Fishing Hoover Reservoir

AKA: Hoover Dam Lake

Most Popular Fish
Available Fish Species
Amenities
Today's Weather & Forecast
Rental Boats
Marinas
Boat Launch Ramps
Local Fishing Guides
Hoover Reservoir Fishing Video
Fishing License
Campgrounds & RV Parks
Map
Contact Info

Hoover Reservoir, OH

Popular Fish Species Hoover Reservoir, OH

Channel Catfish

This year a healthy population of channel cats populate the waters of Hoover Reservoir. These tasty catfish can be found all around the lake. Fishing for channel catfish is often productive around any kind of structure in the area. Road beds, creek channels and rocky points are all good places to begin. Use a slip sinker or Carolina rig with popular catfish baits. Other catfish in the lake include flathead catfish, and blue catfish which are improving in size each year.

Black Crappie

Black crappie populate the confines of Hoover Reservoir, many averaging a very good size this year. Crappie fishing is excellent and they are running in sizeable schools. Crappie always like cover and structure, so locate shallow brush and vegetation. Using a fish finder can help locate schools of crappie, which tend to stack vertically around cover. In spring and fall focus on the 8 to 12 foot range. As the crappie move deep in summer and winter, follow points out deep, as well as find ledges near channels in deeper water. White crappie, in smaller numbers, also make this lake their home.

Largemouth Bass

Currently, largemouth bass are popular in Hoover Reservoir due to good numbers as well as an occasional lunker. Fishing for largemouth bass is good virtually any time they are shallow - in spring, mornings in summer, and during warm fall afternoons. Use shallow crankbaits around rip rap. Around grass use worms, jigs, topwater and spinnerbaits. In deeper water, big worms, jigs and spoons are three good weapons. In winter, spend your time on deeper structure. Smallmouth bass can also be caught though not in as good of numbers.

Fish species to fish for...

Guide to fishing for largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, channel catfish, flathead catfish, blue catfish, black crappie, white crappie, bluegill, white bass, longnose gar and saugeye at Hoover Reservoir in Ohio.

Located on the northeast outskirts of Columbus Ohio, Hoover Reservoir is a 2,800-acre lake offering watersport activities and fishing to area residents. With 45 miles of shoreline and multiple access points for fishing from the bank, there is plenty of room for fishing, sightseeing, picnics and other outdoor activities.

Hoover Reservoir, situated in central Ohio, is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts seeking a peaceful and picturesque retreat. With its serene surroundings and diverse recreational opportunities, Hoover Reservoir offers excellent fishing, boating, and camping experiences.

Fishing at Hoover Reservoir provides anglers with the opportunity to target various fish species. The lake is known for its healthy populations of largemouth bass, crappie, bluegill, channel catfish, and saugeye. Anglers can cast their lines from the shore, fish from a boat, or explore the lake's numerous coves and submerged structures for optimal fishing spots. Hoover Reservoir's diverse fishery ensures that anglers of all skill levels can have a rewarding and enjoyable fishing experience.

Pick from a half-dozen boat ramps to launch fishing boats, kayaks, canoes, pontoons or pleasure boats. Note there is a 10-horsepower limit. Due to the 10-HP limit, the lake receives little fishing pressure. Largemouth and smallmouth bass are plentiful and grow to healthy sizes. Crappie, saugeye, catfish, white bass, gar and bluegill also reside here and receive less fishing attention than other area lakes. Camping and lodging are located a few miles from the lake.

Primary fish species residing in Hoover Reservoir

Click images for fishing tips and details about each species.

Hoover Reservoir Amenities

Marina: NO
Boat Rental: NO
Boat Launch Ramp: YES
Campgrounds: NEARBY
RV Hookups: NEARBY
Lodging: NEARBY
Convenience Store: YES
Bait & Tackle: YES
Restaurant: YES

Today's Weather & Forecast

Boating is a popular activity at Hoover Reservoir, offering visitors a chance to explore the expansive waters and enjoy the beautiful surroundings. The lake allows various types of watercraft, including powerboats, pontoons, and kayaks. Boaters can enjoy leisurely cruises, engage in water sports activities, or simply relax on the calm waters. Multiple boat ramps and marinas are available, ensuring convenient access to the lake for boating enthusiasts.

Fishing Boat Rentals

Hoover Adventures
Rentals: Kayaks and canoes
614 423-9234

Public Boat Launch Ramps & Landings

Oxbow Road Boat Ramp
Located in the northwest section of the lake, west side, off Oxbow Road, this is a two-lane, concrete ramp with a dock and paved parking.

Red Bank Boat Launch Ramp
Located mid lake, west side, off Maxtown Road, this is a two-lane, concrete ramp with a dock and paved parking.

Sunbury Road Boat Ramp
Located mid lake, west side, at the south end of the Sunbury Road Bridge, this is a two-lane, concrete ramp with a dock and paved parking.

Twin Bridges Boat Ramp
Located mid lake, east side, between the two bridges on Red Bank Road, this is a two-lane, concrete ramp with paved parking.

Walnut Boat Ramp
Located in the southwest section of the lake, west side, off E Walnut Street, this is a two-lane, concrete ramp with a dock and paved parking.

Fishing Guides On Hoover Lake

Peff's Crappie Guide Service - crappie

If you offer fishing guide services on Hoover Reservoir, please contact us for a free listing to be posted here.

Hoover Reservoir Fishing Video

Fishing License

Click here for a Ohio Fishing License.

Camping facilities at Hoover Reservoir cater to those looking to extend their stay and immerse themselves in the natural beauty of the area. While there are no camping facilities directly at Hoover Reservoir, nearby Alum Creek State Park offers camping options, including tent sites and RV sites. Campers can enjoy the peaceful ambiance, indulge in outdoor activities, and take advantage of the fishing and boating opportunities at Hoover Reservoir.