Fishing Clendening Lake
AKA: Clendening Reservoir
Popular Fish Species Clendening Lake, OH
Largemouth Bass Fishing
Clendening Lake is considered a quality bass fishing lake, as it has been for several years now. Anglers are catching bass in good numbers with largemouth bass in the 4 to 6-pound range showing up with some regularity. A history of careful fisheries management by the Division of Wildlife, Ohio Department of Natural Resources has helped to maintain a thriving bass fishery. Anglers can also catch smallmouth bass, which reside here in decent numbers. Recent results by bass fishing tournament participants, attest to the fact that fishing for largemouth bass has been quite rewarding, with an occasional bass over 6 pounds being weighed in. In Clendening Lake, bass often move shallow and become fairly aggressive when they are in a feeding mood. If they seem disinterested in your presentations, try slowing down and use smaller, lighter baits. Use shallow crankbaits around rip rap. Around grass, use worms, jigs, topwater and spinnerbaits. In deeper water, drop shot rigs, big worms, jigs and spoons are good options. In winter, spend your time fishing deeper structure where the bass spend much of their time.
Channel Catfish Fishing
Clendening Lake has held a dependable population of channel catfish for many years now. The typical fish are about 2 pounds, with larger ones caught frequently. For weekend anglers, most any rod and reel will work for catching channel catfish, as long as the line is strong enough. For serious catfish enthusiasts, using the right equipment enhances success, especially when you hook one of the big boys. A medium action, to medium-heavy action rod is ideal, in the 6' to 7' range. Use a slip sinker or Carolina rig with popular catfish baits on at least 10-pound line. Use sharp hooks with bait holders on the shank, or circle hooks for live bait. The state record channel catfish is over 35 pounds, and Clendening Lake holds some pretty big ones. Flathead catfish also reside in the lake and fishing for them is often good as well. Night fishing for catfish often delivers better results than daytime fishing. Fishing for channel catfish is often most productive around any kind of structure in the area. In Spring channel catfish migrate toward incoming water, so stay up river away from the main lake. In early summer look for rocky banks, the bigger the rocks the better. In summer and winter deeper structure is where to look. The river end of the lake is often the area where the bigger catfish are caught. Road beds, creek channels and rocky points are all good places to begin.
Flathead Catfish Fishing
This year good populations of flathead catfish can be found in Clendening Lake. The state record flathead catfish is over 75 pounds. Fishing for flathead catfish is most often productive in the river end of the lake around any kind of structure. 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 channel and blue catfish.
Fish species to fish for...
Guide to fishing for largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, channel catfish, flathead catfish, black crappie, white crappie, bluegill, white bass, yellow perch and saugeye at Clendening Reservoir in Ohio.
Clendening Lake Fishing Video
With almost 50 miles of shoreline, Clendening Lake is a favorite fishing for bass, crappie and bluegill. This 1,800-acre lake in the northeast part of the state also sports healthy populations of catfish, white bass, perch and saugeye.
Clendening Lake, located in eastern Ohio, is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts seeking a serene and picturesque setting. With its sprawling waters and diverse recreational opportunities, Clendening Lake is a haven for fishing, boating, and camping.
Fishing at Clendening Lake offers anglers the opportunity to target various fish species. The lake is known for its abundance of crappie, largemouth bass, bluegill, and channel catfish. Anglers can cast their lines from the shore, fish from a boat, or explore the lake's numerous coves and structures to find optimal fishing spots. With its diverse fishery, Clendening Lake ensures anglers have a rewarding and enjoyable fishing experience.
Three boat ramps, a marina, boat rentals, a restaurant, camping and picnic facilities enhance a visit to Clendening Lake. A few areas near public facilities provide access to the shoreline for bank fishing, and these areas typically provide a place for launch of a canoe or kayak.
Primary fish species residing in Clendening Lake
Click images for fishing tips and details about each species.
Clendening Reservoir Amenities
Marina: YES
Boat Rental: YES
Boat Launch Ramp: YES
Campgrounds: YES
RV Hookups: YES
Lodging: YES
Convenience Store: YES
Bait & Tackle: YES
Restaurant: NO
Today's Weather & Forecast
Boating is a popular activity at Clendening Lake, providing visitors with a chance to explore the expansive waters. The lake permits different types of watercraft, including powerboats, pontoon boats, and kayaks. Boaters can enjoy leisurely cruises, engage in water sports activities, or simply relax while taking in the beautiful surroundings. Boat ramps and a marina are available for convenient access to the water, making it easy for boating enthusiasts to enjoy the lake.
Fishing Boat Rentals
Clendening Lake Marina and Campground
Rentals: Fishing boats and pontoon boats
740 658-3691
Public Boat Launch Ramps & Landings
Clendening Lake Marina & Campground Boat Ramp
Located mid lake, on the south side of the lake, off Bose Road, this is a two-lane, concrete ramp with a dock and paved parking.
Simpson Road Boat Launch Ramp
Located in the northeast corner of the lake, north side, off Simpson Road, this is a two-lane, concrete ramp with a dock and paved parking.
Marinas
Clendening Lake Marina and Campground
79100 Bose Rd
Freeport, OH 43973
740 658-3691
Fishing Guides On Clendening Lake
If you offer fishing guide services on this lake, please contact us for a free listing, to be posted here.
Fishing License
Click here for a Ohio Fishing License.
Camping facilities at Clendening Lake cater to those looking for an extended stay in nature. The Clendening Lake Marina and Campground offer a range of camping options, including tent sites and RV sites with electric hookups. Campers can immerse themselves in the tranquil ambiance, enjoy outdoor activities, and take advantage of the lake's fishing and boating opportunities.
Campgrounds & RV Parks Nearby
Clendening Lake Marina & Campground - 740 658-3691
Clendening Lake OH Map - Fishing & Camping Areas
Contact Information
Clendening Reservoir
Clendening Lake Marina & Campground
79100 Bose Rd
Freeport, OH 43973
740 658-3691
Fishing lakes in each state.
080624
Clendening Lake in Ohio.
OHIO
Clendening Reservoir offers largemouth and smallmouth bass, crappie and bluegill fishing in eastern OH.
