Fishing is one of the best ways to create lasting memories with your family. Whether you’re a seasoned angler or introducing the next generation to the sport, choosing the right destination makes all the difference. If you’re looking for the perfect spot for your next family fishing adventure, check out these 15 family-friendly fishing destinations across the U.S., where great fishing and fun activities for everyone await.
Plus, don’t forget to check out our upcoming RCT Bass Rod Series, launching in April 2025, designed to elevate your fishing experience on these top waters!
Ready some family friendly fishing destinations?
1. Table Rock Lake, Missouri
Popular Fish: Largemouth bass, crappie, bluegill
Family Fun: Table Rock Lake offers crystal-clear waters perfect for fishing. When you're not out on the lake, explore the nearby Silver Dollar City amusement park, enjoy a scenic boat tour, or hike the gorgeous trails in Table Rock State Park. The entire family will find something exciting to do here.
Family-Friendly Attractions:
2. Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming
Popular Fish: Cutthroat trout, rainbow trout, brown trout
Family Fun: Yellowstone is a family adventure like no other. Fish in serene rivers, explore Old Faithful and the park's famous geysers, or take a wildlife tour to see bison, elk, and more. Hike scenic trails or explore interactive exhibits in the park’s visitor centers.
Family-Friendly Attractions:
3. Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort & Campground, Florida
Popular Fish: Largemouth bass, bluegill, catfish
Family Fun: Combine the magic of Disney with fishing at Fort Wilderness Resort & Campground. Fish in the lakes or at nearby Bay Lake, then head to Disney World’s theme parks for endless family fun. Fort Wilderness also offers horseback riding and a petting farm for kids.
Family-Friendly Attractions:
4. Lake Tahoe, California/Nevada
Popular Fish: Trout, bass, bluegill
Family Fun: Lake Tahoe’s stunning alpine scenery offers fantastic fishing. Beyond fishing, families can enjoy skiing in the winter, hiking, biking, or taking a scenic gondola ride. There are also beaches and plenty of opportunities for paddleboarding.
Family-Friendly Attractions:
5. Outer Banks, North Carolina
Popular Fish: Redfish, striped bass, bluefish, flounder
Family Fun: The Outer Banks are a perfect coastal destination for family fishing. After fishing, climb Cape Hatteras Lighthouse, bike the beautiful trails, or visit the Wright Brothers Memorial. The whole family can enjoy the laid-back atmosphere and stunning natural beauty.
Family-Friendly Attractions:
Cape Hatteras National Seashore
Jockey's Ridge State Park
6. Flathead Lake, Montana
Popular Fish: Lake trout, yellow perch, smallmouth bass
Family Fun: Flathead Lake offers amazing fishing surrounded by mountain views. Rent kayaks or take a boat tour, hike the nearby trails, or visit Glacier National Park for a family adventure. The charming town of Kalispell offers shops and museums to explore after fishing.
Family-Friendly Attractions:
Glacier National Park
Wild Horse Island
7. Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Tennessee/North Carolina
Popular Fish: Rainbow trout, brook trout
Family Fun: Fish the Smoky Mountains' pristine streams, then hike to stunning waterfalls like Laurel Falls or take a guided horseback ride. The nearby towns offer fun family attractions, like mini-golf and museums.
Family-Friendly Attractions:
Laurel Falls Trail
Clingmans Dome
8. Lake Michigan, Wisconsin
Popular Fish: King salmon, lake trout, perch
Family Fun: Lake Michigan’s shoreline offers excellent fishing and a variety of activities for the whole family. Take a scenic boat tour, visit the Chicago Children’s Museum, or explore the Shedd Aquarium. You can also rent a boat to fish in more remote areas of the lake.
Family-Friendly Attractions:
9. Cape Cod, Massachusetts
Popular Fish: Striped bass, bluefish, flounder
Family Fun: Cape Cod offers not only fantastic fishing but also family-friendly attractions like the Cape Cod National Seashore, whale watching, and bike tours. Kids will love the Cape Cod Children’s Museum and the local ice cream shops.
Family-Friendly Attractions:
Cape Cod National Seashore
10. Lake Lanier, Georgia
Popular Fish: Largemouth bass, spotted bass, catfish
Family Fun: Lake Lanier is ideal for fishing and boating. The lake also has a water park, horseback riding, and hiking trails for the family. After a day of fishing, head to the Lanier Islands Resort for more family fun.
Family-Friendly Attractions:
11. San Juan Islands, Washington
Popular Fish: Chinook salmon, halibut, rockfish
Family Fun: The San Juan Islands offer incredible fishing and plenty of family-friendly activities. Take a whale-watching tour, visit Lime Kiln Point State Park, or enjoy kayaking around the islands. The islands are also full of charming shops and museums.
Family-Friendly Attractions:
Lime Kiln Point State Park
Whale Watching Tours
San Juan Islands Museum of Art
12. Traverse City, Michigan
Popular Fish: Walleye, bass, trout
Family Fun: Traverse City offers a unique combination of fishing, wineries, and family-friendly activities. Hike Sleeping Bear Dunes, visit the Great Lakes Children’s Museum, or explore the local cherry orchards and farms.
Family-Friendly Attractions:
Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore
13. Acadia National Park, Maine
Popular Fish: Atlantic salmon, brook trout
Family Fun: Acadia National Park offers an unforgettable family experience. After fishing in the park’s serene waters, explore Cadillac Mountain, go tide-pooling, or bike along the scenic paths. Don’t forget to stop by Bar Harbor for seafood and shopping.
Family-Friendly Attractions:
Cadillac Mountain
Sand Beach
14. Lake Havasu, Arizona
Popular Fish: Largemouth bass, striped bass, catfish
Family Fun: Lake Havasu is a perfect spot for fishing, boating, and watersports. Visit the iconic London Bridge, rent bikes to explore the area, or head to the nearby Havasu National Wildlife Refuge for hiking and bird watching.
Family-Friendly Attractions:
London Bridge
Havasu National Wildlife Refuge
15. Florida Keys, Florida
Popular Fish: Tarpon, snook, grouper, snapper
Family Fun: The Florida Keys offer incredible fishing opportunities for the whole family. Beyond the fishing, visit the Dolphin Research Center, take a glass-bottom boat tour, or explore the coral reefs by snorkeling or diving.
Family-Friendly Attractions:
John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park
Key West Butterfly and Nature Conservatory
Ready to Take Your Fishing Experience to the Next Level?
If you’re gearing up for a few family friendly fishing destinations this year, make sure you’re equipped with the best gear for the job. Our RCT Bass Rod Series, launching in April 2025, is designed to provide unparalleled performance for bass fishing. These rods are crafted for accuracy, strength, and sensitivity, helping you land that trophy catch while ensuring a smooth, enjoyable experience for anglers of all skill levels.
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