Are you traveling to Marblehead on Lake Erie? Have you thought about fishing while you are there? Marblehead fishing offers you the chance to catch perch, walleye, drum, and bass right from shore.
The rocky slope provides access to deep waters close to shore, making it a favorite among both boat and shore anglers. Ample shore access and boat ramps on the peninsula offer fishermen many options.
Top Booked Charters for Marblehead Fishing
| Charter Name | Captain | Boat Type | Trip Options |
|---|---|---|---|
| Eye 2 Eye Charters | Capt. Eric Wall | 30′ Sport Fisher | Half-day, Full-day |
| BlackH2ODog Charters | Capt. Matt Risch | 27′ Walkaround | Half-day, Full-day |
| Fishin Mission Charters | Capt. Mark Rose | 28′ Walkaround | Half-day, Full-day |
| Pork Chop Express Charters | Capt. Joe Wiesenauer | 26′ Sport Fisher | Half-day, Full-day, Evening |
1. Marblehead’s Fishing Hotspots
Marblehead Lighthouse State Park: This iconic location isn’t just for sightseeing. The rocky shoreline around the lighthouse is a great spot for shore fishing, particularly for smallmouth bass and yellow perch. Walleye fishing can be great in the early spring and fall. During this time walleye roam close to shore in search of spawning areas and bait.
East Harbor State Park: With its protected waters, this park is ideal for kayak fishing. The shallow, weedy areas are perfect for largemouth bass and panfish. Largemouth bass is the main target species in the harbor. During winter, ice fishermen target bluegill and perch. The protected harbor offers ice fishermen a safe place to fish.
Kelleys Island: A short boat ride from Marblehead, Kelleys Island offers some of the best smallmouth bass fishing in Lake Erie. The rocky shorelines and underwater structures are fish magnets. Walleye also roams around the island looking for food. During the spring, walleye will feed on all sides of the island. Target this area from April – June.
2. Seasonal Marblehead Fishing
Spring: As the water warms after winter, walleye move into the shallows to spawn. This is prime time for shore anglers. If you are fishing from a boat, target shallow rocky areas to jig up monster walleye!
Summer: Perch fishing picks up, and the bass action around the rocky shores is excellent. Walleye will move offshore and school up to feed on baitfish.
Fall: The walleye return to the nearshore waters, and steelhead start to show up. Walleye fishing can be excellent as the walleye move back to the Marblehead area to feed and spawn in the spring.
Winter: When the lake freezes, ice fishing for yellow perch can be productive. Walleye fishing is excellent through the ice around the Lake Erie Islands and Catawba.
3. Marblehead Fishing Heritage
Fishing isn’t just a pastime in Marblehead; it’s a way of life deeply rooted in the area’s history. The limestone quarries that gave Marblehead its name also provided the foundation for many of Lake Erie’s lighthouses, creating the perfect habitat for a variety of fish species.
This area is still a hub today for fishing and shipping, just as it was in the old days. The technology and boats have changed, but the same activities still live on. You can find hordes of charters heading out every day and ships pulling in to the quarry to load up.
4. Marblehead Marinas
Marblehead is littered with marinas. There are many options to choose from depending on what you are looking for. Some offer boat ramps and some have a crane lift for your boat. Marinas on Marblehead, Oh offer close access to the lake, some even having no idle time. This is crucial to save time. Most of the marinas on the peninsula offer full service at the beginning and end of the season. They also have mechanics on staff to take care of your boat. The marina has full-service docks that include water and electricity.
You can choose a marina on the Lake Erie or Sandusky Bay side. This depends on your needs. The Bay side stays relatively calm, but it is a longer run to the main lake if that is where you will be fishing. If you choose a marina on the Lake Erie side, getting to the Lake Erie Islands is a short boat ride.
Hopefully, this guide will help you catch more fish around Marblehead, OH. With so many fishing boat and shore fishing opportunities, there is something for everyone!