Nimisila Reservoir

Nimisila Reservoir is one of the 13 bodies of water that make up the Portage Lakes and was the last of the Portage Lakes to be created. Built in 1936 by the federal Works Progress Administration, the reservoir was created when an earthen dam 44 feet high and 2,350 feet long was built on Nimisila Creek. It originally supported the ever-expanding needs of Akron’s industrial complex, but is now a hotspot for fishers, birders and paddlers. 

The reservoir is known for its channel catfish and largemouth bass, but also offers the chance to catch several other species including Northern pike, walleye, bluegill and yellow perch. The reservoir has 16 miles of shoreline and four boat launches, with the deepest spot around about 30 feet. With only electric boat motors permitted, the pace is slower and quieter, making for a good fishing experience even when the stringer remains empty. 

Historically, the area was an important trading post for settlers and Indians. It was a recognized landmark during the War of 1812, serving as a rendezvous point for American troops. The Portage Path was part of the ancient boundary between the Six Nations and Western Indigenous people. In more recent history, a WWII corsair airplane crash landed in the reservoir on a training mission from Goodyear. Legend has it that it is underwater and remains stuck in the mud somewhere within the reservoir. 

An important migratory stop-over habitat, Nimisila is the staging area for several thousand purple martins during the month of August. The birds roost on the grassy islands during the night, feast on the insect population and then continue their migration south for the winter. The reservoir is also home to several species of waterfowl, eagles and osprey. Many other species can be seen at various times during the year.