From the California Delta to the 10,000 lakes of Minnesota, and every creek and riverbend in between, there is no end in sight to the debate of which state enjoys the best bass fishing. Rather than making it a contest, we believe that anglers should simply enjoy the incredible wealth of bass fishing available from coast to coast. That’s why we’ve compiled this list of 6 states that every avid angler absolutely must visit to cast a line at least once!
Alabama
The Yellowhammer State hosts a bevy of fishing tournaments throughout the year and it’s no wonder why. Lake Guntersville is a favorite of many an angler nationwide because it routinely yields 10-pound largemouth bass. That is not to say, however, that Alabama does not boast other incredible fishing spots, too. Pickwick Lake and Lewis Smith Lake are both packed with bass, making them just as compelling for fishing enthusiasts.
Michigan
Being surrounded by Great Lakes makes Michigan an obvious bass fishing sanctuary. Specifically, Lake Erie is renowned as being home to some of the world’s finest smallmouth water. Plus, as you venture inland, you are sure to find an abundance of lakes and rivers that are teeming with bass. Beloved destinations in Michigan include Hubbard Lake, Marble Lake, and Houghton Lake.
Texas
As the largest of the lower 48 states, Texas does not allow a single square foot to go to waste. For decades, anglers have traveled to Texas in pursuit of huge 10-pound bass, and they’ve found them in the incredible network of lakes, rivers, and streams that extends to every corner of the state. Be sure to cast a line at Lake Fork Reservoir, Galveston Bay, or Lake Ray Hubbard at least once in your life.
California
If you’ve been hunting for a trophy, then California is calling your name. Here, bass sometimes exceed 15 and even 20 pounds in size, providing passionate anglers with a catch they’ll never forget. The Delta area is especially ripe with bass – experienced anglers can end their day with a haul of 40-50 fish. Besides the Delta area, you also can’t go wrong fishing in Clear Lake or Castaic Lake.
Florida
Lake Okeechobee is Florida’s crown jewel of bass fishing, though the Sunshine State is also home to an incredible selection of other locations, as well. Lakes in Florida have deep water, lots of grass, and make for great spawning habitats. Be sure to take advantage of these factors by swinging through in the heart of summer. After fishing the hallowed waters of Lake Okeechobee, we also recommend stopping by for a cast at Lake Kissimmee and Rodman Reservoir, too.
Minnesota
It’s not called the “Land of 10,000 Lakes” for no reason. Up north in Minnesota, anglers can enjoy the best of both quality and quantity. Many of the state’s famous lakes are home to healthy populations of both smallmouth and largemouth bass. You may not find the biggest catch of your life in the waters of Minnesota, but you will certainly end your day with dozens of caught bass to your name. Anglers absolutely must check out Red Lake and Steiger Lake before leaving.
Having so many incredible angling opportunities throughout the country is not something that any angler should take for granted. We know that everyone has their own preferences, which is what makes it especially important for you to get out and see what all these awesome states have to offer. Before putting together your bass fishing bucket list, make sure you have a high-performance fishing boat that can support your endeavors! Blazer Boats offers a leading selection of fishing boats that are built for high performance anglers. Review our models online today to see what you’re missing out on!