The Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR) Division of Wildlife officially re-opened Shreve Lake Wildlife Area in Wayne County to fishing and boating today with a special dedication ceremony. The lake is re-opening following a major restoration project, which included repairing Shreve Lake’s dam.

“This is a project that has been a long time coming, and, under Gover DeWine’s leadership, we are proud to finally re-open Shreve Lake for those who love to fish or paddle in Wayne County,” said ODNR Director Mary Mertz. “Shreve Lake will once again be counted among Ohio’s many gateways to the great outdoors.”

To celebrate Shreve Lake’s re-opening, the Division of Wildlife stocked 1,500 adult bluegills. The division will follow up with an additional stocking of 6,000 largemouth bass and 30,000 fingerling-sized bluegill this year. Future stockings will supplement these efforts and add channel catfish to the lake. Natural reproduction will create a balanced and sustainable fishery over time.

In 2022, ODNR began work repair the dam, which included draining the lake, to replace the dam’s principal spillway which allows for drainage and maintains lake levels. In addition to the dam, other improvements to Shreve Lake were made, such as repairing a fishing pier and boat ramp, and constructing a new parking lot and boat launch.

These improvements, totaling $6.5 million in capital funding, will enhance fishing, birding, and other outdoor recreation at the lake.

Shreve Lake is a popular destination for kayak anglers because of the lake’s available habitat and accessible boat launches. The daily limit for anglers is five bass, with a minimum length requirement of 12 inches. The daily limit for bluegill is 10. A fishing license is required for anglers 16 years of age and older; visit wildohio.gov for more information.

Shreve Lake Wildlife Area is located in Wayne County, about 1 mile north of Shreve. Lake access is along Township Rd. 316. The area was purchased by the Division of Wildlife in 1958 and the 58-acre lake was constructed in 1962. In addition to fishing and paddling, Shreve Lake Wildlife Area supports hunting, trapping, and birding across a variety of habitat types, including grasslands, woodlands, and shrubby areas. Birders flock to the area during spring and fall migrations to enjoy abundant waterfowl, songbirds, and more.

The mission of the Division of Wildlife is to conserve and improve fish and wildlife resources and their habitats for sustainable use and appreciation by all. Visit wildohio.gov to find out more.

ODNR ensures a balance between wise use and protection of our natural resources for the benefit of all. Visit the ODNR website at ohiodnr.gov.