Vermilion River - Vermillion - Ohio
Fly Fishing River Report & Conditions
Vermilion River – Vermillion - Water Flow Chart
Vermilion River – Vermillion - Weather report & radar
Vermilion River – Vermillion - General hatch chart
| Month | Hatch | Time of Day | Recommended Fly Sizes | Popular Fly Patterns |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| January | Midges | Afternoon | #18-22 | Zebra Midges |
| February | Midges, Stoneflies | Afternoon | #18-22, #14-16 | Zebra Midges, Black Stonefly Nymph |
| March | Stoneflies, Midges, Blue wing olives | Afternoon | #14-16, #18-22, #16-20 | Nymphs, Zebra Midges, BWO Nymphs |
| April | Caddis, Blue wing olives | Afternoon-Evening | #14-18, #16-20 | Elk Hair Caddis, BWO Dries |
| May | Green Drakes, Sulphurs, Caddis | Evening | #8-10, #14-16, #14-18 | Green Drake Dries, Sulphur Dries, Elk Hair Caddis |
| June | Sulphurs, Light Cahills, Caddis | Evening | #14-16, #12-14, #14-18 | Sulphur Dries, Light Cahill Dries, Elk Hair Caddis |
| July | Caddis, Tricos, Terrestrials | Morning-Evening | #14-18, #20-24, #12-16 | Elk Hair Caddis, Trico Spinners, Ants/Beetles |
| August | Tricos, Terrestrials | Morning-Noon | #20-24, #12-16 | Trico Spinners, Ants/Beetles |
| September | Terrestrials, Blue Winged Olives | Afternoon-Evening | #12-16, #16-20 | Ants/Beetles, BWO Dries |
| October | Blue Winged Olives, Stoneflies | Afternoon | #16-20, #14-16 | BWO Dries, Stonefly Nymphs |
| November | Midges, Stoneflies | Afternoon | #18-22, #14-16 | Zebra Midges, Black Stonefly Nymph |
| December | Midges | Afternoon | #18-22 | Zebra Midges |
Vermilion River – Vermillion Access Points
The Vermilion River offers a wealth of opportunities for passionate fly fishers. Here are the best access points:
- Blackstone Park: Noted for its deep water holds and slower currents, which are ideal for fly fishing.
- South Woodson Bridge: Recognized for its consistent bass activity and ample parking facilities.
- Streator City Park: Boasts slower moving waters, suitable for beginners.
- Gebhard Woods State Park: Provides access to both the river and the feeder canal, doubling your fishing opportunities.
- Ayers Landing: Ideal for fly fishers looking for smallmouth bass and panfish.
- William G. Stratton State Park: Offers four boat access points and plenty of casting space.
Be sure each spot is open for fishing before you go. Licenses are required to fish on the Vermilion River.
Vermilion River – Vermillion Fishing Spots
Renowned for its trout, the Vermilion River offers an array of spots ideal for fly fishing:
- Albert Lea Lake: Situated at the mouth of the Vermilion River, its shallow waters are rich in walleye and northern pike.
- Cascade River State Park: Known for its rushing water and vibrant wild trout, the river cascades offer a perfect fishing spot.
- Orr Creek: Located on the northern side, it provides a great spot for brook trout fishing.
- North Vermilion: This sprawling body of water is teeming with walleye, making it a great fishing spot.
- South Vermilion: It’s not as crowded as North Vermilion and is famous for large muskellunge.
- Tower:It offers excellent fishing opportunities, especially in the spring when walleye and northern pike are spawning.
Vermilion River – Vermillion Local Fish Species
- Smallmouth Bass: One of the most popular fish species in the Vermilion River, known for their size and aggressive fight.
- Walleye: This species is particularly targeted during early summer and late fall.
- Northern Pike: A voracious predator in the river, often sought for their size and aggressive nature.
- Muskellunge: Also known as ‘muskie’, these are prized by many fly anglers due to their large size and exciting fight.
- Channel Catfish: These bottom-dwelling fish are prevalent in the Vermilion River and can be targeted year-round.
- Carp: These fish are sometimes overlooked by fly fishermen, but their size and strength can make them an exciting catch.
- Freshwater Drum: Also known as ‘sheepshead’, these fish inhabit deeper water and are often targeted during the warmer months.
- Sauger: Similar to walleye, these fish are found in large numbers in the Vermilion River and can be a great target for fly fishermen.
About the Vermilion River – Vermillion
The Vermilion River, also known as Vermillion, boasts a dynamic history. Originating in the Appalachian mountains, it winds its way across 70 miles before joining the Wabash River in Illinois, defining the cityscape of towns like Danville and Pontiac, imbuing them with natural charm.
The name ‘Vermilion’ is inspired from the French word for the hue of red ochre, aptly reflecting the river’s reddish color during sunsets.
Notable points in its history include:
- Native American era: Early tribes such as the Miami and Wea species once flourished alongside this river and used it as a water and food source.
- Exploration Period: In the 18th century, French explorers navigated its waters, setting the path for trade and colonial influence.
- Industrial Age: In the 19th and 20th centuries, the Vermilion played a vital role in the industrial development of the region, including the coal mining industry.
Today, the Vermilion River is cherished for its serenity, scenic beauty and rich array of wildlife, making it a popular spot for water-based recreation and nature viewing.
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