The Great Miami River is gaining recognition as one of Ohio’s premier fishing destinations — and anglers across the state are taking notice.
According to the 2025 Fish Ohio program rankings from the Ohio Department of Natural Resources Division of Wildlife, the Great Miami River placed in the Top 10 inland waters in Ohio for three popular sport fish categories:
The rankings are based on catches officially reported through the Fish Ohio program, which recognizes anglers who catch trophy-sized fish from waters across the state.
What makes the Great Miami River’s recognition especially notable is that it ranked alongside, and in some cases ahead of, major lakes and reservoirs throughout Ohio. Unlike many of the other locations listed, the Great Miami River is a free-flowing river system that supports diverse aquatic habitat and year-round recreation opportunities.
“This recognition highlights what many local anglers already know — the Great Miami River is an incredible fishery,” said Sarah Hippensteel Hall, Manager of Communication, Outreach, and Stewardship for the Miami Conservancy District. “The river supports outstanding recreation opportunities while also reflecting the importance of healthy water systems and long-term watershed stewardship.”
The Great Miami River Watershed includes more than 291 miles of connected streams and river designated as a state and national water trail including the Stillwater, Mad rivers, and Greenville, Twin, and Bick creeks. The region’s waterways attract paddlers, anglers, cyclists, and outdoor enthusiasts from across Ohio and beyond.
Smallmouth bass fishing on the Great Miami River has developed a particularly strong reputation in recent years. Anglers are increasingly drawn to the river for its scenic setting, accessibility, and healthy fish populations.
The river’s combination of riffles, pools, rocky structure, and flowing water creates ideal habitat for smallmouth bass, while deeper pools and slower-moving stretches provide opportunities for catfish and saugeye anglers.
The announcement also comes as Ohio officially created a new state record category for hybrid crappie — a fish that has recently generated growing interest among anglers in the region.
Outdoor Life recently highlighted the new category and the record-setting catch in Ohio.
📖 Read the story here:
Outdoor Life – Ohio Creates New Hybrid Crappie Record Category
Whether fishing from shore, paddling to a favorite spot, or exploring the region’s nationally recognized water trail, the Great Miami River continues to offer outstanding outdoor recreation opportunities throughout Southwest Ohio.
The Great Miami River Water Trail is Ohio’s first National Water Trail and includes hundreds of miles of connected waterways and access points throughout the watershed.
From trophy smallmouth bass to peaceful evenings on the water, the Great Miami River continues to prove it is one of Ohio’s greatest natural assets.
The water trail maps show you public access points, river miles, safety information and more. Access our online interactive water trail map by clicking the button below. You can also download PDF versions of our printed maps, or contact your local park district for physical copies. Not sure where to begin? Here are five curated paddling itineraries to get you started.
