Best US Fishing States in 2024: The Ultimate Ranking

Fishing is a beloved pastime for many Americans, and the US boasts some of the world's most productive fisheries. With so many options, where should you cast your line? FishingBooker has unveiled the top fishing states for 2024, considering factors like fish populations, accessibility, and community support. Let's dive in!

Key Takeaways

• Alaska takes the top spot, moving up from 4th in 2023.
• Florida and Michigan, last year's shared winners, now hold 2nd and 4th place respectively.
• Delaware remains strong in 3rd, while South Carolina jumps to 5th.
• The top 10 includes states from the Atlantic, Pacific, Gulf Coast, and Great Lakes.
• Landlocked states dominate the bottom 25.
  
  

Methodology

FishingBooker's research considered 17 criteria, grouped into four categories:

• Community
• Facilities
• Financial
• Geography
  
  

Each state received a score for each criterion, with some criteria weighted more heavily. The maximum possible score was 210 points.

Top 10 Fishing States

1. Alaska (117 points)

• Vast coastline and freshwater resources.
• Home to all five Pacific Salmon species, Halibut, Rockfish, and Trout.
  
  

2. Florida (114 points)

• Excellent saltwater fishing on both the Atlantic and Gulf coasts.
• Top-rated facilities.
• Abundant Redfish, Tarpon, Snook, King Mackerel, Grouper, Snapper, and Sailfish.
  
  

3. Delaware (108 points)

• Strong fishing community.
• Balanced freshwater and saltwater opportunities.
• Popular catches include Bass, Crappie, Muskellunge, Striped Bass, Flounder, and Black Seabass.
  
  

4. Michigan (105.5 points)

• Access to four Great Lakes.
• Top scores in the Geography category.
• Walleye, Trout, Salmon, Bass, Northern Pike, and Muskellunge are abundant.
  
  

5. South Carolina (102.5 points)

• Significant improvement from last year's ranking.
• Excellent inshore and offshore fishing.
• Target Spotted Seatrout, Redfish, Tarpon, Wahoo, Mahi Mahi, and Kingfish.
  
  

6. Maine (102 points)

• Affordable fishing destination.
• Diverse saltwater and freshwater fishing.
• Catch Striped Bass, Pollock, Haddock, Sharks, Bluefin Tuna, Bass, Trout, Perch, and Pike.
  
  

7. Louisiana (101.5 points)

• Affordable and geographically diverse fishing.
• World-class shallow water and Gulf fishing.
• Reel in Redfish, Black Drum, Speckled Trout, Flounder, Red Snapper, Yellowfin Tuna, Wahoo, Mahi Mahi, and Billfish.
  
  

8. Hawaii (101 points)

• Stunning scenery and exciting deep-sea fishing.
• Affordable despite new saltwater fishing licenses.
• Target Billfish, Yellowfin Tuna, Mahi Mahi, Bonefish, Trevally, and Barracuda.
  
  

9. Georgia (100 points)

• Strong fishing community.
• Less crowded than neighboring Florida.
• Fish for Kingfish, Red Snapper, Redfish, Bass, and Trout.
  
  

10. North Carolina (99 points)

• Vibrant fishing community.
• The Outer Banks offers world-class big game and inshore fishing.
• Catch Blue Marlin, Bluefin Tuna, Redfish, Spanish Mackerel, Bass, Crappie, and Catfish.
  
  

Conclusion

Whether you're a seasoned angler or just starting, these top 10 states offer incredible fishing opportunities. Consider your preferences and target species when planning your next fishing adventure!

Remember: Fishing regulations and seasons vary by state. Always check local guidelines before heading out.