Kayaking Tips For Fishing On The Ohio River Near Cincinnati Ohio

Here are some tips for kayak fishing on the Ohio River near Cincinnati, Ohio:

Safety First:

Life Jacket: Always wear a properly fitted life jacket. The Ohio River can have strong currents and unexpected hazards.
Weather Conditions: Check the weather forecast before heading out. Avoid fishing during storms, high winds, or fast currents.
Let Someone Know: Tell a friend or family member where you’ll be fishing and when you expect to return.
Navigation: Be aware of your surroundings, including river traffic and navigation markers. Stay clear of large barges and commercial vessels.
Knowledge of the River: Familiarize yourself with the section of the river you plan to fish. Be aware of underwater hazards, drop-offs, and areas with strong currents.

Fishing Tips:

Species: Research the fish species common in the area during the season you’ll be fishing. Popular options near Cincinnati include channel catfish, smallmouth bass, sauger, and crappie.
Gear: Choose a kayak fishing rod and reel suitable for the fish you’re targeting. Consider a rod holder for hands-free fishing while paddling.
Tackle: Pack lures, baits, and hooks appropriate for your target species. Research what’s working well in the area.
Technique: Trolling, jigging, or bottom fishing can all be effective depending on the species and location.
Anchoring: If anchoring, use a lightweight anchor system suitable for a kayak. Be aware of river traffic and avoid anchoring in shipping lanes.

Additional Tips:

Launch Location: Choose a public boat launch with kayak access. Some options near Cincinnati include Smale Riverfront Park or Lunkenheimer Park.
Storage: Consider a storage crate or deck bag for your tackle box, snacks, and other essentials.
Sun Protection: Wear sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat to protect yourself from the sun.
Hydration: Stay hydrated by bringing plenty of water, especially on hot days.
Leave No Trace: Pack out all your trash and leave the river clean for others to enjoy.

Resources:

Ohio Department of Natural Resources Fishing information: https://ohiodnr.gov/buy-and-apply/hunting-fishing-boating/fishing-resources/fishing-regulations
Local Fishing Forums or Clubs: Look online for forums or clubs dedicated to kayak fishing in the Cincinnati area. These can be a great source of local knowledge and tips.

What Fishing Gear Should You Take?

The specific fishing gear you’ll need for kayak fishing on the Ohio River near Cincinnati depends on the fish you’re targeting and your personal preferences. Here’s a general guideline to get you started:

Safety Gear:

Life Jacket: A properly fitted life jacket is essential. Choose a US Coast Guard-approved Type III life jacket for kayakers, which offers comfort and movement while paddling.

Rod and Reel:

Fishing Rod: A medium-action rod, 6-7 feet long, is a versatile choice for several fish species in the Ohio River. Consider a rod with a baitcasting reel if you prefer lure fishing, or a spinning reel for live bait or jigging.
Fishing Reel: A reel size of 2000 to 3000 should handle most fish you’ll encounter near Cincinnati. Choose a baitcasting reel if you prefer more casting control or a spinning reel for ease of use.

Tackle Box:

Lures: Pack a variety of lures to cover different water depths and fishing techniques.
- Crankbaits for trolling or casting along weed lines and deeper water.
- Jigs for jigging near the bottom or casting around structures.
- Spinnerbaits for casting around cover and attracting fish with vibration.
- Spoons for trolling or casting in open water.
Live Bait: Minnows, nightcrawlers, and leeches are all popular live bait options for catfish and bass fishing.
Terminal Tackle: Hooks, weights, sinkers, swivels, and leaders in various sizes to match your lures and targeted fish species.
Fishing Line: Choose a braided fishing line (e.g., 10-20 pound test) for its strength and sensitivity.

Kayak Fishing Accessories:

Rod Holder: A rod holder allows you to secure your fishing rod while paddling or focusing on fighting a fish.
Paddle: Choose a kayak paddle that is comfortable to use and allows for efficient paddling while seated.
PFD (Personal Flotation Device) Leash: Attach a leash to your life jacket and kayak to prevent it from floating away if you fall overboard.
Cooler or Crate: A small cooler or crate is useful for storing your catch and keeping food and drinks chilled.
Landing Net: A net with a long handle helps land fish safely and reduces the risk of them jumping back into the water.
Safety Whistle: A whistle can attract attention in case of an emergency.
Fish Finder (Optional): A fish finder can help you locate fish and underwater structures.

