What You'll Find at Blackhand Gorge

Blackhand Gorge State Nature Preserve sits along the Licking River in Licking County, near Hanover, about 30 miles east of Columbus. The gorge itself is a narrow, steep-walled canyon carved through black hand shale — the dark rock that gives the preserve its name. The Licking River runs through it, and that river is what draws anglers here.

The water holds smallmouth bass, channel catfish, and flathead catfish, along with carp and sunfish. The river moves moderately in most seasons, and the gorge walls create a distinct landscape that feels removed from central Ohio's farmland. Access is limited to foot traffic only — no vehicles drive into the preserve — which keeps the pressure light and the setting quiet.

Key Takeaways

  • Blackhand Gorge is a foot-traffic-only preserve, so you hike in to reach the river, typically 1 to 2 miles depending on which access point you use.
  • The Licking River here holds smallmouth bass and catfish, with best results in spring and fall when water temperatures are moderate.
  • You need an Ohio fishing license, and the river is open year-round, but water levels rise sharply after heavy rain and can make wading unsafe.
  • The gorge has two main trailheads — one at the north end near Hanover and one at the south end near Toboso — each offering different walk-in distances and river access points.

Access Points and Trailhead Locations

The preserve has two main entry points. The northern trailhead is near Hanover, off State Route 146. From there, a trail descends roughly 1 to 1.5 miles to the river. The southern trailhead is closer to Toboso, also off State Route 146, and offers a shorter walk of about 0.5 to 1 mile to reach the water. Both trails are well-marked and maintained, though they are steep in sections.

Parking is limited at both trailheads — typically just a small gravel lot. Arrive early on weekends, especially in spring. The trails themselves are foot-traffic only; no bikes or ATVs are permitted. Once you reach the river, you can walk upstream and downstream along the bank and in the shallows, though the gorge walls and vegetation can restrict movement in some sections.

The preserve is open dawn to dusk. There is no fee to enter, and no permit is required beyond your Ohio fishing license. Cell service is unreliable inside the gorge, so plan your trip accordingly and let someone know where you are going.

What Species to Target and When

Smallmouth bass are the primary draw for many anglers. They hold around rocks, fallen timber, and current breaks along the river. Spring (April through May) and fall (September through October) are most productive, when water temperatures sit in the 55 to 70 degree range. Summer can be slow as bass move to deeper pools and shade. Winter is possible but requires patience and slow presentations.

Catfish — both channel and flathead — are present year-round and often more active than bass in summer. Channel catfish respond to cut bait, chicken liver, and stink baits fished on the bottom. Flatheads prefer live baitfish and are primarily nocturnal, so evening and night fishing is most effective. Spring and fall are productive, but summer nights can be excellent.

Carp and sunfish are abundant but often overlooked. Carp can reach 20 pounds or more in the Licking River and will take corn, dough balls, and specialized carp baits. Sunfish are reliable year-round and good for a quick outing if bass are slow.

Seasonal Conditions and Water Levels

Spring (March through May) brings rising water levels as snowmelt and rain increase flow. The river can become turbid and fast-moving, which can make wading dangerous. However, this is when smallmouth bass are most active and feeding heavily before spawning. If you fish in spring, check water levels before you go and avoid wading if the current is swift.

Summer (June through August) sees lower, clearer water and warmer temperatures. Bass move deep and become less active during the day. Catfish fishing improves, especially at night. The gorge is also more crowded with hikers and swimmers during summer weekends.

Fall (September through November) offers ideal conditions — moderate water levels, clear water, and active fish across all species. Smallmouth bass feed aggressively in preparation for winter. This is the best season for most anglers.

Winter (December through February) brings cold water and slower fishing. The gorge is less crowded, and the landscape is stark. Fishing is possible but requires patience. Water levels can rise again after heavy snow or rain.

Regulations and Licensing

You must have a valid Ohio fishing license to fish at Blackhand Gorge. Licenses are available through the Ohio Division of Wildlife website, by phone, or at many sporting goods stores and bait shops. A one-day license costs less than a full-year license if you fish only occasionally.

The Licking River is open year-round for most species. Smallmouth bass have a minimum size limit of 12 inches and a daily bag limit of five fish. Catfish have no size or bag limit. Sunfish have a 25-fish daily limit. Check the current Ohio fishing regulations before you go, as rules can change.

No special permits are required to fish the preserve itself. The preserve is managed by the Ohio Department of Natural Resources, and the rules are the same as for any public water in Ohio.

What to Bring and How to Prepare

Wear sturdy hiking boots or wading shoes — the trails are steep and rocky, and the river bottom is uneven. Bring plenty of water and snacks; there are no facilities at the trailheads. A headlamp or flashlight is essential if you plan to fish into evening or at night.

Pack light. You will be carrying your gear down a steep trail and back up again. A small backpack with your tackle, a few lures or baits, and a net is enough. Leave behind anything you do not need.

Wading is possible in most seasons, but water levels and current vary. Wear a personal flotation device if you are uncomfortable in moving water. The gorge walls are steep and slippery when wet; do not attempt to climb them. Stick to the river and the trail.

Insect pressure can be heavy in late spring and summer, especially near the water. Bring insect repellent. The gorge is shaded, so sun protection is less critical than at open-water sites, but a hat and sunscreen are still useful.

Nearby Amenities and Other Fishing Options

Hanover and Toboso are small towns with limited services. The nearest larger town is Newark, about 15 miles west, where you will find gas, food, and lodging. Bait and tackle shops in Newark can provide local information and supplies.

If Blackhand Gorge is crowded or conditions are poor, the Licking River continues downstream and upstream beyond the preserve. Other sections of the river are accessible from public land and offer similar fishing. The Kokosing River, a tributary of the Licking, is also nearby and holds smallmouth bass and catfish.

Buckeye Lake State Park is about 20 miles south and offers a different fishing experience — a large impoundment with largemouth bass, crappie, and catfish. If you want to combine gorge fishing with other activities, the preserve itself has hiking trails that extend beyond the river, offering views of the gorge and the surrounding landscape.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I fish at night at Blackhand Gorge?

Yes, night fishing is allowed. The preserve is open dawn to dusk, but this refers to general access. Many anglers fish the evening and night hours for catfish. Bring a headlamp and tell someone where you are going, as the gorge is dark and the trails are steep.

Is wading safe in the Licking River here?

Wading is generally safe in normal conditions, but water levels and current vary with rainfall. After heavy rain, the river rises quickly and becomes dangerous. Check water levels before you go. Wear appropriate footwear and avoid wading if the current is swift or if you are uncomfortable in moving water.

What is the best bait for catfish in the Licking River?

Channel catfish respond well to cut bait (shad or bluegill), chicken liver, and commercial stink baits. Flathead catfish prefer live baitfish, especially bluegill or shiners. Fish on the bottom with a simple rig — a weight, a hook, and your bait. Flatheads are most active at night.

How crowded is Blackhand Gorge on weekends?

The preserve is less crowded than many state parks, but weekends in spring and fall can see significant foot traffic from hikers and swimmers. Weekday mornings are quieter. Summer weekends are busier. If you prefer solitude, visit on a weekday or in winter.

Do I need a special permit to fish the preserve?

No. You need only a valid Ohio fishing license. The preserve itself has no additional permit or fee. Purchase your license through the Ohio Division of Wildlife before you arrive.