Fishing Fun: 8 Ohio State Parks to Reel in the Big One

Ohio boasts a diverse array of state parks that offer exceptional fishing opportunities for anglers of all skill levels. From serene inland lakes to expansive reservoirs, these parks provide abundant fish species, accessible facilities and picturesque settings.

Keep reading to discover some of the top state parks in the Buckeye State, renowned for their fishing opportunities, whether you’re trailering a boat or moored at a private boat slip rental.

1. Pymatuning State Park 

Situated near Andover in Ashtabula County, Pymatuning State Park encompasses 3,512 acres, including a portion of the expansive Pymatuning Lake. The lake is celebrated for its year-round fishing. You can reel in species such as walleye, largemouth and smallmouth bass, crappie, bluegill, perch, catfish and muskellunge. Anglers can access the lake via four boat launches on the Ohio shoreline, and both Ohio and Pennsylvania fishing licenses are honored for boat fishing throughout the lake.

• Water: Fresh
• Key Species: Bluegill, perch, crappie, catfish, muskellunge
• Fishing Type: Boat, shore, kayak

2. Mohican State Park 

Mohican State Park, located in north-central Ohio in Ashland County, is renowned for its Clear Fork Gorge and reservoir, which provide excellent fishing opportunities. Anglers frequently catch smallmouth bass, walleye, and channel catfish in these waters. The park's tranquil atmosphere and scenic beauty make it an ideal spot for a peaceful fishing experience from private boat lifts for rent. Motorized boats are allowed on Pleasant Hill Lake, but Mohican Adventures Lake only allows canoes and kayaks.

• Water: Fresh
• Key Species: Walleye, channel catfish, smallmouth bass
• Fishing Type: Boat (on Pleasant Hill Lake), shore

3. Lake Logan State Park

Located in Hocking County in southern Ohio, Lake Logan State Park has a 150-acre lake known for its diverse fish population of largemouth bass, channel catfish and redear sunfish. The park offers amenities such as boat rentals and picnic areas, making it a complete destination for outdoor recreation from private boat dock rentals or marinas. 

• Water: Fresh
• Key Species: Redear sunfish, channel catfish, largemouth bass
• Fishing Type: Boat (up to 10 hp), shore, canoe, kayak

4. Buckeye Lake State Park 

As one of Ohio's oldest state parks, Buckeye Lake State Park offers abundant fishing opportunities for crappie, bluegill and channel catfish. The park, located within Licking, Fairfield and Perry Counties, provides multiple access points to the lake, accommodating various fishing techniques and preferences. 

• Water: Fresh
• Key Species: Channel catfish, bluegill, crappie
• Fishing Type: Boat, shore, canoe

5. Shawnee State Park 

Shawnee State Park offers diverse fishing environments that include Turkey Creek Lake and the Ohio River. It’s situated within the 60,000-acre Shawnee State Forest in Scioto County. Anglers can target species such as largemouth bass, catfish, bluegill, crappie and stocked trout. The park's rugged terrain and scenic beauty enhance the fishing experience. 

• Water: Fresh
• Key Species: Bluegill, trout, crappie, largemouth bass, catfish
• Fishing Type: Boat, shore

6. Salt Fork State Park

Ohio's largest state park, Salt Fork State Park offers a nearly 3,000-acre lake filled with walleye, crappie, catfish and bass. The lake's numerous small bays are hotspots for anglers. The park, located in Guernsey County, offers eight boat ramps and two marinas for easy access to those trailering a boat from a private boat lift for rent or marina.

• Water: Fresh
• Key Species: Catfish, bass, walleye, crappie 
• Fishing Type: Boat, shore

7. Grand Lake St. Marys State Park 

Originally constructed as a reservoir for the Miami and Erie Canal, Grand Lake St. Marys is now a premier fishing destination. Anglers can pursue species such as walleye, crappie, white bass and largemouth bass. Situated in Auglaize and Mercer Counties, the park provides several boat ramps and bank fishing spots along the shoreline. 

• Water: Fresh
• Key Species: Crappie, walleye, largemouth bass, white bass
• Fishing Type: Boat, shore 

8. Maumee Bay State Park

Located in Lucas County on the shores of Lake Erie, near Toledo, Maumee Bay State Park offers excellent fishing opportunities for walleye, smallmouth bass and yellow perch. The park's facilities include a lodge, cottages, camping areas and a nature center, making it a comprehensive destination for anglers and families to enjoy. 

• Water: Fresh
• Key Species: Yellow perch, walleye, smallmouth bass
• Fishing Type: Boat, shore