Fishing East Fork Lake

AKA: William H Harsha Lake

Most Popular Fish
Available Fish Species
Amenities
Today's Weather & Forecast
Boat Launch Ramps
Local Fishing Guides
East Fork Lake Fishing Video
Fishing License
Campgrounds & RV Parks
Map
Contact Info

Popular Fish Species East Fork Lake, OH

Largemouth Bass

Fishing in East Fork Lake for largemouth bass can run hot and cold at times. Lately the fishing has been good. Big bass are thriving in East Fork Lake due to excellent fisheries management by the Ohio Department of Natural Resources, Division of Wildlife. They also have plenty of cover for both baitfish and bass. When the bite is good, bass are typically shallow and aggressive. If you find them shallow and they are not tempted to bite, slow down and use smaller, lighter baits. Fishing for largemouth bass is good virtually any time they are shallow - in spring, mornings in summer, and during warm Fall afternoons. Use shallow crankbaits around rip rap. Around grass use worms, jigs, topwater and spinnerbaits. In deeper water, big worms, jigs and spoons are three good weapons. In winter, spend your time fishing East Fork Lake on deeper structure where the bass spend much of their time. Smallmouth bass and spotted bass also reside here in good numbers.

Crappie

Black and white crappie both reside in East Fork Lake, with black crappie typically out-weighing white crappie. They do school together, so when you find them you may catch both species. Crappie fishing is on the rise and they can be found in sizeable schools. Crappie always like cover and structure, so locate brush and vegetation. Using a fish finder can help locate schools of crappie, which tend to stack vertically around cover. Live bait and small jigs are the most common method for crappie here. In spring and fall focus on the 8 to 12 foot range. As the crappie move deep in summer and winter, follow points out deep, as well as find ledges near channels in deeper water. When the lake freezes over, ice fishing is often a great way to catch a quick limit of crappie.

Hybrid Striped Bass

Hybrid striped bass, also known as wipers, are a favorite of many locals and fishing guides at East Fork Lake, as they are plentiful and grow to bragging size. As a hybrid of striped bass and white bass, they have great potential for spawning massive numbers and growing to large sizes. Fishing for hybrid stripers is a matter of locating schools of bait, and schools of hybrid striped bass are likely to be in the area. Mornings, during Fall, hybrids can be caught on topwater or shallow running lures, as they are feeding on baitfish at the surface. When they move deeper, fish finders improve your odds of locating both bait and schools of wipers. Live bait, spoons and jigs are very very effective here, and these hungry fish can be caught year round.

Fish species to fish for...

Guide to fishing for largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, spotted bass, channel catfish, flathead catfish, black crappie, white crappie, bluegill, hybrid striped bass and muskie at East Fork Lake in Ohio.

East Fork Lake, OH

Fishing for bass and crappie is on the mind of most anglers coming to East Fork Lake officially William H. Harsha Lake. This 2,100-acre lake in the southwest part of the state, has over 35 miles of shoreline for exploring by boat or fishing from the bank.

East Fork Lake, located in southwestern Ohio, is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts seeking a serene and picturesque setting. With its tranquil surroundings and diverse recreational opportunities, East Fork Lake offers excellent fishing, boating, and camping experiences.

Fishing at East Fork Lake provides anglers with the opportunity to target various fish species. The lake is known for its healthy populations of largemouth bass, crappie, bluegill, channel catfish, and saugeye. Anglers can cast their lines from the shore, fish from a boat, or explore the lake's numerous coves and submerged structures for optimal fishing spots. East Fork Lake's diverse fishery ensures that anglers of all skill levels can have a rewarding and enjoyable fishing experience.

Several boat launch ramps serve the public for launch of canoes, car-toppers, kayaks, pontoons, pleasure and fishing boats with no limit on engine horsepower. Camping and RV hookups are available on the north side of the lake. In addition to bass and crappie, catfish, sunfish and hybrid stripers are catchable here. Ice fishing for black crappie, white crappie and bluegill can be quite good at times, once the ice is safe. There are hiking trails and picnic areas within East Fork State Park, which surrounds the lake on all sides.

Primary fish species residing in East Fork Lake

Click images for fishing tips and details about each species.

William H Harsha Lake Amenities

Marina: NO
Boat Rental: NO
Boat Launch Ramp: YES
Campgrounds: YES
RV Hookups: YES
Lodging: NEARBY
Convenience Store: NEARBY
Bait & Tackle: YES
Restaurant: YES

Today's Weather & Forecast

Boating is a favorite activity at East Fork Lake, offering visitors a chance to explore the expansive waters and take in the beautiful scenery. The lake allows various types of watercraft, including powerboats, pontoons, and kayaks. Boaters can enjoy leisurely cruises, engage in water sports activities, or simply relax on the calm waters. Multiple boat ramps and marinas are available, ensuring convenient access to the lake for boating enthusiasts.

Public Boat Launch Ramps & Landings

Alton-Elklick Road Boat Launch
Located in the northwest corner of the lake, east side, off Alton-Elklick Road, this is a two-lane, concrete ramp with a dock and paved parking.

Campers Boat Ramp
Located in the northeast corner of the lake, in East Fork Campground, this is a two-lane, concrete ramp with a dock and paved parking.

East Fork Lake Boat Launch Ramp
Located in the southwest corner of the lake, off Retxler Road, this is a three-lane, concrete ramp with a dock and paved parking.

Reisinger Road Boat Ramp
Located in the southeast corner of the lake, off Reisinger Road, this is a two-lane, concrete ramp with a dock and paved parking.

Tate Boat Ramp
Located mid lake, on the south side of the lake, off Elklick Road, this is a four-lane, concrete ramp with a dock and paved parking.

Fishing Guides On East Fork Lake

If you offer fishing guide services on this lake, please contact us for a free listing, to be posted here.

East Fork Lake Fishing Video

Fishing License

Click here for a Ohio Fishing License.

Camping facilities at East Fork Lake cater to those looking for an extended stay in nature. The East Fork State Park Campground offers a range of camping options, including tent sites, RV sites with electric hookups, and cabins. Campers can enjoy the peaceful ambiance, indulge in outdoor activities, and take advantage of the lake's fishing and boating opportunities.