It is always a good idea to check the rules regarding motors prior to fishing a new lake. Many have horsepower limits, and there are several lakes in Ohio that are electric motor only. Some allow you with a gas motor lifted up, other don’t allow boats with gas motors at all. Of course, no power is always welcome on all Ohio lakes!
Even though we have a bass boat with a 200 HP motor on it, we enjoy the change of pace electric motor only fishing brings. We are lucky enough to have close access to several amazing electric motor only lakes that are chock full of quality fish. Deer Creek Reservoir , Mogadore Reservoir and Nimisila Reservoir are regular stops for a few hours of catching bass. Punderson Lake is also electric motor only.
After the fast pace of typical tournament bass fishing, the peaceful pace of electric motor only is a welcome exhale. I love fishing “smaller” – staying in an area and figuring out where the fish are and what they are eating, rather than running from spot to spot on a milk run. I feel like we always get more fishing in when we are running our trolling motor only. I feel like I learn an area of the lake better and fish it more thoroughly, too.
Electric motors have come a long way in the past decade! Not only do trolling motors have the capability to stay at a certain speed and maintain a certain course, they are more powerful. You can travel around at quite a good clip! Larger horsepower options are also becoming more available. We were passed by a 30 HP electric motor on a recent visit to Mogadore Reservoir! This opens you up to moving around more or fishing larger bodies of water.
If you prefer the intensity of tournament fishing, there is also plenty of competition to be had for electric motor only anglers. There are many bass tournament trails that are electric motor only throughout the state, along with crappie and night time catfish tournaments. Check with your local clubs or tackle shops to see what electric motor only offerings are in your area.
Charge your batteries and go explore a few of Ohio’s electric motor only lakes. They are some amazing fisheries! Don’t forget these lakes are also PERFECT for canoes and kayaks – with or without electric motors.
