For all those who love fishing, this article is a must-read. Fishing is one of the best ways to enjoy your much-awaited vacation. With fishing, you get to fully enjoy, create the best of memories, and have some delicious dinner after the hard struggle!
For the best catch, you need to know the best fish spots. These include lakes, rivers, streams, and seawater. There are infinite fishing spots where you can embrace the spirit of adventure.
If you are planning to try something new on your next big vacation, then fishing is one of the fun activities you can consider.
You just need a fishing rod and bait for fishing, and you are good to go. If you’re a newbie, a quick search of the basic fishing techniques will do. So, pack your bags and get ready to explore some of the world’s best fishing spots. Don’t forget your camera!
Best Fishing Spots in the World
1. Lizard Island, Australia
This Island in Australia is one of the great fishing spots you can explore. The island is situated on The Great Barrier Reef and is easily accessible as the flights to this place are connected to all airports in Australia. It provides a variety of fish at different seasons, including the giant black marlin.
The other fish variety you can find in the waters around Lizard Island includes the Trevally, Mackerel, and Queenfish, among other species.
If you’re looking to catch the Black Marlin, it’s advisable to visit between September to December. This species comes around during that time of the year and the first seven days of October.
You also don’t need to worry about getting that big catch because you’ll find a crew to show you the perfect places to fish. For an unforgettable holiday, this destination won’t disappoint.
Apart from fishing, spectacular views, and luxurious resorts, you also get to have one of the most memorable experiences. So, whether you’re a professional fisherman or a first-timer, the fishing experience at Lizard Island will be like no other!
See Related: Best Family Vacation Spots in the World
2. Iztapa, Guatemala
Situated on The Pacific Coast, this is one of the best places to fish, especially from December through April, the prime season. Iztapa has the most fertile water for fishing, and some even consider it the capital of sailfish.
This variety is common with trophy fishers and other fishermen because of their large size and their high speeds. There are different varieties of fish, including the Wahoo, Mahi Mahi, and Yellowfin tuna.
If you’re fishing closer to the shore, you should expect to catch either the Cero Mackeral, Snook, or Roster fish. Fishing here is done traditionally by trolling with rigged ballyhoo.
You’ll come across beautiful lodges like the Blue Bayou Lodge, where tourists have been enjoying their trips to Iztapa for ten years.
3. Martha’s Vineyard
Martha’s Vineyard has one of the best fishing destinations for any surf fisherman. However, you can still make a good catch not far from the shores. The common varieties include Striped Bass, Bluefish, Bonito, and False Albacore, and also known as one of the best fishing spots.
The best season runs between May and October for Bluefish and Striped Bass. For Bonito, mid-August is the best season. The False Albacore can be found in plenty between August to early September.
This spot is situated in the middle of the migratory route, and natural bait is massive here, which is fish’s favorite food. Experienced fishers and locals mostly use casting poppers and parachute jigs to get a fantastic fishing experience.
See Related: Romantic Destinations in the World
4. Ocracoke Island, North Carolina
With Ocracoke Island situated not far from the Gulf stream, it’s famous for surf fishing. Here the best time for surf fishing is in the fall and spring months. This area is one of the best places to fish the rare Red Drum.
It’s hard to catch; hence, fishermen mostly use 12 ft surf rods to catch the fish. Other fish varieties in the waters include sharks, bluefish, Spanish mackerel, pompano, flounder, spots, croaker, and sea mullets.
Aside from the exceptional views, the Island provides cheap accommodations to its anglers, and they even have shops providing all kinds of materials required for fishing. However, you need to get an N.C Coastal Recreational Fishing License for that.
See Related: Best Tropical Vacation Spots in the World
5. East Cape-Baja, Mexico
East Cape Baja is one of the many fishing destinations you can explore. It has a wide variety of Blue, Black, Striped Marlin, Sailfish, Wahoo, Roosters, and Dorado. It’s a suitable place for any angler that wants to catch some big fish.
Although May to November is the peak season, these blue waters always have year-round opportunities for a good catch. Some of the inshore species include the Rockstar and Roosterfish.
With a beautiful silky sandy beach, this island also has some of the best accommodations and sports fishing. The tranquil and scenic beauty is great for those memorable vacation photos. If you’re looking for accommodation, check the list of hotels to book in East Cape.
