If you’re ready to plan the ultimate fishing adventure for 2025, you’ve come to the right place for some great suggestions. Whether you’re a seasoned angler or someone just starting out with a love for peaceful days by the water, we’ve got you covered. In this guide, you’ll explore some of the best fishing spots around the world, discover local tips, and learn about products* that can make your journey that much more rewarding. Grab your tackle box, pack your bags, and let’s dive into the top places you need to cast a line this year.
* You will notice that there are quite a few links throughout the blog. Yes, I am an Amazon Associate. Should you make a purchase through one of these links, I may receive a small commission at no additional cost to you. This blog is created as an informative guide. The products mentioned in the blog have been carefully selected for you by zeroing in on the best product for the best value. Thus, reducing your time searching for the right information and suggesting products that will improve your fishing experience. Thank you for your support.
1. Kenai River, Alaska, USA
Imagine standing on the banks of the Kenai River, surrounded by Alaska’s breathtaking beauty, your fishing rod in hand, and the anticipation building for that exhilarating tug. This famous river offers some of the best salmon fishing in the world, making it a must-visit for anyone who dreams of catching a king salmon. If you’re going in July, you’ll find the waters teeming with Chinook and sockeye salmon, ready to test your angling skills.
To make sure you’re prepared, it’s worth investing in a reliable reel, like the Penn Battle III Spinning Fishing Reel. With excellent reviews on Amazon, this reel is perfect for handling those powerful salmon runs. Also, don’t forget to pack a solid pair of waders. The Frogg Toggs Hellbender Chest Waders are highly rated for durability and comfort, ideal for the cold Alaskan waters.
2. Lake Bled, Slovenia
If you’re looking for a fishing spot that’s postcard-perfect, head to Lake Bled in Slovenia. The tranquil emerald waters surrounded by lush green forests and the picturesque Bled Castle make for a stunning setting as you cast your line. Here, you can target pike, carp, and zander. Carp fishing is particularly popular at Lake Bled, with fish that can weigh over 30 pounds.
For this adventure, consider bringing along the Okuma Ceymar Spinning Reel, a lightweight yet sturdy option for reeling in those heavyweight carp. You might also chose to bring a collapsible fishing rod like the PLUSINNO Fishing Rod and Reel Combo, which is easy to travel with and highly rated by Amazon customers for versatility and convenience.
3. Great Barrier Reef, Australia
When it comes to fishing in Australia, the Great Barrier Reef is undoubtedly at the top of the list. Here, you can experience world-class deep-sea fishing, catching everything from marlin to tuna. The challenge of catching a black marlin in these waters is an angler’s dream, and the colorful underwater landscape makes this an unforgettable fishing experience. There is also a countless variety of reef fish to go after.
To tackle the powerful fish of the Great Barrier Reef, a KastKing Rover Round Baitcasting Reel is a great choice, known for its smooth drag and high durability. It’s a fan favorite for deep-sea fishing, with plenty of positive reviews praising its performance. Don’t forget a fishing gimbal belt, like the San Like Fighting Belt, which will save your back during those epic marlin fights.
4. Amazon River, Brazil
For the thrill-seekers among you, there’s no better spot than the Amazon River in Brazil. Known for its incredible biodiversity, this river will allow you to hook fish like the peacock bass, piranha, and even catfish. Peacock bass are particularly popular, providing an exhilarating fight and making for an unforgettable trophy.
For peacock bass fishing, a sturdy baitcasting rod is key. The Ugly Stik GX2 Baitcast Combo is a solid choice, offering plenty of power and reliability. Also, be sure to bring along the Booyah Poppin’ Pad Crasher, a topwater lure that’s ideal for the aggressive strikes of peacock bass. With thousands of high ratings on Amazon, it’s a must-have for this adventure.
5. Lake Taupo, New Zealand
Nestled in New Zealand’s North Island, Lake Taupo and the surrounding region is an angler’s paradise. It’s a massive lake formed by a volcanic eruption over 26,000 years ago and is one of the best places in the world to catch rainbow trout. Imagine yourself in the calm of the early morning, with a light mist on the lake and your line patiently waiting for that unmistakable pull.
To improve your odds, bring a fly fishing rod, like the Redington original Trout Rod and Reel Kit. It’s a fantastic tool for landing trout, lightweight and responsive, and easy for even beginners to handle. For best results, the more natural looking flies work the best. You should take an assortment of nymphs and also some Dark Woolly Buggers. And don’t forget to pack a Caddis Men’s Attractive 2-Tone Taupe Deluxe Breathable Stocking Foot Waders to keep dry and comfortable while wading through the lake’s shallows.
6. Lake Okeechobee, Florida, USA
If bass fishing is your passion, then Lake Okeechobee in Florida is calling your name. Known for its trophy-sized largemouth bass, this iconic lake should definitely be on your list for 2025. The “Big O,” as it’s often called, offers excellent fishing year-round, but the best times are during the cooler months when bass become more active and easier to catch.
