You don’t have to visit the ocean to catch impressive fish. The different freshwater biomes in your area—lakes, rivers, creeks—offer their own diverse selection of wildlife, and that includes fish. When you know what you’re fishing for, you can more easily pick a spot to reel them in. These are just a few of the best freshwater fish to catch this summer. Look up what’s in your local lake too!
Bass
Both the largemouth and smallmouth varieties are popular catches during the summer. They are abundant in lakes and rivers spanning the whole continental US, and they put up a sporting fight. Bass react well to tackle like jigs and spinnerbaits.
Crappie
Like bass, crappies are abundant in lakes and rivers across the country, and they taste delicious with a little lemon juice! You’ll find them in abundance in cooler waters, especially at night. Use brightly colored jigs if you’re in murky waters or fishing at night. Keep a supply of live minnows on hand too!
Trout
Wake up with the sun, take your boat out to the middle of the lake, cast your line, and wait. Trout are particular about temperature; they prefer to swim in cooler and deeper waters and will search them out. They like live, fresh bait like crawfish and minnows. Try suspending a piece of food from a bobber. Fishing for trout takes patience!
Catfish
These fellows also enjoy cool water. When it seems like nothing’s biting, like all the fish have retreated after a storm or cold front, you may just find a bottom-feeding catfish. Do some research on what fish you’ll find in your local lake or river, and have a supply of fresh bait on hand.
Bluegill
Did you know that more bluegills are caught every year than any other species of fish in the country? They are bountiful in many lakes and rivers and make a tasty addition to any dinner table. Late in the afternoon, just before you call it a day, peek into shallower waters like those under docks. You may just reel in the catch of the day.
This summer, as you take your boat on the lake, don’t forget your fishing gear. You’ll find many diverse fish species in any river, lake, or creek in the country. Learn what’s biting near you, and make a day out of it. These are the best freshwater fish to catch this summer; start reeling them in now!