Ohio Fishing Season and Limits for 2025–2026 by Month – Species, Licenses & Hotspots
You’ve arrived to the correct spot if you intend to draw a line in the Buckeye State this year! From the renowned walleye runs on Lake Erie to monster bass hiding in picturesque reservoirs, Ohio provides some of the most varied freshwater fishing experiences in the Midwest. Knowing the rules, catch dates, and creel restrictions is crucial for a good expedition, regardless of experience level.
Including bag limits, size limitations, licensing alternatives, and the finest public waterways to target your favorite species, this book provides all the information Ohio anglers need for the 2025–2026 season. In addition to offering some insider knowledge on where the best deals are, we’ve divided it down by month so you can schedule your travels around popular periods. Let’s explore what makes Ohio a freshwater fishing paradise, so grab your tackle box and check your line! 🐟
📅 Quick Reference Table by Month
Here’s a snapshot of the major species seasons and regulations across Ohio waters for 2025-2026:
| Species | Season Dates | Daily Bag Limit | Minimum Size | Special Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bass (Largemouth, Smallmouth, Spotted) | Year-round (statewide) | 5 fish | 12 inches | Lake Erie: June 28–Feb 28 (5 fish, 14″); May 1–June 27 (1 fish, 18″) |
| Walleye, Saugeye, Sauger | Year-round (statewide) | 6 fish | None (varies by lake) | Lake Erie: 15″ min; Mosquito Creek & LaDue: 15″ min |
| Crappie (Black & White) | Year-round | 30 fish (combo) | 9 inches (select lakes) | No size limit on most waters |
| Channel Catfish | Year-round | No limit (under 28″) | None | 1 fish allowed over 28″ (statewide) |
| Blue & Flathead Catfish | Year-round | No limit (under 35″) | None | 1 of each allowed over 35″ (statewide) |
| Yellow Perch | Year-round | 30 fish | None | Lake Erie zones vary by season |
| Muskellunge | Year-round | 1 fish | 50 inches | |
| Trout (Rainbow, Brook, Brown) | Year-round | 5 fish (varies) | 12 inches (varies) | Spring stocking: March–May; Lake Erie special regs apply |
| White/Striped/Hybrid Bass | Year-round | 5 fish (combo) | None | No limit on Lake Erie |
Regulations effective March 1, 2025 through February 28, 2026
🐟 Popular Sport Fish in Ohio
Largemouth, Smallmouth & Spotted Bass
Bass fishing in Ohio is nothing short of phenomenal. These hard-fighting fish are available year-round across the state, making them a favorite for weekend warriors and tournament anglers alike.
Statewide Regulations:
- Daily Bag Limit: 5 fish (combined)
- Minimum Size: 12 inches
- Best Months: May through October for aggressive feeding
Lake Erie Special Rules:
Lake Erie bass have protected seasons to allow spawning. From May 1 to June 27, you can only keep 1 bass of 18 inches or longer. Once summer kicks in (June 28 onward), the limit opens back up to 5 bass with a 14-inch minimum.
Where to Find Them:
Alum Creek Lake near Columbus is legendary for smallmouth bass—many anglers report catches in the 10–14 inch range with plenty of trophy fish pushing 5 pounds. Mosquito Creek Lake in Trumbull County is another hotspot, consistently producing largemouth bass that make the Pennsylvania fishing season anglers jealous! Rocky structure, weed beds, and submerged timber are your best bets for locating these feisty fighters.
Walleye, Saugeye & Sauger
Walleye are the crown jewel of Ohio angling, especially on Lake Erie where massive schools migrate during spring and fall. Saugeye (a walleye-sauger hybrid) thrive in inland reservoirs, while pure sauger populate the Ohio River.
Statewide Regulations:
- Daily Bag Limit: 6 fish (combined)
- Minimum Size: Varies by water (most have no minimum; select lakes have 15″ requirement)
2025 Regulation Changes:
The Ohio Division of Wildlife removed the 15-inch minimum on several popular lakes including Alum Creek, Buckeye Lake, Caesar Creek, and Indian Lake. However, Mosquito Creek Lake and LaDue Reservoir now require a 15-inch minimum to protect growing populations.
Lake Erie Regulations:
- March 1–April 30: 6 fish, 15″ minimum
- May 1–Feb 28: Daily limit TBA (announced late April), 15″ minimum
Prime Fishing Months: March through May (spring spawn run), September through November (fall feeding frenzy)
Top Waters:
Lake Erie’s western basin is world-famous for trophy walleye—especially off the islands near Port Clinton and Sandusky. Inland, Mosquito Creek Lake has earned a reputation for consistent catches, while Caesar Creek and Deer Creek offer excellent saugeye action.
Crappie (Black & White)
Crappie—or “slabs” as locals call the big ones—are Ohio’s premier panfish. These schooling fish provide fast action during spring spawning and remain catchable through ice fishing season.
