Ohio’s Youth-Only Fishing Ponds Improve Chance of Success
OutdoorHub 06.20.12
Beginning June 30, five state-owned ponds across Ohio will be stocked with fish and designated as family-friendly fishing areas for youth only. Young anglers are encouraged to bring their family and enjoy these fishing areas throughout the summer.
“This is an excellent way to encourage kids to spend time outdoors and fish in a stocked pond,” said Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR) Director James Zehringer. “We hope many families take advantage of this opportunity to create fishing memories.”
The designated youth-only fishing areas will be at Sycamore State Park, west of Dayton; Delaware State Park, north of Delaware; Maumee Bay State Park, east of Toledo; Caesar Creek State Park, southwest of Xenia; and the Wildlife District Three youth fishing ponds in Akron.
Special youth events will be held on June 30 and Aug. 25 from 9 a.m.-3 p.m. for anglers 15-years-old and younger. Bait and assistance from volunteers will be provided at no charge on these dates. Youth are encouraged to bring their fishing poles; however, poles will be available during these events. All young anglers must be accompanied by a parent or guardian while at the youth events, but adults are not required to have a fishing license. Adults are not allowed to fish in the youth area, but they may assist their young anglers. Picnic tables and restroom facilities are available, and young anglers are encouraged to wear hats and sunglasses to protect themselves while casting their lines.
State park ponds will be stocked with catchable channel catfish and hybrid bluegill just prior to each youth-only fishing event and will be open daily. The Wildlife District Three youth fishing ponds will be routinely stocked and open every weekend through Labor Day. Youth may keep one fish per day from the ponds.
These family-friendly youth-only fishing events and areas are partially funded by the purchases of Ohio fishing licenses and federal contributions from the Sport Fish Restoration Fund.
