AQUATIC CENTER OFFERS FAMILY FISHING FUNPUT-IN-BAY, OHIO --- Families visiting South Bass Island on Lake Erie will want to include a tour and some fishing at the Aquatic Visitors Center. The former historic state fish hatchery is now operated by the Ohio Department of Natural Resources, Division of Wildlife as an aquatic visitors center that provides family fun and learning about Ohio's fisheries.
The Aquatic Visitors Center is open seasonally from Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day. The center is closed Mondays. Hours are 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Admission is free.
This aquatic learning center houses live fish displays and hands-on informational exhibits highlighting Ohio fish species, fisheries management projects, the historic hatchery, and the wealth of angling opportunities available on Lake Erie and inland waterways. A children's playroom includes a touch tank, coloring activities, wooden puzzles, wildlife videos, and a hands-on fishing game. The center attracts over 35,000 visitors each year.
The actual fishing experience for the entire family is also available from the center's large dock overlooking Put-In-Bay harbor. Rods and reels are available for loan with bait included. Fish caught include yellow perch, sunfish, rock bass, smallmouth bass, and largemouth bass. Benches and a small picnic area is provided. Courtesy docking is available for boaters while visiting the center.
The Division of Wildlife's Aquatic Visitors center is located at 1 Peach Point Road, located approximately 1 mile west of downtown Put-In-Bay at the west end of the harbor. For more information, contact the center at (419) 285-3701.
The center will hold a special "Take Me Dishing" family fishing day on Saturday, June 2 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. in conjunction with Ohio Resident Free Fishing Days and National Fishing and Boating Week. Families are invited to tour the center and join in on the angling fun. Kids receive a fun-filled activity bag and are eligible for prize drawings throughout the day.
Source: ODNR
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