Whether you are an avid angler or just fell in love with the art of fishing, it is hard to resist a good old classic fishing adventure. There is nothing quite hitting the road with some good friends in pursuit of some fish. Luckily, North America is known for its breathtaking freshwater lakes full of aquatic life and various fish species. Take in all that mother nature has to offer by planning your next vacation around fishing. Here are the top ten freshwater lakes to fish at in America.
So make sure to grab your lucky pole, your bait, and if you don’t have a Tailored Tackle box, be sure to get one, especially if it will be your first fishing trip! It is time to go fishing!
1. Lake Erie, Ohio
As one of the Great Lakes on the border of Canada and the US, Lake Erie is a premier fishing destination. Although it is one of the bigger lakes in North America, its waters are relatively shallow, which allows the water to warm up pretty quickly in the summer months. The warm water makes it ideal for catching fish like salmon, carp, and rainbow trout. At Lake Erie, the early bird (or fish) gets the worm, so it’s best to head out as the sun comes up.
2. Lake Fork, Texas
If you love fishing out of a boat surrounded by nothing but the elements, then Lake Fork in Texas is the lake for you. With four public boat launch sites and various marinas, there is always a new part of the lake to explore. Lake Fork is known for its trophy-sized largemouth bass that roam the waters. You’ll also catch crappies, catfish, and other various species.
3. Lake Okeechobee, Florida
Lake Okeechobee translates to “big water” in the Seminole Indian language, so no wonder it is Florida’s biggest freshwater lake. It is also home to some of the most enormous largemouth basses you will ever catch, coming in at a whopping average of 5-10 pounds. As long as you stay clear from the alligators, you’ll have yourself quite a day. Other species regularly caught range from catfish, bluegills, speckled perch, and more.
4. Lake Tahoe, California
If you are ever visiting California, you have to check out Lake Tahoe, known for its magnificent dark blue waters and its immaculate fishing. As the largest Alpine Lake in North America, anglers reel in brown trout, rainbow trout, salmon, and mackinaw. However, it is important to note that you can only keep five fish at a time.
5. Chickamauga Lake, Tennessee
Chickamauga Lake in Tennessee offers some of the best fishing you’ll ever see year-round. You heard that right, you can catch catfish, largemouth bass, sunfish, striped bass, and more no matter what the season is. With excellent boat access and multiple shoreline spots, Chickamauga can’t be beat.
6. Sebago Lake, Maine
With over 105 miles of shoreline, Sebago lake is one of the biggest freshwater lakes in all of Maine. The Lake is carefully stocked with various species, from landlocked salmon to rainbow trout, making it a fishermen’s dream. If you’re looking for the best secret spots throughout the lake, you can make a reservation with one of the many professional guides who could help you catch a big one.
7. Lake of The Woods, Minnesota
Known as the “Walleye Capital of the World,” anglers from all over make the journey each year to reel in some trophy-sized walleyes. Other species include muskie, smallmouth bass, northern pike, and sturgeon. With warm waters in the summer, the lake freezes in the winter, providing some of the best ice fishing there is.
8. Lake St. Clair, Michigan
With 420 square miles of open water, Lake St. Clare is teeming with fish of all kinds. With 160 miles of beach, this lake is perfect for on-shore fishing excursions. If boating is more your style, you can rent a charter boat and reel in some trophy-sized walleyes and smallmouth bass.
Find Out For Yourself
No matter which lake peaked your attention the most, there are tons of fish just waiting to get caught. It is time to start crossing some lakes off your bucket list! So pack your bags, hit the road, and happy fishing!
