(Note: The fishing report is updated monthly in June, July, and August and weekly every other month)

As we move into summer, highlight species targeted by anglers around Cleveland Metroparks include panfish, channel catfish, carp, smallmouth bass and largemouth bass. To monitor the most recent river water level and temperature you can check the following link: <river flow gage data>

Summer means family fishing time for many folks, and panfish fit the bill perfectly for a leisurely picnic and fishing outing. Anglers seeking panfish have experienced decent fishing at most of the ponds and lakes in the Park District in the past week. Crappie, bluegill, and other sunfish species can be taken with a number of offerings, but a waxworm or redworm on a small hook (or tiny jig) suspended under a stick float and fished around a weedbed or shoreline brush is always a good choice. Wallace Lake , Shadow Lake , and Hinckley Lake are just a few of many places in the Park to wet a line for various panfish species.

Smallmouth bass are typically found in the deeper, rocky pools of the river during the day in summer, and often move to the heads of such pools in the early morning and evening hours to feed actively. A dark olive or brown tube jig of about 4” length is one of the best producers of bass in the river. “Smallies” also bite well on live bait (ie: minnow, crayfish, and leeches), lures (ie: spinners and minnow plugs), and flies (ie: crayfish patterns, Clouser minnows, dark brown or olive sculpin or muddler minnow patterns). Rock bass are also present in the same river areas as smallmouth, and can be caught using the same offerings listed above. Good smallmouth bass fishing areas include the Rocky and Chagrin river areas of Cleveland Metroparks.

Channel catfish and large carp are also present in some of these same areas in the river, and fishing for them can be a laid back and relaxing way to enjoy some time on the water. Good numbers of channel catfish can be found in deeper holes in the Rocky River as well as at Wallace Lake and the Ohio and Erie Canal fishing area. Catfishing is usually best during lower light conditions using baits such as nightcrawlers, minnows, chicken liver, and processed dough baits.

Carp can often be caught throughout the day on such bait as canned corn, carp dough baits, worms or crayfish tails. A growing contingent of fly anglers looking for a challenge are targeting carp with nymphs and crayfish imitations, as well. The key to fishing for either carp or catfish is fishing on (or very near) the river/lake bottom. In addition to the Rocky River , carp can also be found in good numbers in Hinckley Lake .

Anglers out of the Emerald Necklace Marina have been catching walleye trolling (and drifting when conditions permit) in Lake Erie in 55-63’ feet of water. Trolling Stinger spoons or crawler harnesses behind diving planers (Dipsey and Jet divers) has been most productive for most folks. Some good catches of yellow perch are still coming scattered in waters from 40-50’ deep around the Crib area.

Fishing Area Spotlight: Hinckley Lake .   At nearly 90 acres, Hinckley Lake is the largest inland lake in Cleveland Metroparks. On July 1, 2008, a fish population survey was conducted at this lake as a collaborative effort between the Ohio Division of Wildlife and Cleveland Metroparks staff. The initial observations of this survey reveal that Hinckley Lake offers an understated largemouth bass fishery! We collected many quality fish (see a few photos below), as well as noting a good distribution of age classes of healthy fish. Part of this is certainly due to the lake having an abundance of stunted sunfish and gizzard shad that provide forage for these bass predators. There is also an abundance of shoreline cover along the lakeshore, and this is where we sampled most of the largest bass.

Hinckley Lake does not give up her bass overly easy, but an angler with a small watercraft (rowboat or canoe) can work this shoreline structure near deeper water with snag resistant lures, such as rubber worms and spinnerbaits, and experience some very good fishing on summer mornings and evenings. Please note that there is a limit of two bass per day of minimum size 12 inches at this lake, but anglers are highly encouraged to release any larger fish to conserve the resource.

The lake also has an abundance of modest sized sunfish (mostly bluegill) and white crappie. Although the majority of these fish are on the small side, an angler in the spring will occasionally turn up a crappie up to 15 inches or so. Futhermore, the lake offers a thriving carp fishery and channel and bullhead catfish are also present.  Rainbow trout are also stocked in the lake by the Ohio Division of Wildlife every spring.

Electric trolling motors are allowed on the lake, although gas motors (outboards) are strictly prohibited. A new small boat/canoe ramp was installed near the boat house earlier this summer for boaters convenience, although anything over 16 foot in length would be too large for this relatively small ramp in shallow water. 

Hinckley Lake will always hold a special place in this biologist's heart, as I caught my first fish (a bluegill) there over 30 years ago in a rowboat my father rented at the old boathouse.  He would alternate taking either me or one of my two brothers out at a time while the others stayed on shore to have a picnic with my mother.  While conducting our recent survey, observing that scene being played out among families of the next generation sparked some very fond memories.  Take a kid fishing:  they will remember those experiences for the rest of their lives.

If you have a photo that you would like to contribute to the fishing report, or if you have any further questions regarding fishing in the Cleveland Metroparks, you may contact Aquatic Biologist Mike Durkalec at (440) 331-8017 or md@clevelandmetroparks.com .

Good Fishing,

Mike

Natalie displays two trophy largemouth bass sampled (and released) in Hinckley Lake during a survey on July 1st.

Some great catches of channel catfish are still coming from the northern river reaches.

Dominic displays a handful of Rocky River carp (photo courtesy of Ken H.).

This scene sparked fond memories of fishing at Hinckley Lake with my two brothers as a youngster. 

A lad displays a nice largemouth bass prior to it's release. 

Ohio Division of Wildlife fisheries biologist Curt Wagner collects scales from a specimen after being weighed and measured.  Biologists can view fish scales under a microscope to count growth rings and determine age, just a forester can do so by counting tree rings.

Curt displays a fine bass just prior to it's release.

An angler with an average Rocky River channel catfish.

A new small boat/canoe ramp was installed near the Hinckley Lake boathouse earlier this summer.

Bullhead catfish are available at just about every Cleveland Metroparks fishing location.

Summer, kids, and sunfish are a perfect fit!

Some scenes from a recent handicapped veterans fishing outing at Wallace Lake:

THANK YOU  to these fine gentlemen for serving their country.  They are true American heroes and being there to watch them enjoy a day in the park was a priviledge.

_____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
Cleveland Metroparks Fishing Fund

Cleveland Metroparks Fishing Fund helps provide a rewarding fishing experience to Northeast Ohio anglers through the stocking of rainbow trout, channel catfish, largemouth bass, and other sport fish. The Fund also supports children's fishing derbies and creation and restoration of essential habitat in the ponds, lakes, and rivers within Cleveland Metroparks.


