Time for some reel talk: Northeast Ohio is basically a fishing paradise. Don’t believe us? Pack up your pole, fill the tackle box, drop a line into beautiful Lake Erie — or the Rocky River — and see for yourself.
Just don’t forget a fishing license. We’re a law-abiding sort, after all.
Whether you prefer to charter a boat or do your fishing from terra firma, Cleveland’s got you covered. Check out six of our favorite local spots where anglers are practically guaranteed to bring home a tasty catch.
Eyes Ready Charters
Hop aboard this fully-equipped 31-foot Baha cruiser (with an enclosed cabin to escape the elements) and, soon after, your cooler will overflow with trophy walleye, steelhead, and jumbo perch. Captain Joe Takacs will guide you and five guests out to wherever the fish are biting in the central basin of Lake Erie. Plus, he provides tackle, bait, and gear — with backups, too, in case something happens to a rod or reel.
Strikemaster Charters
Captain Mike “Moke” Mochan, a Cabela’s national tour champion and fifty-year Lake Erie veteran, loves nothing more than helping clients land an epic haul of catfish or walleye. Strikemaster offers half- and full-day trips aboard a 21-foot Warrior 203 vessel (with top-of-the-line gear and bait included). Don’t worry about striking out — Captain “Moke” boasts a 100% catch rate.
Midtown Fishing Charters
Hoping to score some mouthwatering fresh walleye, yellow perch, and steelhead? Look no further than Midtown Fishing Charters. Captain Danny McDonnell takes guests on four- and eight-hour excursions with all of the necessities supplied. Seriously, you don’t need to bring a thing (other than a fishing license). And, for those seeking a slower pace, sunset cruises and river tours are available, too.
East 55th Street Marina
If you prefer to fish from dry land, hit up this Cleveland Metroparks marina just east of downtown. It features a 1,200-foot fishing platform with an on-site bait shop, fuel dock, and cleaning station to prep your catch for the trip home. Once you’ve caught your fill, swing over to nearby e55 on the Lake, a full-service restaurant and bar, for some post-fishing grub.
Gordon Park at Lakefront Reservation
Or head a little farther east and cast your line off another 1,200-foot platform: this one at the popular East 72nd Street fishing area in Gordon Park. Here, besides the abundant fishing, you’ll also find a six-lane boat launch and public grills to cook up your catch. There’s no better spot for a relaxing day of fishing — with the Cleveland Lakefront Bikeway passing nearby and a cool breeze blowing in off Lake Erie.
Emerald Necklace Marina
Located just 5,000 feet south of where the Rocky River flows into Lake Erie, this scenic Lakewood marina doubles as one of Northeast Ohio’s best spots to score some steelhead. Plus, it’s got a well-stocked store to cover all of your bait and supply needs. Before heading home, grab some of Cleveland’s own Honey Hut ice cream at the on-site cafe to cap off the day.