Meridian Lake near Austintown: Fishing Spots, Seasons and Access

• Overview

  Meridian Lake lies in Mahoning County, in Ohio. The country here is farm and woodlot. It covers about 11 acres, so this is small water you can walk round in under an hour. The nearest place of any size is Austintown, 3 miles away. Akron is the closest city, 42 miles away. Rules can differ a short way off, since the county line is near.

• Where to Fish on Meridian Lake

  There is no published depth for this one, so start shallow and work out. The old creek line under the surface is the feature worth finding. Draw-down through summer strips the margins, so follow the water out. Records held for Mahoning County cover fantail darter, johnny darter, rainbow darter and bluegill. County records show the wider picture rather than this one place. Meridian Lake gives up more to patience than to distance.

• Seasonal Patterns

  Averages move between 26°F in January and 71°F in July. Seasons here are moderate, and the fishing runs most of the year. It should never be assumed safe, whatever the month says. November and March are the quiet, comfortable months to be out. That shapes the year on Meridian Lake.

• Tackle & Baits

  Nothing in our records says who may fish here. Parking is not close: half a mile from the bank, and no nearer option is mapped. Bluegill and other panfish take small jigs or worms under a float near any cover. A phone call first saves an afternoon. Keep proof of licence with you rather than in the car. The nearest alternative is Lake Cohasset, 1.6 miles out. Signs at Meridian Lake carry more weight than any list.