For more information or to make a gift to Cleveland Metroparks Fishing Fund, please contact:

Karen J. Kannenberg, CFRE
Manager of Gift and Donor Development
Cleveland Metroparks
4101 Fulton Parkway
Cleveland, Ohio 44144
216.635.3217
kjk@clevelandmetroparks.com

(Note: The fishing report is updated monthly in June, July, and August and weekly every other month)

As we move into summer, highlight species targeted by anglers along the Rocky River are smallmouth bass, carp, and channel catfish. Anglers can check the <river flow gage data>  to monitor the most recent water level and temperature.

Smallmouth bass are typically found in the deeper, rocky pools of the river during the day in summer, and often move to the heads of such pools in the early morning and evening hours to feed actively. A dark olive or brown tube jig of about 4” length is one of the best producers of bass in the river. “Smallies” also bite well on live bait (ie: minnow, crayfish, and leeches), lures (ie: spinners and minnow plugs), and flies (ie: crayfish patterns, Clouser minnows, dark brown or olive sculpin or muddler minnow patterns). There are abundant small to medium sized bass in the river along with a healthy number of trophy fish up to (and over) 20 inches in length. It has been very encouraging to see most anglers releasing the larger bass recently so that these fine gamefish can be caught again. Also, note that all smallmouth bass must be released immediately if caught downstream of the Detroit Road bridge until June 23^rd. Rock bass are also present in the same river areas as smallmouth, and can be caught using the same offerings listed above.

Channel catfish and large carp are also present in some of these same areas in the river, and fishing for them can be a laid back and relaxing way to enjoy some time on the water. Good numbers of channel catfish stocked in May also remain to be caught at Wallace lake and the Ohio and Erie Canal fishing area. Catfishing is usually best during lower light conditions using baits such as nightcrawlers, minnows, chicken liver, and processed dough baits. A highlight at the beginning of this month has been a number of large catfish (up to 10 pounds) showing up in the northern river reaches near the marina. These larger catfish are moving into the river from Lake Erie on their spawning migration. Resident channel catfish are available in the river all summer.

Some very large carp (over 15 pounds) were being caught in the northern river reaches at the beginning of the month, too. Carp can often be caught throughout the day on such bait as canned corn, carp dough baits, worms or crayfish tails. A growing contingent of fly anglers looking for a challenge are targeting carp with nymphs and crayfish imitations, as well. The key to targeting either carp or catfish is fishing on (or very near) the river/lake bottom.

In addition to the aforementioned species, freshwater drum (sheepshead), white perch, and bullhead catfish are also abundant in the northern river reaches (north of Morley Ford) in early summer. For the angling generalist, any of the species thus far can be effectively targeted by fishing a fat nightcrawler worm right on the river bottom with a sinker.

Summer means family fishing time for many folks, and panfish fit the bill perfectly for a leisurely picnic and fishing outing. Anglers seeking panfish can experience good fishing at various ponds and lakes around the Park District in early summer. Bluegill, crappie, and other sunfish species can be taken with a number of offerings, but a waxworm or redworm on a small hook suspended under a stick float and fished around a weedbed or shoreline brush is always a good choice. Wallace Lake , Shadow Lake , and Beyers Pond are just a few of many places in the Park to wet a line for various panfish species.

Yet another banner season of Lake Erie walleye fishing is again upon us thanks to the many fish available from the productive 2003 spawn, peppered with an impressive sprinkling of large trophy fish up to 10+ pounds. Anglers have been catching walleye trolling (and drifting when conditions permit) in Lake Erie off the Emerald Necklace marina in 40’ to 50’ feet of water. Look for fish to move deeper later into the month. Trolling Stinger spoons or crawler harnesses behind diving planers (Dipsey and Jet divers) has been most productive for most folks.

If you have a photo that you would like to contribute to the fishing report, or if you have any further questions regarding fishing in the Cleveland Metroparks, you may contact Aquatic Biologist Mike Durkalec at (440) 331-8017 or md@clevelandmetroparks.com .

Good Fishing,

Mike

John made a very unique catch on his flyrod in the river recently:  this 43" longnose gar (photo coutesy of John J.).

Taking care of our natural resources is important to the community, as evidenced by this photo from the Rocky River clean-up that made front page news in the local Sun newspaper. 

A young man recieves some sage angling advice from his grandfather.

Bill dipslays a trophy walleye caught west of Cleveland.  Ron, the captain of the boat, stated that of literally thousands of walleye that have come over the side of his boats on Lake Erie over the past 30 years, this 32.5" leviathan was the largest of them all (photo courtesy of Ron O.).

A lad displays a double handful of brown bullhead caught at Ohio and Erie Canal Reservation last month.

Common carp can often be observed basking in shallow water along the river during the summer months.

Summer means family fishin' time around the Park District.

THANK YOU  to the nearly 70 volunteers (about half pictured here) who showed up and made the 2008 Rocky River Clean-up such a huge success! 

Our hard working volunteers removed two truck loads of trash from the river. 

The Emerald Necklace Marina area is a popular early summer destination among those simply wishing to fish for "whatever is biting".

A bluegill guarding it's shallow water spawning nest.

This image captures the pure essence of fishing:  two youngsters fishing at the end of a dock, feet dangling in the water, while watching their bobbers for a bite. 

John caught this brace of nice walleye trolling 45 FOW due north of the Emerald Necklace Marina.

This fly caught smallmouth bass was caught and released in the Rocky River (photo coutesy of Garry Z.).

The following photos, taken by talented photographer Lou Stefanini near Wallace Lake recently, depict an opsrey being mobbed by a smaller bird:

Thanks again to Lou for sharing those amazing images!

____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ 

Cleveland Metroparks Fishing Fund

Cleveland Metroparks Fishing Fund helps provide a rewarding fishing experience to Northeast Ohio anglers through the stocking of rainbow trout, channel catfish, largemouth bass, and other sport fish. The Fund also supports children's fishing derbies and creation and restoration of essential habitat in the ponds, lakes, and rivers within Cleveland Metroparks.


For more information or to make a gift to Cleveland Metroparks Fishing Fund, please contact:

Karen J. Kannenberg, CFRE
Manager of Gift and Donor Development
Cleveland Metroparks
4101 Fulton Parkway
Cleveland, Ohio 44144
216.635.3217
kjk@clevelandmetroparks.com

The Rocky River is currently exhibiting low and clear water conditions. The latest <river flow gage data> will help anglers determine the latest trend in river conditions.

Lake Erie run smallmouth bass fishing has been very good in the Rocky and Chagrin rivers this week. A number of trophy bass raning up to 20” have been caught and released over the past week. Tube jigs in brown and olive colors, around 4” long, worked slowly along the river bottom have been taking the most bass recently. Streamer flies and smaller lures (spinners and plugs) have taken their share of bass, and live baits such as crayfish and leeches usually work well, too. Most larger smallmouth have been caught in the northern river reaches.

