Blue Stream Fly Fishing
Fly Fishing Report for:

Grand River - Painesville - Ohio

Hatch Chart - Best Access/Spots - Local Fish - About

Water Flow Chart

Using Water Flow Charts & Weather Reports: Begin with our water flow charts to grasp stream velocity and volume – look for stable or rising trends to pinpoint ideal fishing times. Learn to interpret sudden spikes or drops, which can indicate potential challenges. Next, consult our weather reports to understand ambient conditions. Pairing the two, you can anticipate fish behavior, choose the right gear, and select the best fishing spots. Use these tools together for a holistic approach to your next fishing adventure.

In-Depth Weather

Directions To Location

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

While we strive to ensure the precision of our hatch charts, some reflect broader river region insights. Through ongoing partnerships with local guides and fly shops, we’re committed to refining our data. Should you notice any inconsistencies or have feedback, we welcome you to reach out. 

Best Fishing Spots

The Grand River in Painesville offers excellent opportunities for fly fishing enthusiasts, with diverse habitats and a wide variety of fish species. The best spots for fly fishing include:

  • Hogback Ridge Park: Located just off the river, this park offers suitable fishing spots with Rainbow Trout, Steelhead Trout and Smallmouth Bass.
  • Fairport Harbor: Here, the river meets Lake Erie providing perfect conditions for fishing. This spot often attracts species like Steelhead Trout.
  • Grand River Manpower Park: With ample fishing areas along the shoreline, here you can expect to catch species such as Walleye and Northern Pike.
  • Indian Point Park: Offering fly fishing spots with gravel bottoms, this spot suits anglers pursuing Steelhead and Brown Trout.
  • Mason’s Landing Park: This area particularly attracts Smallmouth Bass and is noted for fly fishing.

Best Access Points

The Grand River, situated in Painesville, houses some of the greatest spots for fly fishing. Noted for the range of aquatic life, it offers fishing enthusiasts the opportunity to catch brown trout and rainbow trout among many others. Some of the notable access points of the river suitable for fly fishing include:
  • Harpersfield Covered Bridge: It has quiet spots ideal for unhurried fishing.
  • Mason’s Landing Park: It’s rich in aquatic life and provides spacious bays for fishing.
  • Indian Point Park: It gives access to both fast and slow-moving waters perfect for fly fishing.
  • Hidden Valley Park: It offers a serene environment bordered by a variety of flora and fauna.
  • Girdled Road Reservation: It contains quieter areas and offers an abundant supply of fish.
Before you head to these locations, ensure to comply with local fishing guidelines and practices.

Local Fish

  • Steelhead Trout: These fish are highly popular targets for local fly fishers due to their large size and energetic fight. They are found year-round in the Grand River.
  • Brown Trout: Known for their intricately spotted bodies, the brown trout is a highly sought-after fish in the Grand River.
  • Walleye: Walleye is a prized fish for fly fishing for their size and taste. They are abundant from spring through fall.
  • Smallmouth Bass: These fish are a popular target for their strength and fighting spirit. Their peak season is during warmer months.
  • Common Carp: Although not a traditional game fish, common carp present a unique challenge for fly fishers and can grow to impressive sizes.
  • Northern Pike: Known for their aggressive strikes and powerful fights, northern pike are a thrilling catch for any fly fisher.
  • Largemouth Bass: Largemouth bass are highly prized by fly fishers for their impressive jumps and aggressive fights.
  • Channel Catfish: While not typically fly fished, channel catfish are also a target species in Grand River, providing a unique challenge to fly fishermen.

About The River

Are you a history buff or an adventure lover? Well, the Grand River in Painesville, Ohio is a spot that’s just for you! The Grand River’s origin stories date back to the Ice Age, with glacial melting providing nourishment to its path.

Historically, the river served as a transport route for the Native American inhabitants of the area, and later for European traders and pioneers.

  • The river was a vital resource for the Erie and later the Wyandot tribes, providing food, water, and transportation.
  • For the Europeans, it was also an important trade route, helping the area to flourish.

Today, the Grand River’s majesty continues to shine as an outdoor hotspot. The river is a favoured location for fishermen, nature lovers, kayakers and those simply seeking tranquillity. Its timeless beauty, rich history and abundant wildlife make it a must-visit jewel in the heart of Ohio.

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