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Slope Creek Reservoir Fishing Map |
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LOCATION
Slope Creek Reservoir also known as Barnesville Reservoir #3, is located in Belmont County in the eastern part of the state. The entire lake lies within Somerset Township. Slope Creek Reservoir is located five miles south of Barnesville off McGinnis Road.
HISTORY AND DESCRIPTION
Slope Creek Reservoir was created by the city of Barnesville for water supply and recreational purposes. The lake was formed by damming Slope Creek, which created this 89-acre impoundment. The area around Slope Creek Reservoir consists of sandstone hills and valleys which are covered by second growth forest. This area was one of the earliest areas settled in Ohio and has a rich local history. A fishing agreement between the city of Barnesville and the ODNR Division of Wildlife provides angling opportunities for the public.
FISH OF INTEREST TO ANGLERS
Slope Creek Reservoir is home to many fish species that are of interest to anglers. Largemouth bass are found in good numbers though most fish are small. A 12 to 15-inch slot length limit was imposed in 1998 to improve this population. The bluegill population has historically been low in number and average quality, but can be found throughout the lake. Yearling channel catfish are stocked every other year, resulting in a quality fishery. Catchable rainbow trout are stocked in the spring and are popular with local anglers. Crappie are also present in this lake, but the population is low in number.
FISHING FORECAST
| Type of Fish |
|
Size |
Largest
(inches) |
| Largemouth Bass |
Fair
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Poor
|
22.1
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| Sunfish |
Fair
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Poor
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6.9
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Fish Survey Report
METHODS OF FISHING AND BEST FISHING SITES
Better largemouth bass fishing can be found in the spring and fall. As springtime water temperatures warm up, bass will move into shallow water areas to feed and to prepare for spawning. Fish near shallow structure such as fallen trees or weed bed edges. Spinner baits, rubber worms, crankbaits, and jig/pig combinations work well. Warm, summer temperatures will usually push bass somewhat deeper during the day and anglers may want to try night fishing. Fish close to drop-offs near deep water or near weed beds as fish may bury themselves in heavy cover during the day. Top water lures at night can provide some exciting experiences. Cooler, fall temperatures will trigger bass to move back in the shallow water areas. Fishing success may pick up as bass prepare for winter.
Bluegill can be caught throughout the lake from early spring until fall. Popular methods include wax worms or redworms fished below a bobber. Conditions permitting, ice fishing for bluegill can be productive and add fishing opportunities during the winter months. Look for spawning beds in shallow water during the spring and throughout the summer. Many bluegill can be found concentrated in these areas.
Catchable rainbow trout can be found throughout the lake soon after stocking. Prepared trout bait, cheese, marshmallows, and corn fished below a bobber or on the bottom with a small hook and split-shot can be used to catch these fish. Small inline spinners also work well.
RECREATIONAL FACILITIES
Boat launching facilities are located nearby. Electric motors only are permitted at this lake.
FISH MANAGEMENT ACTIVITIES
The Division of Wildlife's fish management activities include stocking, population monitoring with nets, electrofishing surveys, creel census, felling trees, and preparing Christmas tree piles to act as fish attractors, and conducting general physical and chemical water analyses. A continuing check of water quality and fish populations is vital in determining the management practices necessary to produce quality fish for the public.
FISH OHIO
Anglers who catch big fish should enter their prize in the Fish Ohio angler recognition program. A fish qualifies for an award if it meets the minimum size requirements set for the Fish Ohio program. Applications are available online at FishOhio.org.
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
Questions and inquiries can be directed to Wildlife District Four, 360 East State Street, Athens, Ohio 45701 telephone (740) 589-9930. 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 control poaching throughout the state. TIP is designed to involve the public in reporting wildlife violations. Citizens who observe wildlife violations should call the TIP toll-free hotline, 1-800-POACHER. |
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Major Sportfish
Life Histories |
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