Fishing Deer Creek Lake
AKA: Deer Creek State Park Lake
Popular Fish Species Deer Creek Lake, OH
Crappie Fishing
Black and white crappie both reside in Deer Creek Lake. They do school together so when you find them you may catch both species. Crappie fishing is on the rise and they can be found in sizeable schools. Crappie always like cover and structure, so locate brush and vegetation. Fish attractors on both sides of the Price Street bridge, and several other locations around the lake, often hold crappie. Using a fish finder can help locate schools of crappie, which tend to stack vertically around cover. Live bait and small jigs are the most common method for crappie here. 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. When the lake freezes over, ice fishing is often a great way to catch a quick limit of crappie.
Largemouth Bass Fishing
Deer Creek Lake offers pretty good fishing for largemouth bass. A quality population of bass roam Deer Creek Lake, thanks to excellent fisheries management by the Division of Wildlife, Ohio Department of Natural Resources. When the bite is good, bass typically move shallow and are quite aggressive. If you find them shallow and they are not tempted to bite, slow down and use smaller, lighter baits. 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 fishing Deer Creek Lake on deeper structure where the bass spend much of their time.
Bluegill Fishing
Fishing for bluegill is a time-honored tradition at Deer Creek Lake. Young and old, beginners and seasoned anglers alike, all enjoy catching a bunch of fat bluegill. This year, much like recent years, the bluegill population is healthy and always looking for something to eat. Bluegill fishing is as basic as fishing gets. Any pole, reasonably small line and small hooks baited with anything edible, creates the ideal setup. Add a bobber and you can set the depth you prefer the bait to position. Bluegill hang around brush, rocks, vegetation or any cover available. When the lake freezes over, try your luck at ice fishing.
Fish species to fish for...
Guide to fishing for largemouth bass, channel catfish, black crappie, white crappie, bluegill, white bass and saugeye at Deer Creek Lake in Ohio.
Deer Creek Lake Fishing Video
Deer Creek State Park is located in the central part of the state and features an excellent fishing destination, Deer Creek Lake. This is a 1,300-acre lake with about 15 miles of shoreline, and no limit on horsepower for boat motors. Two boat ramps are available.
Deer Creek Lake, nestled in central Ohio, is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts seeking a tranquil and picturesque setting. With its serene surroundings and abundant recreational opportunities, Deer Creek Lake offers excellent fishing, boating, and camping experiences.
Fishing at Deer Creek Lake provides anglers with a chance to target a variety of fish species. The lake is known for its healthy populations of largemouth bass, crappie, bluegill, saugeye, and catfish. Anglers can cast their lines from the shoreline, fish from a boat, or explore the lake's numerous coves and submerged structures for optimal fishing spots. Deer Creek Lake's diverse fishery ensures that anglers of all skill levels can enjoy a rewarding and exciting fishing experience.
The marina offers boat rentals, supplies and gas. There are bait and tackle stores nearby. This fishery supports native populations of bass, catfish, bluegill and crappie. Additionally saugeye and white bass have been stocked in the lake. Despite the presence of motorized boats, this is still a good destination for canoes, kayaks and car-top boats. In years when the lake freezes enough for safe ice, locals target crappie, bluegill and saugeye, with excellent success at times.
Primary fish species residing in Deer Creek Lake
Click images for fishing tips and details about each species.
Deer Creek Lake Amenities
Marina: YES
Boat Rental: YES
Boat Launch Ramp: YES
Campgrounds: YES
RV Hookups: YES
Lodging: YES
Convenience Store: NEARBY
Bait & Tackle: YES
Restaurant: YES
Today's Weather & Forecast
Boating enthusiasts will find plenty to enjoy at Deer Creek Lake. The lake allows various types of watercraft, including powerboats, pontoons, and kayaks. Boaters can embark on leisurely cruises, engage in water sports activities, or simply relax on the calm waters while taking in the beautiful scenery. Multiple boat ramps and a marina are available, ensuring easy access to the lake for boaters.
Public Boat Launch Ramps & Landings
Deer Creek Road Boat Launch Ramp
Located mid lake, west side, off Deer Creek Road, this is a three-lane, concrete ramp with paved parking.
Deer Creek State Park Boat Ramp
Located mid lake, on the north side of the lake, off Longberry Deercreek Road, this is a two-lane, concrete ramp with a dock and paved parking.
Marinas
Deer Creek Marina
21001 Deercreek Rd
New Holland, OH 43145
740 869-2100
Fishing Guides On Deer Creek 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 Deer Creek Lake are well-suited for visitors looking to extend their stay and immerse themselves in the natural beauty of the area. The Deer Creek State Park Campground provides a range of camping options, including tent sites, RV sites with electric hookups, and cabins. Campers can enjoy the serene ambiance, participate in outdoor activities, and take advantage of the lake's fishing and boating opportunities.
Campgrounds & RV Parks Nearby
Deer Creek State Park Campground - 740 869-2020
Deer Creek Camping Resort - 740 869-3519
Deer Creek Lake OH Map - Fishing & Camping Areas
Contact Information
Deer Creek Lake
Deer Creek State Park Marina
21001 Deercreek Rd
New Holland, OH 43145
740 869-2100
Fishing lakes in each state.
061124
Deer Creek Lake in OH
OHIO
Fishing for bass, catfish, saugeye and crappie in central OH