See Related: Best Beach Vacation Spots in the World
6. Hatteras, North Carolina
Hatteras is one of the best fishing vacation destinations. There are several options to choose from, from the Pamlico Sound docks, and Soundside canals to the ocean waters. The Hatteras inlet is one of the ideal spots for catching large inshore and offshore species.
Although some of these spots are seasonal, you can never miss some action. This location in the Atlantic is famous for various fish, including Yellowfin Tuna, Red drum fish, King Mackerel, Marlin, and Mahi Mahi.
You should ensure that you’re conversant with the local fishing regulations and guidelines. For instance, anyone above 16 years needs a saltwater fishing license. The fish is caught here with lures and chunks by the flying-fishing technique, which couldn’t be less fun.
See Related: Most Beautiful Cities in the World
7. Kona, Hawaii
Have you been thinking of landing that trophy blue marlin? A fishing trip to Kona, Hawaii, is one way to catch some fish and have a great time. Hawaii is one of the world’s top deep-sea fishing destinations, and it is the capital of sports fishing as well.
It is surrounded by five majestic mountains and breathtaking tropical views. Here you will find plenty of fish like Tuna, Marlin, Wahoo, and many more.
Apart from this, you can find huge Pacific Bluefish weighing around 300 pounds approximately. Fishing across the sea is in itself a marvelous thing to explore.
8. Rio Colorado, Costa Rica
Rio Colorado is one of the most popular places to fish in South America. It’s recognized for the best snook and tarpon fishing.
The beautiful river of Costa Rica is not all to be missed. Suitable in the summer weather, this area is worth remembering, especially in case of fish fights. It is like a tug-of-war experience while catching fish here.
This fishing spot has a lot to offer, from Wahoos, Great Baraccuda, and Atlantic sailfish to more exotic species like silvery machete fish. The Rio Colorado Lodge resort remains open throughout the year; hence tourists can visit the area.
See Related: Most Beautiful Beaches in the World
9. Betty Lake, Colorado
This small-sized mountain lake is located not too far away from Denver or Boulder. It is situated in the beautiful landscape of Indian Peaks Wilderness. The lake is one of the best spots for trout fishing because of the wide variety of trout species.
These varieties include cutthroat trout, brown trout, etc. With the many fish varieties here, you have a high chance to get a bite!
The majestic mountains, trees, and shrubs contribute to the beautiful scenery. Suitable weather is mainly between June and July. The fishing experience here will be worth remembering.
10. Chalks Stream, England
Fly fishing is quite common in Chalks Stream. Here the dry fly fishing noble sport is quite common. The wild brown trout is one of the specie that you can expect to catch in upstream dry fly fishing.
Apart from the trout, the other species in this area include salmon, river otters, and sea trout. The Spring season is the best season to go fishing in this area.
It’s also one of the family-friendly places to fish, and it’s pretty affordable. So, if you want a beautiful fishing experience, then it’s a must-visit.
See Related: Most Romantic Cities in the World
11. Jerome Lake, Alaska
Jerome Lake is located a few miles from Bear Creek, this reservoir is also called Fair man Lake in Alaska. You will find Rainbow Trout fish in large numbers at this fishing destination.
Other species include the Arctic Grayling, Dolly Varden, Coho Salmon, and Slimy Sculpin. The view of this location is breathtaking and, of course, very photogenic. The late fall season is the most suitable for fishing here as it is migration time.
See Related: Best Islands to Visit in the United States
12. Pi-As Bay, Panama
If you are available in the winter and need to experience a high-class getaway, then Pi-As Bay is one of the best places to fish.
Here, you’ll find big and small fish. Small fish can be caught near the shore and big ones like the Blue Marlin and Sailfish out in the deep waters.
Apart from fishing, there are several hotels and bars where you can go and have fun or even get good accommodation.
13. Montauk, New York
Montauk is home to the greatest sport fishing on the east coast. Some of the fish you can catch inshore include flounder, porgies, bluefish, black fish, and striped bass.
For an offshore catch, you should expect to encounter several species like mahi-mahi, marlin, tuna, and shark. It is among the best fishing spots in America. You’ll get fishing opportunities during the migratory season or the fall fishing season.
Fishermen generally find smaller fish here as their fins get rubbed by the sandy shores of Montauk, but most of them weigh more than 40-50 pounds.
14. Cairns, Australia
Cairns is yet another famous fishing destination. From reef fishing, game fishing, and estuary fishing to lure & fly fishing, several things make it one of the many places to fish.
