As the cold sets in, anglers might think that fishing season is over, but winter can be one of the best times to explore new fishing destinations. From warm coastal waters to icy mountain lakes, there are plenty of winter fishing hotspots to visit for a memorable experience. Whether you’re looking for a tropical getaway or a winter adventure in the snow, here are the top five winter fishing destinations to consider for your next angling trip.
1. Florida Keys, Florida
When it comes to winter fishing, the Florida Keys are an angler’s paradise. With its tropical climate and abundant saltwater species, the Keys offer world-class fishing all year long. In winter, the water temperatures are mild, making it the perfect time to target species like tarpon, bonefish, and permit. The calmer conditions also make it an ideal destination for fly fishing and sight fishing.
Best Species to Target: Tarpon, bonefish, snook, redfish, and permit.
Why Go: The Florida Keys are famous for their diverse fishing opportunities, beautiful scenery, and warm weather, making them a must-visit destination for any winter fishing enthusiast.
2. Lake of the Woods, Minnesota
If you’re an angler who enjoys ice fishing, Lake of the Woods in northern Minnesota is a premier winter destination. This expansive lake offers over 65,000 miles of shoreline and countless bays, making it one of the best places to target walleye, sauger, and perch during the winter months. Local ice fishing guides provide access to heated houses, and the abundance of fish makes it a great spot for both beginners and seasoned anglers.
Best Species to Target: Walleye, sauger, perch, and northern pike.
Why Go: Lake of the Woods offers exceptional ice fishing conditions with plenty of opportunities for trophy fish, perfect for winter enthusiasts looking to brave the cold.
3. Cabo San Lucas, Mexico
For those seeking a warm-weather fishing adventure, Cabo San Lucas in Mexico is the ultimate winter getaway. Located at the tip of the Baja Peninsula, Cabo is home to a variety of saltwater species that thrive in its warm waters. In December, the conditions are ideal for both offshore and inshore fishing. Anglers can target species like marlin, sailfish, and dorado, as well as inshore fish like roosterfish.
Best Species to Target: Marlin, sailfish, dorado (mahi-mahi), and roosterfish.
Why Go: With its year-round warm weather and access to both deep-sea and inshore fishing, Cabo is a popular destination for anglers seeking a winter fishing escape.
4. Lake Erie, Ohio/Pennsylvania
Winter fishing on Lake Erie can be a thrilling experience, especially for those who love targeting walleye. In the colder months, walleye congregate in deeper waters, making them more accessible for anglers who enjoy ice fishing. Lake Erie’s ice fishing season typically runs from mid-December through February, with some of the best catches of the year coming during the winter months.
Best Species to Target: Walleye, perch, and steelhead.
Why Go: Known for its excellent walleye fishing, Lake Erie offers a unique winter fishing experience, with ice fishing as a major attraction for anglers in the northern U.S.
5. Kauai, Hawaii
Kauai, the “Garden Isle” of Hawaii, offers a unique winter fishing destination for those seeking warm waters and an abundance of fish. Kauai’s coastline is dotted with stunning beaches and inshore waters that are perfect for shore and boat fishing. Winter months are great for targeting species like yellowfin tuna, mahi-mahi, and grouper, all of which are abundant in the waters surrounding the island.
Best Species to Target: Yellowfin tuna, mahi-mahi, grouper, and snapper.
Why Go: With its tropical climate, stunning scenery, and wide variety of fish species, Kauai is an ideal fishing destination for those looking for a winter fishing escape in paradise.
Final Thoughts on Winter Fishing Destinations
From the icy lakes of Minnesota to the tropical waters of Hawaii, winter fishing destinations offer unique and exciting opportunities for anglers looking to stay active during the colder months. Whether you prefer the thrill of ice fishing or the warmth of coastal fishing, there’s a perfect winter getaway for everyone. Pack your gear and explore these top winter fishing destinations for an unforgettable experience on the water.
Image: fishingbooker
