Best Fishing in the US

Are you looking to find the best fishing in the US? Well, look no further; I’ve got you covered.

I did extensive research, scouring the most popular videos and articles to develop a general consensus on the top fishing spots in the United States.

The guide I created below is the result of that research and will take you through the top states and then the top cities that offer some of the most exciting and rewarding fishing opportunities. The top cities aren’t necessarily within the top states, so there are some surprises ahead.

But from Freshwater fishing to Saltwater and Deep Sea Fishing, there is a little bit for everyone.

Best Fishing States in the U.S.

The United States is rich in diverse ecosystems, making it a paradise for fishing enthusiasts. Each state offers unique angling experiences, from saltwater coasts to freshwater lakes and rivers. Let’s dive deeper into some of the best fishing states in the U.S:

1. Michigan

Often touted as a freshwater fishing paradise, Michigan is surrounded by the Great Lakes and is interspersed with numerous inland lakes and rivers.

• Species: Renowned for its plentiful populations of walleye, bass, salmon, and trout.
• Locations: Major fishing destinations include Lake Michigan, Lake Huron, and Lake Superior.
• Skill level: Michigan’s diverse fisheries make it suitable for both beginners and experienced anglers.

2. Florida

With miles of coastline and diverse inland waterways, Florida stands out as a premium fishing destination.

• Species: Known for tarpon, bonefish, permit, sailfish, marlin, and tuna.
• Locations: Key fishing spots include the Florida Keys, Tampa Bay, and the Everglades.
• Variety: Florida offers both backcountry and offshore fishing experiences suitable for freshwater and saltwater anglers.

3. Alaska

Alaska, often regarded as a fishing utopia, boasts pristine and productive fishing grounds.

• Species: Rich in salmon, halibut, and many other species.
• Locations: Prime fishing locations include Kenai River, Bristol Bay, and Kodiak Island.
• Experience: Alaska’s wild, untouched waters make it an ideal spot for adventurous fly fishing or deep-sea fishing enthusiasts.

4. Minnesota

Also known as the “Land of 10,000 Lakes,” Minnesota offers numerous freshwater fishing opportunities.

• Species: Noted for its walleye, bass, and northern pike.
• Locations: Major fishing destinations include Lake Superior, Mille Lacs Lake, and Lake Minnetonka.
• Family-friendly: With a variety of fishing experiences available, it’s a great place for family fishing trips.

5. Texas

Teeming with lakes, rivers, and coastal waters, Texas is a hotspot for diverse fishing experiences.

• Species: Famous for its largemouth bass, catfish, and redfish populations.
• Locations: Popular fishing locations include Lake Fork, Sam Rayburn Reservoir, and the Gulf Coast.
• Community: Texas has a passionate community of anglers and hosts numerous fishing tournaments throughout the year.

6. Maine

With its cold-water fisheries and untouched wilderness, Maine is a top destination for fly fishing.

• Species: Offers excellent opportunities to catch brook trout, landlocked salmon, and smallmouth bass.
• Locations: Prime fishing spots include Moosehead Lake, Kennebec River, and Sebago Lake.
• Fly-Fishing: Known for its beautiful and serene fly-fishing locations.

7. Hawaii

Offering unique deep-sea fishing experiences, Hawaii is a dream destination for many anglers.

• Species: Catch blue marlin, spearfish, mahi-mahi, ono, and tuna year-round.
• Locations: Top fishing destinations include Kona, Maui, and Oahu.
• Deep-Sea Fishing: Hawaii is renowned for its deep-sea fishing charters and big game fishing opportunities.

8. Rhode Island

Despite its small size, Rhode Island offers a big fishing experience with both freshwater and saltwater opportunities.

• Species: Rhode Island’s waters teem with species like striped bass, bluefish, and flounder.
• Locations: Key fishing spots include Narragansett Bay, Block Island, and the Sakonnet River.

9. Wisconsin

Wisconsin, with its numerous lakes and rivers, is a haven for freshwater fishing, especially bass fishing.

• Species: Wisconsin’s waters are teeming with muskie and smallmouth bass, attracting anglers from far and wide.
• Locations: Popular fishing spots include Lake Winnebago, Green Bay, and the Chippewa Flowage.
• Experience: Whether you are looking for a relaxing afternoon by the water or a serious fishing adventure, Wisconsin caters to all types of freshwater anglers.

10. Montana

Known for its clear, cold waters, Montana is a favorite among fly-fishing enthusiasts.

• Species: Montana is home to a diverse range of trout, including rainbow trout, brown trout, and cutthroat trout, which makes for a challenging yet rewarding fishing experience.
• Locations: Major fly fishing locations include Yellowstone, Missouri, and Big Hole.
• Fly-Fishing: Known for its beautiful landscapes and excellent trout fishing, Montana is a dream destination for fly-fishing enthusiasts.

Best Fishing Cities in the U.S.

1. Florida Keys, Florida

The Florida Keys, a 125-mile-long arc of islands, is a fishing paradise. Here’s what you can expect:

• Inshore Fishing: The backcountry waters of Florida Bay are teeming with game fish. Anglers can target species like tarpon, redfish, bonefish, permit, and snook.
• Offshore Fishing: The deep-sea areas offer some of the world’s most exciting sport fishing. Expect to encounter species like marlin, sailfish, and swordfish.
• Local Fishing Charters: Numerous local fishing charters are available to guide you to the best spots, providing expert advice and equipment.

2. Outer Banks, North Carolina

The Outer Banks is a sport fisherman’s dream, offering diverse angling opportunities. Here’s a breakdown:

• Brackish Fishing and Fly Fishing: These are popular activities in the area, with a variety of species to target.
• Offshore and Inshore Charter Fishing: Charter services are available for both offshore and inshore fishing, providing opportunities to catch a variety of species.
• Billfish Capital of the World: The region sees hundreds of blue marlin, white marlin, and sailfish caught and released annually.
• Local Fishing Tournaments: These events add to the excitement and offer a chance to compete with other anglers.

