Showse Park is a small public fishing access point on the Scioto River near Chillicothe
Showse Park sits along the Scioto River in Ross County, roughly 10 miles south of Chillicothe. The park is managed by the City of Chillicothe and offers direct bank access to a section of river that holds smallmouth bass, channel catfish, and occasional flathead catfish. The setting is modest — a gravel parking area, a few picnic tables, and a cleared bank — but it is one of the few public spots in this part of the Scioto where you can fish without paying a private access fee or crossing private land.
The river here runs slower and deeper than it does upstream, with a mix of sandy bottom and silt. The current slows noticeably in summer, and the water can warm considerably by July and August. Spring and fall are the most reliable seasons for consistent fishing, though catfish bite year-round if you are willing to fish at night.
Key Takeaways
- Showse Park provides free public access to the Scioto River for bank fishing, with parking and basic facilities on-site.
- Smallmouth bass are the primary target in spring and fall; catfish fishing is productive from late spring through fall, especially after dark.
- An Ohio fishing license is required for anyone 16 and older, and you must follow state regulations on species, seasons, and daily limits.
- The park is open during daylight hours for general use, but night fishing for catfish is permitted within state regulations.
- Water levels can fluctuate with dam releases upstream, so check conditions before making the drive, especially after heavy rain.
Species and Seasons at Showse Park
Smallmouth bass are the most common gamefish here. Spring (April through May) is peak season, when water temperatures in the 50s to 60s trigger feeding. Fall (September through October) is nearly as good. Summer fishing is possible but slower; the water warms and fish move to deeper holes and shade. Winter is slow, though some anglers catch bass on small jigs in the deeper pools.
Channel catfish are abundant and often overlooked by bass anglers. They bite best from May through September, especially at night. Fish cut shad, chicken liver, or prepared stink baits on the bottom in deeper runs. Flathead catfish have moved into this section of the Scioto in recent years; they are larger and more aggressive than channels, and they prefer live baitfish fished at night.
Carp are present but not the focus of most anglers at Showse. Sunfish and other panfish are common but small. The Scioto is not known for walleye or pike in this stretch.
Access, Parking, and Facilities
Showse Park is located at the end of Showse Park Road, off US Route 23 south of Chillicothe. The address is approximately 1100 Showse Park Road, Chillicothe, OH 45601. Parking is free and typically holds 10 to 15 vehicles; it is a gravel lot with no attendant. The park has picnic tables and a small shelter, but no restrooms, no running water, and no bait or tackle shop on-site.
The bank is cleared and relatively easy to walk, with a gentle slope to the water. Wading is possible in low water, but the bottom is soft and can be slippery. The park is open during daylight hours for general use; night fishing is permitted but bring a headlamp or flashlight and be aware that visibility is limited.
Cell service is spotty in this area. Download offline maps or write down directions before you go. The nearest gas and food are in Chillicothe, about 15 minutes north.
Ohio Fishing License and Regulations
Anyone 16 or older must carry a valid Ohio fishing license to fish in public waters, including the Scioto River at Showse Park. You can purchase a license online through the Ohio Division of Wildlife website, at most sporting goods stores, or at some bait shops in Chillicothe. A one-day license costs less than a full-year license if you are visiting for a short trip.
Smallmouth bass have a minimum size of 12 inches and a daily limit of five fish. Catfish (channel and flathead combined) have no minimum size and no daily limit. Check the current Ohio fishing regulations before you go, as rules can change year to year. The Division of Wildlife publishes a free regulation booklet that covers all species, seasons, and special rules.
Catch-and-release is always an option, and many anglers practice it for bass to preserve the fishery. Live bait is legal; artificial lures work well for bass in spring and fall.
Water Conditions and Timing
The Scioto River is dammed upstream at several points, and water levels at Showse Park can rise or fall based on dam releases. After heavy rain or during spring snowmelt, the river can become swift and murky, making fishing difficult. Low water in late summer can concentrate fish in deeper holes but also makes wading hazardous.
Check the USGS water gauge for the Scioto River near Chillicothe before you plan your trip. A moderate flow (roughly 1,000 to 3,000 cubic feet per second) is ideal for bank fishing. If the gauge shows a sharp rise, wait a day or two for the water to settle.
Early morning and late evening are best for bass, especially in warm months. Catfish bite throughout the night and are often more active after sunset. Overcast days are generally more productive than bright, sunny days.
What to Bring and How to Prepare
Bring a fishing license, a valid ID, and your tackle. A medium-action spinning rod with 6- to 8-pound monofilament works for both bass and catfish. For bass, pack small crankbaits, soft plastics (4 to 6 inches), and jigs. For catfish, bring cut bait, stink bait, or live shiners in a bucket with an aerator.
Wear polarized sunglasses to spot bass in shallow water. Bring sunscreen, a hat, and water to drink. If you plan to fish at night, bring a headlamp with extra batteries. A net is helpful for landing larger catfish. Wading shoes or boots with good grip are useful if you plan to enter the water.
There is no food or fuel at the park, so eat before you arrive or bring snacks. The nearest restroom is in Chillicothe. Plan to spend at least a few hours to make the drive worthwhile; a half-day trip (morning or evening) is common, and an overnight trip with night catfishing is rewarding if you have the time.
Nearby Fishing and Lodging
The Scioto River continues both upstream and downstream from Showse Park, and other public access points exist in Ross and Pike counties. Paint Creek, a tributary that joins the Scioto near Chillicothe, also holds smallmouth bass and is worth exploring if you have time.
Chillicothe has motels, restaurants, and a few tackle shops. The nearest larger town is Columbus, about 45 minutes north, which has more lodging and dining options. State parks in the area, such as Tar Hollow State Park and Pike State Forest, offer camping if you want to stay overnight.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a license to fish at Showse Park?
Yes, anyone 16 or older must have a valid Ohio fishing license. You can buy a one-day license online or at a sporting goods store in Chillicothe for less than the cost of a full-year license if you are visiting for just a day or two.
What is the best time of year to fish here?
Spring (April to May) and fall (September to October) are best for smallmouth bass. Catfish bite year-round but are most active from May through September, especially at night. Summer bass fishing is slower because the water warms and fish move deeper.
Can I fish at night?
Yes, night fishing is permitted at Showse Park within state regulations. Catfish are most active after dark. Bring a headlamp or flashlight and be aware that the bank can be slippery in low light.
Is there a restroom or water at the park?
No. Showse Park has picnic tables and a shelter but no restrooms, running water, or bait shop. The nearest facilities are in Chillicothe, about 15 minutes away. Bring water and plan accordingly.
What happens if the river is high or muddy?
High water from dam releases or rain makes fishing difficult and can be unsafe. Check the USGS water gauge for the Scioto River near Chillicothe before you go. If the gauge shows a sharp rise, wait a day or two for the water to clear and drop before fishing.