According to data collected by the Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR), the Great Miami River:

• Supports a very diverse fish population. In the Great Miami River, and its tributaries, you can fish for everything from bass, saugeye, crappie, northern pike, and catfish to rock bass. Especially abundant are smallmouth bass, but you might get lucky and catch a unique species like hybrid striped bass or white bass.
  
  
• Produces record-sized fish. ODNR’s Fish Ohio program recognizes anglers who catch fish of noteworthy size on Ohio’s rivers. Out of 30 of the different species caught, 22 were large enough to be recognized. That is more than other large rivers in the region.
  
  
• Ranks as Ohio’s best river to catch large smallmouth bass. According to ODNR, the peak season for bigger fish begins in April and is steady through October each year.
  
  
• Ranks as a top two riverine Ohio for Rock Bass and a top three for sauger.
  
  
• Has produced noteworthy fish in every month of the year. But the best months are March through November.

To find a great fishing spot on the Great Miami River, use our interactive map and trip planner. There are locations where you can fish from the riverbank, kayak, or motorboat. There is access for every age and ability. 

Fishing on the Mad River

The Mad River offers one of the most distinctive fishing experiences in Ohio. It is one of the state’s only coldwater streams and is routinely stocked with brown trout by the Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR). Consistent spring flow keeps the water cool, creating the conditions needed for trout to survive year-round — something rarely found elsewhere in the state.

Anglers come to the Mad River for fly-fishing, but the river supports more than just trout. In many stretches you’ll also find smallmouth bass, rock bass, and other cool-water species. Clear water and a mix of riffles, runs, and deeper pools make it a great place for both beginners and experienced anglers.

Why the Mad River is Unique

• Coldwater habitat: Fed by groundwater springs that help maintain cooler temperatures.

• Trout stocking: ODNR stocks brown trout annually, making this one of Ohio’s only reliable trout fisheries.

• Accessible reaches: Well-known access points near Eastwood MetroPark, Urbana, Tremont City, and West Liberty offer options for wading or fishing from the bank.

• Year-round opportunities: Cooler seasons are best for trout, while warm-weather months offer solid smallmouth action.

Tips for Fishing the Mad River

Light tackle or fly gear works well, especially in clear water. Focus on seams, deeper pools, and shaded banks where trout tend to hold. Many anglers choose catch-and-release practices to help maintain this limited, specialized fishery.

To find a great fishing spot on the Mad River, use our interactive map and trip planner. There are locations where you can fish from the riverbank, kayak, or motorboat. There is access for every age and ability. 

Fishing on the Stillwater River

The Stillwater River is widely recognized as one of the healthiest rivers in Ohio and is designated as a State Scenic River for its exceptional water quality and natural character. Clean, free-flowing water and intact habitat make it one of the best places in the region to catch smallmouth bass, rock bass, and channel catfish.

According to the Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR), the Stillwater River consistently supports excellent fish diversity because of its natural riffles, deep pools, and steady, cool flow. Anglers appreciate the clear water, easy access, and miles of quiet rural scenery.

What Makes the Stillwater Stand Out

• Exceptional habitat: Gravel riffles, woody cover, and natural banks support strong smallmouth populations.

• Scenic River designation: Recognized by ODNR for outstanding water quality.

• Reliable fishing: Smallmouth, rock bass, catfish, and sunfish are common throughout the system.

• Easy access: Good entry points near Englewood MetroPark, Ludlow Falls, Covington, and Pleasant Hill.

Tips for Fishing the Stillwater

Light spinning gear and small lures or live bait work well in clear water. Look for fish along current breaks, boulders, and drop-offs. Early summer through fall is typically the most productive time for smallmouth bass.

To find a great fishing spot on the Stillwater River, use our interactive map and trip planner. There are locations where you can fish from the riverbank, kayak, or motorboat. There is access for every age and ability. 

Fishing on Other Tributaries

Beyond the Great Miami, Mad, and Stillwater rivers, several smaller tributaries offer quality fishing opportunities for a range of species. These creeks and streams provide quiet places to explore and are ideal for wading, kayaking, or bank fishing.

Twin Creek

Twin Creek is known for its clean water and natural stream habitat, supporting smallmouth bass, rock bass, suckers, and sunfish. Its mix of riffles and deep pools makes it a favorite for anglers who enjoy walk-in access and shallow-water fishing.

Wolf Creek

Wolf Creek offers easy access from parks and trail systems in Trotwood and Dayton. Anglers commonly catch smallmouth bass, rock bass, and channel catfish. After rains, flow increases can improve fishing for larger species moving upstream.

Stillwater Tributaries (Greenville Creek & Others)

Greenville Creek, a tributary of the Stillwater, is also designated a State Scenic River. Its clean, cool water supports smallmouth bass, sunfish, and occasional saugeye, especially near its confluence with the Stillwater River.