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The Sandusky River in Northwest Ohio may not be the first name that comes to mind when you think about fly fishing hotspots, but let me assure you, it’s a hidden gem. Particularly below the Ballville Dam in Fremont, Ohio, the Sandusky River offers an enriching fly fishing experience that appeals to all skill levels. Let’s dive into what makes this location a favorite amongst the local angling community and beyond.
Getting to Know the Sandusky River
Tracing its origins back to Wyandot County, Ohio, the Sandusky River carves its way westward through the charming town of Bucyrus, Ohio. Beyond Bucyrus, the river twists northward, eventually surrendering to the picturesque Sandusky Bay.
The Little Sandusky River, a minor tributary, finds its confluence with the Sandusky River in Wyandot County. This network of waterways together provides a thriving aquatic ecosystem with a fantastic array of fish species
What’s the Catch in the Sandusky River?
One of the many appealing factors of fly fishing in the Sandusky River, particularly near Fremont, Ohio, is the diverse array of fish species it hosts. The Ballville Dam, which stands as the last barricade between the river and Lake Erie, plays a significant role in this biodiversity.
Here are some species you may encounter during your adventure:
- Largemouth and Smallmouth Bass
- Bluegill and other sundry sunfish
- Crappie
- White Bass
- Common Carp
- Longnose Gar
- Channel Catfish
- Freshwater Drum
- Walleye
- Flathead Catfish
- Various species of sucker fish
- Rock Bass
In the Sandusky River, as with its sibling, the Maumee River, the thrill of the catch is accentuated by the suspense – you really never know what might be on the end of your line!
Equip Yourself for Fly Fishing Success
Equipping yourself appropriately can significantly enhance your fly fishing experience on the Sandusky River. Here’s my recommended setup:
- Rod: Opt for a nine-foot, 6 to 7-weight fly rod.
- Reel: A standard reel matched to the rod and line weight, preferably with a disc-drag system.
- Line: Use weight forward floating line matched to rod weight. A heavier taper is ideal for casting larger flies.
- Leader: A seven to nine-foot leader with a breaking strength of eight to twelve-pound test will serve you well.
Choosing Your Fly: The Art and the Science
Selecting the right fly is both a science and an art. In the Sandusky River, several patterns have proven successful. Try using Clouser deep minnows, woolly buggers, panfish Charlies, nymphs, and various other streamers.
For colors, hot pink over chartreuse or chartreuse over white are great choices. The olive-over-white combination works well too, as it imitates emerald shiners, a primary forage species in the Sandusky River.
For woolly buggers, popular colors are black, olive, rust brown, and white with flash. Whether you purchase them or tie them yourself, consider using bead-chain or lead dumbbell weights for the eyes. These cause the fly to ride hook point up, reducing snags on the riverbed and imparting a darting action to the fly. This is especially effective when using a rust brown woolly bugger as it mimics a crayfish, a favorite meal of the Smallmouth bass and rock bass in these waters.
Where to Cast Your Line
Focus your fishing efforts on the slack water that flows beneath the dam. This area is home to a multitude of fish species. Don’t overlook the areas downstream from the dam; they offer a wealth of productive riffle-hole-run water.
Slack waters, often hosting carp easily spotted feeding in the shallows, offer exciting opportunities for sight-casting.
So, if you’re looking for a unique fly fishing experience, consider visiting Fremont, Ohio, and give the Sandusky River a shot. With its friendly community and incredible fishing opportunities, it’s bound to be an adventure you’ll remember.
