Four not-so-secret fishing spots along the Great Miami Riverway

Fishing season is in full swing, and the excitement has anglers throughout the Miami Valley baited – hook, line and sinker. There’s one thing every veteran angler knows, and that’s never to give away the location of their “spot,” but if you’re new to the sport–or just interested in trying out a new hobby – here are some of our favorite places to try out along the Great Miami Riverway. 

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FISHING SPOTS

While these spots might not be so “secret” they offer beautiful scenery and ample fishing opportunities to enjoy the hobby and get out in nature. Fishing is one of the most popular sports in the world, and the Great Miami River is one of the best rivers in Ohio to try and catch some fish – or at least have some fun trying. Here are three of our favorite fishing spots.

#98 Miami Bend Park, West Carrollton

Miami Bend Park includes a low dam, attractive for both fishing and bird watching and is known for being a great spot for smallmouth bass fishing in the Miami Valley. A valid Ohio fishing license is required is required to take fish from all Ohio waters, except ponds and reservoirs on private property from which fish do not migrate. Anglers must carry their license with them when fishing. Licenses, which can be purchased online from the Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR), are available for residents and nonresidents and range from one-day to annual permits. 

#5 Island Metropark, Dayton

Just a few miles north of RiverScape MetroPark, where the Stillwater River flows into the Great Miami River, is an urban oasis with a long Dayton history. The 43-acre Island MetroPark is an urban oasis conveniently located in the heart of Montgomery County and filled with picturesque landscape and mature trees, a rich cultural heritage, many recreation amenities and opportunities and a waterway that borders both sides of the park.

#52 Tawawa Lake, Sidney

Tawawa Lake is located in the middle of Tawawa Park. Anglers will find a variety of fish including rainbow trout and largemouth bass. No matter your bait or gear - your chances of getting a bite here are good. So grab your favorite rod and reel, and head out to Tawawa Lake.

#7 Eastwood Metropark

Eastwood MetroPark is a hub of outdoor recreation. With a variety of water-based recreational activities as well as land-based recreational and leisurely activities, the park offers visitors many opportunities to actively experience nature without leaving the city. The 441-acre MetroPark sits at the confluence of regional water, hiking and biking trails. It offers a range of recreational opportunities in a convenient location and natural setting.

Did you know?  According to data collected by ODNR, the Great Miami River:

  • Supports a very diverse fish population. In the Great Miami River, and its tributaries, you can fish for everything from bass, saugeye, crappie, northern pike, and catfish to rock bass. Especially abundant are smallmouth bass, but you might get lucky and catch a unique species like hybrid striped bass or white bass.
  • Produces record-sized fish. ODNR’s Fish Ohio program recognizes anglers who catch fish of noteworthy size on Ohio’s rivers. Out of 30 of the different species caught, 22 were large enough to be recognized. That is more than other large rivers in the region.
  • Ranks as Ohio’s best river to catch large smallmouth bass. According to ODNR, the peak season for bigger fish begins in April and is steady through October each year.
  • Has produced noteworthy fish in every month of the year. But the best months are March through November.

Looking for more fishing inspiration? Check out our complete list of 99 things to do along the Great Miami Riverway, and you might just get lucky and find a secret spot of your own.