Whether you’re a seasoned angler or a newbie, one of the most important parts of
a successful fishing trip happens before you even cast a line – choosing the right
spot. While any body of water might seem like a good place to drop a line, there’s
more to consider than just a peaceful view.

For beginners, familiar locations are a great place to start. City, county or state
parks often have ponds or lakes that are regularly stocked and easy to access.
Many of these have piers for anglers to fish from and fish attractors in the water.
Bait shops and sporting goods stores are valuable sources of information. Ask
them what’s biting and where.

What type of fish are you hoping to catch?

Another consideration when selecting a location is the type of species you’re
targeting and the environment they prefer. For example, bass like weedy, warm
waters with cover while trout prefer colder, clearer streams. Catfish tend to lurk
in deeper, muddy bottoms. Knowing your target fish will help narrow down your
options.

Seasonal weather patterns may influence your choice of location. In spring and
fall, water temperatures are cooler, and fish are often more active in shallow
waters. During hot summer months, they move deeper. In winter, fishing may
slow altogether or require special equipment for ice fishing.

Underwater structure may also affect your choice of location. Fish gravitate
toward underwater structure — locations with submerged logs, rock piles, drop-
offs, and aquatic vegetation are prime fishing locations. These spots offer shelter
and ambush points for feeding. On rivers, look for eddies, bends and current
breaks.

In many cases, you don’t have to leave home to check out fishing locations. Most
public fishing areas, parks and wildlife preserves have websites that include
maps, amenities and updates on conditions. You can also use tools like Google
Earth to scout shorelines, water depth and access points ahead of time. This
makes planning your trip easier and helps you make the most of your time on the
water.

Before heading out

Before heading out, be sure to check local rules for catch limits, size restrictions,
and whether a fishing license is required. Most state wildlife agencies post
updated regulations online.

Finally, a good fishing spot combines natural beauty with restrooms, parking and fishing piers. The more you explore, the more you’ll learn
what works best for you.

And remember, the best part of fishing isn’t just the catch, it’s the time spent outdoors, slowing down and spending time with family and friends.

About Hooked

“Hooked” is a comic strip based on characters taken from the book “Learn To Fish, A Step-By-Step Guide For Beginning Anglers.” It features a multicultural cast of teens who love to fish and decide to form a fishing club in Cleveland. See “Hooked” monthly right here on the Signal Cleveland website produced in partnership with Dennis James Knowles and Gail Ann Grizzell of Cleveland’s The Fishing Foundation.

Ohio does not require those under 16 to have a fishing license. Read more on Ohio fishing laws here.

About The Fishing Foundation

“Hooked” is produced by longtime Cleveland anglers Dennis Knowles and Gail Grizzell, founders of The Fishing Foundation (TFF), a non-profit organization in Northeast Ohio that takes teens fishing. Through events, mentorship programs and hands-on training, TFF provides unique opportunities for individuals from underserved communities to connect with nature and each other.

Beyond instruction, the foundation provides participants with rods, reels, bait, tackle and even a souvenir T-shirt. At each event, attendees enjoy lunch and refreshments while building skills and confidence. And as a lasting memento, each child gets to keep their rod and reel. TFF’s flagship project, “Learn to Fish: A Step-by-Step Guide for Beginning Anglers,” is a guidebook that equips beginner anglers with the knowledge they need to succeed at fishing.

Whether you’re a seasoned angler or a complete beginner, The Fishing Foundation, and the adventures of “Hooked,” can help. Spend time in Cleveland’s beautiful parks, lakes and rivers and experience the benefits of connecting with nature.

The great outdoors is waiting for you — make 2025 the year you get “hooked” on fishing!

The Fishing Foundation