Cast a line in all the best fishing spots across the Southeast United States

The southeastern United States is a paradise for anglers, boasting a diverse array of fishing destinations that range from winding rivers to expansive coastal waters. Within this region, casual and experienced fishing enthusiasts will have several opportunities to reel in a variety of species. We’ve rounded up some of the best ones throughout North Carolina, South Carolina, Georgia, Florida, Alabama, Arkansas, Louisiana, Mississippi, Tennessee, and Kentucky, so dive in with us!

1. Outer Banks, North Carolina

The Outer Banks offers several types of fishing, including surf, pier, fly, brackish, and charter fishing. Here you’ll find bluefish, marlin, mackerel, bass, and tuna. If you love the sport of fishing, this is the place for you. Anglers should be aware of size and bag limits for different species, as well as any seasonal closures or gear restrictions. Special regulations may apply to certain species. A valid North Carolina fishing license is required for anglers aged 16 and older.

2. Roanoke River, North Carolina

Engage in some float fishing, wade fishing, and bank fishing along the Roanoke River, where you’ll find bass, redeye, bluegill, catfish, and trout on a regular basis. Size and bag limits may apply along with special regulations depending on the section of the river. You’ll also need a valid North Carolina fishing license.

3. Lake Murray, South Carolina

Spread out along 650 miles surrounding Lake Murray, which is especially known for bass and striper fishing. Check the South Carolina Department of Natural Resources regulations for size and bag limits for different species, as well as any special regulations for Lake Murray. A valid South Carolina fishing license is required for ages 16 and older.

4. Santee Cooper Lakes, South Carolina

If you want to catch a massive catfish, this is the place to do it. You can also come here for different varieties of bass. Check the South Carolina Department of Natural Resources regulations for size and bag limits for different species, as well as any special regulations or seasonal warnings for the Santee Cooper Lakes. A valid South Carolina fishing license is necessary.

5. Lake Lanier, Georgia

Game fishing is at its prime on this serene lake bordered by tall trees and rocky shores. You’ll find trout, catfish, bass, bluegill, walleye, crappie and more here. Anglers should be familiar with size and bag limits for different species, as well as any special regulations for Lake Lanier. A valid Georgia fishing license is required for anglers ages 16 and older, with some exemptions for residents.

6. Lake Oconee, Georgia

Bass, crappie, and catfish anglers should check out Lake Oconee. Just be sure to bring a Georgia fishing license and be aware of size and bag limits for different species.

7. St. Johns River, Florida

Trophy-sized largemouth bass can be found in this river, as well as crappie, catfish, striped bass, and redfish. Anglers should check the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission regulations for size and bag limits for different species, as well as any special regulations for the St. Johns River. A valid Florida fishing license is required for anglers aged 16 and older.

8. Everglades National Park, Florida

The Everglades National Park provides unparalleled opportunities for both freshwater and saltwater fishing, which means you’ll need the correct license to pull fish from particular waters. Make sure to pay attention to seasonal closures, restricted areas, and size and bag limits as well. Once you get past the nitty-gritty, you could reel in bass, bluegill, crappie, snook, redfish, trout, or snapper, depending on where you choose to cast a line.

9. Mobile Bay, Alabama

Mobile Bay offers excellent saltwater fishing for species such as speckled trout, redfish, flounder, and more. All skill levels can enjoy their time here too. Just be aware of size and bag limits for different species, as well as any seasonal closures or restricted areas. Special regulations may apply to certain species. A valid Alabama saltwater fishing license is required for anglers ages 16 and older, with some exemptions for residents.

10. Mobile-Tensaw Delta, Alabama

The Mobile-Tensaw Delta is a famous fishing spot for locals and travelers, with prime opportunities to catch bass, bream, crappie, speckled trout, redfish, and flounder. Make sure you’re licensed to fish in Alabama and are aware of size and bag limits here.

11. Lake Barkley, Kentucky

Lake Barkley offers a robust population of largemouth bass, crappie, catfish, bluegill, and white bass. Anglers of all skill levels will love it here, but they should be aware of size and bag limits for different species, as well as any special regulations for Lake Barkley. A valid Kentucky fishing license is required for people ages 16 and older.

12. Kentucky Lake, Kentucky

Adjacent to Lake Barkley is Kentucky Lake, renowned for its excellent bass and crappie fishing. Catch two fish with one line by visiting both of these places while you’re in the area. Just pay attention to any special regulations unique to Kentucky Lake, and make sure to have a valid Kentucky fishing license.

13. Lake Ouachita, Arkansas

This 40,000-acre lake is the largest in the state, featuring outstanding bass fishing, as well as opportunities to catch striper, walleye, and crappie. Keep in mind that it is part of a state park, and also pay attention to size and bag limits. Anglers ages 16 and older will need a valid Arkansas fishing license.

14. Lake Dardanelle, Arkansas

Huge catfish roam these waters, along with crappie, largemouth bass, white bass, and bream. This is a popular spot for many anglers, so get here early and be prepared with your Arkansas license and knowledge of size and bag limits.

15. Lake Pontchartrain, Louisiana

The brackish waters in this lake are home to speckled trout, redfish, flounder, sheepshead, and bass, all of which are sure to challenge anglers who visit. Observe size and bag limits for different species, as well as any seasonal closures or restricted areas. A valid Louisiana fishing license is required for anglers aged 18 and older.

16. Mississippi Gulf Coast

Several miles of space allow anglers to catch speckled trout, redfish, sheepshead, and flounder, among other varieties. Check the Mississippi Department of Marine Resources regulations for size and bag limits for different species, as well as any seasonal closures or restricted areas. A valid Mississippi saltwater fishing license is required for ages 16 and older, with some resident exceptions.

17. Pascagoula River, Mississippi

The Pascagoula River is an excellent fishing site where you can hunker down and search for bass, crappie, catfish, and bream. Before you go, check for limitations and regulations, and make sure you have a valid Mississippi fishing license.

18. Norris Lake, Tennessee

Norris Lake has earned a reputation for superb smallmouth bass fishing, but anglers can find crappie, walleye, and striped bass there too. Check the Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency regulations for size and bag limits for different species, as well as any special regulations for Norris Lake. A valid Tennessee fishing license is required for everyone ages 13 and older.

19. Chickamauga Lake, Tennessee

Chickamauga Lake is renowned for its trophy-sized bass fishing, plus bluegill, redear sunfish, walleye, sauger, and catfish. Check for size and bag limits and regulations for this lake, and don’t forget your Tennessee fishing license.

Each of these fishing spots offers its own unique charm and opportunities to reel in some impressive catches. As always, be sure to check local regulations, obtain the necessary permits and licenses, and practice ethical and sustainable fishing practices to ensure the health and preservation of these fishing areas for future generations. With proper preparation, anglers of all skills and interest levels can enjoy a memorable fishing experience in the abundant waters of the Southeast United States.

Fishing pole, check. Tackle box, check. Snacks for the boat, check. Now that you’ve packed everything, it’s time to buckle up because wearing a seat belt saves lives!