Put-in-Bay, Ohio – The shores of South Bass Island welcomed a new chapter in Lake Erie tourism as Governor Mike DeWine and Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR) Director Mary Mertz officially celebrated the opening of the newly renovated Put-in-Bay Aquatic Visitor Center. The event, marked by a ribbon-cutting ceremony, showcased the center’s revitalized facilities and expanded educational offerings.
“Fran and I have enjoyed bringing our family to Lake Erie to enjoy all it has to offer,” said Governor DeWine. “The opening of the new Aquatic Visitor Center today really highlights all the opportunities for recreation available right here. Whether it’s enjoying the exhibits or fishing from the dock, there’s something for everyone in Ohio, the Heart of it All.”
Director Mertz emphasized the center’s role in connecting visitors to the region’s natural treasures. “The new visitor center is a great location for anglers and others to learn about Lake Erie’s natural resources and the work that goes into conserving them. The Put-in-Bay Aquatic Visitor Center connects future generations with Lake Erie’s excellent fishing and highlights the importance of preserving water quality for the millions who get their drinking water from the lake.”
A Hub for Education, Conservation, and Recreation
Situated in Lake Erie’s western basin, the Put-in-Bay Aquatic Visitor Center has undergone a transformation that blends modern accessibility with a deep respect for its history. Inside, visitors will find new interactive displays and exhibits celebrating the lake’s rich fishing heritage, particularly for species such as walleye, smallmouth bass, and yellow perch.
The $6.2 million renovation addressed structural concerns, improved waterproofing, and introduced an ADA-accessible ramp and entrance. New features include a live fish viewing tank, historical displays about the building’s past as a fish hatchery, and educational exhibits covering the walleye life cycle, the island’s ecosystem, aquatic research, and conservation efforts like Governor DeWine’s H2Ohio water quality initiative.
ODNR Division of Wildlife Chief Kendra Wecker highlighted the center’s long-term impact: “The Put-in-Bay Aquatic Visitor Center will welcome guests to South Bass Island for many years to come. The visitor center is a great launching point for adventures across Lake Erie, The Walleye Capital of the World.”
A Legacy of Service to Lake Erie
Originally constructed as a fish hatchery, the building served the ODNR Division of Wildlife from 1907 to 1988, producing species including walleye, sauger, whitefish, cisco, yellow perch, coho salmon, chinook salmon, and steelhead. It transitioned into an educational space in 1992 and, from 2009 to 2023, was operated by Ohio Sea Grant before the latest renovation.
Funded through the state capital budget with support from the General Assembly, the updated facility now offers a blend of history, science, and hands-on learning experiences for all ages.
Open to the public Tuesday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. between June 1 and October 1, the visitor center welcomes guests free of charge. Whether fishing from its dock, exploring the exhibits, or learning about Lake Erie’s conservation efforts, visitors are invited to discover why this region remains one of Ohio’s greatest natural assets.
