With National Go Fishing Day (June 18) right around the corner, here are some of the best destinations around the United States for family travelers to catch a fish and enjoy the great outdoors.
For fishers looking for fun on the water, it’s hard to beat fishing in Panama City Beach. Located on Florida’s Panhandle, the crystal-clear waters are home to a variety of wildlife for inshore and offshore fishing. Both new and experienced casters can reserve a fishing charter for a deep-sea, catch-and-release experience in the Gulf of Mexico.
The best fish to catch in the destination are King mackerel, blues, redfish, flounder, pompano hardtail and cobia. During the summer months, fishers have a better chance to catch redfish in the bays and along the beaches, while red snapper, grouper and amberjack are typically found around the reefs. For those fishing in shallow waters, you’ll want to get an early start since the sun heats the water faster.
Located on Ogunquit’s shore, Cliff House Maine offers fishing experiences among local sights and scenery. Whether you choose a scenic lobstering cruise or a fishing trip, an experienced guide accompanies you through the trip. Cliff House partners with Captain Phil of Breton’s Charters to create family-friendly private charter experiences. When you book a lobstering or fishing excursion with one of these trusted vendors, the concierge team also reserve a table for you at The Tiller, Cliff House’s farm-fresh, fine-dining restaurant suspended above the ocean. The best fish to catch in the area are lobster, striped bass, bluefish and mackerel.
South Dakota
With more combined shoreline than Florida, South Dakota is the perfect destination for amateur and seasoned fishers alike. No matter your skill level, there is a fishing spot calling your name in the Mount Rushmore State. The Glacial Lake region, located in northeastern South Dakota, has more than 120 glacial lakes that attract fishers from all over. The southeast region features more than 175 fishing lakes, including both glacial lakes and manmade bodies of water.
South Dakota is home to a wide variety of fish, but the best to catch during the summer include walleye, smallmouth bass, black crappie, bluegill and chinook salmon.
Vail, Colorado
Located at the edge of Gore Creek’s gold metal waters, Grand Hyatt Vail is one of Vail Valley’s best destinations for your next fishing trip. The special gold metal designation is only assigned to water that consistently produces a trout standing stock of at least 60 pounds per acre. Fishers of all ages and skill levels can enjoy the water with guided or individual tours just steps from the hotel’s patio. The best fish to catch in the area include brown, rainbow, brook and cutthroat trout.
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