Other Essentials:

Sunscreen, Sunglasses, and Hat: Protect yourself from the sun.
Water Bottle: Stay hydrated, especially on hot days.
Snacks: Pack enough snacks to keep your energy levels up.
First-Aid Kit: Be prepared for minor injuries.
Dry Bag: Keep important items like your phone and wallet dry.
Pliers: Pliers are helpful for removing hooks and cutting fishing line.

Remember: These are general recommendations. You can adjust the specific gear based on your preferences and target fish species. Local bait shops or fishing forums can provide valuable insights on what’s working well in the area.

What kind of boat I use On the Ohio River?

The Ohio River is a large and versatile waterway, so the best type of boat for you will depend on your intended activity:

Fishing:

Kayak: Great for calm waters and targeting fish in shallower areas. Offers a unique fishing experience and allows you to access secluded spots. Requires good upper body strength and following safety precautions (mentioned previously).
Jon Boat: Stable and affordable option for fishing. Easy to maneuver and offers space for multiple anglers and fishing gear. Consider the size of the Jon boat depending on the number of people and the desired range on the river.
Bass Boat: Ideal for serious bass fishing. These boats are designed for speed and maneuverability, allowing you to cover a lot of water and reach specific fishing spots. Bass boats are typically larger and more expensive than kayaks or Jon boats.

Leisure Boating:

Pontoon Boat: Perfect for cruising, relaxing, and enjoying the scenery with family and friends. Offers a spacious deck, comfortable seating, and stability. Pontoon boats come in various sizes, so choose one that fits your group size and desired amenities.
Deck Boat: A good choice for cruising and entertaining. Offers a combination of deck space for lounging and socializing, with a bowrider section for enjoying the ride.
Houseboat: Provides the ultimate comfort and amenities for extended stays on the river. Houseboats have bedrooms, bathrooms, kitchens, and living areas, allowing you to travel in style and enjoy the comforts of home on the water. Houseboating typically requires a special boater’s license.

Other Uses:

Ski Boat: Ideal for water skiing, wakeboarding, and tubing. These powerful boats can tow water sports enthusiasts and provide a thrilling ride.
Airboat: Can navigate through shallow water areas inaccessible to traditional boats. Airboats are popular for fishing, hunting, and exploring marshlands along the Ohio River.

Additional Considerations:

Boat Size: The size of the boat will depend on the number of people you’ll be boating with, the activities you plan to do, and the amount of gear you need to bring.
Boat Trailer: If you don’t live near a boat launch, you’ll need a trailer to transport your boat to and from the river.
Boating Regulations: Make sure you familiarize yourself with the boating regulations on the Ohio River. This includes required safety equipment, licensing requirements, and speed limits. You can find this information on the websites of the Ohio Department of Natural Resources or the Kentucky Department of Fish and Wildlife Resources, depending on which state you’ll be boating in.

If My boat is register in Ohio am I following the law when I am On the Ohio River?

In most cases, yes, if your boat is registered in Ohio and you are on the Ohio River, you are following the law. Here’s a breakdown:

Ohio Boat Registration:

Registering your boat in Ohio ensures it meets safety standards and allows you to operate it legally on Ohio waters.
The Ohio River forms the border between Ohio and other states (Indiana, West Virginia, Kentucky). As long as you are on the Ohio side of the river, your Ohio registration is valid.

Reciprocity:

Most states, including those bordering the Ohio River, have reciprocity agreements with Ohio. This means your Ohio boat registration is recognized on their waters as long as you follow their boating regulations.
However, there might be some exceptions or variations in these reciprocity agreements.

Here’s what to do to be sure:

Check the Ohio reciprocity information: The Ohio Department of Natural Resources website should have information on which states have reciprocity agreements with Ohio for boating. https://ohiodnr.gov/buy-and-apply/hunting-fishing-boating/boat-registration
Contact the wildlife agency in the bordering state: If you plan to boat on the border side of the Ohio River (i.e., Indiana, West Virginia, or Kentucky), contact their wildlife agency (Department of Natural Resources or Fish and Wildlife) to confirm if your Ohio registration is valid and if there are any additional requirements.

Remember:

Regardless of reciprocity agreements, always follow the boating regulations of the state you are operating your boat in. These might include things like required safety equipment, life jacket requirements, and speed limits.

By following these steps, you can ensure you are operating your boat legally and enjoying your time on the Ohio River!