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LOCATION
McKarns Lake is located in Williams County on Co. Rd. J two miles west of SR 576, 3 miles southwest of Montpelier, Ohio. The public boat ramp and parking are located on the northwest corner of the lake off of Co. Rd. J.
HISTORY AND DESCRIPTION
The 40-acre lake with depths of 75 feet is the result of an abandoned stone quarry. The St. Joseph River Wildlife Area includes Lake Barton and Lake McKarns. Both lakes are deep, steep-sided impoundments that are the remnants of an old stone quarry. Both lakes are located in the MICHINDOH Glacial Aquifer, a sole source aquifer which supplies 50 percent or more of the drinking water for this area. This aquifer includes portions of eight counties in the tri-state area.
FISHES OF INTEREST
McKarns Lake has populations of bluegill, black and white crappie, largemouth bass, channel catfish, and Northern pike. The lake has a tendency to flood during periods of high water which allows fish from the St. Joseph River to enter the lake. The Division of Wildlife annually stocks catchable trout in this deep, cool water impoundment.
FISHING FORECAST
| Type of Fish |
|
Size |
Largest
(inches) |
| Crappie |
Poor
|
Poor
|
8.5
|
| Largemouth Bass |
Excellent
|
Good
|
19.5
|
| Sunfish |
Good
|
Poor
|
6.7
|
METHODS OF FISHING AND BEST FISHING SITES
The shoreline is steep dropping off rapidly just a few feet from the water's edge. Fish tend to hang on the sides of the numerous points that protrude from the bank underwater. Try fishing the drop off on each side of these points. The lake has some shoreline cover and aquatic vegetation that will also attract fish. Minnows are the best bait to catch crappies, and largemouth bass also frequently bite on the minnows. Wax worms, red worms, and crickets are effective baits to catch bluegills. Artificial lures that include crank baits, spinner baits, jig and pig and larger live minnows should entice the Northern pike and largemouth bass. Try tight lining with night crawlers for the channel catfish.
FISH OHIO
Anglers who catch a big fish are encouraged to enter their prize in the Fish Ohio recognition program. A fish qualifies for an award if it meets the minimum size requirement set for the Fish Ohio program. Applications are available online at FishOhio.org.
FISH MANAGEMENT ACTIVITIES
The ODNR Division of Wildlife’s fish management activities are based on angler surveys and monitoring fish populations. These activities are vital in determining management actions such as stocking, harvest regulations, and habitat improvement to produce quality fishing.
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
The nearest district office is Wildlife District Two, 952 Lima Ave., Findlay, Ohio 45840; telephone 419/424-5000. To get other maps or publications call toll free 1-800-WILDLIFE.
TURN IN A POACHER
Ohio’s TIP, “Turn In a Poacher,’’ program is helping to curtail poaching throughout the state. TIP is designed to involve the public in reporting wildlife violations. Citizens who observe wildlife violations should call the TIP hotline, 1-800-POACHER.
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Major Sportfish
Life Histories |
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