WESTON—The Village and surrounding areas received a significant boost to local recreation this week. The Henry-Wood Sportsman’s Alliance (HWSA) announced that they have officially finished stocking perch across several regional hotspots, ensuring that local anglers have a plentiful season ahead.

According to the HWSA, the fish were released at Oakwood Park (Napoleon), the Deshler Big Reservoir, Hamler, Friendship Park (Lake Township), and right here at our own Weston Reservoir. This initiative is part of the organization's ongoing mission to support outdoor conservation and provide accessible recreation for families in Wood County.


Key Takeaways for Local Anglers


While the arrival of the perch is exciting news, residents should keep the following local guidelines in mind to ensure a safe and legal fishing season:

  • Semi-Annual Stocking: The HWSA typically stocks these local public areas twice a year. Perch are released every Spring, followed by a release of Rainbow Trout every Fall to allow for year-round fishing opportunities.
  • Permit-Free Fishing: The Weston Reservoir remains the only location within the village where residents can legally fish without a permit. Since it is not connected to a natural waterway, a standard ODNR fishing license is not required.
  • Restricted Areas: Please be advised that the ponds located within the Weston Cemetery are strictly non-fishable. Residents are asked to respect the solemnity of the grounds and stick to the designated reservoir for all fishing activities.
  • Family Involvement: The HWSA emphasizes that "it’s always better fishing when you take a kid along," encouraging the next generation of sportsmen to get involved in the outdoors.


About the Henry-Wood Sportsman’s Alliance


The HWSA is a non-profit organization dedicated to the conservation of natural areas in Northwest Ohio. Beyond fish stocking, they are involved in:

  • Conservation Grants: Offsetting costs for landowners working on wind-breaks or oak savannah projects.
  • Scholarships: Supporting local students pursuing education in conservation or agriculture.
  • Public Education: Promoting respect for fish and game laws and preserving outdoor traditions.

For more information on their projects or to view upcoming events—such as their annual fundraising banquets—residents can visit their official website at henrywoodsportsmansalliance.com.

Are you planning to take the family out to the reservoir this weekend to try for some of those new perch?