Ohio River
Kentucky · river · approx 38.70, -85.70
Located in Kentucky, Ohio River is classified as a river with approximate coordinates 38.700, -85.700. Anglers target Catfish, Walleye here, and the links below open the regulations, stocking, and license details you need for a compliant trip.
About this water
A notable public water body in Kentucky.
Fishing characteristics
As a river, Ohio River is shaped by current, clarity, and flow. Species use seams, eddies, and slack water, and dam releases or rainfall can quickly change where fish hold.
Target species
- Catfish — Catfish are bottom-feeding warm-water fish that take cut bait, live bait, and stink baits, often after dark.
- Walleye — Walleye are low-light predators of lakes and rivers, famed for firm, tasty fillets and trolled bites.
Access notes
River access at Ohio River ranges from wade-in banks and bridges to boat ramps; check flow, private-property boundaries, and put-in and take-out points. Confirm current access, any required permits, and local closures with Kentucky Department of Fish and Wildlife Resources (KDFWR) before you travel.
Applicable regulations
Kentucky size/bag limits, seasons, and gear rules apply to this water.
View Kentucky license & limits →
Print a compliance checklist (PDF) →
Waterbody-specific rules
No special waterbody-specific regulation is on file for Ohio River. It is governed by the general Kentucky fishing regulations (statewide size/bag limits, seasons, and gear rules). Always confirm with the state agency before fishing.
View Kentucky license & limits →
Print a compliance checklist (PDF) →
Stocking notes
Stocking totals for Kentucky are pending verification. See the Kentucky stocking profile →
More public waters in Kentucky
Plan beyond Ohio River. These public waters are also in Kentucky and fall under the same state rules.
Planning your trip to Ohio River
A valid Kentucky fishing license is generally required to fish public waters — buy it from Kentucky Department of Fish and Wildlife Resources (KDFWR) before you go, and check seasonal closures and any gear restrictions for river waters. The links above open the official Kentucky license, limits, and stocking pages.
When to fish Ohio River
Rivers fish best with stable, clear flows; spring runoff and dam releases change conditions fast.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need a license to fish Ohio River?
Public waters in Kentucky generally require a state fishing license for anyone past the minimum age; check Kentucky Department of Fish and Wildlife Resources (KDFWR) for exact rules and any free-fishing days.
What species can I target here?
This water is associated with Catfish, Walleye.