3. Kona, Hawaii

Kona, with its deep waters just a couple of miles from shore, is a top fishing destination in the Pacific Ocean. Here’s what it offers:

• Deep-Sea Fishing Charters: Kona is known for its deep-sea fishing charters. Anglers can target species like blue marlin, striped marlin, spearfish, tuna, mahi-mahi, and ono (wahoo).
• Reef Fishing: This offers the chance to catch various species of grouper and snapper.
• Local Fishing Guides: Local fishing guides can provide expert advice and equipment, enhancing your fishing experience.

4. Lake Tahoe, California

Lake Tahoe, the largest alpine lake in the US, offers excellent fishing opportunities amidst stunning mountain scenery. Here’s what you can expect:

• Species: Anglers can target lake trout, rainbow trout, brown trout, and kokanee salmon.
• Best Time to Fish: Late spring and summer are the best times to fish in Lake Tahoe.
• Local Fishing Charters: Numerous local fishing charters are available to guide you to the best spots, providing expert advice and equipment.

5. Colorado River, Colorado

The Colorado River is a popular destination for fly fishing. Here’s a breakdown:

• Species: Anglers can catch rainbow trout, brown trout, and cutthroat trout in its clear, cold waters.
• Fishing Methods: The lower section of the river is best fished by drift boat, and nymph and streamer fishing are typically the most productive methods.
• Local Fishing Guides: Local fishing guides can provide expert advice and equipment, enhancing your fishing experience.

6. Lake Austin, Texas

Lake Austin is known for its excellent bass fishing. Here’s what it offers:

• Species: Anglers can target largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, and Guadalupe bass.
• Fishing Spots: The lake offers a variety of fishing spots, including jetties, beaches, and piers.
• Local Fishing Guides and Charters: Local fishing guides and charters can provide expert advice, equipment, and guided trips.

7. Islamorada, Florida

Islamorada, known as the “Sportfishing Capital of the World,” offers a wide range of fishing opportunities. Here’s what you can expect:

• Backcountry Fishing: Anglers can target tarpon, bonefish, and permit in the backcountry waters.
• Offshore Fishing: Offshore fishing offers opportunities to catch sailfish, marlin, and tuna.
• Reef and Wreck Fishing: The area is also known for its excellent reef and wreck fishing, targeting species like grouper and snapper.
• Local Fishing Charters: Numerous local fishing charters are available to guide you to the best spots, providing expert advice and equipment.

8. Thousand Islands, New York

The Thousand Islands region, located on the eastern edge of Lake Ontario in the St. Lawrence River, is home to a variety of freshwater fish. Here’s a breakdown:

• Species: Anglers can expect to catch bass, salmon, walleye, northern pike, and muskellunge.
• Fishing Opportunities: The area offers diverse fishing opportunities, from trolling and casting to fly fishing and ice fishing.
• Local Fishing Guides: Local fishing guides can provide expert advice and equipment, enhancing your fishing experience.

9. Venice, Louisiana

Venice, Louisiana, is a popular destination for both inshore and offshore fishing. Here’s what it offers:

• Species: Anglers can expect to catch redfish, speckled trout, flounder, and various deep-sea species like tuna, marlin, and mahi-mahi.
• Fertile Fishing Grounds: The Mississippi River Delta provides fertile fishing grounds, attracting a wide variety of fish species.
• Local Fishing Charters: Local fishing charters are available to guide you to the best spots and provide equipment.

10. Traverse City, Michigan

Situated on Lake Michigan’s Grand Traverse Bay, Traverse City offers a rich diversity of fishing experiences. Here’s what anglers can look forward to:

• Inland Lake Fishing: The nearby inland lakes teem with a variety of species including walleye, pike, and panfish, providing rewarding fishing experiences.
• Bay Fishing: The East and West Arms of Grand Traverse Bay host an array of game fish such as salmon, lake trout, smallmouth bass, and perch. No matter if you’re a fan of trolling, spinning, or fly fishing, Traverse City caters to all.
• Charter Fishing Services: Traverse City is home to several charter fishing services that provide guided tours, expert advice, and necessary equipment. This makes it an ideal spot for both seasoned anglers and beginners.

11. Destin, Florida

Known as the “World’s Luckiest Fishing Village,” Destin offers a variety of fishing opportunities. Here’s what you can expect:

• Species: Whether you’re into inshore, offshore, or deep-sea fishing, you can expect to catch species like red snapper, grouper, amberjack, and king mackerel.
• Reef and Wreck Fishing: The area is also known for its excellent reef and wreck fishing, targeting species like cobia, snapper, and grouper.
• Local Fishing Charters: Numerous local fishing charters are available to guide you to the best spots.

FAQ’s

Sources:

• https://fla-keys.com/fishing/
• https://www.outerbanks.org/things-to-do/water-activities/fishing/
• https://fishingstatus.com/fishing/destination/kona
• https://fishingbooker.com/reports/destination/us/HI/kailua-kona
• https://visitlaketahoe.com/fishing/
• https://fishingbooker.com/blog/lake-tahoe-fishing/
• https://visitglenwood.com/things-to-do/fishing/colorado-river/
• https://www.vailvalleyanglers.com/colorado-river-fly-fishing-report
• https://fishingbooker.com/blog/fishing-in-florida-keys/
• https://www.gohawaii.com/islands/hawaii-big-island/things-to-do/water-activities/Fishing
• https://www.laketahoe.com/top-10-fishing-spots-in-lake-tahoe