Fish Species
Where each fish lives, what depth to try, and the lures and tackle that work.
Largemouth Bass
America's most popular game fish: aggressive, cover-oriented and found in nearly every warm lake and pond.
1–20 ft typical
Smallmouth Bass
Hard-fighting bass of clear lakes and rocky rivers, prized for jumps and stamina.
3–30 ft typical
Rainbow Trout
Cold-water fish of streams and stocked lakes that rewards stealth and natural presentations.
1–15 ft typical
Brown Trout
Wary, often nocturnal trout that grow large by feeding on smaller fish.
2–20 ft typical
Walleye
Low-light predator with excellent eating quality, found in big lakes and rivers.
5–35 ft typical
Crappie
Schooling panfish that suspend around brush and are a favorite for light tackle and the table.
2–25 ft typical
Bluegill & Sunfish
The classic first fish: plentiful, eager and fun on ultralight gear.
1–12 ft typical
Northern Pike
Toothy ambush predator known for violent strikes in weedy, cooler waters.
2–20 ft typical
Muskellunge (Musky)
The 'fish of 10,000 casts' — the largest freshwater predator most anglers can target.
3–25 ft typical
Channel Catfish
Strong, scent-driven fish found in rivers, lakes and ponds across the country.
3–30 ft typical