OHIO — Lake Erie anglers caught 3,916 trophy fish from 17 different species in 2023, according to the Ohio Department of Natural Resources, which looked at data from Fish Ohio.
The data shows the most popular species caught by anglers were walleye, yelllow perch, smallmouth bass and channel catfish. ODNR said those who caught a qualifying catch can receive a commemorative fish pin for their first entry, and those who caught qualifiers of four different species in the same year can get a Master Angler pin.
A report shows that in 2022, anglers generated $5.5 billion in economic spending in the state. It also showed that 1.7 million Ohio adults participate in fishing, and the most popular counties for them were those along Lake Erie and the Ohio River.
ODNR reminds everyone to purchase an Ohio license before fishing in public waters. An Ohio resident license is $25 and is valid for one year. For more information, visit the ODNR website.