Published June 28, 2024
2023 Fish Survey at Possum Creek MetroPark
Fishing at Possum Creek MetroPark is transitioning to become sustainable, allowing for better fishing opportunities by increasing aquatic habitat. The last stocking of rainbow trout occurred in March 2023 and catfish was not stocked in 2023. MetroParks hired a contractor to conduct fish surveys to assess current fish populations in the fall of 2023.
Survey methods included measurement of vertical depth profile, water transparency, and night-time boat electrofishing. The findings of the study show that Argonne Lake and the Ponds 1, 2, and 3 have clear water and abundant fish, which offers good opportunities for recreation, aquatic wildlife observation, and fishing for visitors of all ages to enjoy visits to the park for years to come.
To learn more details about the results please view the Possum Creek MetroPark 2023 Fish Survey Report.
MetroParks will stock native species in the future at Possum Creek. MetroParks staff is working with contractors to determine which species, how many, and how often native species will be stocked based on this survey. efforts will be focused on enhancing habitat for sustaining native fish populations. This will allow for healthier ponds for the fish by ensuring balanced native fish populations. Additionally, anticipated benefits include a more stable shoreline around the pond, helping anglers have a better fishing experience while also reducing erosion around the ponds.
Anglers can fish at Possum Creek MetroParks’ Argonne Lake and Ponds 1, 2, and 3. Ponds 1, 2, and 3 are now catch and release only. In the future, MetroParks will make a decision on whether or not the ponds 1, 2, and 3 will return to state regulations. State regulations apply for Argonne Lake.
Where are fish stocked?
MetroParks has also expanded locations where rainbow trout are stocked annually. Beginning in Spring 2023, rainbow trout were stocked at Englewood MetroParks’ North Ponds and Taylorsville MetroParks’ Polar Creek Ponds. This stocking is courtesy of the Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR) at no cost to FRMP. A state fishing license is required at these locations.
Please check out https://www.metroparks.org/things-to-do/fishing/ for additional fishing opportunities at Five Rivers MetroParks.
