Fishing is a beloved pastime in the US, with 57.7 million Americans aged six and over participating in 2023. That’s a 6% increase from the previous year! With such widespread enthusiasm, identifying the best states for fishing becomes essential for anglers seeking top-notch experiences. But which one truly stands out? Let’s reel it in.
What Are the Best States for Fishing?
To determine the most suitable spot for your angling style, you need to keep in mind several factors. The first one is a variety of freshwater and saltwater fishing opportunities. Next is the number of licenses issued and the overall angling culture in each state. Based on these criteria, we’ve compiled the ultimate list of states that every angler should consider visiting this year.
After all, for true angling lovers, this is more than just a hobby – it’s a passion, a sport, and for some, even a way of life. Whether you prefer casting a line in crystal-clear rivers, battling bass in freshwater lakes, or testing your skills in the deep blue, the US has a spot for every type of angler. Without further ado, let’s take a trip through the best America has to offer.
Florida – The Fishing Capital of the World
No surprises here! When it comes to the best states for freshwater fishing, Florida is hard to beat, and it also doesn’t disappoint when it comes to saltwater environments. Its reputation as the “Fishing Capital of the World” is well-earned.
With over 7,700 lakes and 12,000 miles of rivers, it’s a paradise for anglers. The state is famous for trophy freshwater species, especially in Lake Okeechobee, where monster largemouth bass roam. Plus, with year-round warm weather, angling never stops in the Sunshine State. Here’s why it’s the best:
- Over 1,350 miles of coastline and thousands of freshwater lakes,
- Home to more than 900 different fish species,
- Consistently ranks #1 in the number of registered recreational boats.
Alaska – A Wild Angler’s Dream
Alaska isn’t just one of the best states for trout fishing but also an all-around angler’s paradise. With more than 94,000 square miles of freshwater and the longest coastline in the US, the opportunities here are endless. The state boasts pristine rivers with giant halibut in Homer and lakes packed with rainbow trout, Arctic char, and five species of salmon.
The Kenai River is legendary for producing massive king salmon, and the remote wilderness ensures a truly immersive experience. If you’re looking for adventure, this is the place to be. It is also home to the legendary Bristol Bay, one of the world’s most productive salmon fisheries, where over 50 million sockeye salmon return annually.
Texas – Bass Fishing at Its Finest
You know the saying – everything is bigger in Texas. Well, that includes the bass. The Lone Star State is one of the best states for bass fishing, thanks to top-tier spots like Lake Fork, Sam Rayburn Reservoir, and Falcon Lake. Anglers consistently reel in trophy-sized largemouth bass, making it a bucket-list destination for serious fishermen. Plus, Texas has mild winters, meaning you can fish almost year-round.
The state also boasts some of the best catfish fisheries in the country, with the Trinity River producing monster-sized blue catfish. Additionally, the Port Aransas area is a hotspot for offshore angling, where fishermen frequently reel in red snapper, kingfish, and sharks. Here’s why Texas is the best:
- 367 miles of Gulf Coast shoreline and thousands of inland reservoirs,
- Legendary largemouth bass angling in Lake Fork and the Sam Rayburn Reservoir,
- Strong angling community with over 2.5 million licensed anglers.
Montana – Fly Fishing Heaven
When it comes to the best states for fly fishing, Montana reigns supreme. The Big Sky State is home to some of the most breathtaking and productive trout waters in the country. The Yellowstone, Madison, and Missouri Rivers attract fly anglers from all over the world. With abundant rainbow and brown trout, plus stunning landscapes, Montana is an absolute must-visit.
In fact, Montana boasts approximately 450 miles of designated blue-ribbon trout streams, primarily in the western half of the state. These pristine waters provide exceptional angling opportunities for both novice and seasoned anglers.
Michigan – The Great Lakes Advantage
Michigan boasts more freshwater coastline than any other state, making it a paradise for anglers who mostly lurk in lakes and rivers. The state is famous for its diverse angling opportunities in the country, from salmon and steelhead in the Great Lakes to walleye and perch. Lake St. Clair is particularly known for its massive smallmouth bass population, making it a favorite among tournament anglers.
From late May to early July, northern Lake Michigan’s clear, shallow flats offer anglers the chance to sight-fish for carp, often referred to as golden bones due to their challenging nature and strong fights. Here’s why it’s the best:
- Over 11,000 inland lakes and 3,288 miles of Great Lakes shoreline,
- One of the highest per capita fishing participation rates in the country,
- Known for walleye, smallmouth bass, and steelhead trout.
