3 weeks ago · Updated 1 day ago
Ashtabula, Ohio sits on the southern shore of Lake Erie and is renowned for its productive fisheries, especially in the fall when anglers target trophy species just offshore. The area’s charter fleet and local anglers have reported another exceptional season as autumn conditions settle in.
Weekly Catches
No verified catches in the last 7 or 15 days; the catches below cover the last 21 days.
Walleye
The walleye bite off Ashtabula Harbor has remained outstanding through late September, with large schools lingering close to shore and providing consistent action for anglers. Reports confirm that fishing has been “as fantastic as it has been all summer,” with many boats finding success without needing to travel far. The most productive depths have ranged from 65 to 75 feet of water, and the fish have shown a strong preference for divers with spoons in deeper water. This season is noted as one of the best in decades for both numbers and quality of fish.
- Hotspots: Nearshore waters off Ashtabula Harbor, especially 65–75 feet deep.
- Effective baits/lures: Divers with spoons.
- Fishing remains strong even as fall weather approaches, with no sign of the bite slowing.
Steelhead
Steelhead fishing is just beginning to pick up around the mouths of local creeks and beaches near Ashtabula. While overall action has been slow due to low and clear water conditions, some anglers have managed to catch fish at first light by casting spoons and spinners in the surf. The season is expected to improve with cooler nights and rainfall, which will trigger more fish to move into the tributaries.
- Hotspots: Creek mouths and beaches at dawn.
- Effective baits/lures: Spoons and spinners.
- Steelhead action is expected to increase as water conditions change.
Largemouth Bass & Smallmouth Bass
Recent logs from Lake Erie near Ashtabula show continued catches of largemouth bass and smallmouth bass. While not as heavily targeted as walleye or steelhead, these species remain available for anglers working structure and rocky areas along the shoreline.
- Hotspots: Rocky shorelines and nearshore structure.
- Effective baits/lures: Not specified in recent reports.
White Perch & Channel Catfish
Anglers have also reported catches of white perch and channel catfish in the vicinity of Ashtabula, with these species providing additional opportunities for mixed-bag outings. While sizes and specific techniques were not detailed, these catches highlight the diversity of the local fishery.
- Hotspots: Nearshore areas and harbor.
- Effective baits/lures: Not specified in recent reports.
Weather & Marine Conditions
The past two weeks have featured a stretch of calm, fall-like weather with cool nights and crisp mornings, ideal for fishing on Lake Erie. However, forecasts indicate that conditions may become rougher, with waves expected to pick up and potentially limit access for smaller boats. Anglers are advised to monitor marine forecasts closely before heading out, as Lake Erie’s weather can change rapidly.
- Recent conditions: Calm, cool, and crisp mornings; fall weather settling in.
- Upcoming forecast: Potential for increased wave activity and rougher lake conditions.
Tides & Solunar Activity
The recent full moon has provided productive night fishing opportunities, as many predator species feed more actively under bright moonlit skies. Anglers targeting walleye and steelhead have found success during nighttime hours, especially around the moon’s peak.
- Full moon: Increased night feeding activity for walleye and steelhead.
- Best times: Night and dawn, particularly during moonlit periods.
Fishing Conditions & Tips
With walleye schools holding close to shore, anglers are encouraged to focus on 65–75 feet of water using divers and spoons for best results. For steelhead, early morning and surf casting at creek mouths are recommended, especially as cooler weather and rain approach. Bass anglers should target rocky areas and structure along the shoreline for both largemouth and smallmouth bass.
- Walleye: Target 65–75 feet with divers and spoons.
- Steelhead: Cast spoons/spinners at creek mouths and beaches at first light.
- Bass: Work rocky shorelines and structure.
Regulations & Notices
Anglers fishing in Ashtabula, Ohio must possess a valid Ohio fishing license. Regulations for Lake Erie include species-specific limits and gear restrictions; always check the latest rules before heading out. For waterfowl and migratory bird hunting, a valid hunting license, HIP certification, and Ohio Wetlands Habitat Stamp (for those 18 and older) are required. The Ohio Landowner-Hunter Access Partnership program continues to expand, offering new opportunities for accessing private land with proper endorsements. Bag limits and season dates for deer, waterfowl, and other game species are updated annually—consult the official regulations for details.
- Fishing license required for anglers 16 and older.
- Check current Lake Erie regulations for species limits and gear.
- Waterfowl/migratory bird hunters need HIP certification and Wetlands Habitat Stamp.
- OLHAP properties require endorsement for access.
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Ashtabula, Ohio
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