The Ohio Division of Natural Resources operates Knox Lake State Park, located at 17811 Buena Vista Dr, Fredericktown, OH 43019. This 756-acre wildlife area is in central Ohio, about 1½ miles northeast of Fredericktown. The lake now offers a BoardSafe Accessible Fishing Pier, accessible to all, and even accommodates persons in wheelchairs.
The Division of Wildlife maintains the amenities at the lake and fishing is one of its most popular recreational activities. Knox Lake has one of the best largemouth bass fisheries in the state and is heavily targeted for large trophy flathead catfish. Other fishing opportunities include black and white crappie, bluegill, channel catfish, and yellow perch.
History of the Lake
Knox Lake was built by the ODNR Division of Wildlife in 1954. Its purpose was primarily for recreation. After nearly 60 years of service, the Knox Lake Dam required repair for the safety of its visitors.
In June 2020, the Division of Wildlife invested significant resources to repair, renovate, and replace parts of the dam, spillway, and main boat access. Improvements also allow them to control lake levels and prevent erosion. Public safety was the primary goal of this project, and the improvements to its fishing areas have made it a popular place to visit and a favorite fishing destination for decades to come.
Specifications of the BoardSafe Accessible Fishing Pier
- one (1) 6’ wide x 20’ long aluminum gangway with dual-sided handrail and supplemental flotation
- one (1) Bulkhead Hinge Connection Kit
- two (2) 6’2” wide x 20’ long floating docks
- two (2) 8’2” wide x 20’ long floating docks
- three (3) transition strips connecting docks
- two (2) External Elongated Piling Guides
- fishing handrail around the perimeter of (2) 8’2” wide docks
Adaptive fishing piers and aluminum floating docks are unique because they are engineered and constructed with the adaptive athlete in mind, using ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) features. Whether you wish to enjoy a lakeside breeze or some exciting fishing, BoardSafe’s accessible aluminum fishing piers and floating docks provide accessibility for all.
The ADA features include a 1:12-slope aluminum gangway, as well as low-rise thresholds. The adaptive fishing piers, floating docks, and gangways have a 36″ continuous handrail along the perimeter, protective toe kick for wheelchair safety, and are consistent with ADA requirements. BoardSafe engineers its aluminum floating docks for adaptive fishing piers to provide maximum stability on the water.
To find out more about Adaptive Fishing Piers and installations, check out our website at BoardSafeDocks.com, or give us a call at 610–899-0286. Also, visit ADA Boat Launch, Floating Dock, and Fishing Pier.