Fishing West Branch Lake
AKA: Michael J. Kirwan Reservoir, West Branch Reservoir
Popular Fish Species West Branch Lake, OH

Largemouth Bass Fishing
Currently, largemouth bass are thriving in West Branch Lake due to excellent fisheries management and plenty of cover for both baitfish and bass. Fishing for largemouth bass is good virtually any time they are shallow - in spring, mornings in summer, and during warm fall afternoons. Use shallow crankbaits around rip rap. Around grass use worms, jigs, topwater and spinnerbaits. In deeper water, big worms, jigs and spoons are three good weapons. In winter, spend your time on deeper structure. Other bass to be caught here include smallmouth bass and spotted bass.

Muskie Fishing
Fishing for Muskellunge in West Branch Lake could provide a trophy fish on any given cast. Giant musky roam these waters and are aggressive eaters. Muskie fishing can bring some exciting moments to your fishing day, as big muskies are spectacular, and strong, fighters. Use a strong rod in medium- to medium-heavy action, with heavy line - 20# or heavier. Muskie have a big mouth so use big baits, same baits you would use for bass but in larger sizes. Topwater, spinnerbaits, crankbaits and jerkbaits all work well for hungry muskie. The best time of year to chase these big fish is Spring, and then again in Fall as the water temperature starts cooling. Fish in areas with sharp depth changes, shallow to deep.

Channel Catfish Fishing
This year a healthy population of channel cats populate the waters of West Branch Lake, and can be found all around the lake. Fishing for channel catfish is often productive around any kind of structure in the area. Road beds, creek channels and rocky points are all good places to begin. Use a slip sinker or Carolina rig with popular catfish baits.
West Branch Lake Fishing Video
Fish species to fish for...
Guide to 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. West Branch State Park Lake, located in northeastern Ohio, is a beloved destination for outdoor enthusiasts. The lake is known for its diverse fishery, including walleye, crappie, largemouth bass, bluegill, and channel catfish. Check out fishing reports for popular species at this lake. 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.
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.
Marinas
West Branch Marina
5678 Marina Dr
Ravenna, OH 44266
330 654-4991
Fishing Guides On West Branch Lake
Fish Ohio Musky - Musky
Ohio Muskie Guide Service - muskie
If you offer fishing guide services on West Branch Lake, please contact us for a free listing to be posted here.
Fishing License
Click here for a Ohio Fishing License.
Campgrounds & RV Parks Nearby
West Branch State Park Campground - 330 296-3239
Country Acres Campground - 330 358-2774
West Branch Lake OH Map - Fishing & Camping Areas
Contact Information
West Branch Lake
West Branch Marina
8109 Cable Line Rd
Ravenna, OH 44266
330 296-9209
Fishing lakes in each state.
030124
Michael J. Kirwan Reservoir in Ohio
OHIO


Michael J. Kirwan Reservoir offers a variety of fishing and recreation options in northeast Ohio.