Where are the best places to Fly Fish in Ohio?
Fly fishing in Ohio offers anglers a chance to explore the state’s beautiful rivers and streams while catching a variety of fish species, including trout, bass, and steelhead. From the Mad River in the west to the Clear Fork River in the east, there are numerous fly fishing opportunities available throughout the state.
Mad River
One of the most popular destinations for fly fishing in Ohio is the Mad River. This river is regularly stocked with brown and rainbow trout by the Ohio Department of Natural Resources, making it a great spot for beginners and experienced anglers alike. The Mad River flows for 66 miles through Champaign, Clark, and Logan counties before joining the Great Miami River near Dayton. Anglers can access the river from several points along its length, including the Mad River Fish Hatchery, which is located near the town of Urbana.
Clear Creek
Another popular destination for fly fishing in Ohio is Clear Creek. This tributary of the Hocking River flows for 12 miles through the Hocking Hills region, providing anglers with a beautiful setting in which to fish. Clear Creek is known for its wild brown trout population, although there are also some rainbow and brook trout in the creek. The creek can be accessed from several points along State Route 664, including Clear Creek Metro Park.
Little Miami River
The Little Miami River is another great spot for fly fishing in Ohio. This river flows for 105 miles through southwest Ohio, providing anglers with plenty of opportunities to catch smallmouth bass, rock bass, and rainbow trout. The Little Miami River is designated as a State Scenic River, which means that it is protected from development and pollution. Anglers can access the river from several parks and public access points, including Little Miami State Park and River Road Park.
Conneaut Creek
Conneaut Creek is a popular destination for fly fishing in northeastern Ohio. This creek flows for 35 miles through Ashtabula County and is known for its population of steelhead and brown trout. The creek is located near the town of Conneaut, which offers several access points for anglers. The creek is also surrounded by scenic forests and rolling hills, making it a great spot for a day trip.
Clear Fork River
The Clear Fork River is a tributary of the Mohican River and is located in north-central Ohio. This river is home to wild brown and rainbow trout, as well as stocked brook and brown trout. The Clear Fork River is a popular spot for fly fishing, as it offers several access points and plenty of opportunities to catch fish. Anglers can access the river from several points along State Route 97, including Mohican State Park.