I have been traveling to Kelley’s Island for many years to fish. Kelley’s Island is a relaxed, large island due North of Marblehead. In this article, I will provide information for you to plan a fishing and camping trip to Kelley’s Island.
Kelley’s Island Trip Planning
| Detail | Info |
|---|---|
| Location | Western Lake Erie, 4 miles north of Marblehead, OH. |
| How to get there | Ferry (20–25 min from Marblehead) or private boat. Plane tickets available. |
| Best fishing | Go in the spring and fall. |
| Top fishing spots | Offshore (walleye charters), northwest rocky shoreline, stone pier, ferry dock. |
| Camping | Kelleys Island State Park — 129 sites, yurts, Rent-A-Camp. |
| Reserve camping | ohio.reserveamerica.com |
| Hiking | 6 miles of trails — all easy/flat; Glacial Grooves, North Shore Loop, Quarry Rim. |
| Best time to visit | May–October; June–August for peak summer; May/September for fewer crowds. |
How Do You Get to Kelley’s Island?
There are no bridges or tunnels. In order to get to Kelley’s Island you need to have a private boat, take the ferry, or fly to the island. I typically take the ferry because I’m bring a truck and boat to the island.
Kelleys Island Ferry Boat Line
The main option for anyone bringing a car, truck, RV, boat trailer, or camping gear. Departures are from Marblehead, Ohio. The ferry ride takes approximately 20–25 minutes. Again, I bring my truck and boat with me, this is my only option.
- Vehicles, bikes, and golf carts are all permitted
- Runs year-round, weather permitting
- Advance planning strongly recommended during peak summer weekends
- 👉 Kelleys Island Ferry Boat Line — check current schedules and pricing before your trip
Jet Express
A faster passenger only option that runs seasonally from spring through summer. Good for day trips but not practical if you’re hauling fishing gear or camping equipment. Sells out early on summer mornings, so arrive ahead of schedule.
Private Boat
Anglers with their own boats can go directly to the island marina on the south side. Right in front of the Casino restaurant. I have done this about a dozen times. It’s a convenient option if you have a boat. However, watch the weather, It can affect your departure or return.
Kelley’s Island Fishing
The reason I go to Kelley’s Island every year is due to the fishing. The fishing is excellent around the island almost all year. There might be a slight slump late summer, but other than that it’s great.
Walleye
Walleye are the primary target around Kelley’s Island. The fishing there stays good throughout the year. Late summer it gets a little tough, so plan accordingly. Some of the hotspots include Kelley’s Shoal, American Eagle Shoal, and the East side off the airport runway.
Smallmouth Bass
Smallmouth bass are the reason I go to the island. All year you can catch smallmouth bass around Kelley’s Island. I usually head up there in May, before the season opens. I am strictly catch and release.
Yellow Perch
Perch can be caught from shore around the rock pier at the north end of the island near the campgrounds. The ferry dock area is also worth trying, as the deeper water there holds perch. The 2026 daily bag limit for yellow perch on Lake Erie is 30 fish per day with no size minimum, though populations vary by zone.
When I perch fish around Kelley’s, I am on the East side. A good depth to target is around 40 fow. That’s where I start!
Shore & Pier Fishing
If you don’t have a boat, you still have solid options:
- Stone pier at the north end of the island (near the state park) — rock bass, smallmouth, white bass, and the occasional sheepshead
- Ferry dock area — smallmouth are frequently active here, especially when the ferry pulls out and stirs up the water column
- Rocky shoreline along State Park Beach — cast toward rocky points for smallmouth and white bass
- The quarry (off Ward Road) — a good spot for bluegill and the occasional bass; large fish have been spotted in the deeper water
Charter Fishing
Multiple charter services operate in the Kelleys Island area. Charters are the best option for reaching deeper walleye water and for beginner fisherman. Most trips accommodate 4 to 6 anglers and run a half day or a full day formats. Book in advance for summer weekends.
Camping at Kelleys Island State Park
I have stayed in this park more times than I can count. There are other options on the island, but you can’t beat the price and amenities.
Campground Overview
- 129 total sites
- 36 full hookup sites (ideal for RVs)
- 48 electric sites
- Tent-only sites in a separate loop near the swimming beach
- Modern restrooms and showers
- Dump station, potable water, and camp store (ice and firewood available on-site)
- Playground and picnic areas
- Fishing access areas and boat launch ramp (free)
Reservations
Sites book up fast, especially summer weekends. I usually book months before my trip. Reservations are available through the Ohio State Park system:
👉 Reserve a Kelleys Island campsite — book well in advance for Memorial Day through Labor Day
