Fishing warm water discharges in the Ohio River can be one of the most rewarding angling experiences of the year. There are, however, a few rules, ideas, and thoughts that you need to consider.

A discharge is generally considered to be any location that brings water into the River from a non-natural source. Most are from power plants, commercial factories, or manufacturing facilities.

There are hot water discharges and cold water discharges. Hot water discharges are areas of warm water entering the River from a commercial facility. Most originate from cooling systems of some sort.

Cold Water Discharges

Cold water discharges are areas of unheated water entering the river. It may be at, above, or below the River water temperature but it is not heated. Cold water discharges are at their best during the warmer months of the year. They provide current flow and oxygen for the fish.