Statewide Regulations:
- Daily Bag Limit: 30 fish (combined black and white)
- Minimum Size: 9 inches on select lakes (no minimum on most waters)
Best Months: April through June (spawning in shallow cover), December through February (ice fishing)
Hotspots:
According to Ohio DNR records, the top crappie destinations are Mosquito Creek Lake (#1), Buckeye Lake (#2), and Alum Creek Lake (#3). Hoover Reservoir and Indian Lake round out the top five. Target submerged brush piles, marina docks, and creek channels with minnows or small jigs for best results.
Catfish (Channel, Blue & Flathead)
Ohio’s catfish populations are robust and offer year-round action. These whiskered bruisers don’t require a license for anglers under 16, making them perfect for family outings.
Statewide Regulations:
- Channel Catfish: No limit under 28 inches; 1 fish allowed over 28″ (statewide)
- Blue & Flathead Catfish: No limit under 35 inches; 1 of each allowed over 35″ (statewide)
- Minimum Size: None (except for trophy slot)
Best Tactics: Fish the bottom with cut bait, chicken liver, or stink baits near deep holes, dam tailwaters, and river channels. Night fishing is especially productive during summer months.
Where to Go:
The Ohio River produces massive flatheads and blues. Inland, Caesar Creek Lake, Alum Creek, and Grand Lake St. Marys all have excellent channel catfish populations.
🦞 Specialty Species
Muskellunge (Muskie)
The “fish of 10,000 casts” is Ohio’s apex predator. These toothy giants test an angler’s patience and skill.
Regulations:
- Daily Limit: 1 fish
- Minimum Size: 50 inches
- Season: Year-round
Top Waters: Leesville Lake, Piedmont Lake, and West Branch Reservoir are all actively stocked with muskies by the Ohio Division of Wildlife.
Lake Erie Trout & Salmon
Lake Erie tributaries host spring steelhead runs and fall salmon migrations—a hidden gem many Ohio anglers overlook!
Lake Erie Tributary Regulations:
- March 1–May 15: 2 fish (combined trout/salmon), 12″ minimum
- May 16–Aug 31: 5 fish, 12″ minimum
- Sept 1–Feb 28: 2 fish, 12″ minimum
Important: Brook trout are protected in the Ashtabula, Chagrin, Conneaut, and Grand rivers—immediate release required.
Prime Tributaries: Rocky River, Chagrin River, Conneaut Creek, and Grand River all see excellent steelhead runs from March through May.
🐠 Panfish & Everyday Catches
| Species | Daily Bag Limit | Min. Size | Best Months |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bluegill & Sunfish | No statewide limit | None | May–August |
| Yellow Perch | 30 fish | None | Year-round |
| Rock Bass | No statewide limit | None | May–September |
| White Bass | 5 fish (combo with hybrids) | None | April–June (spawning runs) |
Family-Friendly Tip: Panfish are perfect for introducing kids to angling. Most public lakes have healthy bluegill populations near shore—just add a bobber, worm, and patience! 🎣
🦆 Stocked & Managed Waters
Ohio’s fish stocking program releases millions of fish annually to maintain healthy populations and create new opportunities.
Rainbow Trout Stocking (Spring 2025)
The Ohio Division of Wildlife releases 85,000 rainbow trout at 90 locations statewide from March through May, weather permitting. New stocking sites for 2025 include:
- Stoner Pond & Starr Lake (Lucas County)
- Wingfoot Wildlife Area (Portage County)
Find Your Spot: Check the interactive Ohio Trout Stocking Map for real-time release schedules and locations. Trout stocking typically happens on Wednesday mornings, so plan accordingly for the freshest action!
Other Stocked Species
Ohio stocks walleye, saugeye, muskellunge, channel catfish, and largemouth bass in strategic waters. In 2024, ODNR stocked fish at 288 locations statewide. View complete records at the Ohio Fish Stocking Database.
🌍 Public vs Private Waters
Public Waters:
Most Ohio lakes, rivers, and reservoirs are public access and require a valid fishing license. State parks like Alum Creek, Caesar Creek, and Salt Fork offer boat ramps, fishing piers, and shore access.
Private Ponds:
You do not need a license to fish privately owned ponds where fish cannot migrate. However, if the landowner leases the water to the state for public fishing programs, a license is required.
Pro Tip: Many state wildlife areas have “Fishing in Neighborhood Ponds” (FINP) sites—small lakes stocked specifically for easy access. These are perfect for beginners and families!
🎟️ Fishing License Guide
Ohio offers flexible licensing options for residents, non-residents, and occasional visitors.
