Fishing At East Fork Lake In 2024
AKA: William H Harsha Lake
Fish species to fish for...
Guide to fishing for largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, spotted bass, channel catfish, flathead catfish, black crappie, white crappie, bluegill, hybrid striped bass and muskie at East Fork Lake in Ohio.
Fishing for bass and crappie is on the mind of most anglers coming to East Fork Lake officially William H. Harsha Lake. This 2,100-acre lake in the southwest part of the state, has over 35 miles of shoreline for exploring by boat or fishing from the bank.
The purpose of this page is to deliver an overview of this lake, the fishing options, and area amenities. Our goal is to provide info to first time visitors, as well as beginner and novice anglers. We gathered details from personal experience, numerous trusted websites, and videos of fishing activity on the lake. These websites include the Ohio Department of Natural Resources, Division of Wildlife, marinas at the lake, campgrounds, boat rental agencies and others. By consolidating this information to one page it allows visitors to see the entire picture, all in one place.
Lake Video
East Fork Lake, located in southwestern Ohio, is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts seeking a serene and picturesque setting. With its tranquil surroundings and diverse recreational opportunities, East Fork Lake offers excellent fishing, boating, and camping experiences.
Fishing at East Fork Lake provides anglers with the opportunity to target various fish species. The lake is known for its healthy populations of largemouth bass, crappie, bluegill, channel catfish, and saugeye. Anglers can cast their lines from the shore, fish from a boat, or explore the lake's numerous coves and submerged structures for optimal fishing spots. East Fork Lake's diverse fishery ensures that anglers of all skill levels can have a rewarding and enjoyable fishing experience.
Several boat launch ramps serve the public for launch of canoes, car-toppers, kayaks, pontoons, pleasure and fishing boats with no limit on engine horsepower. Camping and RV hookups are available on the north side of the lake. In addition to bass and crappie, catfish, sunfish and hybrid stripers are catchable here. Ice fishing for black crappie, white crappie and bluegill can be quite good at times, once the ice is safe. There are hiking trails and picnic areas within East Fork State Park, which surrounds the lake on all sides.
Primary fish species residing in East Fork Lake
Click images for fishing tips and details about each species.
William H Harsha Lake Amenities
Marina: NO
Boat Rental: NO
Boat Launch Ramp: YES
Campgrounds: YES
RV Hookups: YES
Lodging: NEARBY
Convenience Store: NEARBY
Bait & Tackle: YES
Restaurant: YES
Today's Weather & Forecast
Boating is a favorite activity at East Fork Lake, offering visitors a chance to explore the expansive waters and take in the beautiful scenery. The lake allows various types of watercraft, including powerboats, pontoons, and kayaks. Boaters can enjoy leisurely cruises, engage in water sports activities, or simply relax on the calm waters. Multiple boat ramps and marinas are available, ensuring convenient access to the lake for boating enthusiasts.
Public Boat Launch Ramps & Landings
Alton-Elklick Road Boat Launch
Located in the northwest corner of the lake, east side, off Alton-Elklick Road, this is a two-lane, concrete ramp with a dock and paved parking.
Campers Boat Ramp
Located in the northeast corner of the lake, in East Fork Campground, this is a two-lane, concrete ramp with a dock and paved parking.
East Fork Lake Boat Launch Ramp
Located in the southwest corner of the lake, off Retxler Road, this is a three-lane, concrete ramp with a dock and paved parking.
Reisinger Road Boat Ramp
Located in the southeast corner of the lake, off Reisinger Road, this is a two-lane, concrete ramp with a dock and paved parking.
Tate Boat Ramp
Located mid lake, on the south side of the lake, off Elklick Road, this is a four-lane, concrete ramp with a dock and paved parking.
Click here for a Ohio Fishing License.
Camping facilities at East Fork Lake cater to those looking for an extended stay in nature. The East Fork State Park Campground offers a range of camping options, including tent sites, RV sites with electric hookups, and cabins. 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
East Fork State Park Campground - 513 724-6521
East Fork Lake OH Map - Fishing & Camping Areas
Contact Information
East Fork Lake
East Fork State Park
3294 Elklick Rd
Bethel, OH 45106
513 724-2730
Fishing lakes in each state.
William H Harsha Lake in OH
OHIO
Fishing for bass and crappie in southwest OH