If you’re looking for the best fishing spots in Kent, Ohio, you’re in luck. This area is packed with great water—lakes, rivers, and reservoirs that hold bass, panfish, and more. Whether you prefer casting a fly rod or flipping soft plastics from a kayak, there’s a spot here with your name on it.

Let’s break down four standout fishing locations near Kent that are worth a visit, with tips for both fly anglers and conventional bass fishing fans.

1. Mogadore Reservoir

Species: Largemouth bass, bluegill, crappie, channel catfish, bowfin
Good for: Bank fishing, small boats, kayaks

Mogadore Reservoir is a classic. Just southeast of Kent, this 1,100-acre lake is well-known among locals for steady bass action and peaceful surroundings. It's also one of the best places for bank fishing near Kent, Ohio, with several pull-off spots and small parking lots along the southern and eastern shores.

Fly Fishing Tips:
Mogadore’s clear, calm water is prime for fly fishing, especially early morning and at dusk. In the summer, try foam poppers or deer-hair bugs for topwater bass along the lily pads. Streamers like Woolly Buggers and Clouser Minnows work well if the fish are deeper.

Conventional Gear:
Stick with soft plastics like Senkos or creature baits near structure. Spinnerbaits and buzzbaits are great if there’s a chop on the water. In the evening, topwater frogs along weed edges can be explosive.

Bonus Tip: Mogadore holds some surprisingly large channel cats and the occasional bowfin. Night fishing with chicken liver or cut bait near drop-offs can produce big results.

Access:
There’s a main boat ramp off Congress Lake Road. No gas motors allowed, which keeps things quiet—a plus for kayak and canoe anglers.

Why Go:
I’ve had some of my best topwater bass evenings here. There’s something about watching a largemouth crush a popper in still water that never gets old.

2. Lake Hodgson

Species: Largemouth bass, crappie, bluegill, carp, catfish
Good for: Quiet kayak fishing, early spring bass

Lake Hodgson is a bit of a hidden gem. Located just north of Kent, this 425-acre lake is managed by the City of Ravenna and doesn’t get the same pressure as some bigger lakes nearby. No gas motors are allowed, which makes it perfect for peaceful kayak or canoe fishing.

Fly Fishing Tips:
This is a finesse fly fishing lake. Small foam spiders, damselfly imitations, and beadhead nymphs can bring in panfish all day. For bass, go with smaller streamers—think size 8–10. Early spring and late fall are best when the fish cruise the shallows.

Conventional Gear:
Tiny jigs and 1/16 oz. Beetle Spins do well here. Try the coves and points on the east side—great for sight-casting during the spawn. A Ned rig or a wacky worm setup is ideal when the bite is slow.

Bonus Tip: This lake is also home to big carp and solid-sized catfish. Try corn, dough balls, or stink bait near the dam or the north shoreline for a shot at a chunky bottom dweller.

Access:
The lake is open seasonally. There’s a main boat ramp on the west end, and bank access is limited but available near the launch area. Check ahead for current hours and permit info.

Why Go:
Lake Hodgson’s peaceful vibe and consistent spring action make it one of the best lakes to fish in Portage County, Ohio, especially for those who like to escape the crowds.

3. Cuyahoga River (Kent stretch)

Species: Smallmouth bass, rock bass, occasional walleye
Good for: Wading, urban fly fishing

The Cuyahoga River runs right through downtown Kent, offering urban fly fishing in Kent, Ohio with surprising quality. In summer, the smallmouth bass bite heats up, especially in riffle-run-pool sections.

Fly Fishing Tips:
Wade in with a 5 or 6 weight rod and tie on a black or olive streamer—Muddler Minnows, Clousers, or crayfish patterns are all winners. If the sun’s low, switch to poppers for exciting topwater strikes.

Conventional Gear:
Light spinning gear is king here. Soft plastic craws or 3” tubes bounced along the bottom can pull smallies out of deeper pools. Inline spinners are another go-to for active fish.

Access Points:
You’ll find walk-in access at Fred Fuller Park, Brady’s Leap, and along the hike-and-bike trail. Be mindful of private property—stick to marked public areas.

Why Go:
It’s rare to fish smallmouth in a spot where you can grab a coffee before you wade in. The mix of natural scenery and downtown backdrop gives Cuyahoga River fishing in Kent, Ohio a one-of-a-kind feel.

4. West Branch State Park (Michael J. Kirwan Reservoir)

Species: Largemouth bass, smallmouth, walleye, muskie, catfish
Good for: Boat anglers, kayak fishing, multi-species trips

If you want big water and bigger fish, head to West Branch State Park, about 25 minutes east of Kent. This 2,600-acre reservoir is part of the Michael J. Kirwan Reservoir system and has something for every kind of angler.

Fly Fishing Tips:
West Branch is big, but don’t let that scare you off. Fly anglers should focus on the shallow coves near the campground or inlets on calm mornings. Streamers that mimic shad or small sunfish work well, especially around structure.

Conventional Gear:
This lake is known for quality bass, and you can go heavy here. Use crankbaits along drop-offs, or try Texas-rigged plastics in timbered coves. In early summer, a chatterbait ripped through grass can trigger reaction strikes. Bonus: There’s a solid walleye bite on blade baits or jigging spoons if you're versatile.

Access Info:
Multiple ramps are available—main ones are at the East and West boat launch areas. Shore fishing is possible in some parts, especially near the dam, but a boat or kayak opens up more of the lake.

Why Go:
West Branch is one of the best fishing spots near Kent, Ohio for serious anglers looking to land big bass or explore diverse fishing options in one trip.

Final Cast

Whether you’re wading downtown or paddling a quiet lake, fishing spots in Kent, Ohio offer a ton of variety. From peaceful solo mornings to all-day adventures, there's something nearby that fits your style.

So next time you're wondering where to fish for bass near Kent, Ohio, consider trying a new lake or river. You might just find your next go-to spot.

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The Best Fishing Spots in Kent, Ohio for Fly or Bass Fishing

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