Fishing At West Branch Lake

AKA: Michael J. Kirwan Reservoir, West Branch Reservoir

What to fish for...

Fishing for largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, spotted bass, channel catfish, black crappie, white crappie, walleye, bluegill, yellow perch, muskie, northern pike, sauger and saugeye at West Branch Lake in Ohio.

Located southeast of Cleveland Ohio, West Branch Lake is a 2,300-acre lake for swimming, water skiing, boating and fishing. 40 miles of wooded shoreline present excellent fishing opportunities from a boat, and in some areas for fishing from the bank. the lake has a variety if fish species including saugeye, sauger, muskie, northern pike, bass, crappie, walleye, bluegill and yellow perch. A half dozen boat ramps make easy access for pontoons, pleasure and fishing boats. Kayaks and canoes can be portaged from various public access areas around the lake. Boat rentals, gas, snacks, fishing gear and supplies are available at West Branch Marina. Ice fishing for walleye, black crappie, white crappie, yellow perch and northern pike draws locals to the lake for some great winter fishing. Camping and RV spaces are available at the lake in West Branch State Park.

Primary fish species residing in West Branch Lake

Click images for fishing tips and details about each species.

Michael J. Kirwan Reservoir Amenities

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

Today's Weather & Forecast

Fishing Boat Rentals

West Branch Marina
Rentals: Fishing boats, runabouts, kayaks and pontoon boats
330 654-4991

Public Boat Launch Ramps & Landings

East Ramp
Located in the southeast section of the lake, off Gilbert Road, this is a four-lane, concrete ramp with a dock and paved parking.

West Ramp
Located mid lake, on the south side of the lake, off Cable Line Road, this is a three-lane, concrete ramp with a dock and paved parking.

West Branch State Park Canoe Launch
Located mid lake, on the north side of the lake, at the north end of the Rock Spring Road Bridge, this is a gravel portage area and gravel parking.