New parking restrictions affecting Maumee River Walleye Run

MAUMEE, Ohio (WTVG) - It’s almost the time of year when fishermen take to the Maumee River for the annual Walleye Run. But Maumee has new parking restrictions affecting some places where anglers have been parking for years -- and they’re not happy.

The City of Maumee posted new signage on the 500 and 600 blocks of West Harrison Street. During the fishing season, drivers are not allowed to park there between 6 a.m. and 6 p.m.

A city spokesperson told 13 Action News the city made the move after receiving several complaints in years past regarding fishermen vehicles blocking their driveways.

Mario Campos is the owner of Maumee Tackle Fishing Outfitters and he says the fishermen feel targeted by this move, and think it will turn some away.

“The Walleye Run attracts 10,000 walleye fishermen to the area. They come from all over the world. We get fishermen from China, Russia, Ireland, and then every single state in the U.S they come to visit Maumee, Ohio. That’s 10,000 out of towner’s coming to spend their money, if not more. It comes out to millions of dollars being spent over the next two months,” Campos said.

Campos acknowledged that their are other spots to park, but that the new restricted zones are significant spots.

“It’s one of the better spots on the river depending on the water levels. So at certain times of the year that grants us access,” Campos said.

13 Action News spoke to many residents on West Harrison Street who were split on the issue. They declined to go on camera. One resident said the parking change is not that big of an issue, while other’s say the change affects tradition, and that these fishermen bring a lot of business to the area.

Two residents told 13 Action News that they plan to attend an upcoming city council meeting to voice their concerns regarding these changes.

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