6 family-friendly fishing destinations to check out now

Note: All travel is subject to frequently-changing governmental restrictions—please check federal, state, and local advisories before scheduling trips.

Looking for a calm, refreshing way to recharge your batteries? Try dropping a line in the great outdoors! The U.S. is home to some of the best and most diverse fishing destinations in the world. Everyone from beginning fly-fishers to expert deep-sea anglers can find a top-notch fishing experience any time of year. From the salty sea air of the Florida Keys to Colorado’s crisp mountain breezes, here are six fishing destinations to gather your family for a trip they won’t soon forget!

Key West, FL

Beginners will have a ball fishing in America’s southernmost point. It’s one of the most dynamic and diverse fishing spots in the world. On one half-day adventure you can reel in bonefish in the straights, lemon sharks in the shallows, and barracuda almost everywhere. Every fish here has a different style of catch, so hire a private charter or join a fun-filled group fishing charter to see who can reel in the most. It’s highly unlikely, but even if you don’t catch anything, your family will still fall in love with the city’s vivacious streets and delicious seafood spots. Book this 2-bedroom sunset view condo that sleeps six on the east side of the island, and have access to both a pool and hot tub!

Green Bay, WI

Green Bay may be well known for football (go, Packers!), but it’s also pretty famous for its monster walleye. They say the bigger the lake, the bigger the fish. That’s certainly the case for massive Green Bay, an arm of Lake Michigan. In spring, walleye move from the river systems into the bay, so it’s the best time to hook one of these tasty freshwater behemoths. Get the full Green Bay experience and stay right by the water at this 2-bedroom water view cottage complete with outdoor space. You’ll definitely be using the BBQ to grill up all your fresh catch!

Page, AZ

Northern Arizona boasts some of the most epic topography on the planet thanks to the Colorado River. It flows down from the silvery shores of Lake Powell, snaking its way through dramatic canyons, each more impressive than the last, until it reaches the Grand Canyon. Venture on a half or full day fly-fishing excursion along Lee’s Ferry, a 13-mile stretch of the river near Page that includes famous Horseshoe Bend. This adventure will be be equal parts fly-fishing and sightseeing. It’ll be tough look down and focus on the trout when towering cliffs soar to the sky 900 feet above. Great fishing often means great scenery too, but this location definitely takes the cake. Make your base this split level home near Antelope Canyon, featuring 2 bedrooms and a covered porch with outdoor kitchen and dining area. It’s located in a family-friendly community just minutes from the Colorado River.

The Catskills, NY

Located just 2 hours north of NYC, the Catskills is a bucolic region in upstate New York filled with charming small towns, craft breweries, artisan stores, and an abundance of outdoor adventure. One of the activities the region is best known for is fly-fishing. In fact, the town of Roscoe is affectionately referred to as “Trout Town, USA.” Creeks like the Willowemoc and the Esopus are brimming with thousands of rainbow and brown trout in the springtime. Your family will love throwing on some waders and stepping into the creek to cast a line. There are some great local guides who can join you for a half or full day fly-fishing experience and teach you the tricks of the trade, and charming mountain homes and quaint cabins are in no short supply. We love this tranquil 2-bedroom home with both lake and mountain views.

Port Aransas, TX

The Gulf of Mexico is rife with big fish, especially some of the more exciting catches like marlin and tuna. Bring the whole family down to the warm sunny shores of Texas in spring and get out on the Gulf for a thrilling full-day fishing charter. Hire a captain who will take you out around towering oil rigs, then venture out even further to snag the big ones. You might want to practice some arm curls now, because reeling in a 200-pound mackerel is no joke. Meanwhile, Port Aransas offers a lively coastal town vibe just outside of Corpus Christi. Port A, as the locals call it, has everything from beautiful beaches and family-friendly seafood spots to mini golf and ocean activities. Stay at this fresh, beach-chic 2 bedroom cottage in the beloved beach community of Cinnamon Shore. The picturesque seaside community offers tons of fun for all ages.

Estes Park, CO

The Rockies are home to some of America’s most jaw-dropping scenery. Come springtime, the crystal-clear snow run-off and warming weather creates prime fishing conditions in mountain towns like Estes Park. Get the whole family outside to try their hands at fly-fishing along majestic mountain streams. To make it easy on all ages, hire a guide. They’ll provide expertise and bring along all the gear you’ll need, and sometimes lunch, too! Book this 3-bedroom Rambling River Mountain Lodge and have a beautiful, palatial home base to return to after a day of outdoor adventure. It offers breathtaking mountain views, cozy cabin decor, and is less than a 20-minute walk to the entrance of Rocky Mountain National Park.