Fishing Locations

Whether you're after freshwater or saltwater species, the U.S. offers a variety of world-class fishing destinations. Here are some of the best fishing spots across the country:

Best Freshwater Fishing Locations 1. Lake Fork, Texas

• Famous for largemouth bass, with many record-breaking catches.
• Well-managed fishery with strict slot limits to maintain trophy-sized fish.

2. Lake Okeechobee, Florida

• One of the top bass fishing lakes in the country.
• Shallow waters with abundant vegetation provide excellent fishing conditions.

3. Lake St. Clair, Michigan

• Renowned for smallmouth bass, walleye, and muskie fishing.
• Accessible from both the U.S. and Canada.

4. Kenai River, Alaska

• Home to world-record king salmon catches.
• Also great for sockeye salmon, rainbow trout, and Dolly Varden.

5. Guntersville Lake, Alabama

• One of the best bass fishing destinations in the Southeast.
• Known for topwater and deep-structure fishing.

6. Columbia River, Oregon & Washington

• Prime fishing for salmon, steelhead, and sturgeon.
• Year-round opportunities with strong seasonal runs.

7. Lake Erie (Ohio, Pennsylvania, New York, Michigan)

• Famous for walleye, smallmouth bass, and perch.
• Ice fishing is popular in the winter months.

8. Devils Lake, North Dakota

• Excellent fishing for walleye, perch, and northern pike.
• Expansive waters with great year-round angling.

Best Saltwater Fishing Locations 9. Florida Keys, Florida

• One of the best saltwater fishing destinations in the world.
• Species include tarpon, bonefish, snook, and sailfish.

10. Outer Banks, North Carolina

• Prime fishing for red drum, bluefish, striped bass, and tuna.
• Offers great inshore and offshore fishing opportunities.

11. Montauk, New York

• Known as the "Fishing Capital of the Northeast."
• Offers excellent striper, fluke, and bluefin tuna fishing.

12. Chesapeake Bay, Maryland & Virginia

• One of the best places to catch striped bass (rockfish).
• Also home to blue crabs and various saltwater species.

13. Venice, Louisiana

• Famous for redfish, speckled trout, and tuna fishing.
• Excellent inshore and deep-sea fishing year-round.

14. San Diego, California

• Top destination for yellowtail, bluefin tuna, and calico bass.
• Great offshore fishing with access to deep waters.

15. Gulf Shores, Alabama

• Offers fishing for red snapper, king mackerel, and cobia.
• Great deep-sea and inshore fishing along the Gulf of Mexico.

16. Homer, Alaska

• The halibut fishing capital of the world.
• Also excellent for salmon and rockfish.

Choosing the Right Fishing Spot

• Freshwater vs. Saltwater: Decide based on the species you want to catch.
• Seasonality: Research peak fishing times for your target species.
• Regulations: Check local fishing laws and licensing requirements.
• Guided Trips: Consider charter boats for deep-sea or remote locations.

These locations offer some of the best fishing experiences in the country, whether you're after trophy bass, salmon, or offshore giants.