Anglers have been catching rainbow trout, catfish, carp, and panfish in Park District waters, including Wallace, Hinckley, and Shadow lakes and the East Branch Rocky River. Additionally, white perch and freshwater drum (sheepshead) have been biting well near the marina. A fat nightcrawler fished right on the lake or river bottom will catch any of the aforementioned species.

Several days over the past week boaters out of the Emerald Necklace public ramps have been making some very good catches of yellow perch, including some “jumbos” up to 14 inches in approximately 30-40 foot of water. Live or salted emerald shiners fished near the bottom is all that an anglers needs to catch a limit (30 fish/person in this area) of these tasty fish. Some good catches of walleye have also been caught trolling Stinger style spoons (those with orange and copper in the finish have been hot) north of Cleveland and Rocky River with the best catches from 35-45 foot of water.

Show your support for our Rocky River!   A few opportunites are available to give back and help protect the Rocky River, the stream that gives us all so much. The non-profit Rocky River Watershed Council is selling T-shirts (see images below) for $12.00 each as a group fundraising effort. The shirts are available in dark green with large off-white logo (on the front of the shirt) in M, L, and XL sizes. The shirts are available for pick-up only and will be available for purchase at the June 7 Rocky River clean-up event, outlined as follows.

The annual Rocky River Stream Clean-up is scheduled for Saturday June 7, 2008, from 9:00am to noon. This is a great event for families or friends (or those looking to meet new like-minded friends) to get together as good stewards of our Rocky River resource. Immediately following the clean-up will be a free “thank you” cookout for our hard working volunteers. Meet at 9:00am sharp at the picnic shelter at Scenic Park (marina area) at the north end of the Rocky River Valley Parkway. More information can be found at the following link: <2008 Rocky River Clean-up Flyer>

If you have a photo that you would like to contribute to the fishing report, or if you have any further questions regarding fishing in the Cleveland Metroparks, you may contact Aquatic Biologist Mike Durkalec at (440) 331-8017 or md@clevelandmetroparks.com .

Good Fishing,

Mike

Aaron with a monster smallmouth bass caught and released in the Rocky River (photo courtesy of Aaron G.).

Kevin displays a trophy smallmouth bass that he released back to the river (photo courtesy of Kevin G.).

Young Zach recently caught his first fish in Wallace Lake, along with a handful of other bluegills.  This new angler may not know it yet, but he's probably hooked for life! (photo courtesy of Eric V.).

Bill, Ron, and Casey (latter not pictured) caught this fine bunch of walleye in 35 FOW west of Cleveland trolling orange and copper spoons behind Dipsey Divers (photo courtesy of Bill M.).

Pursuing carp on fly fishing gear is a challenge more anglers are turning to every year (photo courtesy of Garry Z.).

A cool photo of a 17" smallmouth and the crankbait which it munched (photo courtesy of Chris L.).

Reluctant models Claire, Jim, and Natalie display the T-shirts now on sale to raise funds for the Rocky River Watershed Council.  I think this shirt would really look good on you, too!

A close-up of the RRWC logo on the T-shirts, which sell for $12.00. 

A close-up of a stonefly nymph sampled during recently headwater stream surveys.

Also collected during stream sampling, this redside dace proves that some species of minnows can be stunningly beautiful.

An average Lake Erie yellow perch destined to be part of a fine meal.

Always skilled with the flyrod for multiple species, Garry's wily ways with the feathered hook were too tempting to resist for this chunky Rocky River smallmouth (photo courtesy of Garry Z.).

Anglers have also been catching some nice smallmouth bass from the middle Rocky River reaches (photo courtesy of Kevin E.).

_____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ 

Cleveland Metroparks Fishing Fund

Cleveland Metroparks Fishing Fund helps provide a rewarding fishing experience to Northeast Ohio anglers through the stocking of rainbow trout, channel catfish, largemouth bass, and other sport fish. The Fund also supports children's fishing derbies and creation and restoration of essential habitat in the ponds, lakes, and rivers within Cleveland Metroparks.


For more information or to make a gift to Cleveland Metroparks Fishing Fund, please contact:

Karen J. Kannenberg, CFRE
Manager of Gift and Donor Development
Cleveland Metroparks
4101 Fulton Parkway
Cleveland, Ohio 44144
216.635.3217
kjk@clevelandmetroparks.com

The Rocky River fishing conditions are currently good, with moderate flow and clearing water. The latest <river flow gage data> will help anglers determine the latest trend in river conditions.

Lake Erie run smallmouth bass have been cooperative for anglers fishing in the Rocky and Chagrin rivers this week. Tube jigs in brown and olive colors, around 4” long, worked slowly along the river bottom have been taking the most bass recently. Streamer flies and smaller lures (spinners and plugs) have taken their share of bass, and live baits such as crayfish and leeches usually work well, too. Most larger smallmouth have been caught in the northern river reaches. Those wishing to learn more about fly fishing for smallmouth bass should consider attending a free clinic to be held on Sunday May 25 at Cleveland Metroparks South Chagrin Reservation by the good folks at www.flyandfloatfishing.com . Anglers interested in more information regarding this comprehensive offering can check out (and sign up) at the following link: <smallmouth bass fly fishing clinic>

The cool weather has served to further extend the steelhead season, with a few reports of these large trout still being caught by smallmouth bass anglers along the rivers. This should be about the last of these trout available until they begin running the rivers again in September.

Anglers have been catching rainbow trout, catfish, carp, and panfish in Park District waters, including Wallace, Hinckley, and Shadow lakes and the East Branch Rocky River. Additionally, white perch and freshwater drum (sheepshead) have been biting well near the marina. A fat nightcrawler fished right on the lake or river bottom will catch any of the aforementioned species.

When Lake Erie conditions have permitted, boaters out of the Emerald Necklace public ramps have been making some great catches of yellow perch, including some “jumbos” up to 14 inches in approximately 30-40 foot of water. Live or salted emerald shiners fished near the bottom is all that an anglers needs to catch a limit (30 fish/person in this area) of these tasty fish. Some good catches of walleye have also been caught trolling north of Cleveland and Rocky River in 15-25 foot of water.

If you have a photo that you would like to contribute to the fishing report, or if you have any further questions regarding fishing in the Cleveland Metroparks, you may contact Aquatic Biologist Mike Durkalec at (440) 331-8017 or md@clevelandmetroparks.com .

