HIRAM KAYAK FIELD GUIDE
Paddle LaDue Reservoir: Quiet Coves, Eagles, and 2–4 Hours of Shoreline Exploration
A self-paced 2–4 hour kayak outing from Camp Hi Canoe & Kayak that lets paddlers probe inlets and shoreline for wildlife, wildflowers and strong fishing.
Paddle LaDue Reservoir: Quiet Coves, Eagles, and 2–4 Hours of Shoreline Exploration.
Embark on a calm, waterborne exploration of LaDue Reservoir in Hiram, where miles of shoreline, hidden inlets and coves, and a landscape maintained as a municipal water source combine for a tranquil paddle. Expect to ease along quiet bays, keep an eye for nesting bald eagles, and follow your own pace as you discover Bridge Creek and the main lake.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
Miles of Shoreline and Hidden Coves
LaDue offers extensive shoreline and a network of inlets and coves to explore — ideal for paddling at your own pace and getting lost (not really) among the reservoir’s twists and turns. The lake is one of the main bodies of water maintained by the City of Akron as public drinking water.
Nesting Bald Eagles and a Solid Fishery
Bald eagles nest on the reservoir, and anglers find good fishing for walleye, largemouth bass, bluegill, yellow perch, white and black crappie, and channel catfish along the shorelines and coves.
SR44 Launch to Bridge Creek or the Main Lake
From the SR44 boat launch you can head west to explore Bridge Creek, the primary tributary that creates LaDue Reservoir, or head east into the main lake — a simple choice that determines whether you spend more time in sheltered creeks or open water.
What the day feels like
On the Water
This is a self-guided lake paddle—spend roughly two to four hours tracing shorelines, slipping into small coves, and pausing to watch wildlife or fish from your boat. The trip moves at your tempo; set a pre-arranged return time when you put in and keep track of it so you make it back to your starting point.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this paddle suits — and what to watch for.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
Plan for a roughly 2–4 hour paddle. Spring and fall trips often require a wind shell and/or wool, fleece or thermal layers; be prepared for changing conditions and possible rain.
Dress for the conditions and pack water or a sport drink, snacks, sunscreen, water-friendly footwear, hat and sunglasses. In your vehicle keep a towel, dry shoes or sandals and a change of clothes.
Meet at Camp Hi Canoe & Kayak and launch from the SR44 boat launch; decide your route at put-in—west into Bridge Creek or east into the main lake—and set a pre-arranged return time.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
How long will the paddle take?
Approximately 2–4 hours.
Where is the put-in and meeting point?
Meet at Camp Hi Canoe & Kayak and use the SR44 boat launch as the typical put-in.
Which direction should I paddle from the launch?
You can head west to explore Bridge Creek, the primary tributary that creates LaDue Reservoir, or head east into the main lake.
What wildlife or fishing can I expect?
Bald eagles nest on the reservoir; fishing is good for walleye, largemouth bass, bluegill, yellow perch, white and black crappie, and channel catfish.
What should I bring with me on the paddle?
Dress for the conditions and bring water or a sport drink, snacks, sunscreen, water shoes, hat and sunglasses. Keep a towel and dry change of clothes in your vehicle.