The Best Places To Fish In The United States

Boat and bank fishing

Last updated on February 18, 2026.

Fishing Lures This great country has many, many awesome places to fish. Different states, different climates, a host of different fish species, and more bodies of fishing water than one could imagine. Here we list some of our top choices in a number of categories.

America's 5 Great States, To Go Fishing

Based on popularity of angler choices, these are among the best states for fishing. Several others could easily make this.

Florida
Texas
Michigan
Montana
Louisiana

Florida

Florida offers unmatched saltwater and freshwater diversity in one state. Anglers can catch largemouth bass in world-class lakes, then pursue tarpon, snook, redfish, and offshore pelagics the same week. The Everglades, Gulf Coast, and Atlantic waters provide year-round action with minimal off-season downtime. Florida’s warm climate supports consistent fishing opportunities and large fish growth rates. For variety, accessibility, and the ability to fish twelve months a year, Florida stands out as one of the most versatile fishing destinations in America.

Texas

Texas combines expansive freshwater reservoirs with extensive Gulf Coast access. The state is famous for trophy largemouth bass, catfish, crappie, and hybrid stripers, while its coastal bays produce outstanding redfish, speckled trout, and flounder fishing. Large public lakes and abundant shoreline access make it approachable for boaters and bank anglers alike. The size of Texas also means diverse ecosystems—from piney woods to desert reservoirs—providing year-round fishing potential across multiple climates.

Michigan

Surrounded by four Great Lakes, Michigan offers unmatched freshwater variety. Salmon, steelhead, lake trout, walleye, smallmouth bass, and perch thrive in massive open waters and countless inland lakes. Rivers across the state provide strong trout and steelhead runs. Ice fishing is also a major draw in winter. The combination of coldwater and warmwater fisheries, plus easy public access, makes Michigan one of the most well-rounded freshwater fishing states in the country.

Montana

Montana is legendary for trout fishing. Iconic rivers and high-quality tailwaters produce exceptional populations of rainbow, brown, cutthroat, and brook trout. Scenic mountain lakes add further opportunity, and public land access is extensive. The state emphasizes conservation and habitat quality, helping maintain strong fisheries. While not as diverse as coastal states, Montana’s reputation for consistent trout action, clear waters, and stunning landscapes makes it a premier destination for anglers seeking classic Western fishing experiences.

Louisiana

Louisiana offers outstanding freshwater fishing driven by fertile river systems, oxbow lakes, reservoirs, and sprawling backwater swamps. The Mississippi River floodplain creates nutrient-rich environments that support fast fish growth and high catch rates. Anglers can target largemouth bass in legendary waters like Toledo Bend Reservoir and countless cypress-studded bayous, while crappie, bluegill, and redear sunfish provide consistent action in lakes. Catfish, especially blue and flathead, grow to impressive sizes in major river systems. Long growing seasons allow extended fishing opportunities, and abundant public access keeps the sport widely available.