Good Fishing,

Mike

Kevin has been catching some very nice smallmouth bass on the Rocky River using crawfish color tube jigs (photo courtesy of Kevin G.).

A fisherlady displays a fine catch of Ledge Lake trout caught on Power Bait.

Remember all those fish transferred to Cleveland Metroparks lakes as outlined in the past two fishing reports?  As detailed in the following photos, they made anglers very happy at the May 17th Ken Mantkowski Memorial handicapped fishing outing.

Thanks to the Cuyahoga Co. Board of Mental Retardation and Developmental Disabilities and Ohio Central Basin Steelheaders for hosting this fine event in collaboration with Cleveland Metroparks.

Although taken in Michigan, I wanted to share this photo of a young lad releasing his first steelhead caught while fishing with his father on the Big Manistee River.  I believe this photo captures the essence of what fishing is all about (photo courtesy of Brian Kelly).

____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ 

Cleveland Metroparks Fishing Fund

Cleveland Metroparks Fishing Fund helps provide a rewarding fishing experience to Northeast Ohio anglers through the stocking of rainbow trout, channel catfish, largemouth bass, and other sport fish. The Fund also supports children's fishing derbies and creation and restoration of essential habitat in the ponds, lakes, and rivers within Cleveland Metroparks.


For more information or to make a gift to Cleveland Metroparks Fishing Fund, please contact:

Karen J. Kannenberg, CFRE
Manager of Gift and Donor Development
Cleveland Metroparks
4101 Fulton Parkway
Cleveland, Ohio 44144
216.635.3217
kjk@clevelandmetroparks.com

The Rocky River is currently slightly elevated and stained due to recent rains. The latest <river flow gage data>   will help anglers determine the latest trend in river conditions.

Lake Erie run smallmouth bass have been cooperative for anglers when Rocky Riiver fishing conditions have been favorable. Streamer flies and smaller lures (spinners and plugs) have taken their share of bass, and live baits such as crayfish and leeches usually work well, too. Most larger smallmouth have been caught in the northern river reaches. I also strongly encourage others to quickly release any larger smallmouth this time of year, as they are getting ready to spawn and natural reproduction is responsible for sustaining this fishery.

The latest rise in water level has allowed many dropback steelhead (those which have already spawned) to return back to the lake. With that said, there are always a few steelhead around in the river up until about mid-May and sometimes even until the end of the month.

Anglers have been catching rainbow trout, catfish, carp, and panfish in Park District waters, including Wallace, Hinckley, and Shadow lakes and the East Branch Rocky River. Additionally, white perch and freshwater drum (sheepshead) have been biting well near the marina. A fat nightcrawler fished right on the lake or river bottom will catch any of the aforementioned species.

Lake Erie boaters out of the Emerald Necklace public ramps have been making some great catches of yellow perch, including some “jumbos” up to 14 inches in approximately 40 foot of water. Live or salted emerald shiners fished near the bottom is all that an anglers needs to catch a limit (30 fish/person in this area) of these tasty fish. Walleye fishing has been inconsistent with the series of fronts moving through in recent weeks.

For those who have not yet viewed the photos from the 2008 Spring Children’s Fishing Derbies held on May 3^rd and 4^th, they can be found at the following link compliments of www.flyandfloatfishing.com : <2008 Fishing Derby photos and video>

If you have a photo that you would like to contribute to the fishing report, or if you have any further questions regarding fishing in the Cleveland Metroparks, you may contact Aquatic Biologist Mike Durkalec at (440) 331-8017 or md@clevelandmetroparks.com .

Good Fishing,

Mike

The following photos detail the fish collection and transfer follow-up on Monday
(as originally outlined in last week's fishing report) 

 Thanks again to the family of Rick Huff for their generous donation of fish to the Park District.

"Monk", on leave from active duty in Iraq, displays a steelhead caught during some R&R.  We owe our freedom to fish anytime we please to folks like this fine soldier (photo courtesy of Monte Casey).

Tony displays a trophy Rocky River steelhead (photo courtesy of Tony D.).

Although caught back in the winter, I was recently sent this photo of Ryan with a beautiful steelie (photo courtesy of Monte Casey). 

Dean, visiting from Boston, caught this sleek buck steelie (photo courtesy of Monte Casey). 

Don from Westlake displays a colorful buck steelhead (photo courtesy of Monte Casey). 

Local fly fishing guide Monte Casey with a big buck steelhead (photo courtesy of Monte Casey). 

____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ 

Cleveland Metroparks Fishing Fund

Cleveland Metroparks Fishing Fund helps provide a rewarding fishing experience to Northeast Ohio anglers through the stocking of rainbow trout, channel catfish, largemouth bass, and other sport fish. The Fund also supports children's fishing derbies and creation and restoration of essential habitat in the ponds, lakes, and rivers within Cleveland Metroparks.


For more information or to make a gift to Cleveland Metroparks Fishing Fund, please contact:

Karen J. Kannenberg, CFRE
Manager of Gift and Donor Development
Cleveland Metroparks
4101 Fulton Parkway
Cleveland, Ohio 44144
216.635.3217
kjk@clevelandmetroparks.com

Rocky River was named one of the “150 Best Places to fish in America” in the June 2007 issue of Field and Stream magazine

The Rocky River is currently fairly elevated and stained due to recent rains. The latest <river flow gage data> will help anglers determine the latest trend in river conditions.

The Children’s Spring Fishing Derbies on May 3^rd and 4^th were another huge success again this year! You can view some of the 100 plus photos I took at the event at the following link compliments of www.flyandfloatfishing.com : <2008 Fishing Derby photos and video>.   Furthermore, the owner of that website (Sean Swatsky) also compiled a great six minute video montage of the event on Saturday morning at that same link. Here’s to looking forward to the 2009 event already (although our many employees and volunteers who make this fine event possible can certainly use their rest right now!).

Although some anglers were still catching steelhead last week, this latest rise in water levels will allow the many dropback (already spawned) steelhead head back to the lake more easily. With that said, there are always a few steelhead around in the river up until about mid-May.

Although the spring steelhead run is coming to it’s end, reports of Lake Erie run smallmouth bass are on the upswing. Streamer flies and smaller lures (spinners and plugs) will take their share of smallmouth bass in the coming weeks, as well as other live baits such as crayfish and leeches. Most larger smallmouth have been caught in the northern river reaches. I also strongly encourage others to quickly release any larger smallmouth this time of year, as they are getting ready to spawn and natural reproduction is responsible for sustaining this fishery.

