Fishing Charles Mill Lake
AKA: Mills Lake
Popular Fish Species Charles Mill Lake, OH
Largemouth Bass Fishing
Charles Mill Lake is a popular bass fishing lake. Weekend and tournament anglers find the fishing to be slow at times, yet pretty good at other times. Fishing for bass can be quite rewarding, with an occasional bass over 4 pounds being caught. Bass often move shallow and become aggressive when they are in a feeding mood. 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. A history of careful fisheries management by the Ohio Department of Natural Resources has helped to maintain a good bass fishery for anglers.
Black Crappie Fishing
A nice population of black crappie resides in Charles Mill Lake. Crappie tend to run in schools, and once a school is located, there is a good chance for catching significant numbers. White crappie, in smaller numbers, also make this lake their home. Crappie fishing is easy and requires simple, basic gear. Virtually any fishing pole, reasonably small line and crappie jigs or small hooks baited with live bait, creates the ideal setup. Add a bobber and you can set the depth you prefer the bait to maintain. The best time to catch crappie tends to be at dawn and dusk. Live bait and small jigs are the most common method for crappie here. Because crappie prefer cover and structure, locate brush and vegetation in appropriate water depths. 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.
Saugeye Fishing
When a female walleye spawns with a male sauger, the result is a hybrid known as saugeye. Charles Mill Lake has a notable population of saugeye, which are pursued by local anglers. Their meat is very tasty, and they put up a good fight. Look for them near bottom on sandy bars and especially along drop offs into river channels. These toothy critters often migrate up-river in winter and spring, congregating in low-current areas. A common method for catching saugeye here is trolling with spinners tipped with live bait, or trolling with long-billed, deep diving crankbaits. However casting topwater lures, live bait, jigs, worms and spoons also works well at times.
Fish species to fish for...
Guide to fishing for largemouth bass, channel catfish, flathead catfish, black crappie, white crappie, bluegill, yellow perch, hybrid striped bass and saugeye at Charles Mill Lake in Ohio.
Charles Mill Lake Fishing Video
At the crossroads of I-70 and Highway 30, Charles Mill Lake is a convenient destination for boating, water sports and fishing. The lakes provides 1,300 surface acres and has 29 miles of shoreline. Several boat ramps allow visitors to launch boats with up to 10 horsepower, which is the lake maximum.
Charles Mill Lake, situated in north-central Ohio, is a hidden gem for outdoor enthusiasts seeking a peaceful and picturesque destination. With its serene surroundings and diverse recreational offerings, Charles Mill Lake is a popular spot for fishing, boating, and camping.
Fishing at Charles Mill Lake provides anglers with the opportunity to target various fish species. The lake is known for its excellent populations 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 many nooks and crannies for prime fishing spots. With its diverse fishery, Charles Mill Lake ensures anglers have a rewarding and enjoyable fishing experience.
Kayaks, canoes and car-top boats are popular. There is plenty of areas for fishing from the bank, swimming, hiking and picnicking. For anglers, the lake boasts good fishing for catfish, saugeye and bass. Healthy populations of hybrid stripers, sunfish, perch and crappie also reside in the lake. Camping, lodging and other services are all convenient in the area.
Primary fish species residing in Charles Mill Lake
Click images for fishing tips and details about each species.
Charles Mill Lake Amenities
Marina: YES
Boat Rental: YES
Boat Launch Ramp: YES
Campgrounds: YES
RV Hookups: YES
Lodging: YES
Convenience Store: YES
Bait & Tackle: YES
Restaurant: YES
Today's Weather & Forecast
Boating is a favorite activity at Charles Mill Lake, offering visitors a chance to explore the beautiful 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 on the tranquil waters of the lake. Boat ramps and a marina are available, providing easy access for boaters.
Fishing Boat Rentals
Charles Mill Marina
Rentals: Fishing boats, kayaks and pontoons
419 368-5951
Public Boat Launch Ramps & Landings
Charles Mill Lake Boat Ramp
Located mid lake, east side, off Highway 430, this is a one-lane, concrete ramp with a dock and paved parking.
Marinas
Charles Mill Marina
1277 OH-430
Mansfield, OH 44903
419 368-5951
Fishing Guides On Charles Mill 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 Charles Mill Lake allow visitors to extend their stay and immerse themselves in the natural beauty of the area. The Charles Mill Lake Park Campground offers a range of camping options, including tent sites and RV sites with electric hookups. Campers can enjoy the peaceful ambiance, indulge in outdoor activities, and take advantage of the lake's fishing and boating opportunities.
Campgrounds & RV Parks Nearby
Charles Mill Lake Park Campground - 419 368-6885
Eagle Point, Charles Mill Park Campground - 419 368-6885
Charles Mill Lake OH Map - Fishing & Camping Areas
Contact Information
Charles Mill Lake
Charles Mill Marina
1277 OH-430
Mansfield, OH 44903
419 368-5951
Fishing lakes in each state.
091124
Charles Mill Lake in OH
OHIO
Fishing for catfish, saugeye and bass in north-central OH
