The top fishing locations in the US

For many people, freshwater and saltwater fishing is a favorite pastime and the United States offers a plethora of waters containing plenty of fish. We’ve put together a list of some of the best places to fish in the country based on fisherman reports.

5 top fishing destinations in the US

1. Florida Keys

Florida is considered the fishing capital of the world. The Florida Keys include a 125-mile long arc of islands that has an abundance of fish all year long, either in its outer or inner curves. The outer curve is best known for saltwater deep-sea fishing and can be as close as five miles offshore to reach 600 feet deep and 17 to 20 miles out reaches depths of 2,000 feet. Common catches in the outer curve consist of kingfish, mackerel, jack, sailfish, swordfish, barracuda, and blue and white marlin. The inner curve is referred to as the backcountry and boasts of bonefish, redfish, snook, tarpon, and permit. (year round fishing)

2. Cape Hatteras, North Carolina

Cape Hatteras in the Outer Banks of North Carolina is considered a fisherman’s paradise, with world-class fishing both inshore and offshore all year round. Offshore fish include marlin, sailfish, tuna, and wahoo; inshore fish include speckled trout, flounder, striped bass, and red drum. Serious anglers travel here to fish and it has been called the sport-fishing capital of North Carolina. It is also called the “Graveyard of the Atlantic” because numerous shipwrecks have occurred here. To enjoy fishing safely, it is recommended to have some knowledge of the local waters or hire a local guide.

3. Montauk, New York

Montauk is a beach resort located on the eastern end of Long Island, New York, and is often called “The Living End.” It is one of the busiest tourist places in the town of East Hampton and famous for its fishing. It is considered the sport fishing capital of the world, claiming to have the world’s most saltwater fishing records. Montauk offers both inshore and offshore fishing year round. In shallow waters the catch consists of Cod, Green Bonito, Flounders, Porgies, Black Fish, Mackerel, Blue Fish, Fluke, and especially Striped Bass. If you venture out, dolphin fish, giant tuna, blue marlin, and shark.

4. Lake Fork, Texas

Lake Fork reservoir, located 90 miles east of Dallas, is 27,690 acres and has 315 miles of shoreline. The lake was designed to be a premier bass fishing destination and currently holds records for 34 out of the Top 50 largemouth bass caught in Texas. Other fish include Catfish, Black and White Crappie, Sunfish, and Bluegill. There are several private marinas and four public boat ramps. Weather is mild year round and the scenery is spectacular for a memorable fishing trip.

5. Lake Mead, Nevada

Lake Mead is the largest reservoir with maximum water capacity in the United States. It has a maximum depth of 465 feet and has 150,000 surface acres. The majority of the water in the reservoir comes from melting snow from the Rocky Mountains. The lake is known for its striped bass, where a catch can weigh over 40 pounds. Other popular catches include, trout, crappie, bluegill, green sunfish, and catfish. Fishing season is open year round, however, the best months for fishing are from July through December. Many people choose to fish at night for a relaxing evening.

We hope this provides you with some great locations for your next fishing experience. Before you venture out, be sure to research fishing requirements and regulations in each state, so you have the proper licensure and know the rules.Also, check local reports for the area you are heading to in order to learn where the fish are biting, what’s working best, and the weather conditions.

Another consideration for your fishing trip is boat insurance. Markel boat insurance protects you if you become legally liable for someone else’s injuries or property damage due to a boating accident. In addition, Markel Boat Insurance helps cover the cost to repair or replace your boat in the event of an accident, fire, theft, or vandalism.

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