Middle Bass Island is the less popular neighbor of South Bass Island. It has not been commercialized like Put-in-Bay but is still a destination for travelers looking for a less crowded place to stay.
Like all of the Lake Erie Islands, it is a great spot for walleye, perch, and bass fishing. It also provides an excellent climate for growing grapes and, until the year 2000, was home to one of the largest wineries in Ohio.
Middle Bass Island History
While it is not as glamorous as South Bass Island’s War of 1812 victory, Middle Bass Island has its own story. It was discovered by the famous French explorer Robert de La Salle in 1679.
LaSalle and his men fell in love with the island's beauty, especially the many wildflowers that grew there. They named the island Isle des Fleures, which is translated as Island of Flowers.
The name stuck for 200 years until it was purchased by a German Count in the mid-19th century. A large winery was eventually placed on the island.
By 1875, the Golden Eagle Winery was the largest winery in the United States and was eventually purchased by the Lonz family.
The winery stayed with the Lonz family until the death of their patriarch, George Lonz. The Lonz winery was often compared to the German Rhineland due to its castle-like structures.
In 2000, the Lonz Winery met tragedy when a structure collapsed, leaving 1 dead and many injured. Lonz was purchased in 2001 by the state of Ohio, and the Middle Bass Island State Park was established.
Middle Bass Island Tourism
While it is not as popular as South Bass Island and Put-in-bay, it does offer a couple of nice places for lodging, great walleye fishing, and an excellent state park to visit.
St. Hazards is a nice resort that many use to take it easy after an exciting day at Put-in-Bay. The price is a bit more affordable; boats provide access to put-in-bay and the mainland, and it is relaxing.
While staying at St. Hazards, many will also visit Middle Bass Island State Park and enjoy the amazing scenery and wildlife.