In 1896, Erie was the freshwater fishing capital of the world, (1880-1915). Blue Pike was the main catch; they are now extinct. Perch and whitefish were also caught, as well as sturgeon. I’m not sure what this particular boat was in the 1896 photo. The primary fishing boat in use in in Erie’s fishing heyday was the 29′ Erie Boat. We built a reproduction with school students, 4th grade through 12 grade.

Fishing Erie 1896