Hocking Hills, located in Southeast Ohio, is a renowned destination for outdoor enthusiasts, particularly those interested in fly fishing. The region offers a diverse range of fishing spots, including rivers, lakes, and creeks, teeming with various fish species. This comprehensive guide will help you plan your fly fishing adventure in Hocking Hills.
Best Spots for Fly Fishing in Hocking Hills
- Hocking River: Known for its robust smallmouth bass population, the Hocking River also hosts a diverse community of freshwater fish, including sauger, channel catfish, crappie, and walleye. The river’s average depth of 3.5 feet makes it accessible for shore fishing and watercraft.
- Clear Creek Metro Park: This park offers five miles of public fly fishing waterway, with marked parking lots and signs leading to access points.
- Lake Logan: Located northeast of Hocking Hills State Park, Lake Logan is a popular spot for fly fishing, with a diverse population of fish including largemouth bass, bluegill, catfish, crappie, saugeye, and northern pike.
- Rose Lake: Also known as Fisherman’s Lake, Rose Lake is stocked with rainbow trout annually and features other fish species like bluegill, channel catfish, bass, and golden trout.
Types of Fish You Can Catch While Fly Fishing in Hocking Hills
| Fish Species | Description |
|---|---|
| Smallmouth Bass | Abundant in the Hocking River and other waterways. |
| Channel Catfish | Common in the Hocking River and lakes. |
| Crappie | Found in the Hocking River and lakes. |
| Sauger | Present in the Hocking River. |
| Walleye | Occasional catches in the Hocking River. |
| Rainbow Trout | Stocked annually in Rose Lake. |
| Bluegill | Found in lakes and creeks. |
| Largemouth Bass | Present in lakes and rivers. |
| Northern Pike | Found in Lake Logan. |
| Saugeye | A walleye-sauger hybrid found in Lake Logan. |
Special License Requirements for Fly Fishing in Hocking Hills
To legally fly fish in Hocking Hills, you need to obtain a state fishing license. You can purchase licenses at various locations near the river, including:
- Down’s Bait and Guns
- Logan, OH Walmart
- Grandma Faye’s Grocery (Closest to the Inn & Spa at Cedar Falls)
- Online: You can also purchase a license online from the Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR) website.
Additional Tips and Resources
- Gear: Use medium-fast action rods and reels with 10-pound power pro and 8-pound fluorocarbon leaders for effective fishing.
- Techniques: Look for ambush points where fish hide and wait for bait to come by. Use crankbaits and hellgrammites for successful catches.
- Guides and Rentals: Consider hiring a local guide or renting equipment from outfitters like Hocking Hills Adventures and the Hocking Hills Canoe Livery for a more comprehensive experience.
- Accommodations: Book your stay at the Inn & Spa at Cedar Falls or other local lodges that offer fishing packages and amenities.
Hocking Hills is a true gem for fly fishing enthusiasts, offering a diverse range of fishing opportunities and a stunning natural backdrop. Whether you’re a seasoned angler or a beginner, this guide will help you make the most of your fly fishing adventure in this beautiful region.
References
- YouTube. (2023). This HIDDEN GEM in The Hocking Hills is Loaded with Smallmouth! [Video]. YouTube. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Nh-Ej-Nh-Ej
- YouTube. (2021). Creek AND River Fishing in the HOCKING HILLS (bonus … – YouTube. [Video]. YouTube. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Nh-Ej-Nh-Ej
- Inn at Cedar Falls. (n.d.). Everything You Need to Know About Hocking Hills Fishing and Hunting. https://innatcedarfalls.com/hocking-hills-fishing-and-hunting/
- Chalets in Hocking Hills. (2020). Hocking Hills Fishing. https://www.chalsetsinhockinghills.com/hocking-hills-fishing/
- Inn at Cedar Falls. (n.d.). Everything You Need to Know About Hocking River Fishing. https://innatcedarfalls.com/hocking-river-fishing/