Fishing in Ohio

Fishing Regulations in Ohio

Size limits, bag limits, and seasons by species in Ohio.

Ohio's Division of Wildlife oversees the walleye and perch of Lake Erie, among the best in the country, along with the smallmouth, bass, and panfish of its inland lakes and rivers. Limits and seasons differ between the big lake and inland waters, so confirm the rules for your target before you keep a fish.

27 species with limits5 special regulation bodies of water

Notable waters

Lake Erie (Ohio)Ohio River (Ohio)Lake Erie Central Zone (Yellow Perch)Lake Erie East Zone (Yellow Perch)Lake Erie West Zone (Yellow Perch)

Statewide

Year-round

Min size12"Daily bag5Possession10

Lake Erie Special: Lake Erie has separate seasonal regs.

Black Bass Aggregate: 5 combined w/ Smallmouth + Spotted Bass.

Specific bodies of water may have special regulations.

Always confirm with the official state agency before keeping a fish. Regulations can change and local exceptions may apply.

Check Ohio Regulations on the App

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