For bass fishing, you can’t go wrong with the Abu Garcia Revo SX Spinning Reel paired with the Dobyns Rods Fury Series Spinning Rod. This combo is a favorite among many Amazon users, with stellar reviews highlighting its excellent performance and precision. And make sure you have a reliable assortment of lures like the Zoom Bait Brush Hog and Yamamoto Senko Bait, both of which are highly effective and popular among anglers.
7. Loch Lomond, Scotland
For a mix of incredible scenery and excellent fishing, Loch Lomond in Scotland should be on your 2025 itinerary. This iconic loch is home to a range of fish species, including salmon, brown trout, and pike. You will find fish just about everywhere. Troll for salmon, fly fish for pike, or even use soft plastics for perch. The surrounding highlands make for an awe-inspiring backdrop, making your fishing experience both productive and beautiful.
You’ll need gear that can handle the varied species here. The Shimano Stradic FL Spinning Reel is a good all-around option. It’s highly rated on Amazon and provides the versatility you need for both trout and pike. For pike fishing, you may also want to bring along some reliable bibbed lures, like the Rapala X-Rap, with differing bib sizes, so you can vary the depth your lures work at, are perfect for enticing those big predators.
8. Zambezi River, Zambia and Zimbabwe
If the idea of fishing where you might see elephants drinking from the water excites you, the Zambezi River is an excellent option. It’s well-known for tigerfish—often referred to as one of the hardest-fighting freshwater fish in the world. The adrenaline rush of hooking one of these sharp-toothed fighters will make the journey well worth it.
For river monsters like tigerfish, strength is key, so consider using a Daiwa BG Spinning Reel, which is built to handle aggressive fish. Also, bring along wire leaders since tigerfish have razor sharp teeth that will easily slice through standard line. Berkley Steelon Nylon-Coated Wire Leaders are a well-reviewed option available on Amazon that can keep your catch from escaping.
9. Boundary Waters Canoe Area, Minnesota, USA
This pristine wilderness area between Minnesota and Canada provides the ideal location for those who love to combine camping, canoeing, and fishing. In the Boundary Waters, you can catch smallmouth bass, walleye, and northern pike. With countless lakes to choose from, you’ll find both solitude and incredible fishing opportunities.
A portable fish finder like the Deeper PRO+ Smart Sonar is an excellent companion for this trip. It’s highly rated and can easily be cast out to help you locate fish in these remote lakes. And for paddling between spots, you can’t beat the Intex Excursion Pro K1 or K2 Kayak, a popular inflatable kayak that is light, durable, and easy to transport.
10. Skeena River, British Columbia, Canada
The Skeena River in British Columbia is another dream spot for salmon and steelhead anglers. Known for its impressive runs of chinook salmon and steelhead, the Skeena offers a pristine and rugged fishing experience. With mountains towering in the background and eagles soaring overhead, fishing in the Skeena River feels like an adventure into the wild.
Steelhead are known for their incredible fighting spirit, so you need the right equipment. The Lamson Liquid Fly Reel is a great option and highly rated for its reliability and smooth drag system. Pair it with a Scientific Anglers Amplitude Smooth Infinity Fly Line to ensure that you’re ready for the challenge of catching these powerful fish.
Essential Gear for Your Fishing Adventures
In addition to specific gear recommendations for each location, there are a few essentials that will make any fishing trip more enjoyable:
- Tackle Box: A well-organized tackle box like the Plano Guide Series Tackle Bag is invaluable for keeping all your lures, hooks, and tools in one place. It’s durable, spacious, and a favorite among Amazon reviewers.
- Multitool: The Leatherman Charge Plus Multitool is a must-have, with pliers, scissors, and a knife all in one, perfect for any unexpected situation.
- Clothing: Make sure you have appropriate clothing to suit the region and the climate of your fishing destination.
- Polarized Sunglasses: Protect your eyes and improve your ability to spot fish beneath the water surface with Costa Del Mar Fantail Polarized Sunglasses. They’re popular for their comfort and clarity, making them a great choice for long days on the water.
- Fishing Net: A good fishing net is crucial for landing fish safely. The KastKing Pontus Folding Landing Net is a popular option for its portability and high quality.
Planning Your Trips
Before you set out for any of these fishing destinations, make sure to check local regulations, seasons, and licensing requirements. Most countries have strict quarantine regulations that will affect your fishing equipment you are travelling with. Be sure to research these quarantine rules to ensure your fishing gear complies. This also applies for when you return to your home country. Otherwise you may risk having your equipment confiscated and may also face hefty fines.
Some locations may require special permits to go fishing, especially if you’re aiming to catch protected species like salmon or trout. Additionally, consider the best time of year for each location. For example, salmon runs in Alaska are best during the summer, while trout fishing in New Zealand peaks during the spring.
It is best to hire a local professional fishing guide or go on a fishing charter boat. This way you will have the local knowledge for the area. It will make your trip much more worthwhile and you will hopefully avoid the disappointment of not catching anything.
2025 offers a wealth of amazing fishing opportunities, each unique and unforgettable in its own right. From the icy rivers of Alaska to the turquoise waters of Slovenia and the wild Amazon River, there’s something for every type of angler. Just be sure to pack your essential gear, prepare for the elements, and most importantly, enjoy every moment spent by the water, waiting for that thrilling tug on your line.
Tight lines and happy fishing!