Best Places To Fish in Kentucky

By AA-Fishing Staff Writers

Kentucky offers an abundance of fantastic fishing spots for anglers of all levels of experience. The purpose of this page is to share information about the best fishing lakes in the state, listed by species.

Some of the best places to fish in Kentucky include Kentucky Lake, Lake Cumberland, and the Cumberland River. These renowned fishing destinations are known for their diverse fish populations and picturesque surroundings.

When it comes to popular species, Kentucky is famous for its bass fishing, with both largemouth bass and smallmouth bass being highly sought-after catches. Anglers can also target other popular species such as crappie, catfish, and muskellunge. Whether you prefer casting for bass, trolling for crappie, or battling a trophy catfish, Kentucky's waters provide thrilling opportunities for a variety of species.

The best season to fish in Kentucky largely depends on the species you're targeting. Spring and early summer are prime times for bass fishing, as the fish become more active after the colder months. Crappie fishing is excellent in the spring when the fish move into shallower waters to spawn. Catfish are often most active during the warmer months, with summer offering great opportunities for catching these bottom-dwelling giants. Additionally, fall is an ideal time for muskellunge fishing, as these elusive predators become more active before the winter months.

It's important to note that specific fishing seasons and regulations may vary depending on the body of water and the species being targeted. Checking with the Kentucky Department of Fish and Wildlife Resources for up-to-date information on fishing regulations and licensing is essential to ensure compliance and the preservation of Kentucky's fisheries.

Whether you're a local angler or visiting Kentucky, the state's diverse fishing spots, abundant species, and well-managed fisheries offer an unforgettable fishing experience. From reeling in trophy bass to filling your cooler with crappie, Kentucky's waters have something to offer for every angler throughout the seasons. So grab your fishing gear, explore the best fishing spots in Kentucky, and get ready to create lasting memories on the water.

There are many great places to fish in The Bluegrass State. Lush green countrysides envelop rivers, streams and ponds across the state. Here, we focus on lakes, and KY has lots of good fishing lakes to choose from.

Kentucky's Top-Five, Amazing Fishing Spots

Diversity, along with a long-standing reputation for good fishing, is what makes these lakes some of the best places to fish in the state. Multiple species all growing fat and healthy in fertile fisheries. Learn more...

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Most Popular Fish Species In Kentucky

Both species of crappie, four species of catfish, four species of bass, walleye, striped and hybrid bass, and a host of other fun fish to catch. Take your pick of everything from small sunfish to giant stripers. Learn more...

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Top Places To Fish For Crappie In Kentucky

The state record for crappie is over 4 3/4 pounds, and there are lots of two to three pounders swimming in lakes across the state. You can hardly go wrong starting with these three lakes, but there are many other lakes with great crappie fishing as well. Learn more...

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Best Lakes To Fish For Catfish In Kentucky

River systems flowing into sizeable lakes create ideal conditions for growing big catfish. These are three of the best places to fish for catfish in the state, with multiple others close behind. Learn more...

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Best Bass Fishing Lakes In Kentucky

Big bass and lots of them is what drives anglers to these three lakes in search of bass. State records for both largemouth and smallmouth are in the double digits. Bass populations are healthy providing anglers both quantity and quality. Learn more...

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Best Lakes For Striped Bass Fishing In Kentucky

Striped bass exceeding fifty pounds and hybrids exceeding twenty pounds draw anglers to Kentucky, looking for the best place to catch stripers. These lakes, and several others, are well worth the effort when you plan your next striper fishing outing. Learn more...

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Best Walleye Fishing Lakes In Kentucky

Walleye are native to the state, and have had their numbers improved by introducing Lake Erie walleye into some of the state fisheries. The state record exceeds twenty pounds, and three to six pounders are common. Learn more...

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Enjoy these top spots to go fishing in Kentucky