Ohio’s Western Basin of Lake Erie has the best walleye fishing in the world. According to the Ohio DNR, millions of walleye are caught in our area each year.

Walleye anglers can expect to catch fish mostly from the 2003 hatch, with continued contributions from 1999 and 2001 hatches. Walleye from the 2003 class will be 19 to 22 inches long while fish from the earlier classes will range from 21 to 27 inches over the course of the fishing season. Large walleye from strong hatches in the 1980’s and mid-1990’s still persist in the population. Fish Ohio trophy more than 28 inches opportunities.

The daily bag limit remains four per angler during March and April, and six fish from May through February. The 15 inch minimum size limit is in effect during the entire season.

Perch anglers should encounter very good numbers of 8 to 11 inch fish from the 2003 hatch. A strong 2001 hatch will continue to provide 10 to 13 inch jumbos.

Smallmouth should expect good bass fishing, with contributions from hatches in the 1990s, 2001 and 2003. Fish should range in size from 14 to 21 inches and weighing 1.5 to 5 pounds. Bass fishing is best around areas with bottom structure, which is available across much of the entire Ohio near-shore area. ODNR biologists have seen several good hatches in recent years, which should contribute to good smallmouth bass fishing in the future.

A closed season remains in effect from May 1 through June 29, during which all black bass (smallmouth and largemouth) must be immediately released. Beginning June 30, the daily bag limit will remain at five fish, with a 14-inch minimum length limit.