LeVar Thomas
There’s something about fishing that transcends the simple act of catching a fish. It’s about being present, unplugging, and connecting to nature in a deep, peaceful way. Whether you’re a seasoned angler or just want to try casting a line for the first time, the U.S. offers an extraordinary range of fishing experiences.
From saltwater adventures off the Florida Keys to serene fly fishing in Montana, we’re rounding up the 10 best fishing places in the U.S. for every type of traveler. These unforgettable spots combine natural beauty, accessibility, and great fish populations—making them perfect for your next outdoor escape. Grab your tackle box and let’s get into it.
1. Florida Keys, Florida – Best for Saltwater Variety
The Florida Keys are a dream destination for anglers. Stretching over 100 miles, this tropical island chain is world-famous for saltwater fishing—particularly tarpon, bonefish, and permit, a trio known as the “Grand Slam.”
Whether you’re fly fishing on the flats or heading offshore for marlin and mahi-mahi, the Keys offer year-round action, stunning water, and a laid-back vibe that’s hard to beat. Bonus: it’s an ideal spot for a combined fishing and beach vacation.
2. Kenai River, Alaska – Best for Trophy Salmon and Scenery
If wild, remote, and breathtaking is your vibe, the Kenai River delivers. This Alaskan river is one of the top fishing places in the U.S. for salmon, particularly king and sockeye varieties. It’s also one of the few places where you might see bears catching fish right beside you. Visit between June and August for the best salmon runs, and make time to explore nearby hiking trails, glaciers, and national parks.
3. Lake Fork, Texas – Best for Big Bass Hunters
If you’re chasing a personal best largemouth bass, Lake Fork should be on your list. Just 90 miles east of Dallas, this legendary lake has produced some of the biggest bass in Texas history. Stocked intentionally for trophy fishing, Lake Fork offers guided trips, excellent facilities, and easy access for both boats and bank anglers. It’s a must for any serious bass enthusiast.
4. Bighorn River, Montana – Best for Fly Fishing Beginners and Pros
Renowned for its clear water and consistent hatches, the Bighorn River in Montana is one of the most reliable fly fishing destinations in the U.S. With abundant rainbow and brown trout, it’s a great place to learn or perfect your fly fishing technique. The scenery—rolling hills, bald eagles, and wide-open skies—only adds to the experience.
5. Outer Banks, North Carolina – Best for Family-Friendly Coastal Fishing
The Outer Banks are more than a beach lover’s paradise—they’re also a top-notch fishing destination. This North Carolina string of barrier islands offers sound, pier, surf, and offshore fishing. Families can enjoy kid-friendly charters, and serious anglers can pursue tuna, red drum, and cobia. With charming towns like Duck and Nags Head nearby, the OBX delivers fun on and off the water.
6. Columbia River, Oregon & Washington – Best for Diverse Catches
The mighty Columbia River is a powerhouse of fishing diversity. Flowing through Oregon and Washington, it’s home to salmon, steelhead, sturgeon, walleye, and smallmouth bass. It’s also one of the few places in the world where you can catch prehistoric-looking white sturgeon that grow up to 10 feet long. Pro tip: hit the Bonneville Dam area in late summer for an epic salmon run.
7. Lake Champlain, Vermont & New York – Best for Scenic Freshwater Fishing
Straddling the border between Vermont and New York, Lake Champlain is a hidden gem in the Northeast. It’s one of the best fishing places in the U.S. for smallmouth bass, lake trout, northern pike, and landlocked salmon. The surrounding Green and Adirondack Mountains provide a postcard-perfect backdrop, and charming small towns like Burlington make it a top pick for relaxed fishing vacations.
8. Everglades National Park, Florida – Best for Ecotourism Meets Angling
For anglers who love nature just as much as the catch, the Everglades offers a unique fishing experience in one of the country’s most biologically rich ecosystems. You’ll find snook, redfish, and tarpon while navigating through mangroves and shallow bays. It’s a truly immersive trip, ideal for kayakers and low-impact adventurers.
9. Devils Lake, North Dakota – Best for Ice Fishing and Walleye Lovers
Devils Lake is a sleeper hit that belongs on every fishing enthusiast’s radar. Known for jumbo perch and trophy walleye, it offers outstanding year-round fishing—but ice fishing here is next-level. Locals turn the lake into a community on ice during winter, with heated shacks and guided tours for first-timers. It’s one of the most inclusive and friendly fishing scenes you’ll find anywhere.
10. Lake of the Woods, Minnesota – Best for Fishing and Cabin Life
With over 14,000 islands and 65,000 miles of shoreline, Lake of the Woods is a true angler’s paradise. Located at the northern tip of Minnesota, this lake is beloved for its massive walleye population, scenic beauty, and old-school fishing lodges. It’s perfect for groups, couples, or solo travelers looking to get off the grid and catch dinner right from the dock.
Your Next Fishing Adventure Awaits
Whether you’re into fly fishing, ice fishing, or just tossing a line off the dock, these best fishing places in the U.S. offer more than just great catches—they offer memorable travel experiences. Each destination is ideal for both beginner and seasoned anglers, and many of them double as great all-around getaways for families, couples, or solo travelers.
Pack your rod, pick your spot, and let AlwaysPacked.com help you plan your next cast-worthy vacation. And don’t forget—when it comes to fishing and travel, the journey is just as important as the catch.
