The Monongahela River is pretty calm in rural parts. Local creeks can also be good after it rains but can have some rapids. I look for rougher waters because I enjoy the thrill. I also own a racing kayak that’s meant for stuff like that lol. My stepfather has a sit inside fishing kayak and it does okay in shallower waters, but I always scout ahead to warm him of obstacles lol. Ohiopyle is also an insanely popular spot to kayak and has all levels of difficulty. Can’t really say more without doxxing my location lmao.
As for fishing, I don’t take part in it, but big catfish are very very common. Relatives regularly catch 1-3 ft fish. They like cicadas if you can get some when they’re out. I’ve also seen people use chicken livers. A lot of people make their own bait concoctions as well. There are also loads of carp that eat the same stuff as catfish. Bluegill are common but aren’t big enough to eat. I recommend being careful with where you catch your fish if you intend to eat them. Researching the history of the waterways to see their pollution history is very helpful when determining if a fish is safe to eat imo.
You also gotta be careful of water moccasins. They like to swim around. See at least one every time I kayak (which isn’t as often as I would like. It’s been a few years because my stepfather and I have been dealing with health issues and all the bullshit that comes with home ownership. Adult life, amirite. T_T)
No problem! There’s a LOT of coal mining and steel mills and other industrial stuff in this area and it pollutes everything. The Mon river is a lot cleaner than it was when my parents were kids (they’re approaching 50). There’s a creek by me that I kayak in sometimes that I won’t eat anything out of. The water failed numerous tests over the years and most people tell you to not eat the fish lol.