COLUMBUS, Ohio — The Fish Ohio program, established in 1976, continues to celebrate Ohio anglers for their outstanding catches. Administered by the Ohio Division of Wildlife since 1980, the program has honored over 410,000 anglers.
Participants who achieve a noteworthy catch are rewarded with a unique Fish Ohio lapel pin. These collectible pins feature a different fish species each year, adding a touch of variety for recipients.
For anglers accomplishing the impressive feat of catching four different Fish Ohio-qualifying species in a single year, the title of “Master Angler” is bestowed, marked by a distinctive gold-colored pin.
Reservations are open for the 2023 pin, showcasing a walleye. Anglers receive a Fish Ohio pin for their first qualifying entry annually and a Master Angler pin for achieving four different species categories in the same year.
To ensure the legitimacy of entries, fish must be legally angled, and catches from pay lakes are excluded. The yearly application deadline is December 31. State record fish contenders must preserve their catch frozen for verification by the Outdoor Writers of Ohio.
Anglers can submit their catches to Fish Ohio, following specific size criteria for various fish species across Ohio’s waters, including inland lakes, reservoirs, rivers, and Lake Erie with its tributaries.
With varying minimum size requirements, the program covers a range of species, including Blue Catfish, Brown Trout, Channel Catfish, Muskellunge, and more. The distinct size standards are tailored to different fishing locations, ensuring a comprehensive acknowledgment of exceptional catches statewide.
For more information visit: https://ohiodnr.gov/buy-and-apply/hunting-fishing-boating/fishing-resources/fishohio-program