Ohio Game Fishing
Game fishing in Ohio is a thriving activity for residents and traveling anglers from across the United States. Someone looking to fish in Ohio should take into consideration state licenses, state regulations, regional lakes, types of fish found in Ohio and fishing communities. The Ohio Game Fishing website is a major source of information for anyone looking to become involved in Ohio game fishing.
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Fishing Licenses
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There are three options for obtaining a fishing license in Ohio—online, from a participating vendor or mail order. To purchase a fishing license online, you can visit the Ohio Department of Natural Resources Division of Wildlife website. The price of a fishing license varies based on age. A fishing license can be purchased starting at age 16. Obtaining a permit will also require you to submit your Social Security number for the purpose of enforcing the Ohio Child Support Enforcement Agency’s child support policy.
State Regulations
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If at any time you need to know any information about state fishing regulations, you may call 800-WILDLIFE. There are four general regulations which Ohio fishermen must follow. First, it is unlawful to sell or buy any fish caught in Ohio waters. Second, it is unlawful to transport any living species, including plants, fish and invertebrates, from one body of water in Ohio to another. Thirdly, it is illegal to tag a fish and release it into a public waterway. The fourth major regulation for fishing in Ohio is that it is illegal to clean and gut fish while on the water.
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Regional Waterways
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Ohio fishing waterways are divided into six areas: Central Ohio, Northwest Ohio, Northeast Ohio, Southeast Ohio, Southwest Ohio, and Rivers and Streams. One of the major fishing lakes is Lake Erie. Fishing guides are available around the lake who are knowledgeable about access points and marinas. Another option is the many charter boats that travel around the lake. Another outlet for fishing in Ohio is the Ohio River, which offers a wide variety of bass.
Types of Fish in Ohio
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There is a large number of fish found in Ohio waterways. The Ohio River is full of many types of bass, including the largemouth gass. They typically measure 15 to 18 inches in length and feed on crayfish, large frogs and smaller fish. They mainly reside in clear, unmoving waters. The Ohio River is also home to smallmouth bass.
Fishing Communities
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The largest fishing community in Ohio is the Ohio Game Fishing organization, or the OGF. The OGF offers a wealth of resources for members, including lake maps, regional fishing reports, and forums for members to discuss fishing methods, locations and bait. The OGF regularly holds special events for its members called Appreciation Outings. These are regularly held at lakes where anglers can congregate for festivities and to talk about fishing.
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