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Lake Erie Islands of Ohio’s western basin

Lake Erie’s western basin and its islands are among the most highly visited areas within the Great Lakes region along with its many shoreline communities that include Toledo, Port Clinton, Marblehead, Catawba, Lakeside, Sandusky and Huron.

What sets Lake Erie’s western basin apart from the rest of the Great Lakes is an islands complex located in a southern Great Lakes Basin climate and with abundant boating and sport fishing opportunities. Known as the Walleye Capital of the World, Lake Erie is a top destination area for boaters and anglers seeking walleyes, yellow perch and smallmouth bass.

This recreational boating, fishing and island playground in summer is said by many to be Ohio’s answer to the Florida Keys. Lake Erie is where an estimated one-third of all the state’s boating activity occurs.

There are many state, local and private boat launch ramps located in a variety of areas, including some of the islands. Access to Lake Erie may also be enjoyed from launch ramps located along Maumee Bay and Sandusky Bay.

Transient, or temporary dockage, also can be found throughout the western basin and some of its islands such as Middle Bass and South Bass Islands. Put-In-Bay on South Bass Island is among the most popular boating and tourist spots located in the western basin. Middle Bass Island State Park, now under development, features transient dockage and is located at the former and historic Lonz Winery.

Lake Erie is Ohio’s largest waterway and shares an international border with Canada. Boaters will need to keep informed of special regulations that apply when going to and returning from Canada by boat.

Because the lake is large open water and the western basin’s average water depth is less than 40 feet, boating conditions may change rapidly. Be sure to follow safe boating tips any time you are on the water and observe good clearance away from fishing boats and commercial tugs and freighters.

Boating is a fun, safe and enjoyable activity well suited for family and friends. During Ohio’s boating season, there’s no place like Lake Erie’s western basin to spend a day, a weekend, or even longer as you enjoy the boating lifestyle.