Which fishing vacation spots are on your must-visit list for this year? Maybe your goal is to find a fishing destination that offers consistent action for the kids, but that also provides the opportunity for you to pursue a few challenging game fish species. Well, don’t sweat it because there are plenty of freshwater and saltwater spots in the U.S. that make for fantastic fishing vacations. If you want to learn about some of the best places to fish with your family, check out these five destinations.
1. Big Green Lake, Wisconsin. The Big Green Lake is just 58 miles northeast from Madison, and you’ll arrive at this favorite summer family fishing spot. Bluegill, yellow perch, crappie, and white bass make ideal targets for families or beginners who want to fish from the shoreline using live baits. More experienced anglers can pursue game fish such as northern pike or muskellunge by boat using artificial lures. What’s one of the biggest advantages of fishing Big Green Lake? The fact that there are seven launches, making access to this waterway a breeze.
2. Fort Myers Beach, Florida. If you visit the town of Fort Myers Beach on Estero Island in Southwest Florida, consider taking the kids to fish from the Fort Myers Beach Pier at Lynn Hall Memorial Park. Spotted seatrout, mangrove snapper, catfish and pompano are just a few of the saltwater species that might grab the end of your line while fishing from this Gulf of Mexico spot. Of course, there are also plenty of places on Estero Island where you can rent a boat or charter a fishing guide as well. Plan on staying for more than just a day or two though because the inshore waters of Estero Bay are known to be prime habitat for brag-worthy catches such as snook, redfish, and tarpon.
3. Galveston Island State Park, Texas. The saltwater fishing fans in your family can have a blast reeling in speckled trout, redfish and flounder while fishing from the beach at Galveston Island State Park. Just remember to check a local tide chart before you venture out because the gulf tides and currents will dictate the best fishing periods. When the action slows down, you can hike, bike, picnic or paddle. Since there is plenty to do, it’s a good idea to stay at one of the beach or bay campsites or rent a cabin within the park.
The Women's Outdoor News, aka The WON, features news, reviews and stories about women who are shooting, hunting, fishing and actively engaging in outdoor adventure. This publication is for women, by women. View all posts by The WON
