Moon Eye Fish, Indiana Record Catch, and Fall Crappie Hotspots in Indianapolis

 If you follow fishing news around Indiana, you may have seen the buzz about Tyler Baumann’s new state record, 9-ounce Moon Eye fish catch at the east fork Whitewater River. But what the "heck" exactly is a Moon Eye fish, and is it worth frying up for dinner? Let’s dive in—then we’ll switch gears to talk about a Hoosier favorite: Fall crappie fishing in Indianapolis.

What is a Moon Eye Fish?

The Moon Eye is a silvery, freshwater fish found in rivers and streams throughout parts of North America. Its name comes from its large, bright, almost glowing eyes that seem built for low-light feeding. They are related to mooneye and goldeye species in the Hiodontidae family.

Moon Eye aren’t as commonly targeted as bass, crappie, or catfish, but they are a fascinating catch because of their rarity and their place in Indiana’s record books. They feed mostly on insects and small minnows and are known for their shiny, almost mirror-like scales.

Is Moon Eye Good to Eat?

While some anglers do eat Moon Eye, they aren’t considered a top table fish in Indiana. They have plenty of bones, and the flavor isn’t as widely praised as panfish like bluegill or crappie. In Canada, their cousin the Goldeye is smoked and considered a delicacy, but here in Indiana most anglers see Moon Eye as more of a trophy catch than a meal.

So, if you hook into a Moon Eye like Baumann did, it’s more about the story and the record than filling your skillet.

Now Let’s Talk Fall Crappie Fishing in Indianapolis

With Moon Eye excitement behind us, fall is truly the season for crappie fishing in central Indiana. As the water cools, crappie start moving shallower and schooling up, making them easier to target. And unlike Moon Eye, crappie are among the best-tasting freshwater fish you can fry, grill, or bake.

Here are a few local hotspots around Indianapolis where fall crappie action heats up:

• Eagle Creek Reservoir – One of the best places around Indy to chase slabs. Focus near submerged timber, drop-offs, and brush piles in 8–12 feet of water.

• Geist Reservoir – A favorite among serious anglers. Fall crappie here are often found near docks and deeper brush.

• White River Backwaters – Don’t overlook the quieter stretches of the White River around Indy. Crappie can hold in current breaks and along woody cover.

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  Smaller City Lakes & Ponds – Even small Indianapolis ponds can hold surprising numbers of crappie in the fall. If you know a local spot with structure, it’s worth dropping a jig.

Best Fall Tactics

• Use small jigs tipped with minnows or soft plastics.

• Look for schools on your electronics; crappie love to stack up this time of year.

• Fish during stable weather—crappie are notorious for being finicky when cold fronts roll through.

Final Cast

The Moon Eye may be a rare, record-worthy fish in Indiana, but when it comes to good eating and reliable action, fall crappie fishing around Indianapolis takes the prize. With cooling waters and hungry schools moving in, now is the perfect time to grab a pole, hit a reservoir, and bring home some slabs for the fryer. 

"I can't wait to go get'em My Favorite to fry and eat"

BJ        Need a Fryer for Home ?........