Rivers

• With the exception of very small streams, most of the rivers in Ohio can be navigated with a canoe. The Tuscarawas River is a popular wilderness canoe trip, and the Ohio, Sandusky, Maumee and Cuyahoga rivers also can be navigated by canoe. The slow-moving rivers in Ohio are typically warm-water fisheries with bass, pike, catfish and walleye; anglers can also focus on the Great Lakes tributaries for steelhead and salmon.
  
  

Lakes

• The entire state of Ohio is scattered with public lakes that can be fished with a canoe. You can fish from a canoe in Lake Erie, but many anglers prefer motorized watercraft for navigating the large body of water. Canoes are a top choice for fishing small lakes and lakes with heavy weed beds. The lack of a motor reduces contact with obstacles and allows the angler to approach fish in a quiet manner.
  
  

Fishing Techniques

• Canoe anglers can fish with conventional or fly tackle. Bait fishing from a canoe is a possibility, but the constant motion of the craft makes it difficult to fish in a single spot with bait. Casting spinners, spoons and flies or drifting bait beneath a float allows the angler to fish while moving. You also can troll from a canoes by attaching a rod holder to the boat.
  
  

Considerations

• Fishing from a canoe requires practice. Canoes are not stable, and you need a sense of balance to maintain control of the boat. You can use outriggers to stabilize the canoe and make it possible to fish from a standing position. Always wear a life vest when fishing in a canoe, and avoid fishing in high winds.
  
  

Additional Insight

• Canoe fishing is popular with traditional anglers who prefer quiet and simplicity. Canoes are easy to transport, and can be used for any style of fishing. But before launching the canoe, study river maps so you are aware of diversion dams and natural obstacles. And make sure you have the proper fishing license.