California – An Angling All-Rounder
California offers everything, from deep-sea angling to fly fishing in picturesque mountain streams. The state is one of the best places to target trout, thanks to its countless alpine lakes and rivers. The Eastern Sierra region, particularly the Owens River and Lake Crowley, is a prime trout angling destination. If you prefer bass, the Sacramento-San Joaquin Delta is one of the top spots in the country.
Beyond its renowned rivers, Northern California boasts numerous stillwater fisheries. Lakes such as Trout Lake, Bass Lake, Baum Lake, and Manzanita Lake offer serene environments where anglers can fish amidst tranquil settings. After all, you wouldn’t name a lake after a fish if it wasn’t a good angling spot!
Wisconsin – A Freshwater Angler’s Paradise
If you love casting the line in lakes and rivers, Wisconsin is the right choice for your freshwater angling adventure. The state has over 15,000 lakes and is home to trophy-sized muskies, walleye, and smallmouth bass. The Mississippi River, Lake Michigan, and Lake Winnebago are top angling hotspots that attract anglers year-round.
But did you know there are more than 5,000 miles classified as high-quality, Class I trout streams? Wisconsin classifies these streams into three categories:
- Class I – high-quality waters with sufficient natural reproduction to sustain wild trout populations,
- Class II – waters with some natural reproduction but requiring stocking to maintain a desirable fishery,
- Class III – waters with marginal habitat, relying entirely on stocking to support trout angling.
Southwestern Driftless Area is renowned for its spring-fed creeks, characterized by limestone bedrock and fertile valleys. These nutrient-rich waters support abundant insect life, leading to prolific hatches and exceptional fly fishing opportunities. For freshwater fishermen, angling in Wisconsin for the rest of their lives would be more than enough.
Tennessee – Southern Fishing at Its Best
Tennessee is a hidden gem when it comes to bass angling and casting the line overall with over 22,000 miles of streams and 29 major reservoirs. With lakes like Chickamauga, Dale Hollow, and Pickwick, the state offers some of the best bass angling in the country. Its rivers, including the Clinch and Holston, also offer incredible opportunities when casting the line for trout, making it a great all-around fishing destination.
The South Holston River, often referred to as SoHo, is celebrated for its wild brown trout population, boasting nearly 8,500 of them per mile. On top of that, its consistent water temperatures support year-round angling opportunities.
Minnesota – The Land of 10,000 Lakes
Minnesota lives up to its nickname with endless angling opportunities. It’s another great spot for freshwater angling lovers. Why? Well, it offers everything from walleye and northern pike to bass and panfish.
Lake Mille Lacs and Rainy Lake are prime spots for trophy fish. Plus, with ice angling being a major pastime, Minnesota offers year-round outdoor fun. And here’s the best part, the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources offers resources for those interested in fly fishing, including guides on this type of angling and information on local opportunities.
Colorado – High-Altitude Fishing Bliss
If you’re into fly fishing, Colorado is one of the best states for this sport – and not just that. Colorado boasts over 9,000 miles of rivers and 2,000 natural lakes, providing anglers with a plethora of angling opportunities. The state is home to more than 320 miles of so-called Gold Medal trout streams, a designation by Colorado Parks and Wildlife for waters that offer the highest quality of large trout.
The state’s Rocky Mountain streams and rivers are full of trout, including brown, rainbow, and cutthroat species. The Arkansas River and Gunnison River are world-famous for their incredible fly fishing conditions, making Colorado a dream destination for trout enthusiasts.
Where Will You Cast Your Line Next?
These states offer some of the best angling experiences in the US, with diverse environments, healthy fish populations, and strong fishing cultures. Whether you’re an experienced angler or just getting started, there’s no shortage of incredible angling destinations to explore in 2025.
No matter where you choose to fish, always remember to check local regulations, obtain the necessary licenses, and practice responsible angling to ensure these waters remain productive for generations to come. So, where will you cast the line next?
Julie Grace
Julie is a passionate angler who proves that fishing is not just a man's world. Armed with her trusty rod and a contagious love for the sport, she's always ready to tackle any fishing challenge head-on. Her finesse and determination make her a force to be reckoned with, and her ability to reel in big catches is nothing short of fin-tastic.
