Put-in-Bay Fishing: A Premier Angler’s Destination
Known as the Walleye Capital of the World, Put-in-Bay, Ohio, is a top-tier destination for fishing enthusiasts. Situated in the western basin of Lake Erie, it offers incredible fishing opportunities for a variety of species, including:
🎣 Walleye – The prized catch of Lake Erie
🐟 Smallmouth Bass – A favorite among sport fishers
🐠 Yellow Perch – Great for a fun and rewarding fishing experience
Book a Guided Fishing Charter
For the best fishing experience, consider booking a chartered fishing trip with one of Put-in-Bay’s expert guides:
- Put-in-Bay Charter Fishing Service – Captain Bruce 📞 419-341-2805
- Freshwater Charters – Captain Cliff 📞 419-635-5631
Notably, both captains are Coast Guard certified, ensuring a safe, enjoyable, and professional fishing adventure. Since these services are in high demand, so be sure to book your reservations early!
Where to Stay: Fishing Lodging Options
For those visiting in April, this is a top choice, perfect for anglers needing ample boat parking. Additionally, it is popular with fishermen traveling from South Dakota, Nebraska, Wisconsin, and beyond
On the other hand, this is the only hotel open during the winter, making it a convenient year-round option. Moreover, it is ideal for those who want to stay close to the action, even in the off-season.
No matter when you visit, whether in spring or summer, Put-in-Bay offers accommodations that cater to every fishing enthusiast’s needs.
Fishing Licenses in Put in Bay
Licenses can be purchased on Put-in-Bay at the Wharfside downtown, the gas station, and at East Point Cottages. Licenses are valid for 365 days from date of purchase.
Public boat ramps are located downtown next to the Jet Express dock and at South Bass Island State Park.
Our Rates for persons age 16 through 65 who have resided in Ohio for the past 6 months:
Resident Fishing License (1 Day) ………………………………………..$14.00
Resident Fishing License (1 Year) ………………………………………..$25.00
Resident Senior Fishing License (1 Year)……………………………… $10.00
The One-Day Fishing License may be exchanged for credit, minus writing fee, towards the purchase of an annual fishing license.
For Nonresidents of Ohio:
Annual Nonresident License …………………………………………. $50.96
1-Day Nonresident Tourist’s License ………………………………… $14.00
3-Day Nonresident Tourist’s License ………………………………… $25.00
A reissued license may be obtained from any license vendor for a fishing license that has been lost, stolen, or destroyed. The cost is $4.00.
SOME HELPFUL SITES
For up-to-date fishing reports, lake maps, perch, walleye, trout, and steelhead information and much more visit:
- Ohio DNR License Info at https://wildlife.ohiodnr.gov/fishing/fishing-regulations/licenses
- Ohio Fishing Information at https://www.gofishohio.com
MORE LAKE ERIE CHARTER BOAT CAPTAINS
- Winke Guide Service
- Captain Park’s Lake Erie Fishing Charters
- Fishers of Men Sport Fishing Charters – https://www.fomsportfishing.com/
- Char-Tom Sport Fishing Charters
- Capt. Denny Bergeman – Can’t Miss Charter Service
- Fishing Guides – https://www.fghp.com/
GREAT FISHING SITES
If you’re planning a fishing trip to Put-in-Bay, these resources provide valuable information to help make your experience a success:
Is a comprehensive site for walleye enthusiasts, featuring articles, message boards, chat forums, and details on walleye fishing clubs. It also includes tips specific to Western Lake Erie, making it a must-visit resource for anglers.
- Great Lakes Angler Magazine
Publication covering fishing throughout the Great Lakes region, including a fishing tournament calendar. Check it out at glangler.com.
- Ohio Weekly Fishing Reports
Published by the Ohio Division of Natural Resources, this site offers weekly fishing reports for Lake Erie and other Ohio waterways from April through September. Visit the page here.
A popular site offering extensive fishing information, including techniques and regional tips for the Ohio Great Lakes.
Dedicated site for serious walleye fishermen, with plenty of advice and resources to up your fishing game.
- Bass Fishing Home Page
Perfect for bass anglers, this site is packed with tips and information specifically for fishing in the Great Lakes.
- Ice Leaders
Focused on ice fishing, this site provides helpful articles, tips, and resources for enthusiasts. Visit iceleaders.com for more details.
Managed by the Ohio Department of Natural Resources, this site includes fishing regulations, Lake Erie fishing reports, lake maps, and other fish-related resources.
An organization that brings together individuals and groups passionate about sport fishing in the Great Lakes region.
These resources will equip you with the knowledge and tools to make your fishing adventures in Put-in-Bay and the Great Lakes a memorable experience!
WEATHER AND OTHER RESOURCES
Staying informed about weather conditions is essential for a successful and safe fishing trip. To help with this, here are some reliable resources for weather updates and marine forecasts in the Put-in-Bay area:
National Data Buoy Center (South Bass Island)
First and foremost, this site provides real-time data on wind direction, wind speed, gusts, atmospheric pressure, air temperature, and continuous wind conditions from the Lake Erie buoy nearest to South Bass Island.
Marine Forecast (National Data Buoy Center)
Additionally, you can access the Lake Erie nearshore marine forecast from the National Weather Service in Cleveland. This is a crucial resource for planning your day on the water.
Toledo Weather Radar (Intellicast)
Moreover, this radar offers weather updates every 15 minutes, making it perfect for monitoring changing conditions near Put-in-Bay.
By using these tools, you can stay well-prepared and make the most of your fishing adventure on Lake Erie!
Year Round Fishing Information at Put-in-Bay
Spring (Early April to Late May): Schools of walleye scatter along the reefs around Put-in-Bay, making it a prime time for walleye fishing. Additionally, perch, crappie, rock bass, and smallmouth bass can also be caught along the island’s shoreline.
Summer: During the warmer months, catfish are plentiful, while walleye move to the deeper waters surrounding the island. As a result, anglers with boats have great opportunities to reel in a big catch.
Fall: As the water cools, fish gradually return to the shallow areas around the islands. Consequently, this season offers excellent chances to catch a variety of species.