When the river levels cooperate, rainbow trout fishing has been good in deeper holes and around cover in the East Branch Rocky River between Route 82 (Royalton Road) and the ford just upstream of Wallace Lake. Spring stocking of trout is complete as of this time. Trout are also still available at Hinckley, Shadow, and Wallace lakes, too. Power Bait, salmon eggs, worms, corn, and small spinners are among the offerings these trout will eagerly grab.

Additionally, carp and catfish are biting well in deeper holes throughout the river and white perch and freshwater drum (sheepshead) are biting well near the marina. Panfish and largemouth bass have been biting well at various Cleveland Metroparks lakes and ponds, as well.

Some early season boaters have been reporting great catches of yellow perch and walleye out of the Emerald Necklace Marina, as well.

Working hard to make your public fisheries the best they can be.   Cleveland Metroparks was recently offered a donation of fish from a private 5 acre lake being drained due to issues wtih it’s 60 year old dam. On Tuesday and Wednesday this week our staff, along with the assistance of some Ohio Division of Wildlife colleagues, proceeded to do the wet, muddy, and physically challenging job of collecting and tranferring an estimated 3,000 adult bluegill, 500 largemouth bass, and 16 huge grass carp to the public waters of the Park District (exact locations of releases being withheld to allow these fish to establish, and hopefully spawn, in their new homes). A sincere thank you goes out to Allen, Barney, Chris, Dave, Jeff, Jim, John, Kevin, both Ricks, and Tim for all your hard work assisting me to make this opportunistic project such a success. A special thanks goes to the family of Rick Huff for this much appreciated donation of fish. Photos from this activity are offered below. A final “mop up” collection will occur next week as the lake is drained all the way down.

If you have a photo that you would like to contribute to the fishing report, or if you have any further questions regarding fishing in the Cleveland Metroparks, you may contact Aquatic Biologist Mike Durkalec at (440) 331-8017 or md@clevelandmetroparks.com .

Good Fishing,

Mike

The following photos are from the fish collection and transfer discussed in the report:

 

Those fish will surely make many anglers happy around the Park District! 

<Click here to view 2008 Fishing Derby photos>

Ralph, visiting from Arizona, took this photo of himself having what appears to be an intimate moment with a steelhead!  (photo courtesy of Ralph C.).

Rodger, visiting from St. Louis to fish with friends on the Chagrin River, caught this beautiful steelhead (photo coutesy of Rodger B.). 

Joe, also from the St. Louis Crew, with his first steelhead! (photo coutesy of Rodger B.). 

St. Louis Rick with a nice Chagrin River steelhead (photo coutesy of Rodger B.). 

Ryan shows off a buck steelie.  Can you guess where he's from?  If you said "St Louis" you would be correct (photo coutesy of Rodger B.). 

Rodger with a fine 30 incher (photo coutesy of Rodger B.).

A panoramic vista along the Chagrin River valley (photo coutesy of Rodger B.) .

Stephen with a nice late spring steelhead (photo courtesy of Stephen W.).

A Canada goose watches over it's streamside nest (photo courtesy of Scott B.). 

____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ 

Cleveland Metroparks Fishing Fund

Cleveland Metroparks Fishing Fund helps provide a rewarding fishing experience to Northeast Ohio anglers through the stocking of rainbow trout, channel catfish, largemouth bass, and other sport fish. The Fund also supports children's fishing derbies and creation and restoration of essential habitat in the ponds, lakes, and rivers within Cleveland Metroparks.


For more information or to make a gift to Cleveland Metroparks Fishing Fund, please contact:

Karen J. Kannenberg, CFRE
Manager of Gift and Donor Development
Cleveland Metroparks
4101 Fulton Parkway
Cleveland, Ohio 44144
216.635.3217
kjk@clevelandmetroparks.com

***May 3, 2008, update:  The Rocky River is currently elevated and muddy due to overnight rains.***

The Rocky River is currently running low and clear.  Fishing conditions are currently good for various warmwater species (as outlined below).  Fishing pressure has lightened up the past week as the steelhead trout run winds down. The latest <river flow gage data>   will help anglers determine any changes in river conditions.

Although a fair number of “dropback” steelhead (that have already spawned) are still present in the Rocky and Chagrin rivers, their numbers are declining sharply along with the warmer weather. One more good rain will bring up river levels and allow these lingering fish to exit the river back to Lake Erie, to hopefully return again even larger next year.

Although the spring steelhead run is near it's conclusion, reports of Lake Erie run smallmouth bass are on the upswing. Streamer flies and smaller lures (spinners and plugs) will take their share of smallmouth bass in the coming weeks, as well as other live baits such as crayfish and leeches. Smallmouth bass and dropback steelhead can be targeted from the same deeper areas in the northern river reaches, often on the same types of offerings.  I also strongly encourage others to quickly release any larger smallmouth this time of year, as they are getting ready to spawn and natural reproduction is responsible for sustaining this fishery.

Rainbow trout fishing has been good in deeper holes and around cover in the East Branch Rocky River between Route 82 (Royalton Road) and the ford just upstream of Wallace Lake. Try fishing around undercut banks and woody debris in the river for some good action. The last river stocking for the season was this past Friday afternoon. Trout are also still available at Hinckley, Shadow, and Wallace (note closure info on this lake below) lakes, too. Power Bait, salmon eggs, worms, corn, and small spinners are among the offerings these trout will eagerly grab.

Additionally, carp and catfish are biting well in deeper holes throughout the river and, additionally, white perch and freshwater drum (sheepshead) are biting well near the marina. Panfish and largemouth bass have been biting well at various Cleveland Metroparks lakes and ponds, as well.

Some early season boaters have been fishing for yellow perch and walleye out of the Emerald Necklace Marina, as well.

Children’s Spring Fishing Derbies Saturday May 3^rd and Sunday May 4^th. It’s time again for the highly popular annual Children’s Spring Fishing Derbies. Details on this free event can be found at the following link: <fishing derby details>. I would like to sincerely thank the following sponsors for their longstanding support which makes this great community event possible: Cleveland Fishing Association, Dick’s Sporting Goods, Flyandfloatfishing.com, Ohio Central Basin Steelheaders, Optimist’s Club, and Rodmaker’s Shop. We look forward to seeing you and your children, grandchildren, or other young friends/relatives there and having another great event this season!

Note: Fishing area closures!   Please note that the north end of Wallace Lake and the entire Ohio and Erie Canal fishing areas are closed for fishing until after the fishing derbies this weekend. The south end of Wallace Lake is still open for fishing, though. Fishing for the general public at Ohio and Erie Canal fishing area will reopen after 4:00pm on Saturday May 3^rd and the north end of Wallace Lake will reopen after 4:00pm on Sunday May 4^th.

