Ohio lawmakers are once again making a determined effort to name the walleye as the official state fish, aiming to finally secure recognition for a species deeply tied to the state’s identity and economy. House Bill 312, introduced in May at the Statehouse, seeks to designate sander vitreus, commonly known as walleye, as Ohio’s official fish. This move comes as Ohio remains one of only three states, along with Indiana and Iowa, without an official state fish. Representative Sean Brennan of Parma and Representative D.J. Swearingen of Huron, who are leading this bipartisan effort with nearly 50 co-sponsors, argue that Ohio already enjoys an unofficial reputation as the walleye capital of the world.
The proposed designation is more than symbolic. According to Brennan, the Ohio portion of Lake Erie generates an estimated $1.19 billion in economic output from sport fishing, with an impressive 71% of fishing activity by private and charter boats focused on catching walleye. Data from the Ohio Division of Wildlife reveals that about 72.1 million walleye inhabit Lake Erie’s cool waters, a population that dwarfs Ohio’s estimated 600,000 white-tailed deer, the state’s official mammal. This striking figure underscores the ecological and economic importance of walleye to Ohio.
Governor Mike DeWine and Lieutenant Governor Jim Tressel have publicly voiced their support, emphasizing Ohio’s unique connection to walleye fishing. During a recent event, they reinforced Ohio’s status as the walleye capital, reflecting the species’ prominence in the state’s recreational and cultural landscape. Representative Swearingen highlighted that naming walleye as the state fish would strengthen conservation efforts, habitat restoration, and research funding, as official recognition often plays a role in securing grants and environmental resources. With about half of Ohio’s one million anglers targeting walleye, the fish is central to Ohio’s fishing culture and outdoor traditions.
Past efforts to honor the walleye have faced numerous challenges. Previous bills, including one supported by former state senator Teresa Fedor, stalled without reaching a vote despite strong public enthusiasm. Legislative attempts in 2022 and 2024 failed to progress, partly due to competing interests and lack of momentum. Historically, debates over the state fish designation have been contentious, dating back to the 1980s when walleye advocates from northern Ohio clashed with bass supporters from the southern part of the state. This regional rivalry has been a recurring factor in the prolonged absence of an official state fish.
Walleye’s cultural significance in Ohio extends beyond fishing. It is celebrated through events and traditions such as the New Year’s Eve walleye drop in Port Clinton, where a massive illuminated fiberglass walleye is lowered to mark the arrival of the new year. The Toledo walleye hockey team also embodies the species’ symbolic value to local communities. These cultural markers emphasize how deeply ingrained the fish is in Ohio’s identity.
House Bill 312 stands out because it was introduced early in the current legislative session, which runs until December 2026. Brennan believes this early start improves its chances of passing, unlike previous efforts that ran out of time. He expressed optimism that this time the bill will make it across the legislative finish line, noting strong bipartisan support and growing awareness of the walleye’s economic and cultural contributions.
The renewed push to designate the walleye as Ohio’s official fish comes at a time when the species’ ecological and economic significance is widely recognized. Its large population, substantial role in sport fishing, and its connection to Ohio’s traditions make it an ideal candidate for this honor. If successful, the designation would not only celebrate Ohio’s natural heritage but also enhance conservation efforts and tourism initiatives tied to Lake Erie’s thriving walleye population.
As lawmakers continue to advocate for House Bill 312, supporters hope that Ohio will soon join the ranks of states with an official fish, giving walleye the recognition it has long deserved. The outcome of this effort could finally settle decades of debate and firmly establish walleye as a symbol of Ohio’s natural beauty, culture, and economic vitality.
