CLEAR FORK RESERVOIR
Clear Fork Reservoir, off state route 97 and 314 northwest of Lexington, is another Ohio muskie classic. This 971-acre hotspot in Richland and Morrow counties is the ODOW's muskie brood stock lake.

According to Ed Lewis, a District Two fisheries biologist, there has been a slight decline in Clear Fork's overall muskie brood fish. In an effort to increase these numbers, the ODOW began using leftover fingerlings to double-stock the lake, increasing the rate to two muskies per surface acre. This started in 2005, and according to Lewis it will continue in 2006 if there is a surplus of muskie fingerlings after other scheduled lakes have been stocked.

Muskie anglers may find success on Clear Fork by targeting the area around the confluence of Clear Fork Creek. Focus on areas with 4 to 10 feet of water. North Bay is also a consistent producer of fish year after year.

Clear Fork has no motor horsepower restrictions; however, the ODOW has mandated an 8-mph law that is strictly enforced.

For more information on Clear Fork Reservoir or to request a lake map, contact the ODOW's Wildlife District Two office at (419) 424-5000.

ALUM CREEK RESERVOIR This 3,387-acre reservoir in Delaware County is a muskie gold mine. Alum Creek, a very stable fishery, is known for providing muskies with an environment conducive to rapid growth.