation will not only make for better fishing, but also has the ability to revitalize a small community,” Schoenung said. “Small family-run businesses often depend on these anglers spending funds in their stores.”
As fishing has declined, Axsom said the park has focused on other activities.
“We have 1,500 acres here. There is a lot to do,” he said. “Halloween is coming up and that is one of our largest activities of the year.”