Sport fishing is one of the most popular outdoor recreational activities available in Cleveland Metroparks. In a recent visitor survey, sport fishing ranked sixth in overall popularity among fifteen specific activities listed by park users as part of their daily recreational activities.
Greater Clevelanders make nearly 350,000 trips to fish in the waters of Cleveland Metroparks each year. The Park District currently has thirteen major fishing areas located within convenient reach of area anglers. A variety of fishing opportunities and a surprising amount of fishing diversity await you in the waters of Cleveland Metroparks. There are opportunities to access Lake Erie, the area's largest fishery resource, which give fishermen the chance to tackle "big waters."
Cleveland Metroparks also holds ownership to twenty-six stream miles of the Rocky River which represents the largest single public stream ownership in Ohio. Rocky River currently supports a significant steelhead trout fishery as well as native stream fisheries for a diversity of fish species. The year-round fishability of the Rocky River has been enhanced by the steelhead fisheries as well as a stock and catch trout fishery in upstream segments of the river. Cleveland Metroparks also holds significant ownership to portions of the Chagrin River and the Cuyahoga River which support local stream fisheries.
Local lakes and ponds dot the various reservations of the Park District. These areas are also productive year round as rainbow trout are stocked during the winter months.
Fishing License Requirements
Anglers are reminded that an Ohio fishing license is required for all persons, age 16 and older, who fish in the public waters of the state. These waters include Lake Erie, all streams and all inland lakes and ponds which are not in private ownership. Seniors, age 66 and older, can receive an annual fishing license at a reduced rate from the state of Ohio. For an application, apply on the Ohio Division of Wildlife website.
Fishing Hours and Prohibited Equipment
Fishing is permitted daily in Cleveland Metroparks from 6 a.m. to 11 p.m. Cleveland Metroparks may close waters to fishing as it deems advisable. Closed signs will be posted if an area is not available for fishing. In all other Park District waters fishing is permitted subject to the statutes of the state of Ohio, except for the following: hooks left unattended, trot lines, traps, spears and gigs, and bows and arrows.
Fishing Gear Rentals
For the family that loves to fish, fishing gear rentals will be available during the month of May at Wallace Lake. Check the program calendar for dates, location and fees.
Fishing Guides
Active Fisheries Management Program
Cleveland Metroparks conducts an active fisheries management program to enhance the various fishing opportunities at local water areas. Active management of water areas include fish populations surveys, water quality analysis, fish stocking, fish habitat improvement projects and cooperation with other resource agencies to best manage area waters. Cleveland Metroparks has been recognized nationally for its management of the area's high-use urban waters for both fisheries enhancement and for fishing recreational use.
Fishing Areas
Fishing areas in Cleveland Metroparks
- Acacia Pond
- Beyers Pond
- Hinckley Lake
- Judges Lake
- Ledge Lake
- Ranger Lake
- Shadow Lake
- Strawberry Pond
- Wallace Lake
Parks
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Big Creek Reservation
A major component of Big Creek Reservation is Big Creek Parkway, a refreshing alternative to the standard suburban commuter routes to Cleveland. The reservation runs parallel to Pearl Road from Valley... -
Euclid Creek Reservation
Follow Euclid Creek Valley along 2.5 miles of interesting geology along this verdant corridor, from Quarry Picnic Area to Highland Picnic Area. Historic points of interest include former Bluestone qua... -
Hinckley Reservation
At the southern end of Cleveland Metroparks is Hinckley Reservation, the site of the nationally-known annual Return of the Buzzards. From hiking at Whipp's Ledges to kayaking on Hinckley Lake, there a...
Attractions
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Beyer's Pond
Beyer’s Pond is a small, secluded lake tucked away in the far reaches of Big Creek Reservation. A short, 0.7 mile hiking loop leads back to the lake, passing by wetlands and overlooking the floodplain... -
E 72nd Fishing Area
Fishing area is located just N of the E 72nd Exit off Interstate 90/State Route 2. The Fishing area includes picnic areas with grills, and a fishing wall. The Cleveland Lakefront Bikeway passes throug... -
East 55th Marina Fishing Area
Fishing area is located on North Marginal Road just east of 55th St. in Cleveland. Amenities include restrooms, picnic areas with grills, 2 Volleyball courts, 2 Bocce courts, and a 1200 foot fishing w...
