PICKAWAY COUNTY, Ohio — As summer fishing season gets underway, the Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR) Division of Wildlife is spotlighting Deer Creek Lake as one of Central Ohio’s premier destinations for anglers seeking trophy-sized crappie.
Located in both Pickaway and Fayette counties, Deer Creek Lake continues to rank among the region’s top crappie fisheries. According to ODNR, fisheries surveys conducted in late 2025 revealed strong numbers of large black and white crappie throughout the reservoir, making it a prime location for anglers looking to reel in a memorable catch.
“Deer Creek Lake remains a top crappie destination in central Ohio,” wildlife officials said in a recent fishing forecast.
Anglers can find success by targeting submerged brush piles and fallen trees throughout the lake. Trolling small crankbaits has also proven effective for locating schools of crappie. The lake maintains a daily limit of 30 crappie with a minimum size requirement of 9 inches.
Deer Creek Lake offers easy access for visitors with two public boat ramps and extensive shoreline fishing opportunities through Deer Creek State Park and the surrounding wildlife area.
The lake is also a potential destination for anglers pursuing recognition through Ohio’s Fish Ohio program, which rewards fishermen who catch qualifying trophy-sized fish. Participants receive commemorative pins for notable catches, and anglers who land four qualifying species in a single year can earn Master Angler status.
ODNR officials are encouraging residents to take advantage of Ohio’s abundant fishing opportunities this summer. A resident fishing license costs $25 annually, while youth under 16 may fish for free. Additionally, Ohio’s Free Fishing Days will be held June 20-21, allowing residents to fish without purchasing a license while still following all size and daily bag limits.
The Division of Wildlife offers lake maps, fishing forecasts, regulations, and species-specific tips through the HuntFish OH mobile app and at WildOhio.gov.
With Deer Creek Lake continuing to attract anglers from across the region, Pickaway County remains one of Ohio’s top destinations for those looking to enjoy a day on the water and potentially land a trophy fish.
