Ohio Trout Stockings 2012

Every year the Ohio DNR stocks many lakes and ponds around Ohio with catch-able size trout. Most of these waters can't support the trout through the entire year. The water is simply too warm. I won't get into my opinions on conservation, dollars spent, etc. regarding this government handout. I understand it's too provide opportunity in areas where it might not exist otherwise...

So get out there and take advantage of this opportunity with the wiggle fish before they succumb to the heat or somebody else catches them. According to the Buckeye Sportsmen Podcast, Dan Armitage says don't over think it. A crappie minnow a foot below a bobber is all you need.

Check out the Ohio spring planned stockings here.

Photo from the Ohio DNR Website.

Fishing in Springfield, Ohio - City Limits

The axiom "the best time to go fishing is when you can" really is true. You can't catch fish without a line in the water. It's also true that fish are where you find them. Springfield, Ohio actually does have fishing available within the city limits or within walking distance of the city limits. Many areas are accessible from the various bike paths that run through the city. One of those places is C.J. Brown Reservoir and Buck Creek State Park.

It's very accessible and one of the better walleye lakes in Central Ohio. You can also catch channel catfish, as my son Chris here has proven. But you don't have to go to the big state park to wet a line. You can catch fish almost anywhere if you know where to look. Like golf course ponds behind condominiums for instance. The best time to go fishing? Now.