The best fishing spots aren’t on the internet. They’re found by exploring, paying attention, and sometimes just dumb luck. Here’s how I’ve found mine.
Study Maps First
Topographic maps show structure underwater – points, drop-offs, creek channels. Google Earth reveals access roads and shoreline features. Study the maps before you drive anywhere.
Look for features that concentrate fish: where creeks enter lakes, points that extend into deeper water, isolated structure in otherwise featureless areas.
Walk the Banks
Explore on foot. Overgrown access points that cars can’t reach often mean less fishing pressure. Small creeks feeding larger waters can be gold mines that nobody fishes.
Look for signs of fish activity – baitfish jumping, birds diving, surface disturbance. Also look for signs of other anglers – worn paths usually lead somewhere worth going.
Talk to Locals
Bait shops know what’s biting where. So do dock workers, park rangers, and old-timers sitting on benches. Most fishermen love talking about fishing. Just don’t ask for their exact spot.
Try Unpopular Times
Weekday mornings. Bad weather days (safely). The shoulder seasons before and after peak times. Good spots that are crowded on weekends might be empty on a Wednesday.
Keep Records
Mark productive spots on a personal map or GPS. Note conditions, time of year, what worked. Over years, you build a database of reliable locations for different seasons and species.
Protect What You Find
Secret spots stop being secret when you post them online. Keep the good ones to yourself or share only with trusted friends who’ll do the same.