Resident Licenses (Ohio residents living in-state 6+ months)
| License Type | Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 1-Day License | $14.00 | Can be upgraded to annual |
| 1-Year License | $25.00 | Valid 365 days from purchase |
| 3-Year License | $72.11 | Best value for regular anglers |
| 5-Year License | $120.18 | |
| Lifetime License | $599.04 | One-time purchase |
| Senior (65+) 1-Year | $10.00 | Born after Jan 1, 1938 |
| Senior Lifetime | $84.24 | |
| Youth Lifetime | $430.56 | Purchased before 16th birthday |
Non-Resident Licenses
| License Type | Cost |
|---|---|
| 1-Day License | $27.04 |
| 3-Day License | $52.00 |
| 1-Year License | $76.96 |
Free Fishing Days
Mark your calendars! June 14–15, 2025 are Ohio’s Free Fishing Days—all residents can fish without a license. All size and bag limits still apply.
Who Doesn’t Need a License?
- Anyone under 16 years old
- Ohio residents born on or before December 31, 1937
- Active military on leave/furlough
- Certain disabled veterans and mobility-impaired residents (free license available)
- Property owners fishing their own land (exceptions apply)
Where to Buy
Purchase licenses at wildohio.gov or download the HuntFish OH mobile app for instant digital licenses. You can also buy from authorized retailers statewide.
❓ FAQ Section
Q: Do kids need a fishing license in Ohio?
A: Nope! Anyone under 16 can fish without a license. It’s a great way to get the next generation hooked on angling without extra cost.
Q: Can I use live bait in Ohio?
A: Yes! Live minnows, nightcrawlers, crayfish, and other natural baits are legal. You can possess up to 100 crayfish or 500 combined minnows/baitfish unless you have a bait dealer permit.
Q: Are there catch-and-release only waters in Ohio?
A: Brook trout must be immediately released in the Ashtabula, Chagrin, Conneaut, and Grand rivers and their tributaries. Some special management areas may have additional restrictions—always check site-specific regulations.
Q: Can I fish at night in Ohio?
A: Generally, yes! However, during the spring spawn protection period (March 1–April 30), night fishing is prohibited on the Maumee, Sandusky, Portage, and Mahoning rivers—fishing is sunrise to sunset only in those locations.
Q: Is bowfishing allowed in Ohio?
A: Yes! You can use archery equipment to take carp, gar (where legal), and other non-game species. Bullfrogs and green frogs can also be taken with bow and arrow.
Q: What should I do if I catch a tagged fish?
A: Awesome! Remove the tag, rinse it with water, and call the number on the tag or visit wildohio.gov to report your catch. If you catch a tagged Lake Erie walleye, you could earn a $100 reward!
Q: Can I fillet my fish on the boat?
A: Not in Ohio. Fish must remain whole (or as complete fillets with skin intact) until you reach your permanent residence or prepare them for immediate consumption. This helps enforcement officers confirm species and counts.
🗺️ Map & Hotspots
Interactive Resources
- Ohio Fishing Lake Interactive Map – Locate lakes, access points, and species data
- Ohio Trout Stocking Schedule – Real-time release locations and dates
- Lake Erie Fishing Forecast Hotline: 1-888-HOOKFISH (1-888-466-5347)
Top 5 Must-Visit Fishing Spots for 2025–2026
- Lake Erie (Walleye Capital of the World) – Spring and fall walleye runs, yellow perch, smallmouth bass. Launch from Sandusky, Port Clinton, or Fairport Harbor.
- Mosquito Creek Lake (Trumbull County) – Trophy crappie, largemouth bass, and consistent walleye action. New 15″ walleye minimum protects growing population.
- Alum Creek Lake (Delaware County) – Top-rated smallmouth bass fishery with excellent public access near Columbus. Also offers saugeye and catfish.
- Caesar Creek Lake (Warren County) – Quality saugeye, crappie, and catfish. Beautiful scenery and well-maintained boat ramps.
- Grand River (Steelhead Alley) – One of Ohio’s premier steelhead tributaries. Spring runs (March–May) bring trophy rainbow trout from Lake Erie.
Bonus Tip: If you’re exploring neighboring states, check out the Michigan fishing season for Great Lakes opportunities just across the border!
✅ Wrap-Up
It looks like Ohio’s 2025–2026 fishing season will be unforgettable! There has never been a better time to discover the Buckeye State’s fisheries, thanks to its many public waters, liberal creel restrictions, and year-round chances for a variety of species. Ohio has something for every fisherman, whether you’re competing against a 50-inch muskie, introducing your children to bluegill on a local pond, or hunting prize walleye on Lake Erie.
Before you head out, make sure to:
✅ Purchase your license at wildohio.gov or via the HuntFish OH app
✅ Check current water conditions and stocking schedules
✅ Review bag limits and size restrictions for your target species
✅ Pack safety gear (life jackets, first aid, sunscreen)
✅ Bring a buddy or family member to share the experience!
Remember that every day on the water is a good day, even if the fish aren’t biting! 🎣🐟 Keep tight lines and stay safe!