If you have a photo that you would like to contribute to the fishing report, or if you have any further questions regarding fishing in the Cleveland Metroparks, you may contact Aquatic Biologist Mike Durkalec at (440) 331-8017 or md@clevelandmetroparks.com .

Good Fishing,

Mike

Yuri displays a trophy Chagrin River steelhead (photo courtesy of Fabio M.).

Ed shows off two jumbo yellow perch caught on Lake Erie.  Ed and his son, Ron, caught their limit in three hours on the water (photo courtesy of Ron O.).

Many families have been enjoying the great weather by going fishing.

Pete caught this bruiser carp on a minnow in the Rocky River (photo courtesy of Matt).

Maria with a nice Wallace Lake rainbow trout.

Maria and Ben show off two white perch from their catch from the Rocky River marina area.

Joyce with a trophy steelhead (photo courtesy of Joyce S.).

These youngs ladies took time away from their school picnic and offered assistance with our trout stocking last week.

The following photos depict three youngsters who assisted me with catfish stocking for their 4-H project: 

Thanks for your help, guys!

Some nice smallmouth bass have been biting in the river (photo courtesy of Stephen W.).

Brothers Dwayne and Neil with a fine catch of trout.

Fabio with another sleek steelhead caught and released on the Chagrin (photo courtesy of Yuri).

Yours truly with a surprise catfish caught while steelhead fishing recently.

A northern hogsucker on it's spawning bed.  Note how well this fish camouflages with it's surroundings!  (photo courtesy of Bill B.).

Garry has been catching some of his largest steelhead of the season on nymph patterns lately, as illustrated by the following four photos:

Wow, those are some nice fish!  (photos courtesy of Garry Z.). 

An angler hoists a fat trout aboard a fishing platform at Wallace Lake. 

A mother bald eagle feeds an eaglet in a nest at Brecksville Reservation last week.  The nest area is closed to the general public to avoid disturbing the birds (photo courtesy of a volunteer).

 ____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Cleveland Metroparks Fishing Fund

Cleveland Metroparks Fishing Fund helps provide a rewarding fishing experience to Northeast Ohio anglers through the stocking of rainbow trout, channel catfish, largemouth bass, and other sport fish. The Fund also supports children's fishing derbies and creation and restoration of essential habitat in the ponds, lakes, and rivers within Cleveland Metroparks.


For more information or to make a gift to Cleveland Metroparks Fishing Fund, please contact:

Karen J. Kannenberg, CFRE
Manager of Gift and Donor Development
Cleveland Metroparks
4101 Fulton Parkway
Cleveland, Ohio 44144
216.635.3217
kjk@clevelandmetroparks.com

The Rocky River is currently running quite clear, with a greenish stain only remaining in the deeper areas.  The fishing conditions are good for various fish species in Park District lakes and ponds, as well.  Not surpisingly, the pleasant spring weather has lured many anglers outside over the past week, with plenty of families and children enjoying the varied spring fishing opportunities, as well. The latest <river flow gage data>  will help anglers determine any changes in river conditions.

Steelhead are currently well distributed throughout the Rocky and Chagrin rivers, with most fish having already spawned and are now in “dropback” mode (slowly moving back towards Lake Erie). These fish need to replenish the engery reserves depleted during the rigors of spawning and are often feeding aggressively. Dropback steelhead are most often found in the deeper holes, although some days they may also be found in fast water or tailouts. A few fresh adult steelhead and skippers are still available, as well, especially in the northern river reaches where they feed upon the abundant emerald shiners present.  Given the clear water conditions light leaders and smaller more subdued colored offerings are usually an angler’s best bet. Although the steelhead run has peaked already and they are declining in numbers now, there will still be fish available up until about the first or second week of May most years.

Although steelhead numbers are declining for the season, reports of Lake Erie run smallmouth bass are on the upswing. Olive or dark brown tube jigs of about 4" are a top smallmouth offering.  Streamer flies and smaller lures (spinners and plugs) will take their share of bass in the coming weeks, too, as well as live baits such as minnows, crayfish, and leeches. Most larger smallmouth have been caught in the northern river reaches. An angler fishing for steelhead near the marina one morning this week reported catching and releasing three nice smallmouth bass up to 4½ pounds (and losing a few others) using a small jig tipped with maggots drifted under a float. I also strongly encourage other anglers to quickly release any larger bass this time of year, as they are getting ready to spawn and natural reproduction is responsible for sustaining this fishery.

Cleveland Metroparks plans to stock another 800 pounds of rainbow trout in the East Branch Rocky River (600#) and Wallace Lake (200#) tomorrow afternoon. The Ohio Division of Wildlife stocked 500 rainbow trout at Shadow Lake on Friday April 18^th. These latest fish will supplement the trout that have been stocked around the Park District in recent weeks (check archived fishing reports for more info regarding previous stockings). Power Bait, salmon eggs, worms, corn, and small spinners are among the offerings these trout will eagerly grab.

The courtesy docks at the marina were installed last week for the convenience of early season boaters, as well.

Children’s Spring Fishing Derbies Saturday May 3^rd and Sunday May 4^th.   It’s time again for the highly popular annual Children’s Spring Fishing Derbies. Details on this free event can be found at the following link: <fishing derby details>. I would like to sincerely thank the following sponsors for their longstanding support which makes this great community event possible: Cleveland Fishing Association, Dick’s Sporting Goods, Ohio Central Basin Steelheaders, Optimist’s Club, Rodmaker’s Shop, and the Woods and Waters Club. We look forward to seeing you and your children, grandchildren, or other young friends/relatives there!

If you have a photo that you would like to contribute to the fishing report, or if you have any further questions regarding fishing in the Cleveland Metroparks, you may contact Aquatic Biologist Mike Durkalec at (440) 331-8017 or md@clevelandmetroparks.com .

Good Fishing,

Mike

Chuck caught this trophy buck steelhead in the Rocky River (photo courtesy of Monte Casey).

Dave displays a trophy 31" steelhead from the Rock (photo courtesy of Dave D.).

Smallmouth are starting to bite well in the river (photo courtesy of John P.).

Andrea caught and released this fine hen during a recent fly fishing outing (photo courtesy of Andrea S.).

Carp on the fly rod are a challenge being pursued by increasing numbers of anglers every year.  This golden hued beauty came from the Chagrin River (photo courtesy of Jim). 

As a Baldwin-Wallace college graduate, I considered it a privilege to spend time on the water with retired B-W President Mark Collier this week.  Here is Mark with his very first steelhead caught after a little basic instruction (this was one of ten he hooked).  We were rewarded by dead drifting small, pale pink egg patterns through deeper holes with moderate flow.

