Fishing Meander Creek Reservoir in Mahoning County, Ohio

• Overview

  Mahoning County in Ohio is where Meander Creek Reservoir sits. It sits in mixed woodland country. You have roughly 19 miles of edge to choose from, which rewards a scouting trip. Among the waters listed for Mahoning County, none is wider. Mineral Ridge at 2.1 miles is the nearest place to stop. Austintown follows at 2.4 miles, then Lordstown at 4.2 miles. A county boundary sits nearby, which can matter for local access rules.

• Where to Fish on Meander Creek Reservoir

  No figure exists for depth, so let the water show you. The arms fish better than the open middle whenever the water is up. Built water gives depth close in, which suits a bank angler. Mahoning County records list fantail darter, johnny darter, rainbow darter and bluegill among the fish reported. The county figures include rivers and lakes alike. At Meander Creek Reservoir the first feature you find is worth twenty minutes.

• Seasonal Patterns

  The year swings from about 26°F in January to roughly 71°F in July. Whether it freezes depends on the year. In a normal year the cover is thin and short-lived. February into May fishes hardest as the water warms. The season on Meander Creek Reservoir follows the weather closely. The hour either side of first light is rarely wasted.

• Tackle & Baits

  There is no clear statement anywhere on who can fish it. Mapping records boats as not allowed here, so plan to fish from the bank. No car park, ramp or path is recorded within easy reach of the shore. For the panfish, a small hook, a float and a piece of worm outfish everything fancy. A phone call first saves an afternoon. Access can change hands, so last year's answer may not hold. Cedar Lake sits 2.4 miles off and takes the overflow. Check the position on Meander Creek Reservoir before loading the car.