For a memorable fishing experience, there are several packages and charters that you can select. For thrill-packed adventures, you can indulge in sports fishing. This can involve chasing the Mahi Mahi and the sailfish.
Other fish species include the Barramundi, Mangrove Jack, Coral Trout, and cod and salmon.
15. Ascension Bay, Mexico
Ascension Bay is one of the best places to fish for fly fishing anglers. The Bay also has a protected snook population, which is also the biggest specimen in the world.
The peak months are from February to June; you will find here Bonefish, Tarpon, and Permit. Fishers who love the flat angle style, this spot will give you the best experience by using the famous flying-fish technique.
16. Lake Alen Henry, Texas
This lake or reservoir is famous for catching Largemouth Bass. Other common species include the spotted bass and white crappie. The fish are huge in size and hold a record of catching 5.62 pounds of bass.
It is a beautiful location that continues to attract more anglers. Here, the stocking of fish began in the year 1993, and since the number has increased day by day.
You should also ensure that you’re well informed of the fishing regulations, especially since they change every year.
See Related: Best Pink Lakes In the World
17. Umba River, Russia
Famous for catching Salmon fish, this river is one of the best places to fish. It was one of the first rivers in that area to open for fishing tourism, especially for foreign tourists.
They have also built accommodations in the form of lodges; hence a place to stay shouldn’t be an issue. Apart from the Atlantic salmon, other quality fish in the area include grayling and brown trout.
18. Fontenelle Creek, Wyoming
It is the newest addition to places to fish because people find this place quite adventurous due to its wild and remote nature. It’s situated on the Rocky Gap Ranch in Wyoming.
Here, you can find Great Dry Fly and Nymph, cutthroats, and Brookies fish. The best time to go fishing here is between June and September. Apart from this, you may also find Glides and Trout as well. It’s not a very crowded place as people are yet to discover this hidden gem of a fishing destination.
19. Boulder Creek, Colorado
Loaded with brown trout, Boulder is among many ideal places to fish for anglers. With the marvelous Boulder Creek cutting the Boulder Canyon from within the city, you enjoy fascinating views as you fish.
Here you may find much fish like Rainbow Trout, Bluegill, Black Crappie, Yellow Perch, Largemouth Bass, Channel Catfish, and many more.
The incredible thing about this location is that the fish are available throughout the year.
20. Alphonse Island, Seychelles
For unforgettable saltwater fishing, then Alphonse Island is a must-visit. It is a remote area, but the view here is exhilarating.
The island has luxurious accommodations, which include lounges and bars. The weather out here is always hot. This island is home to Blue Water fish species.
You will also find Sailfish, Wahoo, Dogtooth, Bluefin Tuna, Yellow Fin Tuna, and Dorado. You can have the best fly fishing experience here, and anglers will enjoy this challenge.
This list of the best places to fish is what any enthusiastic angler requires. These fishing destinations have plenty to offer, from big to small fish, ensuring you have the best experience. Most of these places also have accommodation nearby, so extending your fishing vacation should be a no-brainer.
Related Resources
- Most Beautiful Places in the World
- Best Road Trips in California
- Best Bungee Jumping Locations In The World
Lock In Your Travel Now
Find Cheap Flights
Use Skyscanner to find flight deals. As my personal favorite flight search engine, Skyscanner scours websites and airlines across the globe, leaving no stone unturned to help you find the best deal possible. And if you really want to take your savings to new heights, pair Skyscanner with Going (Formerly Scott's Cheap Flights). With access to exclusive mistake fares delivered straight to your inbox, you'll be packing your bags and jetting off on your next adventure before you know it.
Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is a low cost way to ensure your travel plans go smooth no matter what's thrown at it. Cover yourself against illness, injury and theft, and protect the arrangements you've made with our flexible travel cancellation insurance. My favorite options for travel insurance are:
Book Your Accommodation
In order to capture the widest selection of properties and the best price, use Booking.com as they have the cheapest rates for guesthouses, hotels, luxury condos, B&Bs and so much more.
Want More Destination Ideas Direct to Your Inbox?
Be sure to join the ViaTravelers Newsletter for expert tips, tricks and inspiration for your next travel journey!
Discover the Best Travel Tools
Be sure to visit our page on our favorite travel resources to learn how you too can visit over 10 countries in year.