What Griggs Reservoir Offers Anglers

Griggs Reservoir is a 394-acre impoundment on the Scioto River just north of downtown Columbus, built in 1908 as part of the city's water supply system. It holds walleye, channel catfish, flathead catfish, largemouth bass, and crappie, with walleye and catfish drawing the most consistent fishing pressure. The reservoir is shallow—average depth around 12 feet—which means water temperature swings fast with the seasons and affects where fish hold throughout the year.

The dam creates the southern boundary, and the upper end of the pool stretches north toward the Scioto's confluence with the Olentangy River. Access is limited compared to larger reservoirs; you'll find a public boat ramp on the west bank managed by the City of Columbus, and bank fishing spots along the perimeter, though some shoreline is private. The water is murky most of the year due to silt and urban runoff, which actually favors walleye and catfish over sight-feeding species.

Key Takeaways

  • Griggs holds walleye and channel catfish year-round, with spring and fall offering the most active feeding periods.
  • The public boat ramp is on the west bank; bank fishing is available but limited by private property and industrial areas.
  • Water depth averages 12 feet, so fish move between shallow flats and deeper holes as temperature changes with the seasons.
  • Murky water makes live bait and vibration-producing lures more effective than sight-feeding presentations.

Spring Walleye Fishing (March Through May)

Spring is the strongest walleye season at Griggs. As water temperatures climb from the low 40s into the mid-50s, walleye move from deeper winter holes into shallower feeding zones. The upper reservoir—where the Scioto and Olentangy meet—holds concentrations of pre-spawn fish, and the flats along the west bank between the ramp and the dam are productive. Target depths of 6 to 14 feet with live shiners or crawlers on jigs, or throw crankbaits and spinners that produce vibration in the stained water.

Early morning and evening are most productive, though walleye at Griggs feed throughout the day during spring. The dam area holds fish, but boat traffic and fishing pressure can be heavy on weekends. Weekday mornings often yield better results. By late May, as water warms into the 60s, walleye begin moving deeper and feeding becomes less predictable during daylight hours.

Summer Catfish and Night Fishing

Summer brings heat and lower oxygen levels in the shallower parts of Griggs, which pushes walleye deep and makes catfish the primary target. Channel catfish and flatheads are active throughout the warm months, especially at night. Fish the deeper holes near the dam and along the main channel with cut shad, chicken liver, or live bluegill. Flatheads prefer live bait and are most active after dark; channel catfish bite throughout the evening and into early morning.

Night fishing at Griggs requires a headlamp and caution—the reservoir is urban and industrial, and visibility is limited. Stick to the boat ramp area or established bank fishing spots. Summer walleye fishing is possible early in the morning before sunrise or after sunset, but daytime walleye fishing is slow. If you want to fish walleye during summer, plan for low-light periods or deeper presentations near the dam.

Fall Transition and Catfish Peaks (September Through November)

Fall is the second-best season for walleye at Griggs. As water cools from the 70s back into the 50s, walleye move back into shallower feeding zones and become aggressive. The same shallow flats and upper-reservoir areas that produce in spring are productive again. Live bait and jigs work well; crankbaits and spinners also draw strikes. Early fall (September) is still warm, so focus on early morning and evening; by October and November, walleye feed throughout the day.

Catfish remain strong throughout fall, and the combination of cooling water and shorter days makes them even more active. Channel catfish and flatheads both bite well on cut bait and live offerings. Fall is also when crappie fishing picks up—look for them around structure and deeper flats in the 12- to 18-foot range. By November, as water drops into the 40s, walleye begin moving deeper again and feeding slows.

Winter Fishing and Seasonal Patterns

Winter at Griggs is slow but not dead. Walleye move to the deepest holes, primarily near the dam, and feed sporadically. Jigging live shiners vertically in 18- to 25-foot depths is the most effective approach. Catfish remain catchable, especially channel catfish, which tolerate cold water better than many species. Night fishing with cut bait near the dam can produce, though conditions are harsh and access may be limited by ice or weather.

The reservoir rarely freezes solid enough for safe ice fishing, and the city does not maintain ice-fishing access. Most anglers focus on open-water jigging or catfish fishing from the boat ramp or bank. Winter is the slowest season, but it is also the least crowded—if you are willing to work for it, you can find walleye and catfish with minimal competition.

Tackle and Techniques for Griggs' Murky Water

Griggs' stained water demands tackle that produces vibration and visibility. For walleye, live bait on jigs is the foundation—1/4-ounce to 3/8-ounce jigs with live shiners or crawlers work year-round. Crankbaits in the 2- to 4-inch range, especially those with tight wobbles and rattle chambers, cut through the murk. Spinners with larger blades (sizes 3 and 4) also produce well. Stick with natural colors—browns, blacks, and silvers—because flash and bright colors are less effective in stained water.

For catfish, simple is best: a three-way rig or slip sinker with cut shad, chicken liver, or live bluegill on a circle hook. Flatheads demand live bait and patience; channel catfish are less picky and bite cut bait readily. Rod and reel choice matters less than presentation—use medium-heavy rods with enough backbone to set the hook and control fish in current. The Scioto's flow is gentle at Griggs, but it is present, especially after rain, so adjust sinker weight accordingly.

Access, Regulations, and Practical Information

The public boat ramp on the west bank is the primary access point for anglers with boats. It is maintained by the City of Columbus and is open year-round during daylight hours. Parking is limited, and the ramp can be crowded on weekends. Bank fishing is available along parts of the shoreline, but much of the perimeter is private property or industrial areas. Check local signage before fishing from the bank.

Ohio fishing regulations apply: you need a valid fishing license, and walleye and catfish have no special restrictions at Griggs. Bass have a 12-inch minimum length limit. Crappie have a 9-inch minimum. The reservoir is part of the Scioto River system, so check the current Ohio Department of Natural Resources regulations before you fish—rules can change. The water is used for municipal supply, so swimming and water sports are not allowed, but fishing is permitted year-round.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best time of year to fish Griggs Reservoir?

Spring (March through May) and fall (September through November) are the most productive seasons for walleye. Summer is best for catfish, especially at night. Winter is slow but possible if you are willing to jig deep near the dam.

Can I fish from the bank at Griggs?

Yes, but access is limited. Bank fishing spots exist along the perimeter, but much of the shoreline is private or industrial. Stick to areas near the public boat ramp or other clearly accessible spots. Always check for posted signs before fishing.

What kind of fish are in Griggs Reservoir?

Walleye, channel catfish, flathead catfish, largemouth bass, and crappie all inhabit Griggs. Walleye and catfish are the most abundant and most targeted by anglers.

Do I need a boat to fish Griggs, or can I fish from shore?

You can fish from shore, but a boat gives you access to deeper water and more productive areas. The public ramp makes launching easy, and many anglers fish the shallower areas and flats from the bank with good results during spring and fall.

Is Griggs Reservoir safe to fish in?

Yes, but it is an urban reservoir with industrial areas nearby. Fish during daylight when possible, use caution at night, and be aware of boat traffic, especially on weekends. The water is used for municipal supply, so avoid swimming or prolonged skin contact.