Catch and release policy 2025

To improve the fishing experience at Metroparks ponds and lakes, Metroparks Toledo has established a catch and release policy. This policy is intended to improve the fishing experience by providing more and larger fish to be caught by Metropark anglers throughout the fishing season. Exceptions to this policy will be; Annual trout stockings in April as well as special event days. 

Fishing programs are supported by Metroparks Members.

Youth Fishing Event: Trout Release (Ages 17 and under)

Reel in Metroparks memories and catch tonight’s dinner all at one event. Oak Openings Mallard Lake and Pearson Lake will be stocked with rainbow trout and we need you to fish them out! You are welcome to bring your own equipment, but we will also have fishing poles and bait available on a first come, first served basis.

If you want to take your trout home to cook, please bring a cooler of ice.

Help protect the balance of this ecosystem by taking all of your live bait home and dumping nothing into the water or onto land! Bon Appetite!

Open to youth ages 17 and under. Those aged 16 & 17 will need to have an Ohio Fishing License.

This event runs rain or shine. Please dress for the weather and wear appropriate footwear. No flip-flops. Minors must be accompanied by an adult for the duration of the program.

No registration, Free.

Still having fun? The ponds are open for youth fishing only (age 17 and under) during park hours April 12-13. Your Metroparks are open every day 7am to dark. Poles, bait, and staff unavailable during this timeframe. Adults may resume fishing these ponds with a license on April 14. During this time, all are welcome to take home trout, otherwise catch and release Metroparks Fishing Rules apply.

Trout Days (April 12-May11)

During this time period, anglers will be able to keep the trout they catch at Oak Openings Preserve Mallard Lake and Pearson Metropark Lake. State limit of 5 still applies. All other species of fish will need to be released.

Open to youth fishing only on April 12-13. Adults may resume with a fishing license on April 14.

Special Days

event days, Anglers will be able to keep all fish caught on Metropark ponds and lakes during the following dates.

*State limits and all other regulations are in effect 

• May 24 – 28 - Memorial Day Weekend
• June 14 – 15 - Free Fish Ohio days
• July 4 – 6 - Independence Day Weekend
• Aug 30 - Sept 1 - Labor Day Weekend

on these dates anglers will be able to keep fish caught on Metropark ponds and lakes. State limites and all other regulations are in effect. Staff will not be present with fishing equipment.

Try It! Youth Fishing Programs
Cannonball Prairie, parking lot
No Reservations Required, FREE

• Monday, June 2, 4 to 7 p.m.
• Saturday, June 28, 9 a.m. to Noon
• Wednesday, July 9, 4 to 7 p.m.
• Saturday, July 26, 9 a.m. to noon
• Wednesday, August 13, 4 to 7 p.m.
• Saturday, August 30, 9 a.m. to Noon 

Whether you are an experienced angler or trying fishing for the first time, we invite you to reel in Metroparks memories at these youth fishing events. 

Ages 17 and Under (Ages 16 & 17 will need to have an Ohio Fishing License.)

• Fishing poles and bait available on a first come, first served basis—anglers are welcome to bring their own equipment.
• Help protect the balance of this ecosystem by taking all of your live bait home and dumping nothing into the water or onto land!
• This event runs rain or shine. Please dress for the weather and wear appropriate footwear. Please bring a reusable water bottle filled with water.
• Minors must be accompanied by an adult for the duration of the program.
• Open house style—come anytime during the event.

Hook & Cook, Youth Fishing (Ages 17 and Under)
Cannonball Prairie, parking lot
Saturday, September 6, 9 a.m. to Noon
No Reservations Required, FREE 

Have you ever wanted to learn how to clean and cook what you catch from your own fishing trips? Join our experts for live fillet demonstrations and enjoy your prepared fish cooked in a mobile kitchen by ODNR Division of Wildlife.

Ages 17 and Under (Ages 16 & 17 will need to have an Ohio Fishing License.) 

• Fishing poles and bait available on a first come, first served basis—anglers are welcome to bring their own equipment.
• Help protect the balance of this ecosystem by taking all of your live bait home and dumping nothing into the water or onto land!
• This event runs rain or shine. Please dress for the weather and wear appropriate footwear. Please bring a reusable water bottle filled with water.
• Minors must be accompanied by an adult for the duration of the program.
• Open house style—come anytime during the event.