A simple concept - give back to the fishery by supporting Indiana's hatcheries.  That's the singular mission of The Hatchery Fund.  

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The Hatchery Fund is a direct descendant of the Port to Port Challenge.  When Harry Stevens first proposed the idea of a friendly multi-port competition in 2022, the main goal was to promote the fishery by engaging novice fishermen and teaming them together with Charter Captains and other more seasoned anglers.  Network, learn, and build a sense of comradery - all while working together to best the opposing port.

 

Harry's vision didn't stop there.  The following year he approached the Hoosier Coho Club with a new concept - continue engaging novice fishermen, while also turning the event into a fundraising opportunity to benefit Indiana's hatcheries.  

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Subsequently, the 2023 & 2024 Port to Port Challenge events each raised over $2,000 to purchase a "wish list" for the Mixsawbah State Fish Hatchery.  Various supplies and equipment were requested by the hatchery staff and then purchased and donated by the Hoosier Coho Club using proceeds from the Port to Port Challenge.

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In 2025, the realization that the Port to Port Challenge would be a long term fundraising event prompted another vision.  Hatchery staff proposed accumulating the funds to purchase a tool that will make a major impact on the fishery. 

 

The Ask:  A Transfer Pump that removes the need for hatchery fish to ever leave the water when being moved in the hatchery or being transferred to the stocking trucks. 

 

The Cost:  $35,000.

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The Benefit:  Stronger, healthier fish are raised in the hatchery leading to a better fishery for boat, shore, and tributary anglers!

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Please consider donating to the Hoosier Coho Club Hatchery Fund to reach our goal of purchasing a Transfer Pump.  This pump will be shared between Mixsawbah and Bodine hatcheries, leading to better quality stocked fish for years to come!