Tim, who serves as the Firelands Fly Fishers Director of Communications, displays a colorful Rocky River steelhead caught on an olive flashback nymph (photo courtesy of Tim S.).

Kevin caught this large buck steelie on a minnow (photo courtesy of Kevin G.).

Don Mayer, 90 years young, engaged in battle with a feisty Rocky River steelhead (photo courtesy of Monte Casey).

Tom with a fine Rocky River catch (photo courtesy of Monte Casey). 

Although most steelhead have wrapped up spawning over the past week, some fish are still on their nests (photo courtesy of Kory K.).

"Doc" had plenty of reason to smile during a recent outing on the Rock (photo courtesy of Scott).

Marty displays a dropback hen caught on a beadhead nymph (photo courtesy of Tim S.).

Joe displays one of several steelhead he caught on Woolly Buggers during a
recent fly fishing outing (photo courtesy of Joe L.).

Garry caught and released this 10 pound class buck steelie Monday morning (photo courtesy of Garry Z.).

Rich caught this buck on a Woolly Bugger (photo courtesy of Joe L.).

This dropback was regaining her silvery coloration (photo courtesy of Mike S.).

Scott displays a torpedo-like chrome hen (photo courtesy of Monte Casey).

Anglers work a popular stretch of river last week. 

 ____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Cleveland Metroparks Fishing Fund

Cleveland Metroparks Fishing Fund helps provide a rewarding fishing experience to Northeast Ohio anglers through the stocking of rainbow trout, channel catfish, largemouth bass, and other sport fish. The Fund also supports children's fishing derbies and creation and restoration of essential habitat in the ponds, lakes, and rivers within Cleveland Metroparks.


For more information or to make a gift to Cleveland Metroparks Fishing Fund, please contact:

Karen J. Kannenberg, CFRE
Manager of Gift and Donor Development
Cleveland Metroparks
4101 Fulton Parkway
Cleveland, Ohio 44144
216.635.3217
kjk@clevelandmetroparks.com

The Rocky River fishing conditions are good, with the water on the clear side with a green stain to the deeper areas. The weekend outlook is looking to be similar, with a small amount rain in the forecast being welcome as the river continues to clear. The pleasant spring weather has lured many anglers outside this week, although a bit of hiking can lead you to your own little piece of paradise on the river. Anglers can check the latest <flow gage data> to determine any changes in river conditions.

Steelhead are currently well distributed throughout the Rocky and Chagrin rivers, with a good number of trout spawning and visible as darker shadows in the riffles in the upper river reaches. One of several hot spot of spawning activity has been just upstream of Cedar Point Road on the East Branch of the Rocky River, where many fly fishers are enjoying sight fishing in shallow, clear water riffles in that area. One tip I would suggest in that situation is to use a single fly pattern, as tandem rigs inadvertantly foul hook fish very easily in that situation. A small, dark nymph pattern or tiny egg pattern is often a productive choice in such a situation for trout or suckers.

Other anglers are choosing to focus on the non-spawning steelhead located in deeper river areas. A good place to look is a deeper hole downstream of a spawning riffle, where there is often a mix of fish including those that have spawned aready (called “spent” or “dropback” steelhead), silvery fish that have not spawned yet, as well as a few younger “skipper” steelhead in the 15”-20” size range. These fish are often feeding on eggs washing downstream from the spawning areas and can be very conducive to feeding. Under clear water conditions the flies aready mentioned earlier work good in these areas, too, as well as smaller, more subdued colored spawn bags, jigs/maggots, and minnows. A baitfish streamer or Woolly Bugger can also be good producers for fly anglers. Some anglers prefer to fish articial lures and catch fish on spinners (with silver in the finish is always good), smaller spoons, Flatfish style plugs, and even small rubber “trout worms”. Basically, just about anything a steelhead will hit can work well during prime river conditions in spring.

The Ohio Division of Wildlife has been stocking steelhead smolts (6”-9” juveniles) at the Emerald Necklace Marina this week. These small fish are not legal to keep or even possess. Please release these fish carefully and immediately if you catch any, as they are the future of our steelhead fishery. I would further advise anglers fishing in that area to use larger hooks and bait offerings (or stick with artificial offerings) to avoid hooking many of these small trout.

A few good sized smallmouth bass have also been reported from the river this week, mostly caught incidentally by steelhead anglers fishing with minnows. Streamer flies and smaller lures (spinners and plugs) will take their share of smallmouth bass in the coming weeks, as well as other live baits such as crayfish and leeches. Most larger smallmouth have been caught in the northern river reaches. Please consider quickly releasing any larger bass this time of year, as they are preparing to spawn and natural reproduction is responsible for sustaining this fishery.

Cleveland Metroparks stocked 800 pounds of rainbow trout in the East Branch Rocky River (600#) and Wallace Lake (200#) on Wednesday. The fish in the river were stocked at various locations near access points between Royalton Road (Rt. 82) and the ford just upstream of Wallace Lake. Furthermore, the Ohio Division of Wildlife is scheduled to stocked 500 rainbow trout at Shadow Lake on Friday April 18^th. These latest fish supplement the trout that have been stocked around the Park District in recent weeks (check archived fishing reports for more info regarding previous stockings). Power Bait, salmon eggs, worms, corn, and small spinners are among the offerings these trout will eagerly grab.

Two courtesy docks at the marina were installed on Wednesday this week for the convenience of early season boaters, as well.

Noteworthy fish observations this week. A northern pike, a rare catch in the Rocky River, of approximately 27” was caught and released by an angler at Morley Ford earlier this week. During fish sampling with a Case Western Reserve University Ichthyology (fish biology) class on Tuesday, several golden redhorse suckers were collected among the abundant white suckers. Redhorse suckers are a species that are not tolerant of pollution, so it’s an encouraging sign that they’ve been showing up in the river. Also on a positive note, rainbow and greenside darters were very abundant in the area sampled. In addition to being beautifully colored little fish, these are both what we call an indicator species, sort of a “canary in the coal mine” when it comes to water quality and aquatic habitat.

If you have a photo that you would like to contribute to the fishing report, or if you have any further questions regarding fishing in the Cleveland Metroparks, you may contact Aquatic Biologist Mike Durkalec at (440) 331-8017 or md@clevelandmetroparks.com .

Good Fishing,

Mike

John caught this fine hen on a small green hare's ear nymph fly (photo courtesy of John J.).

Chris caught this beautiful 29" buck steelhead this week (photo courtesy of Chris M.).

Fabio caught this big steelhead fly fishing the Chagrin River recently (photo courtesy of Yuri).

Cleveland Metroparks staff and CWRU students performing fish sampling with electrofishing gear this week.

