"Fishing is a passion that can never fully be explained." Unknown

Welcome to

The Hook!

... the newsletter voice of LECBA

Hi Captains,

2025 Fish Ohio Wrap-Up: Tradition & Togetherness

This year marked my 25th anniversary organizing the captains and coordinating the beloved meet-and-greet.

I have to say—the pride I feel watching this day come together never fades.

Each year brings new faces, familiar smiles, and the same spirited joy that makes Fish Ohio Day so special.

Now in its 45th year, this cherished event—originally started by Governor James Rhodes—continues to celebrate Ohio’s fishing heritage with energy, heart, and a touch of friendly competition.

One highlight … A friendly face-off between Governor Mike DeWine and First Lady Fran DeWine. The Governor was confident he’d sealed the win, until the First Lady landed a jaw dropping 27-inch walleye. Game, set, splash!!

Governor DeWine, Lt. Governor Jim Tressel, and other conservation leaders joined anglers on Lake Erie’s western basin. The Governor brought several grandchildren along, a joyful reminder of how deeply tradition and togetherness run in this celebration.

A heartfelt thank-you goes out to the 19 incredible captains who volunteered their boats, time, skill, and first mates. Your commitment makes this event possible year after year—and I couldn’t do it without you.

Despite Mother Nature’s fickle temperament, we were able to enjoy a few good hours on the water. By day’s end, anglers reeled in a total of 184 keeper walleye and 523 fish spanning multiple species including one northern pike, a true testament to Ohio’s thriving aquatic life.

Each year, Fish Ohio reminds me that it's never just about the fishing—it’s about laughter shared, stories swapped, and a tradition that runs deep. Helping carry it forward has been one of the brightest joys of my life—with a tackle box full of heart and memories that shine brighter than the catch.

And none of it would flow half as smoothly without the incredible behind-the-scenes brilliance of Meredith Gilbert from ODNR Wildlife and Duane Meyers from Shores and Islands Visitors Center. Their tireless efforts and quiet mastery make the magic look effortless. Simply put—their accomplishments are unmatched.

With this year's memories tucked away, it’s time to chart the course for Fish Ohio 2026. Stay tuned for updates as the next adventure takes shape.

Till then ... tight lines and stay safe wherever your adventures may take you.

Respectfully,

Captain Peg

Captain Peg VanVleet

Editor, The Hook

LECBA VP Environmental Issues for Lake Erie

937-414-6742

A Message from our President

Captain Paul Pacholski

Celebrating 25 Years of Fish Ohio with Captain Peg VanVleet

This year, we proudly honor Captain Peg VanVleet’s Silver Milestone — 25 remarkable years of leadership, coordination, and heart at the helm of Fish Ohio.

Peg has been the steady compass guiding our captains and community through decades of cherished meet-and-greet traditions.

Her unwavering commitment and intuitive eye for detail have kept this event vibrant and welcoming year after year.

More than just an organizer, Peg is the soul of Fish Ohio—her warmth and generosity create a space where old friends reunite, new faces are embraced, and lasting memories are made.

Her legacy radiates hospitality, grace, and a generational touch that makes Fish Ohio feel like coming home.

Thank you, Captain Peg—for 25 years of dedication, joy, and the quiet magic of bringing people together.

And let’s give a resounding salute to Susie McLaughlin, whose behind-the-scenes efforts keep the wheels turning smoothly—and whose traditional singing of the National Anthem has become a beloved hallmark of the event.

Her voice, filled with pride and warmth, opens each gathering with a stirring reminder of unity and tradition, while her eyes—bright and sparkling—reflect the joy and deep connection she carries for this event.

With deep gratitude… thank you, Peg and Susie, for your commitment, your heart, and the enduring spirit of Fish Ohio.

Professional Outdoor Media Association (POMA)

Captain Don McGee

Vice President, LECBA

Lake Erie Charter Captains Host Outdoor Media for a Morning to Remember

The Lake Erie Charter Boat Association (LECBA) proudly welcomed members of the Professional Outdoor Media Association (POMA) for an unforgettable morning of walleye fishing, launching from the picturesque shores of Maumee Bay State Park.

Five generous LECBA captains volunteered their vessels and expertise, leading the group across Lake Erie’s bountiful waters.

By midday, anglers had landed an impressive 207 pounds of walleye, along with a lively mix of regional species—including catfish, white perch, and the ever-entertaining sheepshead (freshwater drum), whose antics kept spirits high.

Juvenile walleye in the 12-inch to 15-inch range were also caught and safely released, offering a hopeful glimpse into the continued vitality of the fishery.

Fishing unfolded in 19-feet of water using worm harnesses, with lines cast and laughter shared in equal measure.

The morning delivered more than just a successful catch—it offered snapshots worth framing, joyful camaraderie, and the kind of fish tales that only Lake Erie can inspire.

The POMA guests departed with full coolers and fuller hearts, a testament to the magic of the lake and the hospitality of its Captains.

A Heartfelt Thank You to Our Dedicated Captains

We extend our deepest appreciation to the skilled professionals who made our Lake Erie outing unforgettable:

Captain Rich Turturice: Crazy Lady Charters
Over 30 years navigating the waters of Lake Erie
Captain Dean Thompson: Reel Fun Charters
Bringing over 40 years of experience and expertise
Captain Don McGee: King & Eye Charters
Proudly serving with 44 years on the water
Captain Tom Roginski: Countdown Charters
46 years and still going strong
Captain Brian Drew: Off Call Adventures
Our rising star, infusing fresh energy with 5 years of dedication

Walleye Growth on Lake Erie

Eric Weimer

ODNR-Wildlife Sandusky Fisheries Research Station

Click here to read about Walleye Growth on Lake Erie

Update on the New Research Vessel

Eric Weimer

ODNR-Wildlife Sandusky Fisheries Research Station

Click here to read about the New Research Vessel

Water Sampling Update

Dr. Justin Chaffin

Senior Researcher, Research Coordinator, Stone Laboratory

Click here to read about the Water Sampling Update

Special "Thank You"

Tim Daniels

Division of Wildlife

Deadlines require a lot of help from friends, coworkers and constituents. That really came to life with a recent deadline that we had at the Division of Wildlife for promoting walleye fishing on Lake Erie.

Captain Mark Perkins, Blue Sky Charters, made time in his schedule to accommodate our videographer so we could promote Lake Erie and its awesome fishery for a special project. My old friend Captain Peg Van Vleet, Vice President of Lake Erie Charter Boat Association, was my go-to and she made this all happen in just a few days.

The Division of Wildlife and the Lake Erie Charter Boat Captains Association have always been hand-in-hand working together on promoting fishing on the lake.

Working together for so many years with other conservation groups has been one of my true joys in life. The way we all come together for a common cause is heartfelt and an opportunity for me to work with others during my 31 years in the Division of Wildlife.

I think whoever I work with knows that I would do everything possible for them in the same situation.

It was also a real treat to mentor someone new in our division, and hopefully in the future, they will have the same experience that I have.

Our videographer has been on for about a year now and it’s just a matter of passing the torch.

I’m truly going to miss the interaction that I’ve had with conservation groups, like the Lake Erie Charter Boat Association Captains, and others when I retire.