I’ve spent 25 years writing about the world’s waters, and you’ll see why these American lakes keep calling me back. If you crave big strikes and calm mornings, I know you’ll treasure every moment here.

Highlights I’d Share With You:

  • I swear you’ll feel the thrill when you hunt trophy bass on Florida’s mighty Lake Okeechobee—every cast keeps me guessing.
  • You can fill coolers with walleye and perch on Ohio’s slice of Lake Erie, and I always leave grinning.
  • If you love delicate presentations, you’ll savor fly-rodding trout at Utah’s Flaming Gorge Reservoir; I still replay those rises in my mind.
  • I’ve hauled hefty catfish and slabs of crappie from South Carolina’s Santee Cooper Lakes, and you will too if you anchor right at dusk.
  • Bring the family to Alabama’s Lake Guntersville; I promise you’ll watch kids reel in smiles while I chase my next personal best.

Unique Fishing Lakes

First: Toledo Bend Reservoir, Texas-Louisiana

Toledo Bend Reservoir, Texas-Louisiana

st_matty/stock.adobe.com



Fish or boat along scenic shores—an affordable trip for families and weekend fun.                 

Second: Lake Erie, Ohio

Lake Erie, Ohio

gregmrotek/stock.adobe.com



Visit sandy beaches or explore lighthouses for a quick, refreshing summer escape.                 

Third: Clear Lake, California

Clear Lake, California

Dudarev Mikhail/stock.adobe.com



Savor wine and lake views, or go kayaking on a relaxing romantic getaway.                 

Fourth: Sturgeon Bay, Wisconsin

Sturgeon Bay, Wisconsin

homank76/stock.adobe.com



Discover charming harbors, stroll waterfront trails—ideal for couples or retirement travelers.                 

Fifth: Lake Dora, Mount Dora, Florida

Lake Dora, Mount Dora, Florida

Photoman/stock.adobe.com



Admire historic boat tours, explore antique shops for a fun weekend outing.                 

Sixth: Delta Reservoir, Ohio

Delta Reservoir, Ohio

smiltena/stock.adobe.com



Fish calm waters or hike forest paths during a peaceful fall day trip.                 

Seventh: Falcon Reservoir, Texas

Falcon Reservoir, Texas

Dmytro Titov/stock.adobe.com



Cast a line in quiet coves, or explore nature on this affordable adventure.                 

Eight: Lake Fork, Texas

Lake Fork, Texas

pressmaster/stock.adobe.com



Enjoy exciting bass fishing or walk nature trails on a cheap outdoor escape.                 

Ninth: Lake Mille Lacs, Minnesota

Lake Mille Lacs, Minnesota

johnsroad7/stock.adobe.com



Sail across scenic waters, see historic sights on a unique international lake trip.                 

Tenth: Lake Champlain, New York-Canada

Lake Champlain, New York-Canada

jiawangkun/stock.adobe.com
 

Frequently Asked Questions:

  • Where can anglers enjoy fishing in the United States?
    • The United States has an abundance of wonderful bodies of water where avid anglers can enjoy their favorite hobby.
  • Are many of the best fishing lakes natural or man-made?
    • Many of the finest lakes are man-made and serve as important water sources for urban centers.
  • What kinds of fish can anglers expect to catch?
    • Varieties of fish occur naturally or have been introduced into reservoirs for fishing enjoyment.
    • The most targeted fish include:
      • Largemouth bass
      • Various species of trout and salmon
      • Perch
      • Bream
      • Crappie
      • Catfish
  • What other activities are available for non-fishing visitors?
    • These lakes offer a range of diverse outdoor recreation for non-fishing family members, including:
      • Camping
      • Swimming
      • Bird-watching
      • Hiking
      • Water sports

Best Time to Visit Fishing Lakes in the United States

  • April to June – Spring brings active fish, rising water levels, and prime freshwater fishing conditions.
  • May & June – Ideal for bass, trout, and panfish in lakes across the country.
  • July to August – Warm weather is great for early morning or evening fishing; summer crowds peak.
  • September to October – Cooler temps trigger feeding frenzies in many fish species, especially bass and walleye.
  • November to March – Ice fishing thrives in northern lakes; southern lakes offer quieter year-round angling.

Map:


Plan Your Trip