Updated April 2026 — Alaska's rivers and coastal waters draw anglers from across the globe seeking salmon, halibut, and trophy trout. Before you cast a line in these pristine fisheries, securing a valid Alaska fishing license is mandatory. The process has never been simpler, with digital purchasing options that deliver your license within minutes. Regulations […]

With over 800 miles of trout water spanning from the misty peaks of the Smokies to the limestone valleys of Middle Tennessee, the Volunteer State offers anglers an extraordinary range of fishing experiences. Whether you're a first-time visitor planning a family vacation to Gatlinburg or a seasoned fly fisher seeking trophy browns on technical tailwaters, […]

What are the different types of mackerel fish? The mackerel family encompasses over 30 distinct species across three main classifications: true mackerels (Scombrini) including Atlantic and Pacific mackerel with their signature wavy stripes; Spanish mackerels (Scomberomorini) such as King, Spanish, and Cero mackerel marked by spots and lateral lines; and broader mackerel relatives like Wahoo […]

Corpus Christi stands as the undisputed champion of Texas pier fishing in , offering anglers unmatched access to the Gulf's bounty without ever stepping foot on a boat. From the legendary Red Dot Pier lighting up the night with non-stop action to the recently reconstructed Bob Hall Pier welcoming anglers back after extensive renovations, these […]

New Jersey's reputation as a fishing destination has never been stronger heading into . With over 400 publicly accessible lakes, ponds, and reservoirs spread across the Garden State's diverse geography, anglers from New York City to Philadelphia discover world-class freshwater fishing within an hour's drive. The state's commitment to fisheries management, combined with natural advantages […]

California's incredible diversity of fishing lakes makes it one of the premier freshwater angling destinations in the United States. From volcanic crater lakes in the north to desert reservoirs in the south, the Golden State offers anglers access to over 3,000 named lakes and reservoirs, each with unique character and fishing opportunities. This comprehensive California […]

Yes, smallmouth bass are absolutely safe to eat, and many anglers rank them among the finest tasting freshwater fish in North America. Despite lingering taboos in some sport fishing circles, these members of the Centrarchidae family deliver firm, white flesh that rivals popular food fish like walleye, crappie, and perch. The hesitation around eating bass […]

Yes, you can absolutely eat crawfish. These freshwater crustaceans are completely safe when properly cooked to an internal temperature of at least 145°F and sourced from reputable suppliers. A single 3-ounce serving delivers 14 grams of high-quality protein with only 70 calories, making crawfish one of the most nutritious shellfish options available in . This […]

Quick Answer: Yes, you can eat fish bones from certain small, soft-boned fish like sardines, anchovies, and smelt, especially when properly cooked or canned. However, most fish bones from larger species should never be eaten as they pose choking and perforation risks. If you accidentally swallow a bone, 99% pass through harmlessly within 24-48 hours. […]

That scrappy little fish with the fiery red eyes staring back from your stringer might just be the most misunderstood panfish in North American waters. Rock bass have occupied a strange middle ground in angling culture for generations—dismissed as "trash fish" by trophy hunters yet celebrated as spirited fighters by those who appreciate their aggressive […]