The Best Fishing in Ohio

The Best Fishing in Ohio
Once considered a fruitful frontier by eager pioneers, Ohio has a long history of intrepid anglers fishing for their livelihood and survival. Freshwater fishing has since become a largely recreational pastime, but still offers a variety of challenges depending upon the body of water, the available fish species and the specific conditions. Ohio has much to offer fishermen: major rivers, the Great Lake Erie, and many small fishing holes.

Alum Creek Reservoir

A broad body of water created by the Army Corp of Engineers in 1974, Alum Creek Reservoir is great for anglers since it is regularly stocked by the Division of Wildlife. It is also remarkably convenient, located just a few miles from the capital city of Columbus. Home to bass, catfish, walleye and crappie, the lake has nearly 4,000 acres of water for recreational boating, swimming and fishing.

Kiser Lake

For those looking for a more traditional and quiet fishing experience there is the glacially-formed Kiser Lake. Between Columbus and the Indiana state line to the west, Kiser Lake does not permit motor-powered craft. Fishermen can use row boats, canoes or even sailboats. Kiser Lake is also excellent for shore fishing. The lake is especially renowned for its catfish, which are some of the largest to be found in the region.

Clear Fork Reservoir

The Clear Fork Reservoir has a strict limit of 8 mph for motorized craft. This makes it ideal for trolling and enjoying the smooth waters. Clear Fork Reservoir is especially known for its walleye. With 14 miles of shoreline and an average depth of only 10 feet, the Clear Fork Reservoir is also great for surface fishing.

Lake Erie

Once considered unsuitable for fishing, the rehabilitated Lake Erie now has a number of opportunities. Best known for its yellow perch, smelt and walleye, the more adventurous anglers will often target the rarer rainbow trout. Lake Erie is famous for its sheer diversity of fishing, from commercial fisheries in the north to dock fishing near Sandusky.

Article Written By Louie Doverspike

Based in Seattle, Louie Doverspike has been a professional writer since 2004. His work has appeared in various publications, including "AntiqueWeek" magazine, the "Prague Post" and "Seattle Represent!" Doverspike holds a Bachelor of Arts in English from Hamilton College.

Write for Trails.com
  • Editor's Pick

    Backcountry Camping Tips

    Backcountry Camping Tips

    You've already tried car and RV camping. You've camped at commercial campsites that had a convenient restroom and water supply. Now, you want to explore the road less traveled. Backcountry camping, also known as primitive camping, is a wonderful way to explore the remote...

    More Backcountry Camping...
  • Popular Article

    Beach Camping Near Pismo Beach, California

    Beach Camping Near Pismo Beach, California

    Pismo State Beach, California, has many attractions and activities including camping, swimming, hiking and wildlife viewing. Birdwatching is one of the primary activities in the area. The park also has the largest over-wintering colony of monarch butterflies in the natio...

    More Beach Camping...
  • Featured Video

    Common Sense Hiking Tips

    Common Sense Hiking Tips

    The first and most fundamental thing is never hike alone. There are too many situations, especially as an unexperienced hiker, where you may find yourself without anyone to help you. So the buddy system works and applies very much in hiking.

    More Camping Basics...

Outdoor Gear & Equipment

ALL NEW Trails Gear Store powered by:

Trail Finder

US Map

Search by Keyword