Local anglers know that when it comes to catfishing, Clendening has outperformed almost all other bodies of water in the district. It's expected to provide exceptional fishing again this year. However, we have chosen to feature Tappan Lake because it receives far less angling attention and provides more opportunities.

DISTRICT FOUR
Muskingum River
All of the pools on the Muskingum River offer good opportunities for catfish anglers. Fisheries biologist Tim Parrett pointed out that the Marietta Pool (Devola Tailwater) is probably the best stretch for big flatheads.

"This part of the Muskingum is gaining notoriety all around the country for its excellent flathead fishing," he said.

The Marietta Pool is 5.8 miles long. On this stretch, anglers can expect to find flatheads between 20 and 40 pounds, and bigger fish have been caught. Channel cats can grow to 15 pounds here, but most weigh less than 5 pounds.

The Devola Pool in Washington County and the Beverly Pool in Washington and Morgan counties are also good catfishing hotspots. In these pools, the fish are typically smaller than the ones you'll see in the Marietta Pool.

Muskingum County also hosts a series of good pools for anglers to target. The Philo Pool is just one. Most angling efforts here are focused around the Y-Bridge. The Licking River Pool and Zanesville Pool are also noteworthy spots to try.

Tailwater sections, eddies, large timber piles, riprap shorelines and current obstructions are all great Muskingum River performers.

Most of the Muskingum can be accessed off state Route 60, which runs nearly the length of the river. Use state Route 376 for access to the river near Stockport.

For more information on the Muskingum River, contact the ODOW's Wildlife District Four headquarters at (740) 594-2211.

"Most of the bigger fish were in shallow water near deep-water haunts," noted biologist Ward. "Such areas seem to be the best places to target from June through October."

Ohio River
According to biologist Parrett, the Ohio River demands a certain amount of respect, as always, when it comes to District Four catfish hotspots.

"The river is home to both big channel catfish and flatheads," noted Parrett. "Channels in the 10- to 12-pound range are not uncommon, and flatheads can often surpass 50 pounds."

The best areas to target are below the tailwaters of the locks and dams along the river. Scour holes and power plant discharges are also the "cat's meow" at times.

The Kyger and Gavin power plants, both in Gallia County, and Willow Island in Washington County are all good areas to target. On the West Virginia side, the Mountaineer Power Plant, across from Pomeroy and Meigs County, offers great fishing in June.

Cut shad and skipjack herring are great channel catfish baits. Big flatheads tend to prefer live offerings, such as sunfish and suckers.

For more information on the Ohio River or to request a map, contact the ODOW's District Four headquarters at (740) 594-2211.

DISTRICT FIVE
Great Miami River
The Great Miami River starts its trek towards the Ohio River north of Dayton. After flowing southbound for several miles, it passes through Cincinnati before making its confluence.