Fishing At Hoover Reservoir

AKA: Hoover Dam Lake

What to fish for...

Guide to fishing for largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, channel catfish, black crappie, white crappie, bluegill, white bass, longnose gar and saugeye at Hoover Reservoir in Ohio.

Located on the northeast outskirts of Columbus Ohio, Hoover Reservoir is a 2,800-acre lake offering watersport activities and fishing to area residents. With 45 miles of shoreline and multiple access points for fishing from the bank, there is plenty of room for fishing, sightseeing, picnics and other outdoor activities.

Lake Video
Available Fish Species
Amenities
Today's Weather & Forecast
Rental Boats
Boat Launch Ramps
Campgrounds & RV Parks
Map
Contact Info

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

Hoover Reservoir, situated in central Ohio, is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts seeking a peaceful and picturesque retreat. With its serene surroundings and diverse recreational opportunities, Hoover Reservoir offers excellent fishing, boating, and camping experiences.

Fishing at Hoover Reservoir 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. Hoover Reservoir's diverse fishery ensures that anglers of all skill levels can have a rewarding and enjoyable fishing experience.

Pick from a half-dozen boat ramps to launch fishing boats, kayaks, canoes, pontoons or pleasure boats. Note there is a 10-horsepower limit. Due to the 10-HP limit, the lake receives little fishing pressure. Largemouth and smallmouth bass are plentiful and grow to healthy sizes. Crappie, saugeye, catfish, white bass, gar and bluegill also reside here and receive less fishing attention than other area lakes. Camping and lodging are located a few miles from the lake.

Primary fish species residing in Hoover Reservoir

Click images for fishing tips and details about each species.

Hoover Reservoir Amenities

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

Today's Weather & Forecast

Boating is a popular activity at Hoover Reservoir, offering visitors a chance to explore the expansive waters and enjoy the beautiful surroundings. 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.

Fishing Boat Rentals

Hoover Adventures
Rentals: Kayaks and canoes
614 423-9234

Public Boat Launch Ramps & Landings

Oxbow Road Boat Ramp
Located in the northwest section of the lake, west side, off Oxbow Road, this is a two-lane, concrete ramp with a dock and paved parking.

Red Bank Boat Launch Ramp
Located mid lake, west side, off Maxtown Road, this is a two-lane, concrete ramp with a dock and paved parking.

Sunbury Road Boat Ramp
Located mid lake, west side, at the south end of the Sunbury Road Bridge, this is a two-lane, concrete ramp with a dock and paved parking.

Twin Bridges Boat Ramp
Located mid lake, east side, between the two bridges on Red Bank Road, this is a two-lane, concrete ramp with paved parking.

Walnut Boat Ramp
Located in the southwest section of the lake, west side, off E Walnut Street, this is a two-lane, concrete ramp with a dock and paved parking.

Click here for a Ohio Fishing License.

Camping facilities at Hoover Reservoir cater to those looking to extend their stay and immerse themselves in the natural beauty of the area. While there are no camping facilities directly at Hoover Reservoir, nearby Alum Creek State Park offers camping options, including tent sites and RV sites. Campers can enjoy the peaceful ambiance, indulge in outdoor activities, and take advantage of the fishing and boating opportunities at Hoover Reservoir.