Catch guides for the fish you chase.
Honest, evidence-based profiles of freshwater and saltwater fish - habitat, seasons, tackle, baits, and how to actually catch them. No fluff, no hype.
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Cleaning and Filleting Fish
There is a deep satisfaction in eating a fish you caught yourself. A meal of fresh fillets is the natural finish to a good day on the water, and it connects…
Fishing Licenses and Regulations Explained
Every angler, from the first-timer to the seasoned veteran, has to deal with one piece of fishing that has nothing to do with lures or technique: licenses and…
Farm Pond Fishing
Anglers spend fortunes chasing fish on massive reservoirs and famous rivers, while some of the best fishing in America sits quietly behind a barn, in a…
Bank Fishing Without a Boat
There is a myth in fishing that you need a boat to be successful. Plenty of anglers believe their best days are behind them because they sold the boat or never…
How Weather Affects Fishing
Two anglers fish the same lake with the same lures on the same spot. One has a great day and one gets skunked. Often the difference is not skill or luck, it is…
Best Times of Day to Fish
Every angler has heard it: "You should have been here yesterday" or "The bite was on this morning." Timing matters in fishing, sometimes more than your lure…
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Largemouth Bass
FRESHWATER FISH
Smallmouth Bass
FRESHWATER FISH
Rainbow Trout
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Bluegill
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Crappie
FRESHWATER FISH
Channel Catfish
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Walleye
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Northern Pike
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Brown Trout
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Brook Trout
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Yellow Perch
FRESHWATER FISH189 more →
See all fishBrowse by water type.
Every profile covers identification, habitat, seasons, tackle, baits, technique, and where the fish suits an angler best.
Freshwater Fish
110 species · full guidesDetailed habitat, seasons, tackle and technique for every freshwater fish.
Saltwater Fish
90 species · full guidesDetailed habitat, seasons, tackle and technique for every saltwater fish.
Frequently asked questions.
The things new anglers ask us most.
I've never fished before. How do I start?
You need less than the shops suggest: a simple rod-and-reel combo, a few hooks and some bait will catch fish. Our first fish walkthrough takes you from setup to your first catch in five steps, and Start Here covers the basics without the jargon.
Are Anglervale's guides free to read?
Yes. Every species profile and how-to on the site is free, with no login or paywall. The site is funded through clearly labelled affiliate links on gear recommendations, which never change the advice.
What's the best bait or lure to use?
It depends on the species and the season more than on any single "best" lure. Each species profile lists what actually works for that fish, our bait and lure guide explains when to use what, and what's biting shows what is active right now.
When is the best time of day to go fishing?
Dawn and dusk are classic for a reason, but weather, water and moon all matter. Our today's conditions tool scores the day from live weather and pressure, and the solunar calendar flags the peak feeding windows.
Do I need a fishing licence?
In most US states, yes, once you are over a certain age, and rules vary by state and water. Always check your own state wildlife agency before you fish. Many states also run free fishing days when no licence is needed.