Fishing at Tappan Lake, Harrison County, Ohio

• Overview

  Tappan Lake is one of the Harrison County waters in Ohio. The ground round it is open valley. It measures some 3.3 sq miles, and wind has room to build across it. The shoreline runs to about 29 miles, far more than one trip can cover. Among the waters listed for Harrison County, none is wider. For a base, Dennison sits 9.6 miles out. Further out sit Cadiz (10 miles) and Uhrichsville (10 miles). Two sets of local rules meet not far from this water.

• Where to Fish on Tappan Lake

  Depth went unrecorded, which puts the reading back on you. Rip-rap along the wall holds fish that the open bank never does. A reservoir gives you a hard edge, a shelf, and not much else. Records held for Harrison County cover bluegill, green sunfish, fantail darter and greenside darter. Records at this level tell you what is in the area. Work Tappan Lake in sections rather than trying to cover it.

• Seasonal Patterns

  Expect July near 72°F and January near 27°F on the long-run figures. Spring and autumn are the strongest, but nothing is truly closed. It is not guaranteed even in a cold spell, so check yourself. November and March are the quiet, comfortable months to be out. Expect Tappan Lake to follow that timing.

• Tackle & Baits

  No access rule appears in what we hold. There is a car park half a mile from the bank. A pier or jetty stands half a mile away, which helps on a crowded bank. Overnight stays are possible about half a mile out, where camping is mapped. There are toilets mapped about half a mile away. Read any posted signs at the access point rather than assuming. If the gate is shut, Scio Pottery Pond at 6 miles is the nearest alternative. Confirm access to Tappan Lake locally before you travel.