One of several nice smallmouth bass collected during sampling (all fish were released unharmed).

Two CWRU biology students display a steelhead before it's release.

The Ohio Division of Wildlife has been stocking juvenile steelhead (smolts) in the Rocky River near the marina this week.  The river is slated to recieve a total of 90,000 of these small trout.

Here's a cool photo of freshly stocked juvenile steelhead feeding on emerald shiners.  Those little guys didn't waste any time putting on the feed bag!

One of several nice steelhead caught by Tom (photo courtesy of Tom K.). 

Tom's buddy Randy also got in on the great steelhead fishing action (photo courtesy of Tom K.).

A good looking sucker caught on the fly rod (photo courtesy of Tom E.).

Jon caught this Wallace Lake rainbow trout using a jig tipped with maggots under a small float on his ultralight rod.

You have to love being able to fish for steelhead in a T-shirt instead of winter gear!  (photo courtesy of Eric P.). 

Sean with a fine specimen (photo courtesy of Chris M.).

This goby had an appetite bigger than it's mouth! (photo courtesy of John P.).

Chris caught this steelie with perfect fins from the Chagrin River.  Although the odds are against it, this is what a wild naturally reproduced trout should look like (photo courtesy of Chris M.).

 ___________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Cleveland Metroparks Fishing Fund

Cleveland Metroparks Fishing Fund helps provide a rewarding fishing experience to Northeast Ohio anglers through the stocking of rainbow trout, channel catfish, largemouth bass, and other sport fish. The Fund also supports children's fishing derbies and creation and restoration of essential habitat in the ponds, lakes, and rivers within Cleveland Metroparks.


For more information or to make a gift to Cleveland Metroparks Fishing Fund, please contact:

Karen J. Kannenberg, CFRE
Manager of Gift and Donor Development
Cleveland Metroparks
4101 Fulton Parkway
Cleveland, Ohio 44144
216.635.3217
kjk@clevelandmetroparks.com

The Rocky River fishing conditions are currently good, with the water on the clear side with a green stain to the deeper areas. The weekend outlook will be dependant upon how much of the rain in the forecast we receive, which is likely to be a good amount over the next several days. Anglers would be wise to check the <river flow gage data> during changing weather patterns to determine the trend in river conditions.

Steelhead are currently well distributed throughout the river, with many fish spawning and visible as darker shadows in the riffles. The depressions steelhead make with their tails to deposit their eggs are called “redds”. A short video of spawning trout (complete to music) can be viewed on the personal website of local fishing guide Monte Casey at the following link: <Rock-and-Roll Spawnfest>.  Many fly fishers are enjoying this annual opportunity to sight fish for trout in shallow, clear water riffle areas. One tip I would suggest in that situation is to use a single fly pattern, as tandem rigs inadvertantly foul hook fish very easily in that situation. Many white suckers are also spawning in similar areas. A small, dark nymph pattern or tiny egg pattern drifted with minimal weight is often a productive choice in such a situation for trout or suckers.

Other anglers are choosing to focus on the non-spawning steelhead located in deeper river areas. A prime spot this time of year is a deeper hole located just downstream of a spawning riffle, where there is often a mix of fish including those that have spawned aready (called “spent” or “dropback” steelhead), silvery fish that have not spawned yet, as well as a few younger “skipper” steelhead in the 15”-20” size range. These fish often feed on eggs washed downstream from the spawning areas and can be very conducive to biting. Under clear water conditions the flies aready mentioned earlier work good in these areas, too, as well as smaller, more subdued colored spawn bags, jigs/maggots, and minnows. Some anglers prefer to fish articial lures and catch fish on spinners (with silver in the finish is always good), smaller spoons, Flatfish style plugs, and even small rubber “trout worms”. Basically, just about anything a steelhead will hit can work well during prime river conditions in spring.

If the river becomes elevated and floods over the next few days (which is looking likely based on the radar) the weekend steelhead fishing conditions will be poor, but anglers can always switch gears and target stocked trout at Wallace and Hinckley lakes. Rainbow trout in the ponds and river bite well on small jigs (especially black and chartreuse colors) tipped with maggots and suspended under a small ice bobber, as well as Power Bait (various bright colors) fished near the bottom. Some anglers also experience success casting small spinners or other lures.

Although no stocking will be conducted this week, Cleveland Metroparks is scheduled to coordinate stocking another 800 pounds of rainbow trout in the East Branch Rocky River next week. Over the past three weeks, the following quantities of rainbow trout were stocked: 1,100# in the East Branch Rocky River, 2,500# in Hinckley Lake (by ODNR), and 400# in Wallace Lake.

The lower Rocky River is currently being dredged near the marina in anticipation of the recreational boating season. The courtesy docks will likely be put back in place between mid and late April, dependant upon river conditions.

If you have a photo that you would like to contribute to the fishing report, or if you have any further questions regarding fishing in the Cleveland Metroparks, you may contact Aquatic Biologist Mike Durkalec at (440) 331-8017 or md@clevelandmetroparks.com .

Good Fishing,

Mike

Jim caught this beautiful hen on his flyrod in the Rocky this week (photo courtesy of Jim A.).

A fly fisher works a pod of spawning white suckers this afternoon.

A father teaching the basics of fishing to his son on the lower Rocky.

A pair of spawning steelhead observed today from an overhead vantage point.

A young lady and her father enjoying some coffee, conversation, and leisurely fishing near the marina.

Mike shows off a fresher hen steelhead (on the left) in contrast to Jack's darker buck steelhead.

A fly fisher plies his craft on a sun dappled riffle.

Joe displays a fine specimen (photo courtesy of Monte Casey).

Jeff caught this fine steelhead on the fly rod this week (photo courtesy of Jeff S.).

David display a very nice buck steelhead taken at Rockcliff Springs access this week.

This skipper steelhead taken near the marina will make a fine dinner for two.

The river was being dredged today near the boat ramps.  The courtesy docks will likely be installed mid to late April. 

____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ 

Cleveland Metroparks Fishing Fund

Cleveland Metroparks Fishing Fund helps provide a rewarding fishing experience to Northeast Ohio anglers through the stocking of rainbow trout, channel catfish, largemouth bass, and other sport fish. The Fund also supports children's fishing derbies and creation and restoration of essential habitat in the ponds, lakes, and rivers within Cleveland Metroparks.


For more information or to make a gift to Cleveland Metroparks Fishing Fund, please contact:

Karen J. Kannenberg, CFRE
Manager of Gift and Donor Development
Cleveland Metroparks
4101 Fulton Parkway
Cleveland, Ohio 44144
216.635.3217
kjk@clevelandmetroparks.com