With ice melting and waters warming in central Ohio as the first official day of Spring approaches on March 20, anglers are gearing up for fast-action fishing. Spring is the perfect time to grab a rod and chase crappie and bluegill at the top spots in Knox County and nearby lakes and rivers.
According to the Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR), both species are abundant and ideal for spring outings, especially for families introducing children to fishing.
Crappie
Black and white crappie in Ohio have a daily limit of 30 fish with a minimum size of 9 inches under the 2026–27 ODNR regulations.
These rules apply to numerous lakes and rivers across the state, including Alum Creek, Hoover, Caesar Creek, Delaware River (upstream to Waldo Dam), Loramie, Grand Lake St. Marys, Lake Milton and Ferguson, ensuring sustainable fishing opportunities for both species.
During March and April, crappie move from deep water toward spawning areas along creek beds and around cover such as brush piles, stumps and fallen trees.
ODNR recommends using light tackle, such as a moderate-to-fast rod with 4–8 lb line, paired with small baits. Effective options include 1/16–1/8 oz jigs with feathers, hair or plastic bodies, small crankbaits, plastics or live minnows suspended under a slip bobber. Adjusting jig colors can increase bites when action is slow. Focusing on creek beds, deep channels, and cover near spawning sites often delivers fast, rewarding catches during spring.
Bluegill
Bluegill, a common sunfish, are actively feeding as the water warms, making spring an ideal time for productive catches.
Bluegill have a daily limit of 15, with no more than five fish measuring 8 inches or longer.
Pre-spawn bluegill in March and April generally hold in deeper water offshore, often suspended near vegetation, submerged trees, brush, rock piles or drop-offs. A light spinning rod with 4–8 lb line and a slip bobber allows anglers to fish at varying depths until schools are located. Effective baits include wax worms, earthworms, red worms, crickets or wigglers on a single hook. Once the right depth is found, the slip bobber helps maintain a consistent presentation.
An Ohio angler shows off a stringer full of bluegill. (Facebook / Ohio Department of Natural Resources)
Where to Fish for Crappie and Bluegill Near Knox County
Knox Lake
Knox Lake, a nearly 500-acre reservoir northeast of Fredericktown, is a top spot for crappie, bluegill, and largemouth bass.
Black and white crappies average over 10 inches, while bluegill are plentiful. Prime spring fishing locations include bays along the north and south shores and areas around fallen trees on the eastern end. Facilities include a fishing pier, boat rentals, docks, picnic areas, and a handicapped-accessible boat launch. Brush and trees in the upper basin provide natural cover, and multiple boat launches with parking make access easy. Knox Lake was built in 1954 by damming the Kokosing River, and a $4.6 million dam renovation completed in 2021 improved safety and preserved a premier fishing habitat.
Kokosing Lake Wildlife Area
The Kokosing Lake Wildlife Area located northwest of Fredericktown features a 160-acre lake and a 1.5-acre pond, both excellent for spring fishing for bluegill, crappie and channel catfish.
The surrounding 1,113-acre wildlife area includes woodlots, marshes, streams, and open fields, and is managed by ODNR for fish and wildlife. Fishing is accessible with boat ramps, gravel lanes, and picnic areas, with electric or small gas motors allowed.
Kokosing Scenic River
The Kokosing Scenic River offers excellent panfish opportunities, including bluegill and black crappie.
Green sunfish, rock bass and redear sunfish are also common, making spring prime season for panfish action.
Access points in Knox County, including Riverside Park, Memorial Park, Lower Gambier Road and Millwood, provide convenient fishing along the river. The river flows through a sandstone gorge and benefits from healthy riparian habitat, supporting diverse aquatic life.
Other nearby options
Alum Creek Lake
Alum Creek Lake, about 48 miles from Knox County, is a 3,330-acre reservoir abundant with black and white crappie and bluegill.
The lake also supports largemouth and smallmouth bass, walleye, muskellunge, channel and blue catfish, perch and white bass, making it a versatile destination for all anglers.
Hoover Reservoir
Hoover Reservoir, roughly 42 miles from Knox County, is a prime spring fishing destination. The lake produces high numbers of 12-inch+ crappie and abundant smaller bluegill.
