CLEVELAND — Rob Lawson has been with a fishing charter for 33 years. He said he is still getting the lay of the lake. 

What You Need To Know

  • The 43rd Annual Governor's Fish Ohio Day took place in Port Clinton

  • The event celebrates how the fishing industry impacts Ohio's economy 

  • Fishing can draw in people from Ohio and other states nearby, according to DeWine

“You would hope I do by now, but we’ll find out today," Lawson said. 

He also knows his way around a fishing rod. He said July is usually one of the busiest time of year for fishing for walleye. He’s already taking reservations next year. 

“May is two-thirds full and June's half already for next year," Lawson said. 

Lawson participated in the 43rd annual Governor's Fish Ohio Day, where fishing and boat enthusiasts get to enjoy the open water and cast a line. Gov. Mike DeWine got to go on the lake, and said it’s a draw for people out of state. 

“Not only is it great recreation for Ohioans, but it brings so many people from out of state in here," DeWine said. "Last night, there was a little reception. I talked to people from Pennsylvania, talked to people from other states and they come here for this walleye fishing.” 

Lawson can track the fish using sonar. But he said sometimes they just aren’t biting, and he has to move to a new spot. 

“See that big hook right there? That’s a walleye right there," Lawson said. 

Lawson said the lake’s under water terrain has changed and technology has advanced. But, after all these years, he’s reminded how patience pays off. 

“Finally what we’re looking for," Lawson said when catching a fish. 

Lawson said being a captain doesn’t have to be a full-time commitment, which is why he prefers to be busy in the summer. 

“I fish every day for three months or whatever and then just a few days a week for a couple of months and then I have my whole winter to just enjoy," Lawson said.